Guyana Times, Friday November 15, 2019.

New UNDP Resident Representative presents credentials P15 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4108

THE BEACON OF TRUTH FRIday, november 15, 2019

PRICE

APNU/AFC objections to living people

PPP to vigorously fight disenfranchisement of citizens

See story on page 3

— willing to compromise on inclusion of new, verified H2H registrants

Troy Resources operations remain closed

...losses estimated at US$5M and counting – exploring possibility of future underground mining venture Page 13

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE: Food shortage

Regional P11 team visits Anna Regina Multilateral School dormitory

P10 Haags Bosch staff struggling with huge tyre build-up

Trini jailed for faking P8 kidnapping files appeal

The Smart-3 mining pit where Troy Resources is considering starting an underground mine (Jarryl Bryan photo)

Joseph Harmon renounces US citizenship Page 9

Eastern Airlines to post US$450,000 bond to operate in Guyana

See story on page 10

Collect salary increases – Jagdeo tells public servants

Mechanic who robbed cop of P2 motorbike remanded

See story on page 12

– labels claims of PPP reversing increases as “lies” – concerned thousands will lose jobs to sustain salary increases

Woman dies 1 month after being beaten by son P12

2 NEWS

friday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Suspects in fatal piracy attack charged for murder – families of suspects and victims clash at courthouse

The five accused being transported to prison after their court appearance

Relatives of the dead men gathered at the courthouse on Thursday

T

he five men who are accused of killing four Corentyne fishermen in October last made their first court appearance on Thursday and were all remanded to prison until January 16, 2020.

As the case was called at the Whim Magistrate’s Court, Magistrate Renita Singh informed the accused that they will be jointly charged for the heinous crime.

Suresh Sundat, 22; Narine Dhanrajh, 30; and Lennox

Grimmond, 38, were charged jointly, while O’Brian Fraser and Anonth Boodrage, both 21, were charged together.

It is alleged that between October 5 and 13, 2019, the men murdered Kawal Kissoon, called “Ajai”, of Letter Kenny, Corentyne; Otto Lamar Petrie, Marvin Tamesar, also called “Buddy” and “Bin Laden”, and Vishnu Seeram, called “Kevin”, all of Miss Phoebe Village, Port Mourant.

Police Prosecutor,

Inspector Althea Solomon told the court that the Police were ready to commence the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) and that all of the files were ready.

She, nevertheless, told the court that the files were not specific and indicated that she will need further advice on that issue.

Outside of the court, scores of persons gathered but only family members of two deceased were allowed inside.

After the men were taken away, there were verbal clashes between relatives of the diseased and relatives of the accused.

Police had initially arrested Sundat and Dhanrajh, who provided vital information to assist with the investigation.

They subsequently went to the home of Grimond and arrested him and issued arrest warrants for the other two.

A few days later, authorities in neighbouring Suriname arrested them.

They were in a fishing boat that had docked at a port there. They were subsequently charged for illegal entry into that country and then handed over to local investigators.

It was reported that the five fishermen were aboard a fishing vessel, “Sara-1” when they were allegedly attacked and killed. On October 5, the fishermen left a wharf at Number 65 Village for sea aboard the vessel.

It is alleged that the pirates who were in another fishing boat ventured over to the Sara 1 with the intention of stealing the fish that the now-dead men had caught.

They proceeded to demand that the men hand over the catch as they attacked the four fishermen but the victims reportedly fought back, which led to the murders.

On October 11, the body of a man was discovered on the Abary foreshore; at the time, he was not identified.

One day later, Sara 1 was found on the Foreshore at Wellington Park, Corentyne without the crew of four.

It was then the body found at the Abary foreshore was identified as one of the four fishermen. The following day, another body washed up on the foreshore.

Mechanic who robbed cop of motorbike remanded

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21-year-old mechanic who allegedly robbed a Police Officer of his motorcycle was on Thursday remanded to prison when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Levar Moore, of Lot 59 Leopold Street, Georgetown, appeared before the Chief Magistrate and denied the charge which alleged that on November 9, 2019, at Princes Street, Georgetown, while being armed with a gun and in the company of others, he robbed Sherwin Thornhill of one motorcycle valued $270,000.

Facts presented by the court prosecutor stated that on the day in question, the of-

ficer was seated on his parked motorcycle in front of the special constabulary headquarters talking to a female friend, when the accused, along with others, confronted him.

Moore allegedly held the rank at gunpoint and demanded that he handed over the motorcycle. The victim, being fearful for his life, obeyed and handed over the same.

Moore, along with accomplices then made good their escape. The matter was subsequently reported and the defendant was arrested at a roadblock exercise.

The Magistrate, after listening to the facts, remanded Moore to prison until November 15.

news

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friday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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

Friday, November 15 – 05:00h – 06:30h and Saturday, November 16 – 05:30h – 07:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, November 15 – 06:00h – 07:30h and Saturday, November 16 – 06:45h – 08:15h.

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

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

Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Northerly to North North-Westerly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 05:56h and 18:06h reaching maximum heights of 2.61 metres and 2.71 metres.

APNU/AFC objections to living people

PPP to vigorously fight disenfranchisement of citizens – willing to compromise on inclusion of new, verified H2H registrants

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n light of the APNU/ AFC objections to thousands of living people, claiming them to be dead, the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) says it will continue to fight to ensure that Guyanese are not disenfranchised.

The Party has expressed fear of a ploy to disenfranchise thousands of voters with a whopping 13,000 objections that were made in Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) during the recently concluded Objections leg of the Claims and Objection (C&O) exercise.

the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Registration Officers (ROs) are supposed to inform persons making objections that they can be handed over to the Police for making false objections.

On Wednesday, PPP’s Chief Elections Scrutineer, Zulficar Mustapha, told Guyana Times that the Party had done some digging and found many of the persons who were objected to alive.

“I intend to attend the hearing myself in Region Five, whenever those hear-

According to Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo at his weekly press conference on Thursday, most of the 13,000 objections were fortunately thrown out. But he noted that there are still hearings in the Moraikobai community.

“Imagine this is a small Amerindian community in the Mahaicony River and APNU has objected to 464 names on the list – almost the entire community they want to disenfranchise because they know that the PPP, in past elections, has gotten upwards of 90 per cent of the votes from that community. So they’re trying to get the people’s names off the voters’ list. Of course, we will fight this vigorously,” Jagdeo contended.

He went on to outline too that there were several objections in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 600 of those were also thrown out.

“So we’re going to fight any attempt to get people who are eligible to vote— which APNU is trying to do— disenfranchised. Regardless of whether they’re PPP supporters or APNU supporters, they have a right, as Guyanese, to be on the voters’ list in the right place and be allowed to vote,” he stated.

Moreover, the Opposition Leader further noted that it is illegal to object to someone alive, claiming them to be dead. In fact, he noted that persons making such objections can be charged.

He added too that

ings are held, and I intend to produce those persons. I am hoping that GECOM will report (wrongful objections) to the Police and the necessary action be taken,” he stated.

The Government side and President David Granger have repeatedly claimed that the voters’ list is bloated by over 200,000 names, hence the need for

Low Tide: 11:42h reaching a minimum height of 0.65 metre.

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Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

the controversial House-toHouse (H2H) Registration— an exercise that ended up delaying GECOM’s preparations for early elections as both sides struggled for and against its conduct.

After the exercise was brought to an early end

by GECOM Chair Retired Justice Claudette Singh following a High Court ruling, the seven-member Elections Commission has been at loggerhead over the merging of the H2H data with the voters’ lists.

Some 370,000 registrations were obtained during the exercise and the data was sent for cross-matching by the international digital security company, Gemalto, to filter for duplicate registrations against the NRR database.

The data was sent in two batches – the first being 180,000 registrations which were completed and returned. Of the approximate

179, 082 transactions received, 150,000 were duplicates (that is, persons who were already on the NRR but re-registered during the H2H) and new registrants amounted to 29,082. The second set of data is expected to be returned shortly.

However, while GECOM is yet to make a decision on how the H2H data will be used, the Opposition has maintained this unverified data should not be used for any merging, otherwise, it could contaminate the voters’ list. During the exercise, only the ruling party scrutinised the enumerators, as the PPP was not invited to participate.

In fact, Jagdeo, who is also the General Secretary of PPP, on Thursday reiterated concerns about the untested H2H data, highlighting several instances where there were issues with some registrations.

Turn to page 7

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guyanatimesgy.com

FRIDAY, november 15, 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

More opportunities for women needed

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n many countries across the world, women have made tremendous progress, not only in terms of their own advancement, but by playing a key role in the development of their own communities and, by extension, allowing other women opportunities to develop themselves. However, many challenges remain, which must be tackled to ensure that women have access to the opportunities and resources needed to allow them to lead more productive and fulfilling lives.

In certain countries, laws and social norms still constrain women’s possibilities to seek paid employment. For example, according to the UN, in over 100 countries, men and women still do not have totally equal status under the law. Such differences can prevent a woman from opening a bank account, getting a job without permission from her husband, or being able to own and manage property. There are many other obstacles preventing women from advancing in terms of career, education etc., and certainly it requires ongoing work and commitment by all stakeholders, especially policy makers, to make legislative and other changes that would eventually result in better opportunities for women.

We believe that when women are allowed to develop their full potential, it is not only women who gain, but the entire society. Women make enormous contributions to economies, whether in businesses, on farms, as entrepreneurs, or employees, or by doing unpaid care work at home.

Here in Guyana, women have made tremendous progress at every level of the society, and they enjoy equal rights as their male counterparts. While there is much work left to be done, this country must be commended for the advances it has made in ensuring that, in addition to women being protected under the law, they are also given the relevant opportunities for their personal and professional advancement.

The Government, along with stakeholders such as the Women and Gender Equality Commission, the Private Sector and other NGOs, must continue to explore ways in which women could benefit from more educational and employment opportunities, so that they could advance themselves. For example, our single parent mothers have, over the years, found it very difficult to make ends meet. Many of them have found themselves in a position where they work from month to month and there seems to be no end to the financial hardships they experience. In some cases, they lack the necessary skills and qualifications required to get suitable, well paid jobs so that they can earn enough to provide for themselves and their children.

For some who would like to venture out into establishing their own small business etc, the strict criteria set by banks and other lending institutions make it difficult to access the necessary loans. There are a few institutions which give grants and other forms of support, but they are on a limited scale and most of them are Georgetown-based, making it a bit difficult for rural women to have easy access.

The previous administration had collaborated with the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) to introduce the Women of Worth (WOW) project. Under this programme, single parent women could have accessed as much as $250,000. to start up a business or expand an already established business.

There is need for more similar programmes to be replicated in communities across Guyana. Such initiatives cannot be one-off; they must be year-round.

There is also the issue of the high level of domestic violence affecting countless families. We wish to press the need for more stringent measures to be taken to help save women’s lives, since many of them continue to suffer and even die at the hands of their partners.

There are hundreds of reports which detail recommendations and actions which need to be taken to arrest the situation.

There were also numerous dialogues with the involvement of all stakeholders, but yet the number of cases of women being abused or killed is going up daily. We believe that it is time for policy makers to revisit the issue and come up with practical solutions which address the scourge in a holistic manner, with greater focus on the root causes of the problem.

The economic and social advancement of all women, including those in hinterland and rural communities, should remain a priority for all political parties contesting the upcoming elections. Their plans and programmes for providing decent jobs, access to skills training, access to financial resources, and protection from domestic and other forms of violence should be clear.

Mayor of the town of Purcellville, Virginia, Kwasi Fraser, shares a photo moment with Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo and PPP/C Presidential Candidate, Dr Irfaan Ali, during a courtesy call at the Opposition Leader’s Church Street, Georgetown office

Ministers making outrageous and outlandish statements Dear Editor, It seems to us at least, that Minister of Finance Winston Jordan is seeking to outdo his colleague, Vice President Khemraj Ramjattan, in making outrageous and outlandish statements.

The Finance Minister, according to a November 10, Demerara Waves’ report, is reported to have said that the “…government is employing at least 15,000 persons who really should be sent home…”.

To contextualise the Minister’s statement, the report of the Public Service Commission of Inquiry advised that there were 14,466 persons employed in the Public Service in 2016. In essence, it appears that the goodly Minister is saying that Government may reduce, whether in part or in whole, state employment in excess of the entire public service.

According to the report, the Minister said that the removal of the workers would allow the Government to offer better compensation to its employees, and reduce taxation. It is a short-sighted approach, if it is really being considered by the Administration. It serves to demonstrate yet again that the Coalition is only focused on dollars and cents, and is either completely aloof or unconcerned about the real troubles that would not only beset workers and their families, but their communities, state institutions such as the NIS and the GRA, and the economy as a whole.

It appears that Government has not really learnt anything from its disastrous sugar policy.

Already, the NIS has signalled it is facing difficulties resulting from a reduction of employment in the sugar in-

dustry. Further reduction in employment would only complicate and worsen the situation.

The touted dismissal of 15,000 State employees comes after the Government had already sent home some 7,000 sugar workers. That decision, the Minister said, according to the news article, was “extremely painful”, though public sentiments and actions by the Administration do not indicate this to be the case.

Though now nearly three (3) years have gone by since the mass retrenchment exercise in the sugar industry began, the Government, at its highest level, has not seen it fit to engage the workers.

It has not ventured into the villages and communities to see how these Guyanese really fare. It has not even crafted the slightest policy to ease the woes and troubles of these citizens of our nation.

It has not even offered the smallest of assistance from the State. For us, it is hard not to say that history will not repeat itself, though on a grander and sadder scale.

In continuing his incredulity, the Minister pointed out that there are “…some lackadaisical public corporations”. If indeed there are lackadaisical corporations, as the Minister alleges, then he should not divorce himself and his colleagues from the leadership installed at these agencies. The Minister goes on to mention specifically the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc (GuySuCo), which, presumably using the Minister’s yardstick, belong in the lackadaisical grouping. Of course, while we are aware that both entities have their specific difficulties, to deem them lackadaisical is an insult to all the

hard working men and women employed by those entities.

In relation to the GPL and the GuySuCo, the Minister is quoted to have said “[m] ost of their expenditure is financed by Government, and until we can get rid [of those companies], some way or the other, or make them largely efficient, that is like a permanent albatross of expenditure on the Government”.

The statement by the Minister is yet another clear indicator that the current caretaker Government does not have the interest of the workers and their families at heart, or even in mind. The caretaker Administration, it appears, is ready, without any second-thought, to put onto the chopping block the electricity and sugar companies. In the case of sugar, the Minister’s expressions are far different from the perspective of President David Granger, who said during a visit to Albion Estate last June that sugar must not only survive, it must thrive. The President was quoted as saying, according to a Government statement, “[w]e were always interested in the success of GuySuCo, and felt that this was the financially prudent course to pursue”.

It is hard not to conclude that the President, at least in June, was of the firm view that the state-owned sugar company, as it currently stands, would remain in the arms of the State.

Certainly, given the mixed signals being sent out, our anxieties are further heightened, bearing in mind that already the Governmentapproved $30B bond has not really been used to bring about meaningful changes to the miniaturised sugar industry. In fact, from our interactions with GuySuCo, we have

learnt that the President’s commitment to have the proceeds of the bond released to the industry remains, at this time, unfulfilled. It is recalled that during his Albion visit, the President said in relation to the bond proceeds “[t]hat money is coming to GuySuCo…(we) are going to ensure that that money comes in a timely manner and in sufficient amounts”.

