GuyanaTimes International July 27 2018

INTERNATIONAL

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No action taken by Cabinet on Diaspora policy

WEEK ENDING JULY 29, 2018

ISSUE NO. 408

See story on page 3

...months after meetings held in NY, Georgia, Toronto

The Ministry of Education (MoE) and Peace Corps Guyana have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to aid with the MoE’s mission to provide an education system that delivers quality education and training at all levels. The MOU has a seven-year lifespan. The signing ceremony was witnessed by, among others, the United States of America (USA) Ambassador to Guyana His Excellency Mr Perry Holloway. The MOU was signed by Guyana’s Minister of Education Nicolette Henry and Ms Kury Cobham, Country Director, Peace Corps Guyana. (DPI photo)

‘Take a closer look at our country!’

Page 14

…Guyana Govt tells writer of NY Times article on oil sector

75,000 young New Yorkers to be placed in summer jobs this year – NY Mayor Page 7

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No action taken by Cabinet on Diaspora policy ...months after meetings held in NY, Georgia, Toronto

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policy to have overseas-based Guyanese contribute to their homeland has been languishing before cabinet. According to Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge, this is due to priorities and a bit of ‘absentmindedness’.

The policy in question is the Diaspora Engagement Strategy, especially important considering the current development of the oil and gas sector. But according to Greenidge during a press conference on Monday, cabinet is yet to have a look at the strategy.

“That paper has been before cabinet for the longest while, and cabinet has not been able to look at it for reasons that have to do with priority, and perhaps a little bit of absent-mindedness; because it’s been done a long time ago,” Greenidge had explained.

because of their age? I think not,” he had pointed out.

Meetings

President David Granger with cabinet after being elected in 2015

Government had caught flak, and the average age of the cabinet had come under the microscope after former Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA), Justice (retd) Cecil Kennard, was asked by Government to step down from his post, reportedly because of

his age. President David Granger had reportedly asked Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan to write Kennard, asking him to resign.

Political commentator Dr David Hinds had said that if Government has a policy on age, then it needs to make it known

while explaining the reasoning behind Kennard’s displacement.

“I know of many people in Government service who are nearing 80 and doing good work.

There are also some Ministers who are not too far away from 80 years old; should they be removed from Cabinet

M e a n w h i l e , Greenidge explained that successful visits and meetings have been held in Georgia and New York, United States of America and Toronto, Canada. There, the Guyanese delegation met with professional bodies and international companies such as NCR Automation. He was also questioned about exactly what the diaspora meetings would accomplish, and whether they were related to the oil and gas sector.

“The discussions with the diaspora do not focus on local content for the oil and petroleum sector. There are discussions, for example in Toronto and Florida in general. In Toronto, a number of agencies and diaspora groups which

perhaps specialise in assisting members of the diaspora getting access in business and utilising their technical skills, we met with those, and they indicated in what capacity they can help.

“And that information has been passed both to the University, the GTI, the Ministries of Business and Agriculture, to follow up with these persons and groups so they can collaborate and make use of the information being provided. We also met with a couple of firms who are interested in collaborating but in their case, they offered training in a variety of areas.”

Last year, it was announced that consultation would be carried out with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM). These discussions were all with the view of creating the strategy.

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EDITORIAL

Undermining Democracy

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n the three centuries of development of Liberal Democracy since the 18th century European Enlightenment, there has been a sustained debate about the relative importance of “outcome” versus “process” in that form of governance; which gradually became the most widespread, but which is now facing challenges.

The outcome of democratic governance was described succinctly by US President Abraham Lincoln as “rule of the people; by the people and for the people”. It is now accepted as inextricably linked with the processes that undergird it, and which are mediated through various institutions, each linked with one or more values of democracy. The debate echoes, to a great extent, the older and more philosophical one of the inseparability between ends and means in human life.

In Guyana today, however, after only three years of rule by the PNC-led APNU/AFC coalition Government, there is clearly a sustained campaign led by President David Granger to control the outcome of the democratic process by subverting the institutions that sustain the latter. In fact, the coalition Government has displayed a total contempt for democratic institutions. Take, for instance, the “rule by the people” outcome.

One of its foundational cornerstones is the “separation of powers” doctrine, which is supposed to describe the existential relationship between the three institutions that exercise the powers of the state on behalf of the people: the Executive, the Legislature and the Judiciary.

Because of the peculiarity of our particular form of “parliamentary government” — which was introduced by the founder-leader of the PNC, Forbes Burnham, in 1980 — the head of the Executive does not sit in the Legislature, as in Britain; but, as a “president” wielding enormous powers, he is represented in the Legislature by a Prime Minister; and through the Whip system, has total control of the legislature – unlike, for instance, the president of the US. In this scenario, there is no separation of powers between the Executive and the Legislature, and, as such, the only hope for a democratic outcome in the governance of Guyana lies in the independence of the Judiciary.

The PNC-led APNU/AFC regime, however, from the beginning of its term of office, has launched a sustained attack on the independence of the Judiciary, which began with virulent attacks by Attorney General Basil Williams, who is the legal officer of the Government. The AG issued what was considered an implied threat against Justice Franklyn Holder, which forced the latter to vacate his Bench. He also attacked then sitting Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Carl Singh, which caused the Guyana Bar Association (GBA) to denounce and remind him that “the Judiciary must be protected when actions occur that seek to destroy, penetrate, and even climb over the wall of judicial independence.”

But the Government’s total instrumental view of the law, and its willingness to subvert the decisions of the Judiciary were exposed by no other than President Granger when he referred to a decision by the Chief Justice as her “perception” and said he is entitled to his. And it was on this latter “perception” that he acted when unilaterally appointing ex-Justice James Patterson as Chairman of GECOM. Not coincidentally, that particular democratic institution is meant to uphold “rule of the people”. In each of his “casting” votes since, Patterson has taken the side of the Government’s Commissioners. One of those decisions has since been taken to the Ethnic Relations Commission, which has only been recently constituted, three years late. But in terms of subverting the Judiciary, President Granger’s insistence on appointing an exGDF officer now on the Belize Bench as the next Chancellor of the Judiciary, while bypassing the incumbent without any good reason offered, shows that he is willing to even “pack” the Court to ensure the outcome of the latter’s decisions are in his favour.

The President’s refusal to subject himself to questioning from the media – a crucial institution of democratic governance – is another indicia of his Government’s insistence on controlling, and thus subverting, outcomes of institutions.

With Emancipation Day just around the corner, the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) presented a wide array of African wear, artifacts and other cultural items on display on Main Street Avenue in Georgetown on Tuesday. The event was dubbed 'Africa Street Theatre'. In this DPI photo an exhibitor poses with her products.

Our leaders must engage each other and move the country forward

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ince 1997, Guyanese at home and abroad have been calling on the country’s two main political parties to hold meaningful and genuine dialogue, which would see them resolving their ideological and philosophical differences with the aim of putting the country first.

The citizenry had also supported a wave of constitutional reforms as proposed by the National Assembly in the early 2000s, as a key step towards building trust, inclusionary democracy, and political consensus among the country’s key political parties and interest groups.

However, despite the best efforts of some

the resumption of the trading of infantile and puerile political barbs that sometimes do nothing to build the country up or move it out further away from being described as ‘racially and politically polarised’ or ‘divisive’. In fact, the continuing political wars between the PNC and PPP have deepened the rifts and conflicts among different sections of our society, to the point where some are disillusioned and others are going through a state of hopelessness, because they feel that democracy is not delivering the ‘goods’ that it should.

The populace, recognising this, utilised their

President David Granger (right) with Opposition leader Bharrat Jagdeo at the Ministry of the Presidency.

key independent personalities, agencies and external forces — including former United States President Jimmy Carter — the Peoples National Congress Reform (PNC/R) and the Peoples Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) have not been able to broker any agreement or deal that could be dubbed ‘solid’ enough to usher in a period of true political reconciliation, healing and appeasement.

As a matter of fact, for years, successive PPP Administrations under the presidencies of Janet Jagan, Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar continued to engage their Opposition counterparts on a number of matters, as adumbrated by the letter and spirit of the Constitution. While there was minimal progress recorded on some fronts, many of the more substantive issues remained unresolved because the two sides could not agree or arrive at comprises that could see them moving ahead without either side feeling deceived, defeated or wounded. The fact that the country has been without a substantive Chancellor of the Judiciary since 2005 and confirmed Chief Justice since 2015 is enough evidence of the inability of the two sides to arrive at a plausible agreement even when the Constitution compels it.

Also, whenever these engagements conclude, there is a return to the normal status quo and

ballots back in 2011 and 2015 to shift the dynamics and demand results. They changed the configuration of the Legislature, and then who comprised the Executive. They demanded an end to partisanship and political grandstanding by compelling the two parties to dialogue more and talk more.

It is in this context that the decision by President David Granger on Thursday last week must be seen. The President has now publicly committed himself to leading discussions with the PPP on a number of areas, inclusive of oil and gas and the environment. He made the decision after the PPP continued to highlight that Prime Minister Nagamootoo cannot lead the talks because he is viewed as not in a position to make any serious or binding commitments on behalf of the coalition Government.

While many are disappointed that more pertinent issues, such as constitutional and electoral reform, were not singled out first for special talks, they are satisfied that talks are still going to take place. And when these talks do materialise, the President and the Opposition Leader must ensure that they do not fail, and that a lot of care and caution is taken whenever discussing sensitive issues that could impact future talks — the notion of trust and dream of enhanced political cooperation between the PNC and the PPP.

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Jagdeo says G$30B GuySuCo bond will put pressure on foreign reserves A s Guyana’s foreign currency reserves continue to deplete daily, there are no signs of this changing anytime soon, especially with the G$30 billion syndicated bond that was recently secured by the Special Purpose Unit (SPU) of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) to assist with revitalisation of the cash-strapped Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).

This is according to Opposition Leader and General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Bharrat Jagdeo, who told a news conference on Wednesday that when the spending of the G$30 billion bond begins, it will substantially increase the demand for foreign currency and put pressure on the reserves.

“What will happen is: it will put enormous…even more pressure on the foreign currency holdings, because you have more Guyana dollars being spent chasing the same supply of currency… In fact, not the same amount, because it is falling; it is declining because sugar earns less foreign currency…because of the dropin production and exports, and other sectors have not been doing that well, like forestry,” he stated.

Jagdeo said that, from all indications, there has been an unbelievable shortage of cur-

rency at the Central Bank.

The reserves, according to him, have been declining, and there is no foreign currency to meet their obligations.

“So we are going to have some major problems in the near future. And so we are going to see this evolve a bit more, because you can’t hide it for long. This is not the end of the problem,” he added.