It appears to us that the Government is laying the groundwork to set the industry up for failure. Certainly, we can find no other logical reason or rationale for the current approach to the sugar industry. Seemingly, the Administration, if it succeeds to secure a second term, will come with crocodile tears in its eyes and sympathy in its voice and say it is faced with no choice than to rid itself of sugar and destroy the livelihoods and well-being of thousands of Guyanese. This exercise will go a long way to meet the 15,000-job reduction the Finance Minister has in mind.

According to the report, the Minister said the number of state-owned companies has been reduced “…from more than 100 to a small number…”. The Minister should ask himself how many of those state enterprises remain in operation today. The reality is that many faltered, and their employees were the biggest victims. This is very much evident, especially in the bauxite industry, where state support continues to be provided to those who were affected. The reality is that the neo-liberal economic model has not lived up to all its hype.

We urge the Minister to pay attention to what is taking place in Chile at this time. continued on page 5

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friday, november 15, 2019

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

Why the hullabaloo?

Dear Editor, “You may fool all the people some of the time, you can even fool some of the people all of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all the time” – Abraham Lincoln We welcome the announcement by the Caretaker Government of salary increases for 2019. In displaying their usual acts of desperation of what should have been a routine administrative matter handled by the Minister of Finance and his staff, this act was elevated to a level that warranted an address to the nation by Mr. Granger. Pure politicking. Public servants welcome the increase, but detest being insulted by the accompanying politics as if they are for sale.

The PPP/C, a party with established working-class credentials known for its history of budget measures that are pro-poor, pro-worker and pro-development, will never deny workers increases in benefits and enhancement of their welfare.

Now that the political ad of 6 minutes and 8 sec-

onds, paid for with taxpayers’ money and disguised as an address to the nation is over, and the bubble has been burst and the buzz has ceased, it’s time for reality.

Editor, I use this opportunity to educate and inform all Guyanese that these sums that were announced in the middle of a charged political season since the passage of the No-Confidence Vote of December 18, 2018 cannot be considered a goodwill gesture by this administration.

The truth be told, had this fallen Government been responsive and possessed the ability to be truthful and transparent, they would have answered the questions truthfully and factually, and all Guyanese would have known that when the 2019 Budget was passed in December of 2018, these now announced increases were budgeted and catered for. We in the PPP/C knew that the sums allocated would have led to these salary increases as announced being used as a political gimmick in the run up to the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

An intelligent, highly analytical and politically astute electorate cannot be bought in such a fashion. The people of Guyana are seeing this for what it is. I remind all that this Granger-led Administration has harmed Guyana economically with its ill-advised and insensitive introduction of measures that took away disposable income from the ordinary man. For example, putting VAT on data services; VAT on electricity and water; VAT on heavy duty machinery affecting forestry, mining and agriculture; VAT on manufacturing, and on exports, and the list goes on. So when one compares the proportion of additional revenues received by this defeated Government and what it will cost to sustainably finance these increases, the citizens are at a disadvantage. Taking more, giving less. Why the hullabaloo?

We in the PPP/C publicly commit to not only ensuring continuous salary increases on an annualized basis, as we would have done

over the 23 years while we were tasked with the governance of Guyana, but we will reverse all of the hardship measures, including the 200 taxes, fees and charges, including land rentals and drainage and irrigation fees that have negatively impacted all. So we will ensure that our public servants, our teachers, our nurses and doctors, our farmers, foresters, miners, all benefit from increased emoluments and an improvement in their livelihoods. And while taking care of these, we will continue to advance measures that will stimulate business and expand employment, and also encourage entrepreneurship.

Our men and women of the joint services can expect the restoration of their one-month tax free bonus that was taken away by the APNU/AFC. Guyana stands to be better with a PPP/C Government in 2020.

Yours sincerely, Bishop Juan Edghill PPP/C MP

What kind of cohesion has Granger Govt been providing?

Dear Editor, I have been in Guyana for the past two weeks, and have made one glaring observation that stares one in the face: one ethnic group seems to be highly favoured in securing employment in virtually all Government sectors.

The last official census (2012) indicates Indians compose approximately 40% of the population, followed by African 29%, Mixed 20%, Amerindians 10%, and Others 1%. Even though Africans comprise approximately 29% of the population, it appears as if that group dominates the Government sector with at least 70% of the employed personnel.

It seems as if this is the case of all the Government offices where I have had some contact recently: Immigration /Customs; Passport Office, the Post Office, the Georgetown Public Hospital, and GECOM. The folks fixing

the water lines and the electric lines were all from that group; ditto for the groups of women distributing filaria tablets! This seeming discrimination goes beyond employed Government workers. folks have complained of blatant discrimination with contract jobs.

(Yes, this is not scientific research – just casual observation!)

I casually inquired from others if it were a case of them not wanting those (Government) jobs. These folks related that they and others like them would love to have the opportunity to work and earn with the Government, but they are being denied equal opportunity for employment.

What kind of cohesion has the Granger Government been providing? Is it a not-so-subtle case of racial discrimination?

Yours truly, Dr Devanand Bhagwan

Jordan’s jumbie arithmetic Ministers making outrageous...

Dear Editor, The PNC is in desperation mode right now, and every conceivable strategy in their arsenal of tricks they are prepared to explore. I am talking about the proposed hike in public servants’ wages and salaries. According to Jordan and his president, the proposed hike would be somewhere around 9%, retroactive to January of this year, which is pretty, good judging from the dismal circumstances that prevail.

The statistics seem to show that public servants are in for a windfall this Christmas, and everything should turn out to be hunky dory in that sector of workers; or is it?

And this is the discussion I would like us to get into.

To the unsuspecting eye, the above scenario seems to be a kind gesture of goodwill, and as the usual overworked term goes, a refurbishment of “the good life theory”. But let us look a little closer at this expression of goodwill

by Jordan’s Government, and you will see that it is coming 3 years late, which tells you that public servants are worse off than they were prior to 2015.

Now, the reasons are very clear. In 2015, public servants were not faced with the massive inflation that persists, which means that they might be earning a little more but have lost tremendously on their disposal income on the long run.

It means that they might be earning a few more dollars, but what stays at their disposal is zero. The public servants are caught in an eddying cycle of debt repayments and refinancing of loans, which makes life in Guyana a living hell. Indeed, public servants are worst off now than in 2015.

There is also the double whammy wherein some in the public service have lost their jobs, which means that there is no job, no income with which to maintain and run a household, and a horrible life ahead. Not forgetting the steep rise as well as the introduction of over 200 new taxes. When you tax the people, it means that they have less take-home pay.

So what has this Government done for its people? The answer is nothing substantial! You are talking about mortgage rates going up at commercial banks

while the servicing of loans has skyrocketed. Banks are also nervous at lending, or are being outright in refusing to lend. So the voodoo arithmetic Jordan is proposing is just a lot of hot air, or as some would say: much ado about nothing.

The PNC are in desperation mode right now, and the inordinate obsession to buy votes for the upcoming general elections is obvious. If you ask the public servants if their lives have been enriched since this Government took office, the answer would be a resounding no!

So, Guyanese, don’t be fooled by Jordan’s arithmetic. It is just another PNC ploy to get votes. I rest my case.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

According to Jose Miguel Ahumada, a political economist and associate professor at the University of Chile, the country is “one of the most unequal countries in Latin America”. As described by The Washington Post, while the last three decades of neoliberal policies made Chile “one of South America’s wealthiest countries, with inflation under control and easy access to credit”, they also “created stark economic disparities and strapped many Chileans into debt”.

The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) states that 1% of the population in Chile controls 26.5% of the country’s wealth, while 50% of low-income house holders access 2.1%. Additionally, according to National Statistics Institute of Chile,

while the minimum wage in Chile is 301,000 pesos, half of the workers in that country receive a salary equal to or less than 400,000 pesos. Protesters interviewed

by Reuters said they were struggling to make ends meet because of the high costs of part-privatised education and health systems, rents and utilities, and a privatised pension system has been widely rejected by Chileans because of its low

FROM PAGE 4

and often delayed payouts.

The Minister, as a Guyanese patriot and leader, should not advocate policies and programmes that could well see Guyana treading down Chile’s path and bringing about misery and hardship.

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine, General Secretary (GAWU)

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l e x w a s excited to finally get his license.

He was looking forward to going to the movies and to visit friends without needing someone to take him.

A couple weeks later, Alex was headed to his friend Matt's house. Two blocks from Matt's, Alex waited at a stop sign when he felt a sudden jolt. Someone had rear-ended his car. Alex started panicking — and his first thought was "What do I do now?"

completely honest about what really happened.

You can only do these things if you think the collision was minor (for instance, if the airbag did not inflate).

If the crash is major, you want to involve the Police.

Even if you think a crash was your fault, it might not be. That's why insurance companies say that you should not admit fault or accept blame at the scene.

Car crashes

Driving is probably the most dangerous thing most of us will ever do. Globally, there are thousands of deaths and millions of injuries from motor vehicle crashes every year.

Although you do your best to drive responsibly and defensively, it's still smart to know what to do just in case you end up in a collision.

Crashes can be very scary, but here are some tips if one happens to you: Take some deep breaths to get calm. After a crash, a person may feel a wide range of emotions — shock, guilt, fear, nervousness, or anger — all of which are normal.

But take a few deep breaths or count to 10 to calm down.

The calmer you are, the better prepared you will be to handle the situation. This is the time to take stock of the accident and try to make a judgment about whether it was a serious one.

Keep yourself and others safe. If you can't get out of your car — or it's not safe to try — keep your seatbelt fastened, turn on your hazard lights, then call 911 if possible and wait for help to arrive. If the collision seems to be minor, turn off your car and grab your emergency

kit. If it's safe to get out and move around your car, set up orange cones, warning triangles, or emergency flares around the crash site.

If there are no injuries and your vehicle is driveable, make a reasonable effort to move the vehicle to a safe spot that is not blocking traffic (like the shoulder of a highway or a parking lot).

In some jurisdictions, it's illegal to move your car from the scene of a crash, though.

Ask your driver's ed instructor what the law is.

Check for injuries and report the incident

Check on everyone involved in the crash to see if they have any injuries. This includes making sure you don't have any serious injuries. Be extremely cautious – not all injuries can be seen. If you or anyone involved isn't feeling 100 per cent (like if you start trying to get photos or write down details on the crash and start feeling dizzy or out of it), call 911 or any other number your state uses to request emergency assistance on roadways. Be ready to give the dispatcher the fol-

lowing information: Who? The dispatcher will ask for your name and phone numbers in case the authorities need to get more information from you later.

What? Tell the dispatcher as much as you can about the emergency – for instance, whether there is a fire, traffic hazard, medical emergency, etc.

Where? Let the dispatcher know exactly where the emergency is taking place.

Give the town, road name, road number, mile markings, direction of travel, traffic signs, and anything else you can think of to help them know how to find you.

Make sure you stay on the line until the dispatcher says it's OK to hang up.

Sometimes, you can get the Police to come to the crash scene even if there are no injuries, especially if you tell them you need someone to mediate — in other words, to help you figure out what happened and who's at fault..

Take down driver information

Ask to see the driver's licence of the other drivers involved in the crash so that you can take down their li-

cence numbers. Also get their name, address, phone number, insurance company, insurance policy number, and licence plate number. If the other driver doesn't own the vehicle involved, be sure to get the owner's info as well.

Take notes on the crash

If the crash is minor and you feel that you can describe it, try to take pictures and put the details in writing.

Detailed notes and photos of the scene may help the court and insurance agencies decide who is responsible. Get a good description of the vehicles involved – year, make, model, and colour. Take photos of the scene – including the vehicles and any damage, the roads, any traffic signs, and the direction each vehicle was coming from.

Try to draw a diagram of the exact crash site and mark where each car was, what direction the car was coming from, and what lane it was in. Write down the date, time, and weather conditions. If there were any witnesses, try to get their names and contact info so that they can help clear up matters if one of the other drivers isn't

Set in box The aftermath

While the crash itself might be upsetting, dealing with the aftermath can be too. In the hours or days following a collision, some people may still be shaken up.

They may be beating themselves up over what happened — especially if they feel the crash was avoidable.

Sometimes, people close to those who were involved (like families and best friends) can experience some emotional problems too. These feelings are all normal. Once some time passes, the car is repaired, and the insurance companies are dealt with, most car crashes become mere afterthoughts.

In some cases, though, these feelings can get stronger or last for longer periods of time, keeping a person from living a normal life.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after a devastating event that injured or threatened to injure someone. Signs of PTSD may show up immediately following the crash, or weeks or even months after.

Not everyone who experiences stress after a trauma has PTSD. But here are some symptoms to look out for: avoiding emotions or any reminders of the incident constant feelings of anxiousness, crankiness, or anger avoiding medical tests or procedures constantly reliving the incident in one's mind nightmares or trouble sleeping If you notice any of these symptoms after you've been in a car crash, try talking through the experience with friends or relatives you trust.

Discuss what happened, and what you thought, felt, and did during the collision and in the days after. Try to get back into your everyday activities, even if they make you uneasy. If these things don't help, ask your parent or guardian to help you check in with your doctor.

Other road problems

Plenty of people have minor incidents — like running over the mailbox while backing out of the driveway.

Somewhere between hitting mailboxes and hitting other cars are common problems

like blowouts and breakdowns.

Flat tyres. Getting a flat tyre while you're driving can be jarring — literally. To prevent this, make sure your tyres aren't too old and check your tire pressure at least once a month.

If you do find yourself in a blowout situation, here are a few suggestions from AAA to get you through it safely: Don't panic and stay off the brake. Sudden braking could cause a skid. Look ahead and hold the steering wheel with a firm grip.

Slow down gradually by taking your foot off the accelerator. Try to steer the vehicle to the side of the road safely. Let the vehicle slow down before applying the brakes with gentle pressure. Bring the vehicle to rest on the side of the roadway, shoulder, or parking lot.

Set up your breakdown site. Once safely off the road and out of the line of traffic, turn on your emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your situation. Set up your warning signs (cones, triangles, or flares) behind your vehicle so others realise your car is disabled. If you know how to change your tire and can do it safely without getting too close to traffic, do it, or call your auto club for help.

Get help if you need it. you're waiting, raise the hood of your car and hang a white T-shirt or rag out the window or off the radio antenna so that police officers will know you need help. For safety reasons, don't try to flag down other drivers. Only walk along a multi-lane highway if you can see a business or someone who can help you nearby.

Don't walk in or get near traffic.

After it's done. Take your vehicle to the shop so a mechanic can look it over for any damage.

Breakdowns

If your vehicle breaks down, safely bring it to a stop and out of the line of traffic — as far off the roadway as possible. Set up your breakdown site out of traffic. A major difference between flat tires and breakdowns is that it's less likely that you will be able to fix a car that has broken down. That's why it's wise to signal that you need help by properly displaying the white cloth and calling for roadside assistance or the police.

If you manage to get your car safely out of traffic, wait inside with the doors locked.

If someone stops and offers to help you, just open the window slightly and say that you've already called for help. Again, only walk along a multi-lane highway if you can see help nearby, and stay as far away from traffic as possible. (kidshealth.org)

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friday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

We will reciprocate treatment of Guyanese, products in Caricom countries – Jagdeo

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

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n light of concerns raised by the local private sector on the treatment of Guyanese and products within the Caribbean Community (Caricom), Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo says that if this does not stop, then Guyana will have to reciprocate the treatment it receives from the other Member States.