He referred to his last budget debate presentation, when he spoke about how much of the National Budget (the economy) is funded from domestic saving rather than foreign inflows.

“It’s above 90 per cent. It used to be, in our era, about 50 percent each of national domestic expenditure funded from foreign sources, and 50 percent from domestic savings, and now it’s gone up,” he pointed out.

Crackdown

Government recently announced plans to implement a crackdown after it was found that local businesses were not abiding by Bank of Guyana (BoG) Act 1998 by trading US dollars where businesses are accepting foreign currency for the purpose of settling payments for transactions, instead of Guyana dollars.

A statement from the Bank of Guyana (BoG) stated that pursuant to section (20) of the Act, all monetary obligations or transactions in Guyana

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

shall be settled in Guyana dollars. It reminded also that only banks and licensed cambios were authorised to conduct buying and selling of foreign currencies, while noting that penalties were attached for violations, which include fines and imprisonment.

But Jagdeo said that despite plans for a crackdown, based on his party’s intelligence, there have been reports about alleged meetings with Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman and calls from the Central Bank to per-

sons demanding that they have to sell part of their money to the bank or to the Gold Board.

With the recent influx of foreign shoppers into Guyana, Chinese businesses have been receiving enormous sales, and have been engaged in trading US dollars. This is something the BoG said it is aware of because it has received complaints in this regard. The BoG has also said this is lending to the issue of foreign currency shortage, and has cautioned these businesses must desist

from this practice, as it plans to investigate thoroughly.

But former Presidential Advisor and Economist Ramon Gaskin has since advised that the BoG and Government look at persecuting those found culpable instead of issuing basic reminders. He feels that unless businesses and persons are made an example, people would not take the warnings seriously.

In March 2018, the Statistical Abstract published by the Bank of Guyana reported that the net international foreign currency reserves at the Central Bank were US$498.5 million, a 16 per cent decrease from 12 months prior, which economists and financial analysts had said it is worrying.

They have argued that Guyana’s export sectors are under a clear and present danger as the Finance Ministry continues to under serve them, which has also led to a decline in the international reserves.

These international reserves are composed of cash and other assets denominated in mainly US dollars.

The foreign currency inflows also from the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) are set to decrease by a further US$10 million over 2018 as a result of the closure of three more estates. (Samuel Sukhnandan)

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President Carter’s attempt to encourage political dialogue is laudable Dear Editor, President Jimmy Carter’s recent intervention in Guyana’s domestic politics is a refreshing development. It shows that the Carter Center and the US Government are closely monitoring Guyanese politics. Even more importantly, they are following issues of governance, or rather bad governance, which prevails today under the Coalition Government.

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has done a remarkable job in exposing all aspects of mismanagement; incompetence; corruption; and significantly, abuse of power, violations of law, the Constitution, and several undemocratic decisions and actions taken. It appears that it is the latter conduct which is causing the West the most trouble. No doubt, free and fair elections would be among the priorities of the West.

Every Guyanese who is interested in a better Guyana would find this pleasing.

The PPP needs to continue the excellent exposure of these kinds of actions on the part of the Coalition Government whenever they surface.

The two persons whose works in this area stand out are Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and Anil Nandlall. Jagdeo’s press conferences have been very incisive in revealing

the level of corruption and incompetence in the Government. Nandlall, almost single-handedly, has been very effective in the press and in the courts in exposing the lawlessness, breaches of the Constitution, and significant violations of democratic practices committed by the Government. The fact that he is representing the cause of persons across the racial divide and has been able to get favourable rulings from a Judiciary believed to be unfriendly to the PPP adds a tremendous amount of credibility to the PPP’s work as an opposition party. Nandlall’s contributions have been invaluable.

However, as 2020 gets closer, the PPP cannot afford to become complacent. They must press forward even harder, in order to get more international attention. This will require greater contributions from other leaders of the party and Members of Parliament (MPs).

Now that the PPP is about to name its Presidential Candidate, many aspirants have finally crawled out of their shells. It is a pity that they were not so active for the last three years; but it is never too late. Whoever the candidate is, it is hoped that those who are not selected will continue the hard work.

Yours truly, Khal Morgan

Using ministerial powers to bully ordinary citizens

Dear Editor, I would like to dwell on a single statement of importance in a letter from Dr David Hinds: “Minister Broomes incident is a clear case of official bullying of powerless citizens.”

Dr Hinds states, “I am very certain that had she been a private citizen, she would have handled the matter differently”. I disagree with Dr Hinds.

Dr Hinds needs to know that Ms Broomes is simply a bully. I am pretty sure that she has bullied others as a private citizen, even when she was not decorated with ministerial powers.

It is only by chance that Ms Broomes was caught on tape bullying her victims that the nation had a chance to see what she is like.

We all know of private citizens who bully others. Only just a few days ago, citizens in Enmore, on the East Coast of Demerara, were bullied by private citizens to the point where their personal properties, like their gas range, clothing, furniture and other valuables, were taken from their homes and thrown onto the streets. Similar to these Enmore bullies, Ms Broomes threw away “No Parking” signs and

then threw her victims in jail for 16 hours. The CCTV tape rescued these innocent victims.

Ms Broomes and the Enmore bullies have got to share poor values. Bullying is a big problem for Guyana. Because of cruelty and lack of empathy, bullies can’t feel the pain of another human being.

Of course, Ms Broomes and the Enmore bullies will continue to hurt others, if they are not held accountable and if they also fail to seek out psychological help.

Bullying is an abnormal behavior, which is largely a product of ignorance. Bullies evaluate their victims as powerless based on a wide range of stereotypes about ethnicity/race, sexual orientation, physical stature, social status, religion, culture, and job status, among other things. Ms Broomes and the Enmore bullies are also in dire need of education.

And in spite of such dysfunction by a Government Minister, President Granger remains silent, and shows no indication of firing Ms Broomes.

Sincerely, Annie Baliram

Very disappointed with NY Times article

Dear Editor, Allow me to express my disappointment with a few articles and videos on Guyana surfacing online, and especially on social media.

These opinions from outside Guyana are juicy to the readers and viewers. The article in New York Times on Guyana’s oil stirred our guts, but few of us had the courage to rebut the arguments, although a few opinions are a matter of concern that we need to address. There are a few videos on Guyana’s oil being circulated on social media, and they are damaging the image of our beautiful Guyana. These video presentations are very interesting, but from an outside perspective. I believe that everyone is entitled to their opinions. Someone else’s opinions must not derail our belief in ourselves as a strong, compact nation.

However, there is no harm in discussing other opinions; and if they are true, let us utilise them for the betterment of Guyana.

Some persons believe that once you have a pencil, you are a writer, or once you have a camera, you are a journalist. This is untrue in this highly so-

cial media-driven world. I mean to say, anyone can post anything online, and there are always people who buy this with less or no wisdom. That is where we have a problem. It is true that oil is in Guyana, but it must be a concern for Guyanese, and not for others to tell us what we should do or what we will become. We, as Guyanese, must be strong at this time, and not give in to external pressure. Whatever people speak, we know who we are.

Let us stand together as a nation, and not as Indo- and Afro-Guyanese.

We are a nation of multiple diversities, and let this be our strength during these crucial times. Let us help our leaders, both ruling and opposition, to come to the table to guard our wealth and resources. This way, we can truly channel our resources for the betterment of our country. Just ignore anything that is not true, and take only what is true.

Let us not waste time on the ignorance of outsiders; rather, let us believe in our strength. Our strength is their ignorance.

Sincerely, Arun Williams

Where is the Coalition Govt’s concern for the working class?

Dear Editor, The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) was indeed most upset and disturbed by the seeming belligerent attitude shown by the APNU/AFC Government’s disapproval of a motion to have reinstated a Ministry of Labour. The motion was tabled by the Parliamentary Opposition following a call that was reiterated by the trade union movement at the May Day 2018 Rally. It is a call which the Guyanese workers, through their representative organisations, have been making over the last three years, but which has largely been ignored despite the several credible rationales provided for going in the direction that the motion proposed.

The FITUG had expected that on this occasion, in spite of previous expressed views — given the nature of the issue and more so the venue where it was raised — the Administration would have soberly assessed the motion and given it support. That expectation was dashed, however, as shown by the contributions from the Government side; and, of course ultimately, its vote in the House. Rather than advancing any convincing arguments for its stance, the Administration tangentially invoked several red herrings, and did not, from our point of view, address the substance of the matter.

Maybe this course was chosen because the Coalition Government, we believe, could not defend its indefensible posi-

tion in not having a Labour Ministry.

The noteworthy fact that even the minister reputedly responsible for labour did not contribute to the debate says a great deal.

The outcome, though a major disappointment for the nation’s workers, only served to confirm the Federation’s publicly expressed view regarding the Administration’s anti-working class nature. On too many occasions, we could not have helped but point out the disregard for many of the commitments the Coalition had made to the workers during the elections campaign. Timehonoured and longstanding practices, even international conventions and our country’s laws, have simply been ignored by the present-day Government.

Moreover, one cannot ignore the increased cost-of-living burdens workers are now made to bear, which further illustrate the Administration’s unsympathetic view to the working people’s plight. This latest act against the workers of Guyana is just another glaring example of the Coalition’s scant concern for the workers’ interest.

The FITUG, in spite of the Administration’s intransigence, firmly upholds and reiterates its position that a Ministry of Labour is a necessary and required institution. We wish to remind the Administration that actions speak louder than words.

Sincerely, Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG)

Guyana needs to get serious about preserving its history Dear Editor, Boat dun gone a falls, and it can’t turn back. I learnt that many years ago. Editor, did I not pen a correspondence very recently stating that Guyana needs to have a museum that houses artifacts of British Guiana because it plays a pivotal role within the tourism sector?

Editor, did I not, in another article, suggest we should consider erecting a Photography Museum on the premises of the National Park, because of the

historic events held there?

Editor, have I not said in past articles, via the press, that the subject areas of History and Geography need to be more vibrant within the school’s curriculum, because of their relevance to the tourism sector?

Editor, have I not brought to the public’s attention, via the press, the vintage British- made vehicle once used by the late President LFS Burnham, which is now in a storage bond decaying? And did I not suggest we need to

have it restored and perhaps put on display?

Does the above not all coincide with preserving Guyana’s history, past and present, towards tourism development?

Past or present Government of the day, has anyone ever considered my suggestions?