At a press conference on Wednesday, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GGCI) complained

of non-tariff barriers that target Guyanese exports and went on to question the relevance of Caricom in regional trade relations.

However, Jagdeo noted that while Guyana cannot throw away its Caricom membership, for too long, the country has been treated unfairly by other Caricom countries, whether it has to do with the movement of Guyanese or exportation of its products.

In fact, he noted that during his tenure as President of Guyana, there had been “big fights” at the Caricom Heads of Government level because of this situation.

“Even now, a lot of Trinidad businesses are coming to Guyana and enjoying the hospitality. They’re getting State land sold to them [for] next to nothing.

But you try to get our people to go through the airport in Trinidad and Tobago and they’re treated with disdain sometimes, and this is not a new complaint. It’s been a complaint we’ve had for

GCCI Senior Vice President Timothy Tucker

voters’ list to put in a number of names here and create confusion to disenfranchise a number of people all around the country, which will [cause] trouble on elections day,” Jagdeo asserted.

On this note, PPP’s General Secretary pointed out that his party has no intention of disenfranchising anyone and as such, he suggests that the new registrants recorded during the H2H exercise be filtered out and verified. Once this is done, he said the PPP is willing to work along with the other parties to ensure

State posited.

Meanwhile, at a press conference on Wednesday, GCCI Senior Vice President Timothy Tucker contended that with the country about to become one of the world’s newest oil producers, Guyana dropped the ball not only with negotiating trade deals but also even developing its local content framework.

According to Tucker, Guyana’s newfound influence should have been leveraged to help other sectors

ucts, they, themselves, shut that industry down.”

The GCCI Vice President went on to say, “I would have spoken about the suspected hepatitis case in Guyana and then, suddenly, the ban on all poultry products.

When Guyana was approved to export poultry products throughout the Caribbean, we had even Jamaica… they used one of their laws talking about water being used. In the height of all of this, why isn’t Caricom unravelling these problems?

its budding oil and gas industry and many investors from across the region are coming here with the intention to invest.

In fact, he contended that even some regional ministers are sending persons here to gather up lands and set up companies to reap benefits from Guyana’s petroleum industry.

“They are the ones blocking our goods going in Caricom [but now] we’ve suddenly become attractive,” the former Head of

and remove needless trade barriers.

Instead, he noted that the situations continue to persist whereby the country is limited in what it can export to the Caribbean, especially Trinidad.

“They’ve put non-tariff barriers on honey, they just released the ones on pepper and pineapple. There’s still a lot of barriers on honey, pineapple, pumpkins. Also, you had situations where, when Guyana was exporting coconut water and its prod-

Is Caricom still relevant in terms of trade negotiations in the Caribbean?”

Even with its budding oil industry, it is important for Guyana to diversify its economy and find markets for other commodities.

Of recent, however, Guyana has had to contend with protectionist measures from not only its Caricom neighbours such as Jamaica and Trinidad but also the United States and the United Kingdom.

a very long time and then you try to get our agriculture products into Trinidad and Tobago, or our manufactured goods or a chicken in to Trinidad – because we want our exporters to send their goods there – and you face a whole range of restrictions, et cetera,” he posited.

On this note, the Opposition Leader pointed out to reporters at his weekly press conference on Thursday that systems like the Caribbean Single Market

PPP to vigorously fight...

For example, in Pearl on the East Bank of Demerara, two persons were registered at an empty lot, while in Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), there were persons registered at addresses they never lived at and also several registrations of non-existent people. He added too that even in Georgetown, there were multiple registrations of persons, among other issues.

“If we go down this route, we will have a disastrous situation… I think they were hoping to pad the

and Economy (CSME) need to be much fairer.

“You don’t go and throw away the whole Caricom.

You ensure that Guyanese are treated fairly and if there is no fair treatment, then there will be reciprocal treatment. If you can’t accept our agricultural products going into your country, then why are you coming here, wanting to invest in our country,” he asserted.

Jagdeo further noted that Guyana has become a hub in the Caribbean with

from page 3

that those authentic new registrants are included on the voters’ list.

“We can work out an arrangement with all the parties and GECOM to allow those people to vote but they must be authentic and they must be verified… We don’t have a problem [with that].

Our aim is not to disenfranchise but we know if they use the H2H data, merge it in the revised voters’ list, it is not only illegal but all the errors will be transferred too so it will contaminate the voters’ list,” he posited.

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friday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Conspiracy charge

Lawyers for hotelier, co-accused to provide written defence submissions

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efence Counsels for the owner of Rockies International Hotel and his co-accused, who are jointly accused of conspiring to kill a businessman, are expected to present written submissions into the matter on November 18.

This was revealed when Attorneys Glen Hanoman and Bernard DaSilva appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann

McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Mark Grimmond, of Grove Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara (EBD), and his alleged accomplice, Chatterpaul Singh, of Cummingsburg, Georgetown, were jointly charged for conspiring with each other and persons unknown to kill Dwayne Grant, a businessman of Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-

Man remanded for threatening mother

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man who threatened his mother was remanded to prison when he appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Kelvin Carol admitted that on November 7, at Barr Street, Kitty, Georgetown, he made use of threatening language towards his mother, Jean Carol.

In plea of mitigation, Carol told the court his mother cut his hair twice while he was asleep, which caused him to have an outburst. He claimed that the threats he made were

minor since he merely said that they will have a “big story”. He also told the court that he has mental issues and is currently a patient of Dr Bhiro Harry.

His mother, who was in court, confirmed that he is a patient of Dr Harry. She informed the court that her son needs help with his mental issues.

Magistrate McGusty remanded him to prison and the case will continue on December 11. She has also requested a psychiatric evaluation.

Granger…

Chatterpaul Singh and Mark Grimmond

Upper Essequibo).

The prosecution is contending that Grant received information that the men were plotting to kill him and reported the matter to the Police. Police in Region Nine subsequently swooped down on the men and found a firearm in Singh’s possession. It

is alleged that Singh reportedly confessed to the Police that he was contracted by the hotelier to carry out the execution.

Grimmond was then subsequently apprehended but denied any involvement.

Grimmond is on $500,000 bail while Singh is on remand.

Trini jailed for faking kidnapping files appeal

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Trinidadian man, who was found guilty and jailed by Magistrate Fabayo Azore in October for faking his own kidnapping in Guyana, has filed an appeal to have the sentence overturned.

This is according to Maraj’s lawyer, Brandon De Santos, who on Thursday

Jailed: Sawak Maraj

said that he is in the process of petitioning for bail pending an appeal hearing.

Sawak Maraj, a 33-yearold chemical engineer, was sentenced to four years imprisonment after he was found guilty of faking his own kidnapping.

The prosecution’s case contended that on October 27, 2017, at Madewini Resort, Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD), Maraj gave false information to the Police that he had been kidnapped and US$700,000 was demanded for his release.

However, after a probe was launched into the kidnapping, it was discovered that the incident was staged.

He was also charged for conspiring with others on the same day and at the same location to commit a felony, that is, to obtain US$700,000 by false pretence.

Reports are that the Trinidadian arrived in Guyana and was scheduled to check-in at the Ramada Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara but never went to the hotel.

According to reports, the parents of the victim were contacted in Trinidad via telephone by an unknown person who indicated that their son was taken hostage in Guyana and the money was demanded for his release.

A photograph of the man shirtless with a cutlass to his neck was sent to his parents as proof of his detention.

However, following investigations by Police in Guyana, the ranks swooped down on a house at Madewini Resort and found the man relaxing comfortably with his alleged accomplices. It was then that a probe was launched and it was found that he was part of the plot to extort money from his parents in Trinidad.

I

…and Burnham’s socialism n vetoing the stipulations of the Cummingsburg Accord, solemnly signed with the AFC on Valentine’s Day, Caretaker David Granger boasted: “I am a prudent and wise leader, and I will make the choice which I feel will deliver the best results, the best outcome for the people of Guyana”. It’s truly said that “self-praise is no recommendation!!” Prudent? The dictionary informs your Eyewitness that this means “acting with, or showing care and thought, for the future”.

Was Granger “showing care and thought for the future” when he fired 7000 sugar workers as he arbitrarily shut down 4 sugar estates - against the recommendations of his own COI?? Did he think about the loss of foreign earnings that made our reserves at the BoG plummet to dangerously low levels?? Did he think about the social collapse in the communities that depended on those sugar estates? Did he ever think he was supposed to be president of all Guyana?

Was he “showing care and thought for the future” when he entrusted the negotiation of the oil contract to Trotman – just because of some back-room deal struck at Nassau to hijack the AFC??

So now we’re stuck with a lousy US$18 million bonus when Brazil got US$600 million for a comparable find!!

And we then buried the bonus in some slush fund!! Or getting an even lousier 12.5% of revenues – from which we have to pay the taxes of the oil companies, which get 87% revenues!! And he expects Guyanese to blame the oil companies?? Did his “wisdom” blind him to the fact that the oil companies have to maximise value for their shareholders while he and his Minister have to maximise value for us, the citizens of Guyana!! And the beat of Granger’s ineptness goes on and on…

But Granger’s hubristic thinking goes back to the kind of man he is – moulded by Burnham and Burnham’s socialism, which included his vision of what an army is supposed to be and do. Burnham and Granger - like all socialists – believe they’ve been given the key to omniscience with their Socialist mumbo-jumbo. In Granger’s case, this was accentuated by his stint in Burnham’s army, where he was given accelerated promotions. It was a “People’s Army” that was supposed to be loyal to Burnham over anything else – including Guyana.

Some folks may balk at calling Granger a “socialist” – but it’s a socialism as interpreted by Burnham. One that could discriminate against the Indian working class without any qualms. Like imposing a levy on sugar profits that denied profit-sharing to mostly Indian sugar workers.

Or like Granger giving public servants a 9% retroactive salary increase but denying ANY to sugar workers. …and business Granger’s socialist bent was exposed when he was side-lined by Desmond Hoyte when the latter jettisoned Burnham’s socialist experiment, which by 1989 had brought Guyana to its knees in every facet of national life.

Granger’s never forgiven Hoyte for both the slight to him and the rebuff of his master’s ideology. The first person he honoured when he took high office was Hamilton Green, whom Hoyte had also banished.

Burnham hadn’t only broken the back of the foreign “capitalists” through nationalization, he’d ordered that all importation pass through his External Trade Bureau, and controlled distribution through the Knowledge Sharing Institute. (KSI). Through this ploy, he miniaturised the local business class – dominated by Portuguese, Indians and Chinese. The latter two fled. Meanwhile, he handed out land, jobs (with a tenfold expansion of the public service) and goodies to his supporters – a la Chavez in Venezuela.

We presaged Venezuela.

Granger has genuflected to the changed circumstances, but has the same racist “socialistic” goals.

Witness his blanking of the Indian-dominated local business community and the freebies to the public sector and his supporters. …and Moses It’s speculated that Granger prefers Nagamootoo as his running mate, as opposed to Ramjattan. Apart from his superior (demonstrated) brownnosing skills, Nagamootoo is a dyed-in-the-wool socialist - unlike Ramjattan.

Birds of a (socialist) feather plunder (better) together!!

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

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FRIday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Joseph Harmon renounces State agencies benefit from money laundering, asset US citizenship

Director-General at the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon

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irector-General at the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, announced that his United States citizenship has been officially renounced.

Such a move will now pave the way for him to continue his political career in Guyana.

Harmon, who was the former State Minister of Guyana, was one of the four Government Parliamentarians who had to resign from the National Assembly and as Ministers in Government because of their dual-citizenship status.

Their resignations came on the heels of Court rulings earlier this year barring persons with dual citizenship from sitting in the National Assembly. But on Thursday, during a post-Cabinet press briefing, Harmon, when questioned about his dual citizenship status, confirmed that he was no longer

a US citizen.

“I had submitted to the US embassy in Guyana an application to revoke my US citizenship, I can say to you now I have a response from the US which came on the October 8 indicating to me that with respect to July 2019 that my application was approved. Therefore, my US citizenship has now gone through the window, with respect from July 31 that is the situation. If I want to travel, I have to apply for a visa”.

The issue of dual citizenship arose late last year when former coalition Member of Parliament, Charrandas Persaud, who also held second citizenship, crossed over and voted in favour of an Opposition-tabled No-Confidence Motion (NCM) against the APNU/ AFC Government, causing its defeat.

The validity of Persaud’s vote was challenged in the Court by Government supporter Compton Reid. The

High Court, whose ruling was subsequently upheld in the Appeal Court, found that while persons with dual citizenship cannot sit in the National Assembly, the former MP’s vote on the NCM was lawful since he was a valid parliamentarian.

The ruling in question was delivered by acting Chief Justice Roxane George, who in January upheld the passage of the NoConfidence Motion against the Government, ruling that it was validly passed with the 33 majority.

At the time, the Government not only argued that 34 was the majority of 65 but it also argued that former Alliance For Change (AFC) MP Charrandas Persaud, as a dual citizen, should not have been in the National Assembly in the first place.

The fallout from her ruling on the dual citizenship issue, however, saw Teixeira and her Opposition colleagues Odinga Lumumba and Adrian Anamayah, as well as former Ministers Joseph Harmon, Carl Greenidge, Dominic Gaskin and Dr Rupert Roopnaraine resigning from Parliament and Government, only for them to then be rehired by the Government in different capacities in the same Ministries they once headed.

All, except Anamayah, had confirmed since then that they would have been renouncing their foreign citizenship.

In April of this year, Opposition Leader and PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo had committed to ensuring that future electoral lists submitted by his party to stand for Parliament would be free of dual citizens.

recovery training

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Participants at the training programme

he Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) on Wednesday commenced a three-day training workshop on Financial Investigations and Asset Recovery for State Lawyers, Police Prosecutors, Police and Financial Investigators from SOCU and the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU).

The workshop is facilitated by the Barbados-based Regional Security System (RSS) Asset Recovery Unit (ARU) at the Guyana Police Force Officers Training Centre (OTC) on Camp Road.

The ARU provides technical assistance on the mentoring of financial investigations, legal advice, training and capacity building to law enforcement, criminal jus-

tice practitioners, financial investigators, analysts, lobbying and advocating on policy and legislative framework.

The training focuses on the fundamentals of money laundering and asset recovery issues and challenges. Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, Police Commissioner Leslie James and ARU Director Grenville Williams made

brief opening remarks, while Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (ADPP), Dionne McCammon gave an overview of the training which ends today (Friday).

The training is another in a series of training workshops by DPP’s Chambers from 2013 to present, in collaboration with the ARU and USA-based National Centre for State Courts (NCSC).

10 NEWS

friday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Haags Bosch staff struggling with huge tyre build-up Eastern Airlines to post US$450,000 bond to operate in Guyana Tyres and mosquitoes

Tyres at the Haags Bosch landfill site

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fficials at the Haags Bosch Landfill, Eccles, East Bank Demerara, are struggling to overcome the major challenge of the build-up of waste tyres at the facility, which is creating a breeding ground for mosquitos.

During a tour of the facility on Thursday, Landfill Manager Lloyd Stanton explained the largest challenge they are currently facing is the build-up of billions of tyres stored from since 2011.

“We have billions of tyres on-site and that is a huge

problem…we have a huge stockpile,” he said.