I do welcome to the shelves of Guyana Pro. McGowan’s book titled “A Survey of Guyana’s History”, and I do support President David Granger’s call

for History to be given its rightful place in the education system. In my opinion, Guyana has, to a large extent, lost both its sense and preservation of history, and only God knows in which decade we will actually witness such a development. Sometime in 2016 (I think), I was tasked with a little project to sell 10 copies of The Guyana Annual Magazine (1000), and I never managed to sell any. No one I contacted was interested, and that magazine also recontinued on page 7

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young New Yorkers to Gold miner accused of 75,000 be placed in summer jobs murdering Venezuelan this year – NY Mayor M further remanded F

rancisco De Mattos, 27, of Monkey Mountain was on Thursday further remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan when he reappeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with the murder of a Venezuelan citizen.

De Mattos was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleged that on June 23, 2018 while at a bar at Black Water Landing in the Cuyuni River he murdered Rafael Angel Gonzalez Prieto.

According to facts presented to the court, on the day in question around 01:50h Prieto was stabbed to death by the gold miner after he (Prieto) allegedly as-

Francisco De Mattos

saulted his girlfriend at Black Water Backdam, Cuyuni.

Further, the report stated that the deceased lover was dancing with another male in the bar when he (Prieto) got annoyed and threw her to the ground, whipped out a knife and began cutting the woman’s hair.

Upon seeing same De Mattos got annoyed and rush to the aid of the woman which resulted in a scuffle between the two men. It was during that scuffle that he allegedly dealt his assailant several stabs, one of which caused his intestines to protrude through his stomach.

Port Kaituma vendor charged for alleged rape of 12-yr-old Stephon Belle

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vendor was on Wednesday arraigned before Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan after he reportedly had sexual intercourse with a 12-yearold girl.

Twenty-five-year-old, Stephon Belle of Port Kaituma, Water Front, North West District (NWD) was not allowed to plead to the indictable charge against him.

It is being alleged

Guyana needs to get serious...

from page 6

lates to Guyana’s history. I did have the books returned, and I hope they were sold off.

I wish Professor McGowan total success in having his books sold off at G$4000 each, as reported in the press.

I continue to wish that all stakeholders who have not given up the fight would keep fight-

ing harder, and hopefully, one good sunny day, Guyana will shine like a diamond as an elite tourist destination.

Unfortunately, my resource has dried up, and whenever I can manage to squeeze in additional work from the sidewalk, I will continue to so do.

Yours faithfully, T Pemberton

that he engaged in sexual penetration with the girl on July 14 2018 at said Port Kaituma Water Front.

According to the case facts, he invited the minor to his place of abode and forcefully had sex with her.

As such the matter was reported to the Police and Belle was arrested and later charged.

He was granted G$350,000 bail to next appear at the Matthews Ridge Magistrate Court on August 7 2018.

ayor Bill de Blasio and DYCD Commissioner Bill Chong have disclosed that the 2018 Summer Youth Employment Program is expected to provide jobs for up to 75,000 young New Yorkers. According to the Mayor’s Office, under the de Blasio Administration, the number of available positions for young people between the ages of 14 and 24 has more than doubled. SYEP, launched in 1963, is the nation's largest summer youth employment initiative, and provides up to six weeks of entry-level experience at worksites in all five boroughs.

"This summer, 75,000 of New York City's young people have access to the opportunities that employment provides. We are leveraging the resources of the City to ensure young people can obtain real-world job training, explore career interests, and have a productive summer," said Mayor de Blasio. "When we invest in our City's kids, we invest in our future."

Mayor de Blasio launched the Center for Youth Employment through the Mayor's Fund to Advance NYC in May 2015. It works with 60 philanthropic partners and the private sector to help expand the City's employment services for young New Yorkers, including SYEP. In collaboration with City agencies, employers and other stakeholders, the Center for Youth Employment is focused on increasing pri-

Mayor Bill de Blasio

vate sector involvement in these programs.

"I am proud the Council's support of the Summer Youth Employment Program helped expand the number of SYEP slots to a record number of 75,000 slots this summer.

Getting 75,000 young people meaningful, paid, work experience is critical to ensuring their future success. The Council will continue to support the Summer Youth Employment Program, its providers, and its participants as it is a key youth program that has a positive impact on young people in every part of this City," said City Council Speaker Corey Johnson.

"In a city with so many thriving industries and opportunities, summer employment is one of the most valuable experiences we can provide our teens and young adults. With this historic increase to 75,000 jobs, more young people will have a meaningful workplace experience this summer. Connecting our City's young people

with jobs will provide them with the knowledge that builds the foundation for lifelong career success," said Phillip Thompson, Deputy Mayor for Strategic Policy Initiatives.

"SYEP gave me my first introduction into the workforce, and my love of public service is a result of this program, which positively affected the career choices I have made.

Every year we give more and more young people the chance at an internship that could change the trajectory of their careers. Through SYEP, Ladders for Leaders and other City-funded initiatives, teens and young adults have been exposed to everything from crime scene forensics to computer coding to advertising. I could not be more proud of leading an agency that supports a program that has been instilling confidence, a strong work ethic and important skills in hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers for more than a half-century," said DYCD Commissioner Bill Chong.

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President Granger engages executives of newly-elected toshaos’ council

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resident David Granger on Wednesday engaged the newly-elected chairman and executive members of the National Toshaos’ Council (NTC) at a special luncheon to discuss issues affecting Indigenous communities.

During the deliberations, held at the Baridi Benab at State House, the President announced that Government will proceed with handing over of the lease -- prepared several months ago for the promised plot of land at Sophia -- to the NTC for the construction of the proposed secretariat.

However, the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, together with the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) and the NTC, will be working together to identify a

larger plot of land for the establishment of a complex that would include dormitories to accommodate toshaos, conference rooms, and other facilities.

President Granger said the plot of land at Sophia caters only for a building; there is no room for expansion.

“We want you to have a campus with conference rooms, with accommodation, with benabs and places where you could relax. We want to give you what Indigenous people deserve. So our plans are grand, and we do not want to limit you to that spot, and we intend to deliver on our promise,” he said.

At the luncheon, GLSC Commissioner Trevor Benn said the GLSC is looking at

The newly elected National Toshaos’ Council met with President David Granger and Minister of State Joseph Harmon, along with other Government ministers at State House on Wednesday

three possible locations at which the complex can be built: Diamond and Houston

on East Bank of Demerara, and Ogle on the East Coast Demerara.

“I know everybody wants continued on page 12

GECOM chairmanship challenge

Hearing commences at Appeal Court

Attorney-at-Law Anil Nandlall

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he High Court decision which held that President David Granger has the legal power to unilaterally appoint retired Justice James Patterson as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is being challenged in the Appeal Court, where the first of several hearings commenced on Wednesday.

Attorney-at-law Anil Nandlall appeared before the court on behalf of People’s Progressive Party Executive Secretary and Member of Parliament Zulfikar Mustapha, in whose name the challenge was mounted against a ruling handed down by Acting Chief Justice Roxanne George.

On June 8, 2018, Justice George ruled that the Constitution of Guyana allows for the President to unilaterally appoint someone to fill the position of GECOM Chair. The appointment was the centre of much contention, as Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had presented several lists of nominees to the President, which were all rejected because Mr Granger claimed they were not “fit and proper”.

This appeal comes just months ahead of the

November 12, 2018 Local Government Elections and subsequent Regional and General Elections which are due by August 2020.

In arguments Nandlall put forward on Wednesday, he premised the dates of the upcoming polls as just cause for the matter to be expedited. He added that he in fact filed an application requesting an early determination of the matter, just in case it reaches the level of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

Nandlall contended that a decision should be rendered before the elections, since “the entire litigation” would become futile. The former Attorney General referred to the elections in Barbados, where a challenge beginning from the High Court of Barbados to the CCJ lasted just a few weeks, which permitted electors to cast their votes.

The overall thrust of Nandlall’s argument is that this case raises issues which affect “the very bedrock of our constitutional democracy, and it is directly related to the integrity of our electoral machinery”.

Nandlall claimed that even though he had filed his appeal on June 12, Attorney General Basil Williams only filed his Affidavit in Answer on Tuesday, and it was served on him on Wednesday.

The case will continue before the Appeal Court this Friday.

Just days after the President’s announcement, the Opposition had filed an injunction, on October 23, 2017, that sought to have the Court rescind the unilateral appointment of Justice Patterson as Chairman of the Elections Commission.

Chief Justice’s then ruling had rendered redundant the Constitutional formula which requires a Chairman of GECOM to be appointed by a joint exercise and a process that involves the joint input of the President and the Opposition. At that time, Nandall headed a legal team for the applicant, while Attorney General Basil Williams’s team included Solicitor

GECOM Chairman, Retired Justice James Patterson

Apart from rescinding the appointment of Patterson, the PPP had also argued that he was unqualified for the post.

The PPP also petitioned the High Court to order President Granger to choose a person from the eighteen names submitted by the Opposition Leader.

“I hold that there is nothing before this Court to permit a finding that the President acted unlawfully or irrationally in resorting to the proviso to Art 161(2), or to rebut the presumption that Justice Patterson is qualified to be appointed to the post of Chairman of GECOM,” the acting CJ had however ruled.

The Court’s position on the matter also said that the Opposition could produce no evidence that Patterson was unqualified for the position, while the CJ added that even if she had agreed with the contention that the appointment was unlawful, it still would not have been “permissible for this Court to usurp the function of the President by directing him to choose a nominee from the third, or any list.”

However, Nandlall had responded that the

General Kim Kyte and two Barbadian Queens Counsels, Ralph Thorne and Hal Gollop, who all represented the interest of the State.

The PPP held that since Justice Patterson was a religious leader, this is a clear violation of criteria set out

by President Granger to Jagdeo. It maintained the view that Patterson is unfit and improper

for the job since he was a pall bearer at Peoples National Congress leader Desmond Hoyte’ s funeral, and that the judge “lied on his CV” when he said he was the Chief Justice of Grenada.

It was later revealed that Patterson merely acted in that capacity, and when questioned about it, he told media operatives that it was just a slip of the pen.

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WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Guyana Govt awaits legal advice on Berbice Bridge tolls controversy

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson

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ublic Infrastructure Minister David Patterson is currently awaiting legal advice from Attorney the General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, before engaging the Berbice Bridge Company Incorporated (BBCI).

BBCI Chairman Dr. Surendra Persaud disclosed two weeks ago that the company is facing bankruptcy, and as such had made proposals to increase its tolls by as much 300 per cent in some cases, to keep the Berbice Bridge afloat.

Toll increases have been strongly opposed by Government, but Minister Patterson has said due consideration may be given to

this matter. He said last week that Government would continue to engage the BBCI for alternative solutions that do not include passing on increases to consumers.

“No at the moment… the Attorney General is providing some legal advice, and at the end of that, I will engage them and move forward from there,” the Public Infrastructure Minister told the Guyana Times on Tuesday, adding that he has indicated this to the BBCI chairman.

In his objection to the toll increase proposal, Patterson last week pointed out that Government was already subsidising the Bridge, and giving it more financial support might be a major task.

However, he added that the Coalition Government has an obligation to the people of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) to ensure that there were no increases.

“We have a commitment to the people of Berbice. The Berbice Act that was passed stopped any other means of transporting cars across the Berbice River. So, therefore, obviously it is the Bridge, and obviously, we can’t leave persons stranded. And we have to do whatever we have to do to ensure that it is sustainable,” Minister Patterson said.

That therefore leaves the Government with no option

Legal Affairs Minister and AG Basil Williams

but to subsidise the BBCI. Despite rejecting the proposed 300 per cent toll increase, Government has said it would continue to work with the BBCI to ensure that the Bridge was sufficiently maintained and is safe for vehicular and marine use.

Based on the announcement made by the BBCI with regard to the proposed increase in tolls, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has announced his disagreement with the proposal, but has since encouraged the coalition Government to buy more equity in the Company.

Jagdeo reasoned that Berbicians could not afford the steep increases that the company has proposed at this time. He said this was mainly

so because the BBCI was contractually obligated to maintain the Bridge. Instead, he thinks that Government could buy out other shareholders, so the Bridge becomes publicly-owned.

“Secondly, subsidise the increase that should take place in the toll, so they give an injection into the company so the rate remains flat.” This formula, according to Jagdeo, would entail taking over the debt of the Bridge and securing greater equity in return.

But Patterson has said that while a fare increase is something Government is totally against, it has caused some delays in the past.

He recalled that when the Government approached a shareholder (Demerara Distillers Limited) to buy its shares, it took some time before a decision was made as to whether they should sell.

“It took a year before the shareholder voted and gave us permission to buy the shares. I think one of the problems at that time is that DDL bought shares at G$40 million and they sold it for G$45 million. The 24 per cent persons didn’t want to have a precedent yet, whereby they make a minor profit on it,” he added.

The Minister explained that Government was made an offer by another shareholder who was interested in selling his shares, but un-

BBCI Chairman, Dr Surendra Persaud

der the condition that he got all the profits he would have been entitled to for the entire period of over 20 years.

Patterson said the proposal was not feasible, and therefore Government could not give it due consideration, as it would have cost an exceptional amount.

In the July 9th application to Government, the BCCI requested that the toll increases take effect from August 1. The new tolls proposed by the BBCI would see cars and minibuses paying G$8040 to cross the Bridge; pickups, small trucks and four-wheeldrive vehicles G$14,600; medium trucks G$27,720; large trucks G$49,600; articulated trucks G$116,800; and boats G$401,040.

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

news 11

Guyana’s foreign minister admits to loopholes in tracking immigrants

By Jarryl Bryan

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n the wake of an influx of persons from neighbouring countries, the Guyana Government has admitted that while data is collected from immigrants crossing Guyana’s borders, authorities carry out only limited tracking of such immigrants afterwards.

This was outlined by Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge, who noted during a press conference on Monday that there is a Cabinet-vetted policy guideline currently in place to establish how immigrants are to be treated. Immigrants, upon entry, must fill out an arrival card that details their country of origin and proposed place of residence while in Guyana.

“It isn’t normal in Guyana, once the person enters the country, to follow them around to see where they are,” Greenidge explained. “We’re not that type of state. However, immigration authorities can ask you to report to them from time to time. That, as far as I’m aware, is the only requirement,” Greenidge explained.

“There were concerns about the need to avoid criminalising these persons for what might be regarded as simple immigration infractions. So that was a major consideration, bearing in mind that, since 1809, any Caribbean person landing on the shores of Haiti would be granted the right to stay in Haiti. So that was a consideration,” he explained.

Greenidge recalled that after the Foreign Affairs Ministry had brought it to Cabinet’s attention, a request was made for the matter to be investigated. As a result, he explained, there were established common guidelines that took into account that ‘you don’t want to be providing arrangements that allow undesirables — meaning criminals, terrorists and others –‘into the territory ’.”

“Those who are returning from Venezuela…if you say you are Guyanese, you would be required to prove it. You would be given the opportunity to establish… if you are Guyanese by birth, naturalisation or

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge

descent. If you are not Guyanese, you will be treated as non-Guyanese,” he outlined.

The Ministry of Citizenship had earlier this month revealed that some 22,520 persons had entered Guyana between January and April 2018.

However, of worry was 6,170 of those did not depart.

The records also showed that 3515 Haitians had entered Guyana in 2017, but only 291 were documented to have left.

Vaccination & inoculation

However, Guyanese or not, the minister explained, vaccination is a prerequisite in cases where persons may have been exposed to a pandemic from their country of origin. Greenidge noted the serious effects that can visit indigenous populations encoun-

tering persons who may have been exposed to a pandemic, and related that if persons refuse to be vaccinated, they would have to leave this country.

Asked about the influx of Venezuelans in Mabaruma, Greenidge noted that a joint ministerial team of personnel from the Public Health and Citizenship ministries is aware of the guidelines. He noted that applications from those seeking to stay in Guyana are being handled.

“The region is encouraging countries to try not to deport these people (Venezuelans), or try not to jail them for immigration infractions in the current era, where there are special problems in Venezuela giving rise to irregular movements. Yes, the authorities in Whitewater are aware of these… there’s nothing special about Whitewater.”

“There are, of course in some instances, persons who are camped on the other side of the border. That is not our issue. There are some in Guyanese territory seeking the right to stay; that is being handled. Problems arose because some felt they didn’t have to be vaccinated or inoculated. That is wrong.

If they don’t want to, they have to leave,” Greenidge explained.

It has been reported that Venezuelan nationals are crossing into Guyana, especially at Region One, to seek medical treatment for malaria. At least 368 cases of malaria were, in May 2017, reported to national health authorities in Region One, but Venezuelans seeking treatment were treated, according to Government.

Considering this to be part of Guyana’s international humanitarian contribution, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, had related that instructions were given to the Public Health Ministry to assist all comers. This assistance encompassed both Venezuelans and Guyanese who are living in the Spanish-speaking country.

There have been persistent reports that, due to a troubled economy and unrest that has gripped that nation, shortages of basic services exist in Venezuela, and those include health services.

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WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

ERC meets with Indigenous, East Indian, African Guyanese constituents

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he newly re-constituted Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Wednesday continued its meetings with stakeholders.

The body met with representatives of the Indigenous, East Indian and African Guyanese constituents at Herdmanston Lodge, Georgetown to get a firsthand account of issues confronting members of the various groups.

According to the ERC in a statement, during the engagements, important concerns were raised and suggestions offered with commitments to work together in promoting harmony and good relations across the country.

The ERC said it is in the process of spreading and fostering awareness of its twenty-four (24) functions listed in Article 212D of the Constitution and to seek pos-

A

ERC Commissioners pose with representatives of the Indo-Guyanese Constituent

sible inputs from stakeholders in support of the execution of its mandate.

ERC Commissioners in discussion with some representatives of the Indigenous People Constituent

The meetings on Wednesday were all chaired by Deputy Chairman Major General (ret’d) Norman McLean and six ERC Commissioners were present.

To date, the ERC has met with President David Granger, Leader of the Opposition, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, the Private Sector Commission, the Ambassador and team from the European Union (EU), Ambassador and representatives of the ABC Diplomatic Community and representatives of the three major Religions.

The ERC said it is also scheduled to meet with the InterReligious Organisation (IRO) and representatives of Women and Youth Constituents.

Skeletal remains at Puruni

Miner slapped with murder charge

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38-year-old miner was on Tuesday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts slapped with a murder charge.

James Allen, of Two Friends Village, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was not required to plead to the indictable charge.

The Court heard that between June 28, 2018, and July 8, 2018, at Thomas Island, Bartica, Allen murdered his ex-lover, Petal Hafez.

According to facts presented, the woman’s skeletal remains were recently discovered along a trail in Bartica, Puruni River, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

He was remanded to prison, and the matter was transferred to the Bartica Magistrate’s Court for August 16, 2018.

On Saturday last, Police exhumed the remains believed to be Hafez’s to facilitate a post-mortem.

According to Pathologist Nehaul Singh, he was unable to determine the cause of death, but noted a crack in the skull. As such, Dr Singh’s findings were inconclusive.

Speaking with Guyana Times International on Monday last,

Man dies after crashing into parked truck speeding East Bank Demerara (EBD) man died late Tuesday night after the car he was driving crashed into a parked truck on the Yarrowkabra Public Road, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway.

Dead is 24-year-old Ryan Wilson of Lot 98211th Avenue, Great Diamond, EBD. According to reports, the accident occurred at about 23:00h.

Reports are Wilson was driving motorcar PWW 1114 and was proceeding east along the highway, allegedly at a fast rate of speed, when his vehicle collided with the right-side front of motor lorry GPP 2777 with trailer TTT 1610, which was stationary along the eastern side of the road, facing north. At the time, a bulldozer was loaded onto the trailer of the lorry.

Wilson was taken out of his mangled vehicle by the owners of the lorry, and rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre in an unconscious state. The 24-year-old was pronounced dead on arrival at the medical facility.

His body is presently at the Lyken’s Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination, which is expected to be conducted on Friday.

Guyana Times International understands that Wilson was heading to his family’s sawmill

Dead: Ryan Wilson

business at Long Creek on the highway when the accident occurred. His father, Nazir Mohamed, told this publication that the young man had left home shortly after 20:00h, and went to the barber before leaving for the family business.

The man related that they learnt of the accident sometime after 23:00h, when one of the “truck boys” called a friend, who then informed the family.

“When the boy called, he only say that the car get accident, and didn’t say anything else,” the man recalled. He said they then went, and confirmed their worst fears.

Meanwhile, the lorry’s 40-year-old driver of Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/Linden Highway, who was reportedly standing outside of the vehicle at the time of the accident, is in custody assisting with the investigation.

President Granger ...

from page 9

Victim Petal Hafez

Accused: James Allen

Hafez’s daughter explained that her mother left home about the second week in May for Thomas Island, Puruni and they last heard from her on June 2, 2018.

After the discovery on July 8, 2018, the Police arrested Allen in connection with the murder.

The man was allegedly arrested based on his history of reportedly abusing women in several interior locations.

The badly decomposed body was found in a shallow grave.

A bag containing the woman’s clothes was found close to the body, but there was no form of identification.

It was reported that a secu-

rity personnel stumbled upon the remains while heading to an Internet café to make a telephone call. He reported the findings to the Police a few days later. As such, a party of Police ranks were dispatched to the scene to conduct preliminary investigations.

Owing to the state of the remains– clad only in a brassiere with some remnants of flesh, identification was not possible.