Stanton explained that tyres can be recycled for various uses and this option should be considered by Guyanese before dumping the material.

“You can make it into asphalt through pyrolysis.

We can take it and turn it into oils and gases,” he explained.

Meanwhile, he noted that the Haags Bosch Landfill has made moderate improvements in their overall operations.

“We have started and im-

proved the frequency of our monitoring; we are now doing quarterly monitoring for some of the perimeters and we have introduced or in the process of introducing the groundwater testing”.

In contrast, he said these improvements were done at a slow rate owing to financial constraints. However, this year, the company implemented the groundwater testing and sampling to ensure that whatever transpires in the landfill sites does not reach the groundwater.

Research has proven that tyres have a way of breeding thousands of mosquitoes. If a tyre is filled with water, it has the potential to breed the biting female mosquito. Meanwhile, after being around for a while, tires can grow leaves for mosquitoes to feed on for energy.

The thick, rubbery composition of tyres also helps to provide insulation and protection for mosquito eggs, making them the perfect nest for a new spawn of pests to grow.

With the country’s fight for the elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis in mind— a disease that is carried by mosquitoes— these tyres might pose as a great disadvantage and a breeding ground for the multiplication of mosquitoes in Guyana.

The Haags Bosch landfill is being operated by Puran Brothers and Cevons Waste Management. It is the largest landfill in Guyana catering for household and commercial refuse to be deposited from Region Four.

…measure necessary to ensure Guyanese passengers are safeguarded – Harmon

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An Eastern Airlines plane

astern Airlines LLC – which emerged from bankruptcy in 2018 as Dynamic International Airways, who previously owned the rights to the name and logo—will once again take to the skies, serving the Guyanese populace in December but has to pay a US $450,000 bond to local authorities first.

Director-General of the Ministry of Presidency, Joseph Harmon, on Thursday during a post-Cabinet media briefing told reporters that approval was given for the airline to provide scheduled services between New York, USA and Georgetown, Guyana once again, provided that the company makes the necessary payments.

“And (Cabinet) has agreed that Eastern Airlines LLC can commence operations on or before December 8, 2019, subject to the posting of a bond of US $250,000 to the Government of Guyana and a separate bond of US $200,000 to the Guyana Revenue Authority”.

Prior to this implementation of a bond for the Eastern Airline LLC, other airlines were never required to do so, but in light of the Eastern Airline LLC’s history with Guyanese, Harmon stated that this measure had to be put in place to safeguard Guyanese passengers.

Eastern Airlines was rebranded from Dynamic Airways, which had filed for bankruptcy in 2017.

Dynamic Airways’ operations in Guyana were also embroiled in controversy, characterised by frequent flight delays and cancellations.

“There has been some history with respect to this par-

ticular airline. And, therefore, when the application came, it took some amount of due diligence to come to the point of deciding. I think there has also been some serious lobbying by other entities outside of Guyana suggesting that this is an important time for the airline”.

He noted that since the Eastern Airline LLC first made its application to return to Guyana, relevant authorities were concerned about the possibility that Guyanese passengers who use that airline’s services could be left stranded at locations in New York or Georgetown, and that the hefty sum will aid in preventing such.

“So the question of the bond was one sure way of satisfying that requirement that if, in fact, that were to happen, we would be in a position to charter an aircraft to get these people to their destinations. That is one of the thinking behind it. I can say that from the GCAA department where these decisions are made, they actually reported that there has been heavy lobbying taking place from official US sources to get this airline coming to Guyana”.

This approval for Eastern Airlines LLL comes six months after an earlier application had been rejected by Cabinet.

Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Egbert Field had recently told the media that the company is no longer connected to Dynamic Airways and has followed international regulations and transitioned and restructured itself under new management.

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friday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Food shortage

Regional team visits Anna Regina Multilateral School dormitory

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ne day after reports surfaced that over 106 students being accommodated at the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School dormitory have been affected as the entity’s kitchen is out of essential food items, a regional team visited the institution on Thursday.

Guyana Times understands that the team led by

the gravity of the situation.

When contacted on Thursday, REO Jaikarran told this publication that there is no issue at the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School dormitory. He said he is unaware of any food shortage and has not received any letters from the contracted suppliers. On Wednesday, a senior regional official

Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School dormitory

Regional Executive Officer Denis Jaikarran went to the institution to assess the situation.

Speaking with Guyana Times, a source close to the institution said that the visit was more of an accusing session rather than one to deal with the real issue at hand. The source noted that persons at the facility were accused of leaking what one of the team members claimed to be “false” information. According to the source, the head of the facility was also told to sign a document at the end of the visit on Thursday.

The source stated that the issue is very embarrassing to the regional administration and persons are now attempting to undermine

in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) told this newspaper that the suppliers, who were contracted to provide food items for the school’s dormitory, have “put a hold” on the process after the cost for food raised and the regional administration refused to meet with them.

The source noted that suppliers inked agreements to supply a certain amount of food items regularly at a fixed cost but because the prices for food items have increased, a meeting was requested by the suppliers to discuss the issue with the regional administration.

The source noted that the suppliers on Wednesday said that repeated calls to the regional administra-

tion’s senior officials to review their existing contracts considering the price change have been futile.

A letter, which was seen by this publication, was sent by the suppliers to the REO seeking his intervention. However, according to the source, this letter was never acknowledged and the efforts of the suppliers were futile.

In one of the letters sent to the REO, the supplier stated that the company will no longer be able to supply garlic and onion to the secondary schools, dormitories and hospitals in Region Two. In another letter seen by this publication on Thursday, a supplier informed the REO and the chief accountant that they will no longer be supplying sugar and onions to the dorm and hospitals in the region.

This newspaper was told that the suppliers were forced to cease supplying food items to the dormitory, since, according to them, they would be operating at a huge loss.

Students at the dormitory did not receive any tea at breakfast on Wednesday

but were rather given water to drink as part of their breakfast.

A close source to the school’s operation told this newspaper that the stu-

dents are given “little portion sizes, water instead of tea, and no milk”.

Thief who slept in shop after robbery remanded

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23-year-old vendor, who allegedly broke into a shop in Mahdia, Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), was on Thursday arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Mark Caesar, of Lot 3938 North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty and denied the charge which stated that

between November 11 and November 12, 2019, at Mahdia, he broke and entered the business premises of William Deochan and stole one music box valued $260,000, three phones valued $144,000 and $200,000 cash.

According Police Prosecutor Seon Blackman, the businessman secured his shop around 22:10h and

retired to bed; however, the following day, when the man entered the shop, he found Caesar sleeping.

He raised an alarm and the man attempted to make good his escape but was apprehended by a public-spirited person who dealt him a severe beating and recovered the three phones from his pocket.

The matter was then re-

ported and the Police arrived shortly after and took the injured man to the hospital.

The Prosecutor contended bail should not be granted to the defendant citing the fact he was caught in the act.

The Magistrate, after listening to the facts, remanded Caesar to prison. The case will continue on November 15.

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friday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Collect salary increases – Jagdeo to public servants — labels claims of PPP reversing increases as “lies” — concerned thousands will lose jobs to sustain salary increases

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pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday described claims by the APNU/AFC that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) will reverse the recently announced salary increases for public servants as “pure lies”.

During his weekly press conference, Jagdeo addressed the pay-hike announced by President David Granger on Wednesday and shortly after, a social media post was shared stating that “Jagdeo today warned public servants that the tax-free, retroactive salary increases announced by the caretaker coalition government are illegal and that any public servant who accepts any salary increase will face the full force of the law if the PPP wins the March 2, 2020 elections…”

This was brought to his attention during the press conference and the Opposition Leader immediately addressed the post, clarifying that he never said that “PPP will reverse all salary increases for 2019 and public servants will be required to repay the increases if the PPP wins”.

To the contrary, Jagdeo urged public servants to collect the increases which is a

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

routine annual increase that was catered for in the 2019 Budget.

“This is the lie that goes on; this is social media. I said the public servants should collect the money.

It was budgeted since last year. This is nothing new, they should get their money. It is pure lies and this is coming straight from APNU,” he contended.

The Opposition Leader went on to explain that what he warned against, in fact, is new contracts being signed by the caretaker government and issued to their cronies.

On the other hand, the Opposition Leader expressed concerns that government might move to dismiss thousands of public

servants in order to facilitate the recently announced salary increases.

Government’s announcement of pay hikes comes on the heels of Finance Minister Winston Jordan saying earlier this week that some 15,000 persons who are overcrowding the public treasury will have to be fired in order to pay better wages and salary to public servants.

“I have more than a suspicious, more than an intuition; I have some information that they plan to make some of these increases sustainable ‘cause they know the increases can’t be sustainable… that after the elections, they plant to terminate, to downsize the public sector by 15 to 20 thousands. He said it can’t be

done immediately but that’s their plan,” Jagdeo said.

He pointed out that this situation mirrors that relating to the sugar industry when the PPP had warned the country that the coalition would close the estates but the APNU/AFC denied this.

“They said that no sugar worker would lose their job and just after the elections, they started [the closures]. Just months after Wales was closed. So this is a promise, basically, to downsize the public sector by 15 to 20 thousands in the future…” the Opposition Leader posited.

Nevertheless, Jagdeo noted that the coalition will not be there to implement this plan and when the PPP gets into office, it will be create thousands of job opportunities instead of dismissing people.

He further stated that while he is happy that the public servants will be getting a pay hike, a bulk of the increases is going towards ministers and top government officials. He went on to dismiss claims of a 75 per cent growth in employment cost under the APNU/AFC coalition.

In fact, the Opposition Leader highlighted that the

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

only thing that grew under the coalition is their expenses in areas such as salaries, dietary, allowances, travel per diems (both domestic and overseas), entertainments and so on…

“When you talk about public servants getting an increase in salary, you look at them. We’re spending close $3 million per month on a minister now and 27 of them. And they didn’t take a year even for them to increase their salaries to a million dollar, in six weeks they did… So yes, there’s a growth in employment costs and they work out percentages etc. [But] when you go behind the scene, then you see who’s really benefiting the bulk of the money. So when you get your 20,000 more, the Minister (and their cronies) pulls down nearly one million more or

two millions more when you group all the allowances.

That is what is happening,” Jagdeo asserted.

On Wednesday, the Head of State revealed that the minimum wage for public servants would be increased to $70,000 from $64,220 per month. Persons in this category will be receiving $69,336 this December, a nine per cent increase from the current wages and is extended to sweeper-cleaners in the public education system.

Other public servants earning between $100,000 and under $1 million will receive an 8.5 per cent increase; and those earning less than $100,000 will receive a nine per cent increase in their salaries.

Cabinet also approved increases in several stipends.

Woman dies 1 month after being beaten by son

O

ne month after being severely beaten by her son, an East Canje woman succumbed to her injuries.

Dead is 77-year-old Jaganarin Lalta, also called “Bob”, of Lot 29 First Street Adelphi Village, East Canje Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The suspect, 35-year-old Totoram Lalta, also called “Elmo”, was previously charged for attempted murder and remains incarcerated.

It was reported that on

October 14, the younger Lalta had approached the pensioner seeking money to satisfy one of his habits. When the woman refused, an argument ensued during which he reportedly began assaulting her.

The unemployed man reportedly held her hair, rocked her head and slapped her across the face. As a result of the beating, the woman fell to the ground, hitting her head on a concrete block and losing consciousness.

She was picked up and rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where she was treated and transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

After not regaining consciousness and her condition continued to worsen, the woman was taken home, where she died on Thursday.

Meanwhile, after the matter was reported to the Police, the suspect was arrested and charged after he confessed to beating the woman.

He was remanded until November 27 on the attempted murder charge but he is expected to be slapped with a murder charge instead. Two years ago, the suspect was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment for assaulting his mother.

Following the woman’s demise, her sister refused to provide any information.

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friday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Troy Resources operations remain closed ...losses estimated at US$5M and counting

– exploring possibility of future underground mining venture

S

By Jarryl Bryan

ince closing down its mining and processing operations, Troy Resources has sustained heavy losses from the downtime at its Karouni location.

The company does have an eye on the future, however, a future that could include underground mining.

This was revealed when the company facilitated a media tour on Thursday, at its Karouni, Region Seven location. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Ken Nilsson, explained that since they suspended its mining and processing operations, the company has lost US$6 million in revenue.

“In a normal month, our total operating cost is around $4 million, plus we have (arrears to pay). So we need about US$5 million.

About US$3 million goes back into the local economy in the form of wages, purchases and all the suppliers. So US$3 million is not going back into the economy. You will see the effect of that next month”.

“So the total loss for us last month, since September, our total cash inflow is roughly US$6 million. So we have no inflows.

For the last month, we lost around that. So it costs us a lot of money. To get the money, we need to produce a minimum of 4000 ounces per month. And we’ve not produced 4000 ounces (in a while). To be comfortable, we need US$5 million. We could survive on US$4 million.”

It is understood that after operations were sus-

Troy Resources Chief Executive Officer Ken Nilsson Smart

pended in the wake of the death of geologist Ryan Taylor in a mining pit accident, approximately 400 workers have left the site.

Nilsson explained that it costs a hefty sum per day to maintain the remaining workers in the downsized operation.

“It would have been very easy for me to say, shut everything down, put it in

cold storage until things have settled down. But we choose to believe no, we can sort this out. I don’t have issues with governments.

Everyone is doing what they have to do,” he explained.

“Without doing anything, I can last another month. But I cannot go back to production without having a source of money to back you up. I need to be sure that if anything goes wrong or a mechanical problem, I need to have a piggy bank of money to back me up.”

According to Nilsson, however, a decision on the way forward is expected by next week. Asked if this way forward could include downsizing its workforce, he noted that such decisions will depend on a number of factors.

Underground mining

However, the company remains optimistic of op-

The Smart-3 mining pit where Troy Resources is considering starting an underground mine

erations restarting in the near future. One of the things being considered is underground mining, with Nilsson explaining that such a venture could be a possibility at its Smart-3 mining pit.

At present, the Smart-3 pit has been shut down since March 2019, while it awaits the installation of slope monitors and other infrastructure to ensure safety. But according to Nilsson, if the company decides to go the underground route, it could unlock a potential 100,000 ounces of gold.

“That one, we opened it, it started giving us problems, we shut it down. At the moment, we’re looking at what we need to move to restore the original designs in here and go back down.

We’re looking at the economics of it but if we continue with it, it’ll be sometime next year because it needs to be funded.”

“The options we have here are two-fold. We can do the cutback and get back down into it and it’ll cost us whatever it is. Or we can do a decline and go underground and take out the ore underground. Eventually, here, you will most like-

The mills at Troy were cleared out and operations suspended after the accident that left a geologist dead

ly have an underground mine. Because there’s a reasonable amount of ore.

So you’re talking maybe 100,000 ounces in underground resources.”

According to Nilsson, the instructions to install the slope monitors came from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

Slope monitors are used to give mining companies a heads up when a mining pit is about to fail.

GGMC also issued the company instructions to

clear up a certain part of the pit wall. In defending the pit, however, Nilsson noted that heavy rain has affected the pit’s appearance and resulted in it forming unnatural slopes.