On this note, the grieving daughter noted that samples of the remains were sent overseas to determine the identity of the deceased. She is positive the remains are those of her mother.

to be in the city, but the city can only hold so many people and you can only do so much. The Sophia Exhibition Complex is held under lease by the Ministry of Business, and of course you are limited to what you can do there…,” he said.

During the engagement, President Granger was officially introduced to the new NTC officials. The 20-member body is now chaired by the Toshao of Shulinab Village, Nicholas Fredericks, and includes Paul Pierre as Vice-Chair, Toshao Russian Dorrick as Secretary, Toshao Marbel Thomas as Treasurer, and 16 other executive members from the various regions.

President Granger urged the leaders to keep an open door for dialogue and collaboration to take place, especially with the regional administrations, the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, and Central Government.

“It is only by working together with the region and the Central Government that we could relieve the Indigenous people of poverty, of poor education, of poor infrastructure,” the President is quoted by the Ministry of the Presidency as saying.

The Head of State also assured the NTC executives that the Government will work toward increasing the Council’s subvention. He noted that July is the start of the new budget cycle.

Meanwhile, the toshaos expressed their willingness to work hand in hand with Central Government and the relevant authorities to advance their work programme. The new Chairman said that, while at times they might not see eye to eye with Government, they are committed to meaningful dialogue and consultations.

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WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

NY Governor pardons Caribbean nationals convicted of minor offences N

EW YORK, United States (CMC) – New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has granted pardons to Caribbean and other immigrants convicted of minor offences, even as President Donald Trump and the United States Federal Government continue to wage war on immigrant communities.

On Monday, Cuomo issued pardons to seven individuals, including nationals from Jamaica, Barbados and the Dominican Republic who faced deportation and other consequences as a result of previous minor criminal convictions.

This is the third time the governor has used his pardon authority to protect individuals facing potential deportation – most recently in December where he issued pardons to 18 other individuals.

“At a time when President Trump and the federal government are waging a war on our immigrant communities, New York stands firm in our belief that our diversity is our greatest strength,” said Cuomo.

“While President Trump engages in policies that rip children out of the arms of their mothers and tries to ramp up the deportation of

New Yorkers to advance his political agenda of hate and division, we will protect our immigrant communities.

“With the Statue of Liberty in our harbour, New York will always stand against the hate coming out of Washington and instead serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for all,” the governor said in a statement.

Cuomo said the pardons issued are in recognition of the individuals' rehabilitative efforts and to remove the barriers that their criminal records present to their immigration status.

He said some are facing deportation, while others wish to be able to participate in their communities as citizens of the country they call home.

In each case, Cuomo said a pardon will make immigration-related relief possible, if not automatic.

He said every recipient in is in good standing, having given back to their communities and families in a variety of ways, and having “demonstrated a substantial period of crime-free, good citizenship.”

Cuomo said Jamaican Tamar Samuda, 35, left the US to travel to Jamaica for family funeral, and, on return, was detained by the US Immigration and Customs

Governor Andrew Cuomo

Enforcement (ICE) agency as a result of convictions from 17 years ago.

“She was released on immigration parole in February 2018, and continues to fight her deportation,” the governor said.

Since her convictions for low-level assault and petit larceny, Cuomo said she obtained a GED, a high school diploma equivalency, and completed medical assistant training, and works in home health care and doctors' offices.

Cuomo said Samuda is a single mother of three school-

aged children.

She was cleared to work as an aide in New York City public school special education, but immigration detention prevented her from doing so, Cuomo said.

He said Barbadian national Frank Barker, 43, has been “crime-free” for nine years.

He was convicted of criminal possession of stolen property and controlled substances and identity theft from a short-term period of criminal activity resulting from drug addiction.

Cuomo said he has been so-

ber for eight years and works as a coordinator at an HIV/ AIDS supportive housing provider in New York City, is a certified substance abuse counsellor and a community advocate in the Bronx.

“He is the financial provider for his family including his daughter with special needs,” the governor said.

The New York governor said the other parolees are from the Dominican Republic and Colombia.

The Dominican Republic nationals are Carlos Suarez, 41; Elpidio Rodriguez, 57; Ludames De La Cruz, 53; and Jose Rafael Cruz, 53.

The Colombian national is Marino Soto, 43.

Cuomo said he has used his ability to grant clemency to reward rehabilitation, reunite families, protect against deportation and help New Yorkers become fully contributing members of our society.

Since taking office, he said he has issued 34 pardons, 12 commutations and 140 conditional youth pardons.

Cuomo said Monday's pardons are the latest actions he has taken to support the immigrant community and defend immigrants against what he deemed as “federal attacks.”

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WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

‘Take a closer look at our country!’ Scenes of jubilation …Guyana Govt tells writer of NY as accused freed of Times article on oil sector businesswoman’s murder

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he Guyana Government has noted its extreme disappointment with an article written for the New York Times by Clifford Krauss, entitled “The $20 Billion Question.” It has since responded to several of the inaccuracies and the writer’s depiction of Guyana, its people, and their way of life.

In a statement issued by the Finance Ministry on Sunday, it said that it would not address what it described as the “laughably simplistic and selective description” of Guyana. The Ministry said the claim that “the civil service is corrupt” was also an insult to the majority of hardworking

and honest public servants.

The Ministry noted that the writer’s assertion that “foreign bank developers have told the Government that legislation to create a sovereign wealth fund … lacks sufficient regulatory controls to avert corruption” and that “the legislation is in limbo,” and has denied stating that this was not the case.

While acknowledging that there were certain dangers surrounding resource-rich countries, the Government said it has extensively researched the issues of the resource curse. It said that is the reason why they are engaged in crafting the

National Resource Fund Act (NRFA).

“We have asked for advice from several international institutions, including the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the Commonwealth Secretariat,” it explained, noting that the proposed legislation addresses two main issues: stability of the economy and saving for future generations. This, according to the Ministry, is laid out in a Green Paper, which will be presented to the National Assembly.

“The NRFA, which will be laid in Parliament before the end of the year as indicated in Budget 2018, is the culmination

of many lessons learnt around the world by resource-rich countries over the past 100 years.”

The Ministry said it would address the transparent handling of, and accounting for, the oil-related funds from them being deposited in the NRF to their spending which can only be done via the Annual Budget approved by the National Assembly.

The Fund itself is to be managed by the Bank of Guyana and overseen by a committee that encompasses several independent interest groups, including a representative nominated by the Leader of the Opposition.

Quarterly reports on its activity will be presented to Parliament. “We are confident that the NRFA will fully address these legitimate concerns,” it added.

Returning to the other issues raised in the article, the Ministry said they created an impression that the Government and the country were hapless and unable to deal with the new oil sector. “We acknowledge there are serious human skills deficits, but the Government is proceeding carefully and methodically towards First Oil. The National Resource Fund will be in place before 2020,” it responded.

Despite the article’s narrative of a “Poor man wins the lottery; disaster ensues”, the Ministry said it also drew attention to some of Guyana’s most pressing challenges and raised the question of how Guyanese saw themselves and the country.

“It is time that as Guyanese, we reject the single story being told about us, no matter who tells that story. We must look towards the future with hope in our heritage, in the legacies of our ancestors and in the path that is being crafted for us now. I urge Mr Krauss to take a closer look at our country, its proud and resourceful people and our resilience in the face of the odds,” the statement issued said.

Since the publishing of the article, scores of Guyanese have taken to social media to air their concerns and have heaped criticism on the New York Times and its writer. A majority of Guyanese believe that the writer’s description of Guyana is totally inaccurate and seeks to make Guyana out to seem as one of the worst countries on earth. They believe also foreigners should not be allowed to get away with such untruths.

Stanton had told the panel that he grew up watching his mother being abused by various males, and because of this, he did not have it in him to hurt anyone.

He was picked out in an identification (ID) parade by the late woman’s daughter, who was driving the car on the night her mother was killed.

Deceased: Patricia Sanasie Stanton had also disputed the Police ast was a scene of sertion that some of much jubilation for the persons in the linerelatives of mur- up were not similar to der accused Richard him in features.

Stanton at the High Sanasie was riddled Court on Wednesday with bullets as she exevening, as he was ac- ited her vehicle and quitted of the January was about to open her 12, 2015 execu- gate at her East Coast tion-style murder of Demerara home. Her Atlantic Gardens busi- daughter, who was the nesswoman Patricia sole eyewitness to her Sanasie.

This comes days after Stanton addressed the jury and professed he was not a killer and was not born to kill anyone.

His acquittal came by way of the jury’s unanimous not-guilty verdict, which was returned after just over two hours of deliberation. This decision signals that the panel did not believe that the evidence presentRichard Stanton ed by the prosecution was sufficient enough to convict the man. demise, had observed When it was an- that a “big built” man nounced that he was had exited a silver free, just after 18:30h Toyota Raum, and she on Wednesday, his saw him twice as he sister shouted out, passed and looked at “Yes!” but Police in her. court restored order.

Sanasie was reportAfter Stanton’s rela- edly shot to her chest, tives exited the court- abdomen and neck, room, it was celebra- among other areas, tion non-stop. He was and was pronounced advised by presiding dead on arrival at the Justice Brassington Georgetown Public Reynolds to avoid trou- Hospital. ble, as he was given a Sanasie was the forsecond chance at life. mer Director of Studies Justice Reynolds said at the Academy of that, moving forward, Professional Studies. A he only wants to hear year prior to her death, ‘good things’ about a similar attempt had Stanton. The judge been made on her husfurther remarked that band’s life. In that inhad he been found stance, she and her guilty, he would have brother had been imbeen close to handing plicated. down a death sentence.

Stanton was repStanton gave a one- resented by attorhour presentation to neys Mark Waldron the jury on Monday and Keoma Griffith. last, wherein he relat- Meanwhile, State ed that he was working counsels Tiffini Lyken, at his sister’s estab- Seeta Bishundial and lishment, the Dynasty Narissa Leander prosNight Club, at time ecuted the case. In Police first picked him May 2016, Stanton was up in January 2015, committed to stand triand when they re-ar- al in the High Court rested and charged for Sanasie’s murder. him in April 2015.

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WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

More than 4 billion oil- Hike in speedboat fares causing severe hardships for Leguan residents equivalent barrels at Stabroek Block – Exxon

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he ExxonMobil-controlled Stabroek Block offshore Guyana has now been confirmed to have in excess of four billion oil-equivalent barrels.

ExxonMobil announced on Monday that it has increased its estimate of the discovered recoverable resource from a previous estimate of 3.2 billion oil-equivalent barrels and has advanced its evaluation to support a third phase of development and consideration of two additional phases.

In a statement, the oil giant said that the increase followed the completion of testing at the Liza-5 appraisal well; a discovery at Ranger; the eighth discovery, Longtail into the Turbot area evaluation; and completion of the Pacora discovery evaluation.