One other company, Guyana Goldfields, has started underground mining exploration at Aurora Gold Mine, where it is expected that a substantial amount of ore is present. It was only this year that they received clearance from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

14 news

friday, november 15, 2019| guyanatimesgy.com

Fatal mining pit collapse took company by surprise – Troy Resources CEO — as company awaits findings of GGMC investigation

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ast month, a geologist attached to Troy Resources mining operations at Karouni, Region Seven, died in a mining pit cave-in. And according to the company’s Chief Executive Officer Ken Nilsson, the company was taken by complete surprise by the accident.

While there have been reports of a track record of accidents at the mining

site, Troy Resources presented statistics to show that accidents such as those that would require first aid were, in fact, rare.

Moreover, according to Nilsson, accidents such as the one that claimed the life of geologist Ryan Taylor, are hard to anticipate but they have beefed up training and safety processes for their workers.

“You don’t expect it,

it’s like working in a sandpit and something gives away. We know there was a pork knocker incident that same day, one of the guys got buried but he managed to get out. His mates were there and pulled him out”.

“We can only prevent it by getting everybody thinking the same. It’s a question of having the right rules, enforcing them, ensuring everybody does and

Dead: geologist Ryan Taylor

when you see something, do something about it”.

He gave an example of a mine in Australia, which was incorrectly given a clean bill of health by an expert only to have it collapse sometime later.

“We have experts who will tell us, this wall angle is fine, but there’s always (a risk) because once you excavate it, you can’t see through rock. And (you can use) drill holes, measuring contact of structures, but they’re not always right. We had a mine in Australia, where we had a consultant come because I was worried about one particular wall and he stood looking at it and he said, you have no problems”.

“And I said ok. And after he left, that whole wall collapsed. But there was no danger to anyone but the point is, how wrong you can get even if you’re an expert and done everything you can. That’s why vigilance, safety measures and (introspection). You can’t see through rock or sand. By the time it all settled down (after being excavated), that part gave way.”

Nilsson also explained that the pit caved in mere hours before the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) ar-

The Hick’s-1 mining pit where the accident occurred

rived on site. And it was explained to the media during the tour that while there was a resident doctor on site, they were hampered by lack of light due to the accident happening at night.

“The incident actually occurred (just before) GGMC came on site. So they were here or just arriving for a regular inspection of our sites. So they came just after it happened. They came in the morning and it happened in the night.”

“They come here quite regularly and they give us a list of things they want us to do. And that’s fine because that’s why they’re here. They are a body in place to ensure everyone follows the rules and regulations. And that’s fine.”

Investigation

Since Troy did its own internal investigation into the accident, Nilsson was asked directly about its findings.

The media was informed that Troy Resources was, in turn, awaiting the release of the investigation and findings of the GGMC into the accident. General Manager Eric Olson did, however, urge that the report be released.

Last month, Ryan Taylor and three others were work-

ing on the construction of a “bench” at one of the company’s mining pit when there was a slippage, which allegedly led to him falling and being covered with debris.

After the incident, Guyana Times understands that it took some time to get Taylor from under the rubble and by the time he was pulled out, it was too late.

Troy Resources later confirmed that the accident occurred at about 02:25h, during the night shift, when a geologist was standing above an excavated working face.

The embankment which he was standing on collapsed and he suffered fatal injuries as a consequence.

Nilsson later announced that mining operations at Karouni, Cuyuni, have currently been temporarily suspended.

It was reported that days later, employees of the Australian-owned company were handed letters terminating their service, and no response was given about payment for days worked in that month.

After that, officials of the GGMC would have met with the company’s representatives, where they were instructed to conduct remedial works at the Hick’s-1 pit, the location of the accident.

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friday, november 15, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

No date fixed by President to dissolve Parliament

– necessary mechanisms have to be in place for fair, credible elections – Harmon

D

espite having set March 2, 2020 as Election Day, President David Granger is yet to have his Cabinet resign and dissolve the 11th Parliament.

Director-General at the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, says that although the APNU/AFC caretaker government is aware that the Parliament needs to be dissolved in keeping with the country’s Constitution for the hosting of the upcoming elections, the President has not yet signalled when he plans to issue a proclamation in this regard.

“I cannot say to you now that there has been a firm decision on the dissolution, the date when that is to take place, that certain-

ly will be occasioned by several factors which still have to be considered. Whether, in fact, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has all that is required, whether, in fact, any specific work has to be done within the National Assembly”.

He stated that although March 2, 2020 has been announced as the date of the election in Guyana, his government will not proceed with the dissolution of the Parliament unless it is certain that all necessary mechanisms are put in place to host free, fair and credible elections.

“So if it means that the Parliament has to be dissolved by a certain time, there is no more work for it, I am sure that his Excellency, the President, will only be too

Director-General at the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon

happy to make that decision.

But as right now, as we stand right now, I cannot say to you that a specific date has been set for that to take place”.

Just last week, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo told reporters that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) will resume protest actions if President David

Granger does not dissolve Parliament come next month.

Having already set March 2, 2020 as the date for the much-anticipated General and Regional Elections and issuing the election proclamation, pressure has been mounting on the caretaker President to also dissolve the 11th Parliament.

Region 5 honours top CSEC, NGSA performers

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he Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) Department of Education on Wednesday held its annual award ceremony for the top Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) and National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) performers.

Teachers who were also responsible for the students’ success were also honoured as Regional Education Officer Deon Lynn Lewis-Clark referred to them as clever learners and the teachers as industrious.

Lewis-Clark stated that the students have made their schools, parents and teachers proud. The top achievers, the Education Officer added, should continue to excel and contribute to the well-being of society.

However, she warned that the key to success in life is not trying to get ahead of other persons.

“Awards are a way to encourage good behaviour and inculcate competitive spirits, this is why the Department of Education organises award ceremonies every year to en-

courage learners, teachers and other stakeholders who partner and support the Department of Education from time to time”. For this reason, she said the high achievers were being awarded.

She said parents are a part of the process of perspective giving. Looking at education from the broader perspective, the Official related that true education cannot possibly be that everything is achieved at school.

“The most powerful influence on a child's perspective is that which is modelled by their parents,” she added.

She encouraged the awardees to find a purpose in life while noting that they should have something to fall back on. “But remember, dreams without goals are just dreams”.

The top CSEC achievers were Tishona Browne, Rebekah Singh, Bhagmatie Narine, Doneska Aden Aaron, Pauja Mohabir, Jerry Julian Collins, Ashawattie Jagmohan, Grae Alisa Etwaru and Martha Jainarain who topped the Region with 11

But according to Article 61 of the Constitution, “An election of members of the National Assembly under Article 60 (2) shall be held on such day within three months after every dissolution of Parliament as the President shall appoint by proclamation”.

“When the time comes, he will have to dissolve. I’m just making sure that he understands one thing that December 2 is the day… He has to dissolve Parliament; he has to issue a proclama-

tion. Let him delay that and we’ll resume protest because that’s part of the holding of elections – the dissolution of Parliament,” Jagdeo had noted at his weekly press conference last week.

The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition has been acting as a caretaker government for nearly one year since the December 21, 2018 passage of the NoConfidence Motion (NCM) against it.

New UNDP Resident Representative presents credentials

United Nations Development Programme Resident Representative Jairo Valverde Bermudez presents his credentials to Foreign Affairs Minister Karen Cummings

U

Top National Grade Four Assessment student Indarine Davi Ramoutar

grade ones and one grade three.

The top NGSA performers were Taveer Sukhra, Clevelon Gordon, Avanish Rupnarine, Taiyelle Paul, Jageshwar Ramnarace, Maria Pertasingh, Sharon Persaud, Shaquan Fullerton, Shameera Sattar, Toreka Persaud and Umashankar Singh.

Indarine Davi Ramoutar was the top Grade Four and Afsanah Khan the top Grade Two Assessment student.

Rosignol Secondary was adjudged the region’s top sec-

ondary school, while Woodley Park Primary received the prize for “most improved” school.

Meanwhile, fourteen teachers with thirty-years of service and more were honoured, along with one retiree.

Deputy Regional Executive Officer Sherwin Wellington, who also wished the students continued success, used the opportunity to hand over the keys the newly-remodelled auditorium at the Latchmansingh Secondary.

nited Nations Development Programme Resident Representative Jairo Valverde Bermudez on Thursday presented his credentials to Foreign Affairs Minister, Dr Karen Cummings.

Dr Cummings welcomed Bermudez to Guyana and expressed gratitude for the support the country received from the UNDP on the Green State Development Strategy and, more recently, assistance with preparation for the voluntary national reviews (VNRs).

Furthermore, she noted that Guyana valued the United Nations as a trusted partner.

In turn, the UNDP Resident Representative shared that the organisa-

tion remained committed to working with Guyana on the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He also said it would ensure that the benefits of development were quickly realised.

Prior to assuming his position as UNDP Resident Representative in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Bermudez served as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Costa Rica to the Federative Republic of Brazil.

He had previously held a number of positions in the UNDP, including as Chief Technical Advisor in Maputo, Mozambique and Programme Manager in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, among others.

16

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, november 15, 2019

Around the World

Pelosi says Trump has admitted to bribery as impeachment probe intensifies H ouse of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi said on Thursday President Donald Trump already has admitted to bribery in the Ukraine scandal at the heart of a Democratic-led inquiry, accusing him of an impeachable offense under the US Constitution.

“The bribe is to grant or withhold military assistance in return for a public statement of a fake investigation into the elections.

That’s bribery,” Pelosi, the top Democrat in Congress, told a news conference the day after the first public hearing in the impeachment inquiry she announced in September.

“What the President has admitted to and says it’s ‘perfect,’ I say it’s perfectly wrong. It’s bribery,” Pelosi said.

Democrats are looking into whether the Republican President abused his power by withholding $391 million in US security aid to Ukraine as leverage to pressure Kiev to conduct two investigations that would benefit him politically. The money, approved by Congress to help a US ally combat

Russia-backed separatists in the eastern part of the country, was later provided to Ukraine.

Trump has denied any wrongdoing.

Another central figure – former US Ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch – is due to testify on Friday in the second public hearing in the inquiry.

The inquiry threatens Trump’s presidency even as he seeks re-election in November 2020. If the House approves articles of impeachment – formal charges – against Trump, the Senate would then hold a trial on whether to convict him and remove him from office. Republicans control the Senate and have shown little support for Trump’s removal.

Pelosi’s comments could offer a preview of articles of impeachment Democrats might put forward. At her news conference, she also said Trump’s administration had committed “obstruction of Congress” by blocking testimony of officials summoned to testify in the inquiry.

The Constitution states that impeachable offenses include “treason, brib-

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi wields the gavel as the US House of Representatives cast their votes on a resolution that sets up the next steps in the impeachment inquiry of US President Donald Trump on Capitol Hill in Washington

ery or other high crimes and misdemeanors.”

Democrats have begun to use the words bribery or attempted bribery in discussing Trump’s actions.

According to precedent, obstruction could be another article of impeachment.

Republicans have said House Democrats already have decided to pass articles of impeachment but Pelosi denied that was the case, saying the inquiry must play out before any decision can be made.

The focus of the inquiry is a July 25 phone call in which Trump asked Ukrainian President

Student gunman kills 2, wounds 3 at California high school before shooting self

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California high school student on his 16th birthday opened fire on campus on Thursday, killing a 16-year-old girl and a 14-year-old boy and wounding three other teens before shooting himself in the head, officials said.

The suspect survived but was in grave condition, officials said.

After drawing a .45 calibre semiautomatic handgun from his backpack, he opened fire on the other students, and he saved the last bullet for himself, Captain Kent Wegener of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department told a news conference.

“At this point, we have no indication of any motive or ideology,” FBI Agent Paul Delacourt said.

In addition to the two dead students, two other girls, aged 14 and 15, were wounded, as was a 14-year old boy, Wegener said.

The suspect was described by police as an Asian male and a student at Saugus High School in Santa Clarita, about 40 miles (65 km) north of Los Angeles.

The incident marked

Sheriffs stand outside Saugus High School after a shooting, in Santa Clarita, California, US, November 14, 2019, in this still image obtained from social media video

yet another school shooting in the United States, where repeated mass shootings in recent years have intensified the debate about gun control and the constitutional right for citizens to keep and bear arms.

This is at least the 85th incident of gunfire on school grounds this year, according to Everytown, an advocacy group pushing for stricter gun laws.

Some 2300 students attend the school, which is made up of more than a dozen buildings.

Sean Murillo, 17, a football player at Saugus High School, said he was walking toward his coach’s office when he heard shots

about 10 feet (3 meters) away and ducked into a classroom and waited.

Murillo later met his mother at a designated point for parents and students to reunite at Santa Clarita’s Central Park.

“There’s no feeling of safety until he’s in your arms,” said his mother, Mercedes Rodriguez.

Taylor Hardges reported seeing people running in the hallways shouting “Run!” She raced into a classroom, where a teacher barricaded the room.

“We’ve had drills. It doesn’t prepare you for the real thing,” she said after reuniting with her father at Central Park. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Volodymyr Zelenskiy to investigate Democratic rival Joe Biden and the former Vice President’s son Hunter, who had served as a board member for a Ukrainian energy company called Burisma. Trump also asked Zelenskiy to investigate a debunked conspiracy theory embraced by some Trump allies that Ukraine, not Russia, interfered in the 2016 US election.

Pelosi compared Trump’s actions to former President Richard Nixon’s conduct in the Watergate corruption scandal that led him in 1974 to become the only US President to resign. Pelosi said Trump’s actions to enlist a foreign power to help him in a US election and the obstruction of information about that – she called it a cover-up – “makes what Nixon did look almost small”.

Republicans kept up their attacks on Adam Schiff, the Democratic chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, which is holding the public hearings. House Republican leader Kevin McCarthy accused Schiff of lying at Wednesday’s hearing about not knowing the identity of the whistle-blower within the US intelligence community whose complaint about Trump’s call triggered the impeachment inquiry.

Some 13.1 million viewers watched Wednesday’s hearing across six broad-

cast and cable networks, according to preliminary ratings data released by CNN on Thursday.

The early figures suggested the total audience would fall short of the TV viewership for other recent political events including a 2018 hearing in which Trump’s Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh responded to a sexual assault allegation.

Two career US diplomats, William Taylor and George Kent, testified on Wednesday. Taylor, the acting Ambassador to Ukraine, offered an account that linked Trump more directly to the pressure campaign on Ukraine.

The Intelligence Committee on Friday is due to hear from Yovanovitch, who Trump abruptly removed from her post as ambassador to Ukraine in May. Trump’s personal lawyer Rudy Giuliani at the time was working to convince Ukraine to carry out the two investigations.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Bolivia interim President says ex-leader Morales to be barred from next election

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olivia’s interim President said on Thursday that Evo Morales would not be welcome to take part in new elections after the long-standing leftist leader resigned and fled to Mexico amid rising pressure over vote-rigging allegations.

Jeanine Anez, 52, who took over on Tuesday, is battling to bring calm to a sharply divided Bolivia that has been rocked by protests since the Oct. 20 election, which was won by Morales but marred by widespread allegations of fraud.

Morales resigned on Sunday after a damning audit found electoral irregular-

ities and the military withdrew its backing and urged him to step down to help restore calm to the country. Morales and his Vice President Alvaro Garcia, who also resigned, are now in Mexico, which offered them asylum.

“Evo Morales does not qualify to run for a fourth term. It’s because (he did) that we’ve had all this convulsion, and because of this that so many Bolivians have been demonstrating in the streets,” Anez told a news conference on Thursday.