According to Exxon, “Guyana’s first development, Liza Phase 1, will use a Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel to produce 120,000 barrels of oil per day, starting by early 2020. Liza Phase 2, which is targeted for sanctioning by the end of this year, will use an FPSO vessel designed to produce up to 220,000 barrels of oil per day and is expected to be produced by mid-2022.”

According to ExxonMobil Senior Vice President Neil Chapman, continued success in Guyana and progress in other upstream growth projects in the US Permian Basin, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea and Brazil are giving “us additional confidence in achieving our long-term

earnings growth plans that we outlined in March”.

In addition, it was outlined that the Liza-5 well successfully tested the northern portion of the Liza field and, along with the giant Payara field, will support the third phase of development in Guyana. “The Payara development will target sanctioning in 2019 and will use an FPSO vessel designed to produce approximately 180,000 barrels of oil per day, as early as 2023.”

The Longtail well established the Turbot-Longtail area as a potential development hub for recovery of more than 500 million oil-equivalent barrels. Additional prospects to be drilled in this area could increase this estimate.

“The collective discoveries on the Stabroek Block to date have established the potential for up to five FPSOs producing over 750,000 barrels per day by 2025.

There is potential for additional production from significant undrilled targets and plans for rapid exploration and appraisal drilling, including at the Ranger discovery,” Exxon said.

The Stabroek Block covers 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). ExxonMobil affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, is the operator and holds a 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds a 30 per cent stake and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds the other 25 per cent.

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esidents of the Island of Leguan, in the Essequibo River, are complaining bitterly about the sudden hike in speedboat fares due to the lack of a regular ferry service.

The normal fare from Parika to Leguan is about G$500, but residents are now being forced to pay as much as G$1,500, depending on the number of passengers in the speedboat at that time.

According to residents living on the island, the ferry service has not been working to its normal schedule for the past six months, and passengers have no other choice but to pay the very high and unreasonable fare to travel. The speedboats are outfitted to transport about 10 passengers at once, but because of low numbers of persons travelling to and from the island, the speedboat operators would sometimes enforce a call for double fare or higher.

One mother told this publication that she has been left stranded many times for refusing to pay for her sixmonth-old baby.

The residents are contending that the entire arrangement needs to be relooked at, and they are calling on the Government to alleviate their sufferings by reinstating a regular ferry service to the island.

Additionally, the residents are saying that because of the lack of a proper ferry service,

Speedboats lined up at the Leguan Stelling

they are now being forced to pay extra for their goods in an already dwindling economy.

For years, the issue of an unreliable ferry service has plagued the island, but according to the residents, the issue has gotten worse over the last year, since the MV Sandaka started encountering mechanical problems.

The engine of the MV Sandaka was reportedly damaged a few months ago, and emergency repairs were executed. However, it failed again a few days after, and now the MV Malali is servicing Leguan. The MV Sandaka is docked at Mazaruni, awaiting a new engine.

Another major issue is the Leguan Ferry Stelling, which is on the verge of collapsing. The timber planks supporting the stelling are rotten, causing residents to be fearful, since heavy vehicles traverse the stelling. In addition, the decking is loose and uneven, with rails hang-

ing on to literally nothing at certain sections on the ramp.

The stelling has been in this deplorable state for over one and a half years.

The residents also indicated that a concrete-post-andwood-decking stelling served no purpose; hence they are calling for a fully concrete stelling, noting that it would last longer with little to no repairs.

Guyana Times International was also told that in addition to loose decking and rotten posts, the lower ramp used to load laden vehicles onto the ferry is in such a deplorable state that vehicles are unable to access it. Vehicles have to wait until the tide is high enough for them to access the high ramp to load or offload, which affects the business community, since critical goods cannot be delivered in time, and farmers’ produce would perish.

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IPA boss lands in Court for supplying unregistered drugs to GPHC

IPA owner Lloyd Singh

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lliance for Change financier Lloyd Singh was on Monday slapped with two counts of supplying unregistered drugs to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Singh appeared before Georgetown Magistrate Judy Latchman and denied the charges.

The prosecution is contending that the father of five, owner of the International Pharmaceutical Agency at Lot 226 “B” Camp Street, Georgetown, on August 12, 2017 supplied the unregistered drug Rituximab 100mg to the Georgetown Public Hospital in violation of Part 3, Section 28 of the Food and Drugs Regulations Act (Guyana) of 1977.

The prosecution is also contending that the 51-year-old businessman committed the same

act on October 23, 2017 at the said location.

In court on Monday, Singh’s attorney, in a bail application, asked the court to release his client on his own recognisance.

The lawyer told the court that the charge against his client is bogus.

Magistrate Latchman placed the businessman on G$60,000 bail, and put down the case for continuation on July 27.

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence had revealed last year that, in 2016 and 2017, several firms had been awarded contracts to supply pharmaceuticals to the health sector, but failed to deliver. The International Pharmaceutical Agency (IPA) is one of those companies that failed to supply all of the drugs it was contracted to supply, because it was not qualified to import some specialised pharmaceuticals, it was revealed.

In February 2016, Singh, a major financier of the Alliance For Change Headquarters in Kitty, Georgetown, was hailed by Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan for his contribution to the party.

At the opening, party leader, Raphael Trotman described the contribution from Singh as a “political investment”.

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

We need the right mix of people to take sugar forward, says Harmon

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tate Minister Joseph Harmon has said that while Cabinet would want to see the Board of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) installed, it wants to have “forward looking” members to head the entity.

At the post Cabinet press briefing on Friday last, Harmon disclosed that discussions are still ongoing on the appointment of a new GuySuCo Board.

“Cabinet would certainly like to see that Board in place. In fact, it is important for good corporate governance that there is a board in place, but we also have to ensure that we have a Board that is forward looking, or not just some persons who many have had some experience in sugar; it requires more now,” the Minister posited.

He said, “In the current environment, you need a mix of persons who have the expertise in that area, but also people who can actually look forward to see where we are going to take this industry; a three- estate industry that has a specific target for sugar production, and how best we can achieve that. How best do we adjust to the changing situation in the industry? How do we focus on the other value-added [products] other than just sugar?

How do we focus on molasses? How do we focus on other issues that the world market is actually demanding?” he asked.

The State Minister further reiterated about other opportunities in sugar cane production. He pointed out that there is need for the local sugar industry to be more cognisant and proactive to take advantage of overseas markets. For instance, he noted that with the region having experienced all of those hurricanes and natural disasters, Guyana is in a unique place to be able to provide and produce these items that were need.

Nevertheless, he posited that among the 70 plus Expressions of Interests (EoIs) that have been submitted to Government for GuySuCo’s assets that have been identified for divestment, there were proposals to diversify into much more val-

news 21

'He is squatting on the job’ …Opposition Leader says of SARA's Deputy Director

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(L) SARA's Director Professor Clive Thomas and Deputy Aubrey Heath-Retemeyer

Minister Joseph Harmon

ue-added products.

Last year, Government announced plans to minimise the local sugar industry and divest the corporation’s assets. To this end, a Special Purposes Unit (SPU) which falls under the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) was set up to oversee the divestment plans by way of either selling off or restarting factories with minimal staff to attract investors, both domestic and foreign.

The SPU is currently managing the now closed Skeldon, East Demerara (Enmore), Rose Hall and Wales estates. However, there have been reports of an apparent tug-a-war within the Coalition of recent over the sugar industry, parts of which are now under the control of the SPU for the divestment process. In fact, reports had surfaced about disagreements allegedly between ministers from the two coalition parties regarding the chairmanship and members of the GUYSUCO Board.

Back in March, NICIL’s SPU had published the new board, naming Colvin HeathLondon Chairman, while the other members were Fitz McLean, Komal Singh, Verna Adrian, Vishnu Panday, Annette Arjoon, Arianne Mc Lean, Roshan Khan (Jr) and George Jervis. Two other names were to be added to the 11-member body.

The ad had detailed that the new Board was approved by Cabinet on

February 26, 2018.

However, Minister Harmon had said the same day that there were some issues regarding the timing of the publication, and Cabinet was reviewing the matter. Since then, “consultations and considerations” of the new GuySuCo Board have being “ongoing”.

In the meantime, Heath-London has confirmed that, over the next few months, special emphasis would be placed on transforming GuySuCo’s economic misfortune into a situation wherein a fully self-sufficient, viable and competitive enterprise operates.

In order to do this, the NICIL sub-body has secured G$30 billion, being sought in the form of a syndicated bond, to support GuySuCo and its remaining estates, that is, Uitvlugt, Blairmont and Albion.

Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about Government’s vision for the industry and the genuineness of its actions thus far, since that very G$30 billion could have gone into restructuring the industry while keeping all of the estates open and GuySuCo’s workforce employed and engaged.

In fact, the Private Placement Memorandum for GuySuCo’s G$30 billion bond has received much criticism from Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo. He recently said he was shocked by the contents of the agreement, which now leave more questions than answers.

pposition Leader Dr Bharrat Jagdeo on Wednesday said the he was unclear whether he should refer to Aubrey HeathRetemyer as the Deputy Director of the State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA) as he may very well be "squatting on the job".

Jagdeo made this remark during his weekly press briefing when he was posed with a question in relation to the comments Heath-Retemyer made about the Judiciary that saw him (Heath-Retemyer ) receiving considerable flack, most recently from the Guyana Bar Association.

Asserting that the Bar Association was right to call out Heath-Retemyer for seeking to lecture to the Judiciary how it should do its work, Jagdeo posited that his presence and the presence of his Director, Professor Clive Thomas at the helm of SARA is now questionable.

The Opposition Leader was referring to the comments made by his party comrade, former Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, who had last week highlighted that both men were unlawfully occupying their offices.

He pointed out that the SARA Act provides very clearly that the Director and Deputy Director of the Agency shall be appointed through a parlia-

mentary process. “Since that Act came into force, that process was never activated. A transition provision in the Act allowed the Director who operated in the Agency before the Act came into force, to continue to act in that office for a limited period. However, that period has long expired. Neither was appointed by the National Assembly process mandated by the Act. Therefore, Mr Retemyer and Dr Thomas are unlawfully holding offices and are receiving public monies as remuneration,” Nandlall stated while asking why this “crime and unlawful conduct” were not being investigated by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

Moreover, Nandlall, a successful attorney-at-law by profession, posited that "Section 106 of the Act is a transitionary provision: it provides for the Head of the State Asset Recovery Unit (SARU) to continue to act as the Head of SARA, but for not more than four months after the SARA Act comes into force. The SARA Act, as I indicated, came into force over a year now.