The conservative former senator said Morales’ Movement for Socialism (MAS) party, which has a

Bolivia’s interim President Jeanine Anez speaks during a news conference at the presidential palace in La Paz, Bolivia

majority in Congress, was welcome to participate in the vote. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Trinidad: Criminal probe to be launched into the UNC for spying on citizens

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rinidad and Tobago National Security Minister Young says he is very concerned about the information brought to light in Christopher Wylie’s book about how the UNC sanctioned a breach of citizens’ privacy. He says he is also alarmed at how the information was used by a political party and not the State.

As such, the National Security Minister says he will ask for the launch of a criminal investigation into the matter.

At a news conference,

National Security Minister Stuart Young said T&T citizens were being used as International guinea pigs for a diabolical plan. The Minister spoke on bombshell revelations reported by Guardian Media about how Cambridge Analytica gained access to information to spy on citizens.

The revelations were made in a tell-all book by Christopher Wylie.

Young says what was done and sanctioned by the United National Congress (UNC) was the worst type of intrusion into privacy.

Minister Young says Wylie detailed how citizens were used as real guinea pigs which were all decided by a political party, to use citizens as global guinea pigs.

He adds what citizens have heard is beyond social media profile. It’s the UNC government giving access to rights to privacy to be abused by people for political purposes.

The Minister says he heard UNC deny it before but the facts are there. (Excerpt from T&T Guardian)

guyanatimesgy.com

F

ive delegates are set to take the stage by storm as the 3rd edition of the Miss Berbice—I’m a BIG deal beauty & empowerment pageant draws near.

The Miss Berbice Pageant is more than the beauty, glitz, and glam, it is about women empowerment and using the stage to confront and change the issues that continue to plague Berbicians in their day-to-day lives.

The 2019 delegates were sashed on October 19 at the Main Hall of the Albion Sports Complex ground on the

Corentyne.

This year’s pageant will be held in four-segments, starting with the sashing ceremony, followed by the swimwear, then costume competition, the home and public impression of delegates to the organisers and trainers and finally the main event which will focus on the delegates, talent, evening gowns, and intelligence.

As part of the mandate of the pageant, the delegates would have to be involved in community projects to raise awareness on their platform. The plat-

Delegate # 1: Sunesha Lindanie Faith Murray Age: 18 Education: JC Chandisingh Secondary Occupation: Clerk/Accountant Platform: Raising awareness against racism Hobbies: Reading, dancing and exploring new places.

Favourite Quote: “Winning isn’t all; it’s the lasting experience you gain”.

forms chosen are topical and include issues like crime, suicide, domestic violence, drug abuse, teenage pregnancy among others.

After the sashing, the young ladies will prepare for the swimsuit and costume competition on November 23 and the curtain will come down with the crowning of a new queen on Saturday, November 30 at the Albion Sports Complex ground.

Over $500,000 in cash and prizes will be up for grabs. The event is promoted by Royston Drakes Production.

A

s Guyana prepares to celebrate its 50th Republic Anniversary on February 23, 2020, under the theme “Guyana Together; Reflect, Celebrate and Transform”, a grand concert is planned as a kick-start.

The concert, titled “Mash 2020 Jumpstart” is set for Saturday, November 23 at D’Urban Park. The concert will feature some of the best Guyanese soca artistes including, Jumo “Rubber Waist” Primo, Temika Marshall, Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts, Michelle “Big Red” King, Diana Chapman and Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson.

The Chutney line-up comprises reigning Chutney Monarch Steven Ramphal, Bunty Singh, Vicadi and AW Lyrical; while the calypsonians are Roger Hinds, Onikha Joseph, Jovinski and Jamal Stewart.

Accompanying the artistes are Heatwaves Band and Shakti Strings Orchestra.

The Mix Doctor will be on console to set the tune for a fantastic evening. The MC for the concert will be Malcolm “Wickeedee” Ferreira.

Admission to the concert is absolutely free of cost.

Showtime is set for 20:00h.

Delegate # 3: Shaquilla Sharpe Age: 24 Education: JC Chandisingh Secondary Occupation: Public servant Hobbies: Reading, writing, dancing, meeting interesting people Favourite quote: “Success is never a mistake but a result of hard work, determination and dedication”.

Delegate # 5: Annada Aaliyah Age: 17 Education: Tutorial Academy Secondary Occupation: Aspiring accountant Platform: Eradicating poverty Hobbies: Dancing, engaging in photographical activities, playing cricket, browsing the internet, meeting new people, listening to music, cooking and helping the elderly Favourite quote: “Open your eyes, look within. Are you satisfied with the life you’re living?”

Delegate # 4: Shmael King Age: 18 Education: Social Science Student (UGBC) Occupation: Social Work student Platform: Mental Health: identifying and dealing with depression in teens Hobbies: Writing poems and short stories, swimming, reading and acting Favourite quote: “What the mind of man can conceive and believe he can achieve”.

friDAY, november 15, 2019

Delegate # 2: Sheleza Sattaur Age: 20 Education: Diploma in Accountancy (UGBC) Occupation: Aspiring accountant Platform: Domestic violence Hobbies: Drawing, painting, travelling Favourite quote: “Richness is not having many possessions but richness is being oneself”— Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

T

he auditions for Style Mission is set for Friday, November 15 at the Tower Hotel from 18:00h to 21:00h. This much-anticipated event will be bringing out some new faces on the runway.

Caribbean Fashion Guru and former judges on Caribbean Next Top Model will be on the panel with one of Guyana’s top models; these are Nkechi Vaughn, Kenny Hercules and John Quelch.

Requirements: black close-fitting attire, females (preferably 5ft6in and over) in heels 4 inches and over and males (preferably 5ft9in) and over in black shoes.

Some well-known people in our society will be walking the runway for this meaningful cause.

Sonia Noel Foundation for Creative Arts in collaboration with the Pegasus Hotel will be hosting Style Mission on November 24 from 18:00h at the Pegasus.

Tickets will be available at the Pegasus Hotel and Oasis Café.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, november 15, 2019

ARCHIE

ARIES

Don’t give in to someone putting pressure on you. Be your own boss, do your own thing and strive for perfection. A personal change will lift your spirits.

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

Your instincts will tell you when to make a move.

Expressing your views will help you gain respect and support. A meaningful partnership will encourage success.

(March 21April 19)

dilbert

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

Calvin and Hobbes

What you do will have a more significant impact on others than what you say.

Take action and do your best to make a difference.

Practice what you preach.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Recognize who and what is right for you, and back away from harmful or negative situations and people.

Trust in what’s tangible and productive, not in hearsay.

LIBRA

Learn from your mistakes and choose your words wisely. A change at home should be made with the input and approval of those who will be most affected by it.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

YESTERDAY’S

If you share your feelings, you will get the support and input you need to make your life better. The information you are given will clear up confusion and encourage you to take action.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Your instincts will tell you when to make a move.

Expressing your views will help you gain respect and support. A meaningful partnership will encourage success.

SOLUTION FOr last published puzzle AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Look for what’s coming down the pipeline and make the most out of whatever situation you face.

Preparation will give you the edge you need to come out on top.

If you act fast, no one will have a chance to overreact or take advantage of you. Work alone to ensure that you minimize interference and promote productivity. Romance will be rewarding.

Don’t fight change. Once you see what’s available, it will spark your imagination and help you make choices that excite you. An adjustment you make at home will be liberating.

Don’t complain. If you want something done, do it yourself. Your actions will count. Express your feelings and treat others the way you want to be treated.

Romance is encouraged.

Take care of contracts, money matters and home improvements. Teach people who don’t understand what you are trying to accomplish. Share your story, your intentions and your time.

friday, november 15, 2019

19

round-up: Harden, Rockets outduel Leonard, Clippers J

ames Harden poured in a game-high 47 points and served as the closer down the stretch of the Houston Rockets’ 102-93 win over the visiting Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday.

After Kawhi Leonard provided the Clippers an 86-85 lead with a fadeaway jumper in the paint, Harden converted a driving layup and then drilled a 3-pointer as Houston reclaimed a 90-86 advantage. With just over 90 seconds to play, Harden nailed a dagger 3 for a 95-88 lead.

Clippers coach Doc Rivers was ejected immediately thereafter. Houston extended its winning streak to five games. Harden shot 7 of 13 on 3-point attempts, grabbed six boards and had seven assists.

Rockets guard Russell Westbrook added 17 points, despite 6-for-20 shooting, while center Clint Capela posted his third consecutive 20-rebound game, pairing 12 points with 20 boards. Leonard paced the Clippers with 26 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists.

Celtics 140, Wizards 133 Kemba Walker led a balanced Celtics attack with 25 points as Boston defeated visiting Washington to extend its winning streak to nine.

Seven Celtics scored in double figures, including a career-high 18 off the bench from rookie Carsen Edwards.

It marked the first time the Celtics have scored 140 points since Nov. 25, 1992, when they beat the then-Washington Bullets 150-112.

Bradley Beal led all scorers with 44 points, who have lost six of seven. Isaiah Thomas, making his first start in Boston since the Celtics traded him in 2017, scored 18 points and dished out seven assists.

Grizzlies 119, Hornets 117 Rookie guard Ja Morant scored on a drive to the basket with 0.7 seconds left to give Memphis a victory against host Charlotte.

Terry Rozier (33 points) missed on a potential winning 3-point attempt for Charlotte on the game’s last shot.

Morant got back in the groove offensively and scored 23 points, as the Grizzlies recovered from two sluggish second-half stretches. That helped Memphis win its

Angeles in place of Anthony Davis, who was rested since he is dealing with shoulder and rib soreness. D’Angelo Russell scored 21 points for Golden State, which has lost five in a row.

Raptors 114, Trail Blazers 106 Led by 36 points from Pascal Siakam and 30 points from Fred VanVleet, shorthanded Toronto picked up a road victory over Portland.

Rondae Hollis-Jefferson contributed 16 points and 11 rebounds, and Terence Davis added 15 points for the Raptors, who earned their fourth win in five games.

Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) dribbles the ball against Los Angeles Clippers guard Patrick Beverley (USA TODAY Sports)

second game in a row, both on the road.

Timberwolves 129, Spurs 114 Andrew Wiggins scored 30 points and Karl-Anthony Towns added 28 points and 11 rebounds as Minnesota waltzed past visiting San Antonio in Minneapolis.

Jeff Teague added 18 points for the Timberwolves, with Jake Layman scoring 16, Jarrett Culver contributing 12 points and Robert Covington hitting for 10 points. Josh Okogie pulled down 10 rebounds for Minnesota, which has won two in a row and three of its past four contests.

DeMar DeRozan led San Antonio with 27 points while LaMarcus Aldridge scored 23.

The loss was the third straight for San Antonio and fifth in its past six games. The Spurs will play five of their next six games on the road.

Lakers 120, Warriors 94 LeBron James had 23 points, 12 assists and six rebounds in three quarters, and Los Angeles coasted over visiting Golden State.

Los Angeles center JaVale McGee finished with 18 points, 17 rebounds, including five on the offensive end, three blocks and three steals against his former team. Dwight Howard added 15 points and eight boards for the Lakers, who won for the ninth time in their last 10 games.

Kyle Kuzma scored 22 points while starting for Los

Damian Lillard struggled for Portland, scoring a seasonlow nine points on 2-of-12 shooting. Rodney Hood led the Blazers with 25 points, hitting 5 of 10 3-point attempts.

Portland lost for the sixth time in seven games.

Magic 112, 76ers 97 Nikola Vucevic collected 25 points and 12 rebounds as host Orlando pulled away in the fourth quarter to defeat Philadelphia.

Aaron Gordon added a double-double of his own with 18 points and 13 rebounds, along with seven assists, for Orlando, which outscored Philadelphia by a 32-15 margin in the fourth quarter.

Terrence Ross and Evan Fournier each had 13 points as Orlando had seven players score in double figures to post just its second win in the last seven outings. Josh Richardson led the 76ers with 19 points.

(Reuters)

Pakistan to play Sri Lanka in 1st home Test since 2009

P

akistan will play a Test at home for the first time since 2009 after announcing a two-match series against Sri Lanka in December.

There has not been a Test in Pakistan since the Sri Lanka team bus was attacked in Lahore 10 years ago.

Six Pakistani policemen and two civilians were killed in the attack, while a number of the Sri Lanka team were wounded.

The two matches will form part of the World Test Championship.

The first Test will be in Rawalpindi from 11-15 December, while the second will be in Karachi from 19-23 December.

"This is fabulous news for Pakistan and its reputation of being as safe and secure as any other country in the world," said Zakir Khan, the Pakistan Cricket Board's director of international cricket.

"We are thankful to Sri Lanka Cricket Sri Lanka played in Pakistan earlier this year in limited overs matches (Getty Images) (SLC) for agreeing to send their team for "We are pleased to confirm our return cricket back. the longer version of the game, which "We're hoping that the restrictions will will contribute significantly in the PCB's visit to Pakistan as, based on our earlier visit, we are comfortable and convinced start to reduce in terms of what countries efforts and drive for regular resumption of conditions are suitable and conducive are demanding around security." international cricket."

He added: "For us, this is now about Pakistan started playing the majority of for Test cricket," said SLC chief executive starting to lay the foundations for England their 'home' internationals in the United Ashley de Silva.

PCB managing director Wasim Khan told to come back and play Test cricket here in Arab Emirates after the 2009 attack.

BBC Asian Network that teams who visit 2022.

In 2015, they hosted Zimbabwe "We've invited South Africa to play a in Pakistan and played three one-day Pakistan will receive "state-like security".

He added England and Wales Cricket T20 series at the end of March. We are very internationals as well as two Twenty20 internationals in a series that was Board chief executive Tom Harrison had hopeful that will come through.

"We are also at advanced stages with overshadowed by a suicide bombing been to the country recently and hopes England will visit in 2022, as scheduled. the MCC to come and tour Pakistan, which outside the Lahore stadium.

"I've been saying for a long time we are planning for in February before the Sri Lanka played three ODIs and three that Pakistan is safe," he said. "Cricket is Pakistan Super League starts.

T20 matches there in September and thriving here. It's a young community now "Things are starting to move in the right October, although some of their main in Pakistan and everybody wants to see direction for us." (BBC Sport) players chose not to take part.

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friday, november 15, 2019

GFF, THAG ink sport tourism MoU A

Memorandum of Understanding has been inked between the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) and the Guyana Football Federation (GFF).

It will see an immediate boost in sport tourism as it relates to football. Travel packages for fans and players, advertisement opportunities, and site-seeing tours are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg for the possibilities that sport tourism holds.

Some of these very initiatives will be outlined and implemented as the GFF and THAG collaborate to put the spotlight on football in the world of tourism.

It is no secret that sport plays an integral role in the

Ink on paper! Presidents of the GFF and THAG, Wayne Forde and Mitra Ramkumar, as they sign the MoU

tourism arena, attracting patrons to a particular destination for a game, and it is

often the hope that tourists would stay to enjoy the atmosphere.

Federer beats Novak Djokovic at 2019 ATP Finals

Roger Federer

R

oger Federer moved into the ATP Finals’ last four at the expense of Novak Djokovic with a scintillating win over his great rival at the O2 Arena.

Swiss third seed Federer, 38, won 6-4, 6-3 in a round-robin match which eliminated the Serb second seed from the season-ending tournament in London.

Federer will meet top seed Rafael Nadal or Stefanos Tsitsipas in the last four.

Djokovic’s defeat also means Spain’s Nadal is guaranteed to finish as the yearend world number one.

Berrettini beats Thiem

Matteo Berrettini claimed a consolation victory at the ATP Finals when he beat the in-form Dominic Thiem in his final group match in London.

The Italian could not qualify for the semi-finals, but beat a subdued Thiem 7-6 (7-3) 6-3.

Berrettini claimed a comprehensive win

over Thiem, who may have been struggling with the effects of his thrilling three-set win over Djokovic on Tuesday.

The two exchanged breaks in the opening set before Berrettini dominated the tiebreak, finishing with 17 winners to fifthranked Thiem’s seven.

The second set was a regulation affair, with Berrettini claiming the only break before serving out the win in one hour and 18 minutes.

Eighth-ranked Berrettini, who began the year outside the top 50, is the first Italian to win an ATP Finals match.

Austria’s Thiem had already qualified for the last four by beating Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.

The top two players in each group after the round-robin stage progress to Saturday’s semi-finals.

The event, which is taking place in London for the penultimate year, features the top eight male players of 2019.

(Excerpted from BBC Sport)

Speaking at the signing of the MoU, on Thursday morning at the Roraima Duke Lodge, President of THAG, Mitra Ramkumar, explained the benefits of sport tourism.

“What sport tourism does is it brings people to your destination. So it creates an in-transit population that will drive consumer capacity for every other industry, including agriculture value-added, creative arts, and all these areas that you want to build,” Ramkumar explained.

Expanding on the possibilities of the sector, Ramkumar highlighted that such an initiative outlasts the political climate, and should be the focus of policy-makers, especially in terms of development.

“My take on this signing of the agreement is to push our policymakers and our politicians to really sit down together and have forward-thinking plans for our country to develop not only the infrastructure, but the livelihood

GFF’s Wayne Forde and THAG’s Mitra Ramkumar display the MoU in the presence of THAG’s Executive Director Trina Butts

of our people. That’s why I feel the signing of this MoU is so important and historic,” Ramkumar explained.

G F F President Wayne Forde shared that the idea of the MoU was birthed some months ago, and he explained that the nature of the partnership is that in some ways THAG will be working along with the Federation.

“The partnership that

we’re building with the Tourism Authority would see (THAG) bringing its weight, its platform, its resources, its network and every other tool it has at its disposal to leverage, promote and advertise tournaments, competitions and international events of the Federation,” Forde detailed.

The first activity in the sport tourism collaboration will come when the GFF stages their year-end Super 16 Tournament, the final of which is slated for January 1 at a venue yet to be announced. (Jemima Holmes)

GBA hoping to train boxers in Cuba for Olympic qualifier …Ninvalle cites insufficient funds as an issue

By Jemima Holmes

W

hen the Guyanese boxers compete at, and return from, the Caribbean Boxing Championships which are slated for December 4-9, a handful of them will be focusing on their next step.

For this group of boxers, given their successes in recent years, that step will be attempting to book a spot at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

They, however, cannot arrive at the Olympics overnight; there are qualifying stages that they need to ace before making it to the big stage. For instance, these Guyanese amateur boxers are direly in need of some top notch training, which is not available locally.

While it is a fool-proof plan to jet the boxers off to Cuba for training, there is still one obstacle in the Guyana Amateur Boxing Association’s (GBA) way: Money. While some may describe money as the root of all evil, it is a necessary tool in affording the amateur boxers the opportunity to develop before the Olympic qualifiers.

Speaking exclusively with Guyana Times Sport, President of the GBA, Steve Ninvalle, disclosed that the Guyana Olympic Association has already committed a large sum of money as funding for the overseas training stint.

“The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) has already committed $3 million to have a team of four boxers and one coach go to Cuba.

While it is quite a sum, it is not enough to take the entire team for the time that we would want them there. In discussion with Mr. Juman-Yassin, he had called for, or proposed, that we be in Cuba for maybe 4 months,” Ninvalle disclosed.

While the GOA’s efforts are commendable, the $3 million sum is not quite enough to sustain five persons in a foreign country for that period of time.

Probed about the necessity for 4 months in training, Ninvalle explained that it is the minimum amount of time that would

GBA President, Steve Ninvalle

ensure the Guyanese pugilists are adequately prepared.

“We have not had a boxer qualify for Olympics since John Douglas did in 1996 in Atlanta. It’s quite a long time, and many things have changed since that. One thing that has not changed since (then) is how we prepare our fighters. We cannot have substandard preparation and expect to get anywhere. If we are to seriously consider having someone just qualify for the Olympic, there’s a certain amount that we would have to put in,” the GBA boss stressed.

As a result of this, Ninvalle related, the GBA has approached the Government for their support in the Olympic quest.

“We also sent for (support from) the Government. We’re yet to hear from them concerning what would be their level of support to get these boxers training. But we do hope that very soon we can get that commitment from Government, (which) would merge with that from the GOA,” he explained.

Essentially, the GBA President’s fear is not being able to acquire sufficient funds to satisfactorily prepare Guyana’s young pugilists for the biggest stage in amateur boxing.

“The elephant in the room is money. And if we should not get that support, then we should just fold our arms and not send anyone to the qualifiers, because if you send ill-prepared athletes, you know what you’ll get back,” Ninvalle affirmed.

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friday, november 15, 2019

21

Singh, Daniram highlight MYO-Trophy Stall CLASSIFIED ADS Inter-Jamaat 10-over Softball Competition FOR SALE

Left Hand Drive Toyota Corolla $380,000 neg. 680-3863 3 Caterpillar (326 D2L) Excavators for Sale, 2 Hyundai (300LC-95) Escalators for Sale. Escalator hours: 4,000 – 6,000 Hours. Price from: $18m - $22m (negotiable). Contact: 691-0131. Address: Opposite Massy Stores in Providence.

For sale as is, 2006 Nissan Bluebird Sylphy, $1.2M call 651-9620.

Pure Bred German Shepard Pups, 2 Months, Fully Vaccinated and Dewormed. Parents available for viewing. 622-0015 / 220-8559

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VACANCIES Handyman to assist with yard work, etc. $3,000 per day - 680-3863 Pump Attendant - 680-3863 Store Helper - 624-0033 • Lorry Driver/Salesman, • Van Driver/ Salesman. *Must have sound secondary education *Ages between 25-40 years. Call: 617-1809 Bill Payment Clerk - 624-0033 Driver for Water delivery - 680-3863 Porter for Water delivery - 680-3863 Sales Representative. 5 Subjects C.X.C, Good communication skills, Experience. MIMA Décor, 8th Sheriff Street. mimadecoro6@gmail.com.

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T

he Muslim Youth Organization of Guyana/ Trophy Stall Inter- Jamaat 10 overs Softball Cricket Competition 2019 continued last Monday, 11th November, at the MYO ground, Woolford Avenue, Thomas Lands.

The first game was played between New Mosque and Hague Masjid. New Mosque won the toss, took first strike, and compiled 86 runs for the loss of 8 wickets when their overs had run out.

Some rash and irresponsible shots from their batsmen caused their total to be small. Azad Ally scored 23 runs (2x6, 1x4), Amil Ali 16 runs (1x6, 1x4) and Raheem Ali 14 runs (2x4). Bowling for Hague Masjid, Aftab Hussain, Abdullah and Imran Khan each took 2 wickets.

At their turn at the crease, Hague Masjid were in some early trouble, with Rahim Ali sending back opener Kishan in the first over without him scoring. Then Azad Ally took two wickets in the second over to give New Mosque some hope with their small total. However, opener Aftab Hussain and Aryan Khan took the game away from New Mosque when they scored 22 runs (2x6, 1x4) and 35 runs (1x6, 6x4) respectively.

The game took another twist in the 7th over when

Rahim Ali, bowling his final over of the match, picked up 3 wickets. Needing 18 runs off 18 balls with 4 wickets remaining, Hague Masjid played some sensible cricket by knocking the ball around to take singles, and they eventually won the match by 3 wickets.

In the second game, between New Amsterdam Masjid and Hague Masjid, New Amsterdam Masjid won the toss and elected to bat, posting a massive total of 171 for 3 in their allotted 10 overs.

Openers Martin Singh and Keion De Jesus scored 62 runs (6x6, 6x4) and 44 runs (3x6, 4x4) respectively. Another worthwhile contribution came from captain Zahir Moakan with 17 runs (2x6).

The total proved too much for the boys from the West Side, as they were restricted to 61 runs for the loss of 7 wickets at the end of their innings.

Bashir Kellawan was their main destroyer with 4 wickets.

The third game, between New Amsterdam Masjid and Cornelia Ida Masjid, saw Cornelia Ida Masjid winning the toss and batting first to make 103 runs for the loss of 4 wickets. Avinash Daniram made 40 runs (2x6, 4x4) and Budram made 30 runs (4x6,1x4).

Bowling for New Amsterdam Masjid, Raymond

Mohamed picked up 2 wickets for 8 runs, and Martin Singh took a wicket for 21 runs.

New Amsterdam Masjid made light work of the total, knocking off same in 8 overs for the loss of one wicket. Opener Martin Singh made 33 not out (1x6, 5x4), Wahab Edoo made 44 not out (6x6) and Keion De Jesus made 12 runs (1x4).

President of the New Amsterdam Masjid, Faizal Ally of A. Ally and Sons, was present for both games, and offered support for his team.

In the fourth game, between Cornelia Ida Masjid and Diamond New Scheme Masjid, Cornelia Ida Masjid, having lost their previous match against New Amsterdam Masjid, won the toss and decided to take first strike.

They made a challenging 144 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their 10 overs. Opener Avinash Daniram, who made an even 50

(5x6, 4x4), was well supported

by Budram’s 24 (2x6,1x4), Zahir Khan’s 23 (1x6,1x4), and Mohamed Reyaz’s 28 not out (2x6,2x4).

Bowling for Diamond New Scheme Masjid, Saeed Mohamed picked up 2 wickets.

In their turn at the crease, Diamond New Scheme Masjid fell short by 26 runs, managing only 118 runs for the loss of 6 wickets at the end of their innings. Opener Mohamed Rafiek gave Diamond New Scheme Masjid some hope by plundering 37 (4x6), even as Ansar Hussain contributed 25 (1x6,3x4) and Imran Hussain 21 runs (2x6,1x4).

Bowling for Cornelia Ida Masjid, Amir Alli picked up 2 wickets.

Competition continues this Sunday at the Queen’s College Ground on Thomas Lands with 4 matches, starting at 9 am.

Teams getting prepared for Cricket West Indies appoint new Team Analyst 2019-20 GFF Super 16 Cup

C

ricket West Indies (CWI) are pleased to announce the appointment of A.R. Srikkanth as the new West Indies Men’s Team Analyst, on a two-year contract.

Srikkanth is one of the leading T20 cricket analysts in the world having worked in the India Premier League (IPL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) and Global T20 Canada.

He is also no stranger to West Indies players having worked with Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Chris Gayle, Jason Holder and Rovman Powell for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) since the inception of IPL and the Trinbago Knight Riders (TRK) since the Red Chillies Entertainment ownership, took over the three time CPL winners in 2015.

Srikanth’s role with the West Indies will be in addition to his roles with KKR and TKR. West Indies Head Coach, Phil Simmons commented on the appointment: “I’m really pleased to have ‘Sri’ on board.

He has a wealth of experience, especially in T20 cricket, and with two T20 World Cups in the next two years, his expertise and knowledge will be invaluable as we look to

defend our title in Australia next November. An important part of his role will also be to assist in the training and development of our analysts in the Caribbean.”

Srikkanth joined the team in Lucknow ahead of the first T20 International against Afghanistan, to be played on Thursday night.

The Team Management Unit also includes: Roddy Estwick as the bowling coach; John Mooney as fielding coach for the white-ball formats against Afghanistan; while Rayon Griffith will replace Mooney for the Test match against Afghanistan as well as the white-ball series against India in December.

Experienced strength and conditioning coach, Ronald Rogers rejoins the team’s medical staff, which also includes physio Denis Byam and massage therapist Zephyrinus Nicholas. Rogers has worked with West Indies team for close to two decades and brings a wealth of experience to the post.

CWI is also in the process of securing the services of a batting coach to join the team for the upcoming series. This announcement will be made in the coming days. (CWI) AR Srikkanth

E

lite League teams and their Regional Member Association counterparts are in the process of getting themselves in tip-top shape ahead of the 2019/2020 GFF Super 16 Cup, which will kick off next month.

More details on the teams to c o m pete, venues, playing dates and quota of guest players allowed would be divulged when the official launch and the draw of the championship takes place at the Pegasus Hotel next week.

GFF President Wayne Forde, in an invited comment, said he is looking forward to an exciting championship tournament this year. He indicated that a number of exciting additions will mark this year’s edition, and disclosed that the championship trophy is being manufactured by the Brass Aluminum and Cast Iron Foundry (BACIF) a local

manufacturing and engineering company. The design of the trophy, cost and regulations will be revealed at a later date.

“This championship, we know, is our big yearend party, and this year we are trying to make it the best ever. We have been deliberate in involving some of the best minds from among our members in planning this event. We will be innovative as much as we can to make this the best ever for the players, fans and all involved,” he declared.

Forde also disclosed that the GFF is looking at possibilities to ensure the format is the best and all are satisfied when the final composition of teams is decided upon.

The tournament provides teams from the Regional Member Association (RMA) to compete against the teams of the Elite League.

22

friday, november 15, 2019

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

Lewis, Kieron Pollard take West Indies 1-0 up

W

est Indies continued their dominance against Afghanistan, following a 3-0 ODI sweep with a comfortable 30-run win in the first T20I on Thursday. Powered

by Evin Lewis' 68 off 41 at the top of the order, West Indies put up 164 for 5.

Afghanistan's chase never took off and they eventually subsided to 134 for 9, with K e r s i c k Williams' 3 for 17 the best figures.

in 23 balls, seemingly finding the boundary at will.

Mujeeb Ur Rahman had given up just seven runs in two overs till then, and taken the wicket of opener Brandon King. Lewis ransacked him for a 16-run over. Fareed Ahmad offered a nip- py left-arm option, but saw his

the match. True, the bowlers didn't really bowl tightly and offered length and width for Lewis to merrily free his arms, but the pace of scoring he hit was still incredible. Apart from that six-over period, in which Lewis scored more than 75% of the runs that came, the rest of West Indies innings

would have been easy for Afghanistan to disintegrate and merely wait for their turn to bat. Instead, they regrouped, they sussed the areas, and more crucially the pace, at which they would have to bowl and hauled West Indies projected score into competitive territo-

hovered around the run-aball mark. That was also the pace that Afghanistan scored at. Those anomalous six-overs were, in fact, the difference between the two teams.

ry, where it had once threatened to become un-gettable.

Gulbadin Naib, who has seen a career's worth ups and downs in the past six months, was at the forefront of the fightback. Naib bowled a variety of slower balls: off the back of the hand, off-cut-

Lewis blasts off

A t the end of three overs, West Indies were 10 for 1, with Evin Lewis batting on 1 off 8 balls. For six overs after that Lewis discovered the cheat codes to this game. After 9 overs, West Indies were 88 for 1, with Lewis on 60 off 31 balls. In that six-over period, he had blasted 59 runs

Evin Lewis

first over disappear for 17 runs. Lewis had hit a zone where the ball was magnetically drawn to the sweet spot on his bat. His strokes were dotted all around the ground straight, wide, square and fine. It was a period of mayhem unlike any other in

The Afghanistan redemption

In the face of an onslaught like Lewis's, it

Hassan, Gobin excel in Banks Beer 100-Ball Bash I

mran Hassan and Navin Gobin, having recorded excellent batting performances at Ogle, have each taken centre stage in the latest rounds of the Banks Beer 100 Ball Bash.