Yet, Professor Clive Thomas continues to act as the Director of SARA under this transitionary provision. His continuation in office, therefore, is as illegal as that of the Deputy Director, who can only be appointed by the National Assembly under the Act and who was not."

Barbados PM to meet with CARICOM Secretary General on CSME

Prime Minister Mia Mottley

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RIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) — Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley will continue to push for the implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) later this week, when she holds another round of talks with CARICOM Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque in Barbados.

Discussions on Friday are expected to focus on the key CSME matters to be addressed at forthcoming meetings of the Council for Finance and

Planning, and the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on the CSME, which will be held in Barbados in September.

The Special Meeting of the Conference on CSME will take place in Trinidad in November.

During the closed-door talks, which will also be attended by some members of Mottley's cabinet, the prime minister and Secretary-General LaRocque are expected to outline how resources can be mobilized across the Community to advance these initiatives.

During the 39th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, it was noted that Mottley, who has lead responsibility for the CSME, will meet on a monthly basis with the CARICOM Secretariat to advance the regime.

Ambassador LaRocque will be accompanied by Assistant SecretaryGeneral, Trade and Economic Development, Joseph Cox; Adviser, Single Market and Sectoral Programmes, Desiree Field-Ridley; Director, Single Market and Sectoral Programmes, Richard Brown; and Officer-in-Charge of the CSME Unit in Barbados, Gladys Young.

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Canal No 1 farmers suffer millions in losses due to flooding

…call for REO’s removal

By Lakhram Bhagirat

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armers of Canal Number One Polder, West Bank Demerara are now counting their losses, incurred from their farms having been inundated for almost three weeks.

They contend that the flooding could have been avoided had the Regional Authorities paid attention to their pleas for help.

Eighty-seven-yearold farmer Dharamdeo Singh, speaking on behalf of a group of farmers in L’Esperance, Canal Number One Polder, said their farms have been under water for over three weeks, and they had made representation to both the Canals Polder Neighbourhood Democratic Council and the Regional Democratic Council, but to no avail.

This citrus farmer has said that more than 15 acres of his citrus trees are on the brink of dying. He explained that the flooding could have been avoided had the Water Users Association not burst the dam to install large tubes.

“We are asking the Water Users Association to remove those two tubes from there as early as possible. It is at the Façade, and they burst the dam that does control the trench water and put the tube, so when the water raise it shub it pon we, and that is our plight,” he explained.

Singh said he met with the Water Users Association and regional officials on Wednesday where it was related that nothing could be done to assist them as yet.

He added that Regional Executive Officer Dennis Jaikaran had promised to visit the affected communities some two weeks ago, but to date that visit is yet to materialise.

The senior citizen further related that follow-up visits to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) were unsuccessful.

“The REO, he is hiding from us. He making promises, saying that he coming to see us for two weeks now, and I think they should move him from there and put somebody else who can handle the job. I don’t know

what is the Government doing…I begging them to remove the REO from there and put somebody else, and we think we will get satisfaction with the movement,” Singh said.

F a r m e rs have also said that the current contractor cleans the main access canal haphazardly. They explained that the canal is laden with “shrimp moss,” which affects the flow of water, and that the contractor neglects that. The farmers also said that they were told by the NDC Chairman that the NDC is bankrupt, and no assistance could be rendered.

Cash crop farmer Morlene (only name given) told this publication her entire farm is under water, and she has incurred losses amounting to over half of a million

A flooded yard in Canal Number One

dollars.

“We, the farmers here, we punishing real bad here. I lost 1,500 root of sweet pepper, all dead. Them really need to move the two tubing them have at the Façade and clean the canal better,” she said.

Another farmer, Doodnauth Singh, said his entire pineapple field has been under water as high as three feet for the past two weeks. He said his pineapples have withered and his cattle

have had to relocate to higher ground to access feed.

“The last time we had flood I lost all the pine, and now is the same thing. Them people got to get themselves together and clean up the canal and so! I don’t live here, but my farm here, so I spend most of the time here,” he related.

Collectively, the farmers reiterated their call for the REO to give up his chair, since he has done nothing to alleviate

their sufferings.

Just last December, the residents of Canals Polder experienced a devastating period of flooding resulting in millions of dollars in losses.

Government is yes to assist those farmers, and then this current flooding came just as they were getting back on their feet.

Efforts to contact Regional Executive Officer Dennis Jaikaran proved futile.

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39% of Guyana’s population connected to Internet – Hughes A

cknowledging that it may sound like a low number, Public Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes disclosed recently that slightly less than 40 per cent of Guyana’s population has Internet connectivity.

She made this admission in the National Assembly as she defended the frequent statements in the public domain regarding Guyana’s fledgling Information Communication Technology (ICT) sector.

“I know in the press, I’ve been carried talking about our drive to provide connectivity. We’ve connected all the Ministries at this point in time. Over 150 government agencies, over 195 schools and we’ve created and opened in communities over 125 ICT hubs where there’s free

Internet access,” she said.

“The Internet penetration rate in Guyana today stands at 305,007 persons. That means that 39.6 per cent of the current population of this country are using and connected to the Internet. It might sound low, but it’s over 300,000 persons.”

Hughes stated that while persons may say there was an absence of a strategy, it actually has not been put out for consultation. But according to the Minister, that does not mean that things are not happening, as she believes there is enough indication and discussion about a strategy.

“It’s my pleasure to say that the Ministry of Public Telecommunications is close to completing and bringing an ICT strategy out for consultations,” she related. “But in the meantime, I want to say

Guyana’s internet connectivity rate is 39 per cent

that almost four or five times a month we demonstrate in a tangible way how that strategy is working.”

Earlier this month, the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) had hosted a road show in collaboration with the Ministry in various regions across Guyana. Some of the activities that were featured included an e-agriculture workshop, community outreaches, a cyber-security workshop, and an ICT youth fair.

ICT strategy

At a recent press conference, Hughes had announced that the Government would be formulating a policy framework expected to bridge the gap which exists between the hinterland and coastal communities and steer Guyana into the 21st Century.

“The Ministry of Public Telecommunications is developing the policy framework for the full utilisation of ICTs for our national development.

This framework at a microeconomic level seeks to facilitate sustained economic growth and poverty reduction; promote social justice, transparency and equality; mainstream gender in national development; empower the youths and disadvantaged groups; stimulate investment and innovation and create universal access,” Minister Hughes had

Public Telecommunications Minister Cathy Hughes

stated.

She had noted that the benefits of the policy are goals which Guyana should work towards. However, the framework will only be effective if the current legislation is modernised, along with the development of the current ICT arrangement.

“These, of course, are lofty goals which we’re determined to uphold and deliver. We recognise, however, that like every other policy initiative of this nature, there are going to be challenges. We have to continue to develop our ICT infrastructure. We also need to continue to modernise our current legislation and policy frame-

works and we have to evolve our education methods and delivery for the 21st Century environment.”

Meanwhile, it was announced that the training of personnel in the various fields of communication will also be done to highlight the intervention measures that are being taken by the Ministry to transform Guyana into a digital nation.

“We are creating a digital Guyana. We know that we have to look critically at our human resource development and strategies and so our commitment to training will take us all there,” she had also said.

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El Dorado Offshore NIS goes from surplus trains 40 Guyanese for to deficit in 1 year oil and gas operation – as report shows disparities in revenue & expenditure

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Director of El Dorado Offshore, Natasha Jairam-Abai, and her team

orty (40) Guyanese mariners are being trained in occupational safety for jobs in the offshore oil and gas industry by Edison Chouest Offshore in collaboration with El Dorado Offshore.

Director of El Dorado Offshore, Natasha Jairam-Abai said the company is hoping to double the number of persons trained in the next six months to supply ExxonMobil’s third drillship that will be conducting exploration in the Stabroek Block later this year.

The workers will also be placed on Edison Chouest vessels which supplies Exxon’s offshore operations.

“These set here will accommodate for those three vessels with additional persons for other persons as well,”

Jairam-Abai said.

El Dorado Offshore has more than 100 Guyanese working on board the drill rigs and the Edison Chouest supply vessels. This is the fifth training facilitated by Edison Chouest, HSE Coordinator Eldon Thompson noted.

The course provides the rules and regulations of Edison Chouest Offshore, including safety features like line handling risk assessment, safe work policies among others when working onboard the vessels.

Some 53 Guyanese are working on Edison Chouest vessels.

Business Development Manager of Edison Chouest, Daniel LaFont, noted the company has nine vessels supply ExxonMobil operations.

LaFont notes the

company will soon incorporate an office in Guyana under the name 'G Boats' which will include Guyanese on the workforce. LaFont added, “training is important and training cost so we believe highly in doing that. It is important for the industry to have the proper training for safety so everyone comes home.”

Edison Chouest will be providing ‘Train the Trainers’ training so that Guyanese can facilitate in-house training. He expressed his satisfaction with the work ethic of Guyanese.

“We have been extremely pleased with our Guyanese employees. They have done extremely well. We’ve had nothing but good reports from the Captains on our vessels who are working directly with them.”

‘Do your job’

The National Insurance Scheme

ith the release of the Bank of Guyana (BoG) Quarterly Report and Statistical Bulletin, the National Insurance Scheme’s financial position raises several questions, as it has gone from a multimillion-dollar surplus to a multimillion deficit in just one year.

According to the report, NIS’s overall balance reflected a surplus of G$152 million at the end of March 2017. This good fortune has dramatically turned around, however, because at the end of March 2018, the entity was in the throes of a G$296 million deficit.

“This was reflective of increases in current and capital expenditures by 15.9 per cent and 38.5 per cent to G$5.7 million and G$2 million respectively, relative to the increase in revenues by 6.6 per cent to G$5.4 million.”

The report also notes that the Public Sector’s net credit position deteriorated by 66.5 per cent to G$46.8 million – moving from G$28.1 million at the end of 2017. The report blames this on worsening Central Government net credit standings. NIS was also cited in the report, when it comes to net deposits.

“Net credit to the Central Government was higher by 27.1 per cent or G$21.5 million to G$101.1 million at the end of March 2018. The public enterprises and the other category of public sector, which includes local government and NIS, remained net depositors; increasing by 5.7 per cent and 5.5 per cent respectively at the end of

March 2018,” the report adds.

The NIS has been implementing a number of recent changes. Funeral grants were among some of the increases announced by the entity effective from January 01, 2018.

The funeral grant was increased from G$40,398 to G$44,438; and as it relates to the increase in minimum payments for Old Age and Invalidity pensions, those provisions have been increased from G$27,500 to G$30,000 per month.

The NIS had stated in an advertisement that all pensions that are above the minimum payable rate would be increased by two per cent.