On Sunday last, ECCCC Dynamos defeated Mahaica Cavaliers by 125 runs.

Batting first, ECCCC scored 176 for 3 from 12 overs, with Imran Hassan contributing 63 of those runs, while Vishwanauth Ramlakhan made 53 and Navindra Gobin 38 (5x6) from 11 deliveries.

Mahaica Cavaliers were dismissed for 51 all out, with Chris Surat and Ranjeet Hiralall taking 3 for 29 and 2 for 15 respectively.

In game 2, ECCCC defeated Cane Grove Renegades by 103 runs.

ECCCC rattled up 197 for 2, with Imran Hassan contributing 87 not out (5×6), Navindra Gobin 65 (7x6), and B. Ramkelawan 23.

Cane Grove Renegades were bundled out for 94.

Rudolph Singh bagged 4 for 18 and Chaitram Balgobin 2 for 29.

At Lusignan, LBI SC defeated Fairfield SC by 7 wickets. Fairfield SC posted 77 for 9, with Wazim

Navin Gobin

Imran Hassan

Mustapha scoring 30. C. Seepaul bagged 3 for 4.

LBI SC, in reply, made 81 for 3 in 13 overs.

In game 2, Strathavon Superstars defeated Lusignan ‘B’ by 32 runs.

Strathavon made 122 for 9, with G. Hemraj top scoring with 51. Emran Khan took 4 for 19 and K.

Persaud took 3 for 22.

Lusignan ‘B’ could score only 91 all out in 15 overs.

G. Hemraj took 3 for 7, and J. Persaud took 3 for 25 t o wrap up the Lusignan innings.

T w o games were played on M o n d a y at the Ogle Community C e n t r e ground. In game one, Industry Stars defeated Mahaica SC by 102 runs. Industry Stars

made a mammoth 201 for 3, with Andrew Lall hitting 95 and Irfan Khan 47. In reply, Mahaica SC were bowled out for 99 in 14 overs. M. Jeenarine took 3 for 12, and I. Khan took 2 for 9 runs.

In game 2, ECCCC Upsetters failed to upset Ogle CC Blasters. Batting first, ECCCC made 106 for the loss of 5, with Denzil Wilson striking 47. Andrew Ifill took 3 for 12. Ogle Blasters reached their target in the final over for the loss of 4 wickets, thanks to Andrew Samaroo’s 40.

Matthew Shivtahal took 2 for 24 in a losing effort.

ECCCC Dynamos and Strathavon Super-Stars are through to the quarterfinals, but several teams are still in with a chance of booking the remaining six spots to advance into the knock-out stage.

On Sunday at Lusignan, Lusignan East Strikers will come up against Golden Achievers SC from 9:30 am, and against Lusignan SC (A) from 2:00pm. At Enmore, Industry Stars will oppose Lusignan SC (B) at 10:00am and Ogle Blasters will do battle with Fairfield SC from 14:00 hrs.

ters, under-cutters, and did it all well enough

f o r none o f West Indies' array of big hitters to get a handle on.

Rashid K h a n , whose first over had gone for 15 runs, also found his groove after that, and proved to be his usual miserly, un-readable self.

Taking the pace off the ball

Kieron Pollard

proved to be the key on this surface, with the ball sticking into the pitch and not coming on to the bat.

The last 11 overs yielded only 76 runs, and 10 of those runs came off the last two balls, when Kieron Pollard muscled a six and a four, purely through force and having stayed in the middle long enough to be able to ex-

ecute.

West Indies bowlers shut Afghanistan out

Afghanistan might have felt confident at the innings break, given a target of 165 and the promise of dew for West Indies' bowlers to deal with. But to take advantage of the dew when it did start to affect the bowlers, Afghanistan needed two things to happen - to have some of their main batsmen at the crease, and to not be under severe required rate pressure. The opposite happened, with the West Indies bowlers showing considerably more zip and discipline than the Afghans had. Hazratullah Zazai's stand-and-deliver method wasn't as effective against bowlers who could move the ball, and though he didn't get out, he couldn't get the runs flowing. With two wickets having fallen in the first three overs and Zazai's leaden-footedness, Afghanistan stuttered. Only Asghar Afghan and Najibullah Zadran showed any measure of comfort and dominance, but they couldn't score quickly enough to threaten the target. When they both fell, quickly followed

by Mohammad Nabi, it became a matter of only reducing the margin of defeat for Afghanistan. (Cricinfo)

SCOREBOARD West Indies Innings (20 overs maximum) BA King b Mujeeb Ur Rahman 4 E Lewis c Nabi b Naib 68 SO Hetmyer c † Gurbaz b Kha n 21 D Ramdin † b Naib 20 KA Pollard (c) not out 32 SE Rutherford b Naveen-ulHaq 9 FA Allen not out 5 Extras (lb 4, w 1) 5 TOTAL (20 Overs, RR: 8.2) 164-5 Did not bat: JO Holder, KOK Williams, SS Cottrell, HR Walsh Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Brandon King, 0.4 ov), 2-91 (Shimron Hetmyer, 9.5 ov), 3-100 (Evin Lewis, 11.4 ov), 4-120 (Denesh Ramdin, 15.2 ov), 5-140 (Sherfane Rutherford, 17.3 ov) BOWLING M Rahman (4-0-27-1) M Nabi (3-0-19-0) F Ahmad (1-0-17-0) R Khan (4-0-34-1) Naveen-ul-Haq (4-0-39-1) G Naib (4-0-24-2) Afghanistan Innings (target: 165 runs from 20 overs) H Zazai c †Ramdin b Williams 23 R Gurbaz † c King b Holder 0

I Zadran c Allen b Cottrell 2 A Afghan c sub (KMA Paul) b Pollard 25 N Zadran c †Ramdin b Pollard 27 Mohammad Nabi c Holder b Walsh 7 G Naib c Cottrell b Walsh 1 R Khan (c) c †Ramdin b Williams 1 F Ahmad not out 24 Naveen-ul-Haq c †Ramdin b Williams 5 M Rahman not out 8 Extras (lb 4, nb 1, w 6) 11 TOTAL (20 Overs, RR: 6.7) 134-9 Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 1.3 ov), 2-7 (Ibrahim Zadran, 2.2 ov), 3-55 (Hazratullah Zazai, 8.1 ov), 4-69 (Asghar Afghan, 10.1 ov), 5-94 (Najibullah Zadran, 13.5 ov), 6-95 (Mohammad Nabi, 14.1 ov), 7-97 (Rashid Khan, 15.1 ov), 8-101 (Gulbadin Naib, 16.1 ov), 9-111 (Naveen-ul-Haq, 17.2 ov) BOWLING SS Cottrell (2-0-5-1) JO Holder (4-0-29-1) KOK Williams (4-0-17-3) KA Pollard (3-0-17-2) SE Rutherford (3-0-28-0) HR Walsh (4-0-34-2)

23

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, november 15, 2019

Impressive India Women clinch series with 7-wicket win

By Brandon Corlette

W

atched by only a handful of spectators in the Red Stand at the Providence National Stadium, India, in clinical fashion, took the fivematch T20I series with a seven-wicket win in the third match.

Chasing 60 runs, India ended on 60-3 in 16.4 overs, with “player of the match” Jemima Rodrigues ending on an unbeaten 40 from 51 balls to see her team home.

After winning the toss and opting to bat first on a typical Providence pitch, West Indies posted a mere 59-9 in 20 overs. West Indies lost Hayley Matthews with the score on 9-1 after 2.2 overs. Matthews (05) hit a crisp boundary up and over cover, but chipped the very next ball down the track and gifted a return catch to Anuja Patil.

Vice-captain and one of two Guyanese in the starting XI, Shemaine Campbelle, picked up two sharp singles, but hers was the next wick-

et to fall. Campbelle’s innings of two lasted for 12 balls, and she was out caught at cover off the bowling of Radha Yadav.

After soaking up 24 dot balls, Stacy Ann King continued her struggles and was bowled all ends up for seven

by Deepti Sharma.

India continued to spin webs around the Caribbean batters, and kept it tight; but at 31-3 in 11.2 overs, the entire Stadium suffered a power outage. Play eventually resumed and West Indies wickets continued to fall.

Chedean Nation, who was dropped the first ball she faced, scored 11 from 27, but was the fourth wicket to fall, out stumped with the score on 31-4, two balls into the resumption of play.

Natasha McLean was run out for three, with half of the West Indies side falling for only 34 runs. Guyanese Sheneta Grimmond, who hit one six in her five-ball eight, was trapped in front by Harmanpreet Kaur.

After Chinnelle Henry had scored 11, which was the

SCOREBOARD

Henry and McLean stealing a single

joint top-score for the maroon ladies, she departed with the score on 52-9 in 17.4 overs.

India Women kept it tight, and West Indies ended on 59-9 when 20 overs expired.

In the collective all-spin bowling effort, Rhada Yadav ended with 2-6 in four overs, including two maidens, while Sharma had 2-12. In response, India Women were tasked to work hard for their runs. Matthews commenced the bowling, and the third ball she bowled, she removed the 15-year-old sensation Shafali Verma for a duck.

Verma ran past one down

the leg-side and was swiftly stumped by Campbelle.

Matthews removed Smriti Mandhana next with the score on 13-2 after 4.1 overs.

With the score on 37, India lost their third wicket when Kaur scored seven from 19; she was out caught by Shakera Selman off leg-spinner Afy Fletcher. Rodrigues was left not out while her partner Deepti Sharma ended unbeaten on seven.

West Indies and India Women will lock horns in the fourth T20I on Sunday November 17 from 13:30h at Providence.

West Indies Innings HK Matthews c & b Patil 5 SACA King b Sharma 7 SA Campbelle † c Vastrakar b Yadav 2 CN Nation st †Bhatia b Yadav 11 NY McLean run out (†Bhatia) 3 CA Henry lbw b Sharma 11 Kyshona A Knight b Vastrakar 0 SS Grimmond lbw b Kaur 8 ASS Fletcher b Poonam Yadav 0 A Mohammed (c) not out 6 SC Selman not out 2 Extras 4 (w 4) TOTAL 59/9 (20 Overs, RR: 2.95) Fall of wickets: 1-9 (Hayley Matthews, 2.2 ov), 2-12 (Shemaine Campbelle, 5.1 ov), 3-26 (Stacy-Ann King, 9.6 ov), 4-31 (Chedean Nation, 11.4 ov), 5-34 (Natasha McLean, 12.5 ov), 6-39 (Kyshona Knight, 13.5 ov), 7-48 (Sheneta Grimmond, 14.6 ov), 8-50 (Afy Fletcher, 16.1 ov), 9-52 (Chinelle Henry, 17.4 ov) BOWLING AA Patil RP Yadav DB Sharma

O M R 4 0 13 4 2 6 4 0 12

W 1 2 2

P Vastrakar H Kaur Poonam Yadav

2 2 4

0 9 1 0 11 1 1 8 1

India Women Innings Shafali Verma st †Campbelle b Matthews 0 S Mandhana c Selman b Matthews 3 JI Rodrigues not out 33 H Kaur (c) c Selman b Fletcher 7 DB Sharma not out 6 Extras 3 (lb 2, w 1) TOTAL 52/3 (15.2 Overs, RR: 3.39) Yet to bat: Poonam Yadav, P Vastrakar, T Bhatia †, RP Yadav, V Krishnamurthy, AA Patil Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Shafali Verma, 0.3 ov), 2-13 (Smriti Mandhana, 4.1 ov), 3-37 (Harmanpreet Kaur, 10.5 ov) BOWLING O HK Matthews 4 A Mohammed 4 ASS Fletcher 4 SS Grimmond 1 SC Selman 2 CA Henry 0.2

M 1 0 0 0 0 0

R 7 12 17 6 6 2

W 2 0 1 0 0 0

Golden Jaguars looking to make it 2 in 2 tonight C

Local boy Trayon Bobb

Golden Jaguars Head Coach Marcio Maximo

ome this evening, Guyana’s Senior Men’s Football Team, the Golden Jaguars, will meet Aruba for the second time in the CONCACAF Nations League.

Both coach and players of the Golden Jaguars outfit are said to be confident about the busy weekend ahead, as they also prepare to take on the ‘Reggae Boys’.

Coming off of a 5-1 victory over Antigua and Barbuda last month, one would think that the Golden Jaguars are fearless; however, the National Football Team is not taking their opponents lightly, given the fact that they need to secure wins in order to qualify for the 2021 Gold Cup. At the pre-game press conference on Thursday afternoon at the Pegasus Hotel – at which were present Head Coach Marcio Maximo, Terence Vancooten who is returning to the team after injury, and local hero Trayon Bobb, the Head Coach shared a little of his game plan while noting that the team will take on two different strategies for each opponent.

“Basically, our strategy for the game against Aruba should be offensive since the first minute. Aruba is a danger team, they have good style, good passes, they have players that you need to pay attention to, but I think if you maintain the intensity of the game, you can win,” he explained.

On the other hand, when it comes to Jamaica, Maximo anticipates that not only will they come strong again, but their local support will drive them.

“Against Jamaica, playing on their pitch, they are favourites. Of course we will change the strategy, not because Aruba is less strong, but Jamaica is supposed to attack so much, and we hope there’s space for us there.

We are confident in both games.”

Terence Vancooten’s last appearance for the Guyanese team was back in June at the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Upon his return, the defense player highlighted, he has seen im-

provements in the Guyanese training camp, and his teammates are confident about the challenge ahead.

“I feel confident in this team. Like the things we’ve been producing in training, the quality is really high; some of the best I’ve seen since I’ve been here, to be fair. It’s a shame that I couldn’t make the last few games due to injury, but moving forward, the confidence going through the camp is high, and I’m ready to attack tomorrow,” the defender noted.

Meanwhile, local boy Trayon Bobb, who was instrumental in Guyana’s last Nations League outing, where he netted two goals, also commended the training and shared that the team is looking to execute that perfectly.

“We want to go out there and put on our best performance, so we can give the fans something to cheer about. We’re pleading with the fans to support us, so we can do better; because the training that the coach had with us, we just want to go and execute everything and come out victorious,” Bobb stated.

On a less technical note, Head Coach Maximo shared sentiments similar to Bobb’s as he encouraged the Guyanese football fans to come out to the Leonora Facility to cheer on the National Team.

“I hope Friday is a good day for fans to come to the football. I hope that in this game we have more support, because in the last game we didn’t have (much) support. We need the support, because I know when we go to Jamaica their supporters will turn out,” Maximo pleaded.

In their last outing, Guyana defeated Aruba by a slim 1-0 margin. The Golden Jags will need to repeat the feat if they are to stay in Gold Cup contention. Following tonight’s game, the Jags will take on Jamaica’s ‘Reggae boys’ on Monday in Jamaica.

(Jemima Holmes)

friday, november 15, 2019

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

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Lewis, Kieron Pollard take West Indies 1-0 up Page 22

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