The monthly insurable earning ceiling has also increased from G$220,000 to G$240,000 per month, while the weekly insurable earning ceiling will be increased from G$50,769 per week to G$55,385 per week.

The insurable earning ceiling is the upper limit on earnings that attract NIS contributions.

In 2017, increases in insurable earning ceiling went from G$200,000 to G$220,000 per month, and from G$46,154 to G$50,769 per week.

Additionally, the minimum insurable earning ceiling for self-employed persons contributing to the NIS has been increased from G$62,400 to G$68,750 per month.

The minimum rate for old age and invalidity pensions has also been increased from G$25,000 to G$27,500 per month.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan

…Jordan urges Police Officers

A

little over a week after the West Coast Demerara (WCD) highway was officially opened to the public, Finance Minister Winston Jordan has expressed his concerns over the way the roadway is being utilised by commuters.

During a visit to Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) on Saturday, the Finance Minister stated that he was not pleased at what he saw along the highway. According to him, many vehicles

were parked haphazardly along the roadway and vendors were operating along the shoulders of the roadway.

“I believe it’s utter lawlessness in terms to have a market where people are parked all over the place. No one should be denied a living, but we must do our living within the laws of the country. We should not, as law enforcers, turn a blind eye to law breaking. It starts from a small crime that you might want to overlook and then it balloons into

some of the problems that we do have today,” Jordan said.

The Police were urged to perform their duties so as to ensure that all guidelines were adhered to, in order to preserve the highway. This includes ensuring that traffic hazards are not created when vendors ply their various trades.

“I was really not pleased with what I saw coming over here; and I’m asking the Police to do what is necessary; first of all, to do your job and then do also what is

necessary, so that this highway can be preserved,” the Minister said.

“Parking on shoulders degrade highways very much. We ought not to allow parking on shoulders for highways, and we certainly ought not to allow people to be selling on highways, thus creating traffic hazards, congestion, and all

these things,” he added.

He further stated that for such structures to last, citizens and visitors would have to ensure that they were cared for and used the correct way.

“This is easily the newest of the three coming from across the bridge (the Demerara Harbour Bridge). I’m already concerned that we

seem to be ‘new people’.

We seem to commission new things and then we move on to the next, not seeming to care that if we don’t care what we put in place, it would not service for the time that it is supposed to service.”

The 30.7 kilometre highway spans from Vreed-en-Hoop to Hydronie, and was commissioned as part of a road improvement project, which was ongoing for approximately 40 months.

The project, budgeted at US$46.7 million, which was signed under the previous Administration in 2014, was the fourth of its kind funded by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), in collaboration with the Government.

It comprised road works along the main access road on the WCD.

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Sore points…

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…about NYT report hat NYT reporter certainly seems to’ve struck a raw nerve in some folks in Guyana, with his story, “The $20 Billion question for Guyana”. As your Eyewitness commented yesterday, three columnists of the Muckraker got their buktas into such a knot you could just see their eyes bulging!! Today, they were joined by the PRO from the Ministry of Finance, and by a playwright who hadn’t been heard from for years, but suddenly surfaced to argue the Guyana Prize for Literature be kept. This monument to mediocrity had coughed up US$20,000 to him as of now!!

And this in itself is an instance of “shit-holeness” that the NYT reporter missed. How do you dole out “National” Literature Prizes to submissions on “Exercise Books”??!! What does it say about your nation, except that it’s in a shithole? The irony is, the playwright doesn’t even live here any longer!!

He parlayed his prize winnings into a grubstake to live in some basement in NY!! And imagine, he’s all cut up because the NYT fella described Guyana as a “backwater”!!

Trying to make his “point”, the pedantic playwright even defined “backwater: a place that seems stuck in a rut—a place unmoved by current events.” Now, tell me, if this doesn’t describe Guyana to a tee, what does? Yet the “playwright” had the temerity to assert: “The description ‘Backwater’ therefore does NOT fit Guyana”!!! If New Yorkers could call New Jersey a “backwater”, what’s so insulting to accept we’re not exactly at the crossroads of the world – like Times Square!! He also insists Guyana isn’t “isolated”!! We have ONE scheduled (Third World) airline connecting us with the rest of the world, and we’re PLUGGED IN??

Pleease!! And yes, this fella won FOUR Guyana Prizes!!

The other defender of Guyana’s honour was a paid hack…the PRO of the Ministry of Finance…so your Eyewitness understands she has to defend the indefensible. After all, how could her boss puff his chest out at international gatherings if his country’s publicly dubbed as a “shithole country”? Problem is, at the said international gatherings, he’s mostly begging for handouts!! Like the G$900 million he claims to’ve extracted from the Islamic Development Bank!

She had the grace to not contest the NYT charge that “the Civil Service is corrupt”!! What she did pick a bone with was: “foreign bank developers have told the government that legislation to create a sovereign wealth fund…lacks sufficient regulatory controls to avert corruption” and that “the legislation is in limbo.”

Then guess what? She goes on to describe the advice the Finance Ministry has received from the IFI’s!!

And admits the legislation still hasn’t been tabled.

That’s called “in limbo”!! …on socialism Ahhh…the times are a changin’!! Imagine, sixty years after its revolution – when it inspired even book revolutionaries like Moses Nagamootoo to adopt the “Che Beret”! – the Cuban Government announced it’s abandoning “communism” for “socialism”. So what does this mean? Your Eyewitness couldn’t find it in himself to plough through “Das Capital”, so he stuck with Marx’s “Reader’s Digest” version of the difference between the two ideologies.

Communism, he said, means “from each according to his ability, to each according to his needs!” Now this is great, isn’t it? You get whatever you need…but you only work according to your “ability”!! The point, of course, is who’s to say what’s your “ability”, if you don’t like to work? “Socialism”, on the other hand, meant “from each according to his ability, to each according to his work”. You had to work, baby!! But could also own private property and vote and enjoy such bourgeoisie “rights”!

But did you realise, dear readers, that according to our Constitution, Guyana, like Cuba, is also “in transition to socialism”?

CIA regime change, anyone? …from Nagamootoo In his Chronic Column, Nagamootoo claimed the Opposition Leader unfairly called him a “lightweight,” so as not to negotiate with him. But, he said, “Jagdeo walked away with a Pyrrhic victory”! “Pyrrhic victory”?

Jagdeo suffered such devastating losses he might’ve well have lost. Wanker!!

31

32 fEATURE

By Lakhram Bhagirat

I

t was Martin Luther King Jr, who said, “The supreme task is to organise and unite people so that their anger becomes a transforming force.” While the emotion is not quite the same, newlyelected Toshao Beverly Clenkian is quite keen on uniting and transforming the people of St Cuthbert’s Mission

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

(Pakuri).

Clenkian was recently elected as Toshao of St Cuthbert’s Mission, replacing the outspoken Lennox Schuman. She tells me that she has served a collective nine years in the Village Council so being a Toshao is not strange. She intends to use the experience she gained from being in the Village Council to further develop the

community as well as ensuring that there is transparency and accountability.

During our chat, Clenkian told me that she has always been in a leadership role, explaining that her father died at an early age and she was forced to become the head of the household. She had to go out to work and eventually ventured into the teaching profession.

However, working at an early age took its toll on her, as she was not able to enjoy growing up.

“Being a single parent is not easy, you have to play the role as the leader of the family. My mother was unemployed, so I had to seek employment at an early age so I became a teacher there. I went to CPCE and then to the University of Guyana.

I always try to do my best for myself and my people,” she said.

St Cuthbert’s Mission is located on the Mahaica River and has approximately 200

households. The village was founded in the late 1800s. It is surrounded by savannah and shrub lands on its east side, and dense vegetation on its west side. The village is the closest Amerindian settlement to the capital city.

Clenkian said she has been living in the village all her life and has raised her three children there as well.

When I asked her what drives her desire to lead, Clenkian said the mere fact that her people were dealt the short hand and there were seeds of disharmony sown among them.

“I know how village runs and so and seeing some of the issues that bother my people makes me want to go into this position. I see the needs of my people and some of the things they were promised like transparency. I see division in my community and I want to get them back as one. We are one people and we should be working together, because we all want the

same thing, which is a well-developed community,” Clenkian told me.

The issues the new Toshao speaks of relate mostly to the lack of a unified village as well as transparency. She said right now St Cuthbert’s Mission needed someone to talk to them and steer them in the right direction.

“I want to go out with the people and even though they are not with me, I try to go out there and talk with them and I tell them that we are one and we should not try to segregate. We have our difference, but we have to put it aside to develop our community.”

The 45-year-old remembers the village as one where the living standards were very low and poverty was rampant.

Clenkian and her family would have to walk for hours to get onto the Linden-Soesdyke Highway to get transportation to take them to Georgetown, or in her case to school

on the East Coast of Demerara.

Those days were tough and it is with those struggles in mind, she wishes to create a better village for her people. It is her aim to modernise the village so that they can access the same level of services like the rest of the world, but while staying true to their heritage.

“I took up the leadership so that we modernise and not forget our culture. We must still maintain it; our language is dying away, and we are getting the older people to teach it to the young people, because we want the future generation to know their history and traditions.”

This is just the beginning of what looks to be a promising three years for the people of St Cuthbert’s Mission and according to Clenkian, she would continue to serve as long as the people allow her to. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Controversial parking meters

news 33

Berbice man ‘We’re prepared to go all the appears in way to CCJ’ – advocate Court for D forging adoption papers

A

espite local courts having not yet ruled on the Parking Meter Project’s legal challenge, advocate Jonathan Yearwood, during a recent interview with Guyana Times International, has said the Movement Against Parking Meters (MAPM) is willing to take the matter all the way to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to ensure that they are not being exploited by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown.

Yearwood informed that

contract is in court. MAPM has taken that contract to court, and what the Government is actually saying is that they will wait on the outcome of the court case to determine what will happen, so it makes no sense for MAPM to continue a protest which is now in the hands of the court. This is one of the things we’ve asked for from the very beginning,” he informed.

The advocate went on to say, “We will wait until the court makes a decision and then we will decide whether we want to chal-

plemented in Georgetown, but following heavy objection and intense protest from citizens, Central Government suspended the by-laws of the project. The renegotiated contract with SCS resulted in restructured fees.

The Renegotiation Committee’s report noted that SCS has agreed that the condition for enforcement of paid parking in the city be in conjunction with the parking meter bylaws, despite those by-laws being quashed.

MAPM has halted its protest at this time, since the matter is presently in the hands of the Court, something he noted that the body has been calling for from the inception.

“MAPM has, after some discussions, decided to put a hold on our protests against City Hall and against the Parking Meter Contract. City Hall has taken the contract to Government for approval, and Government has taken it to cabinet, and cabinet has organised a sub-committee which will look at the Parking Meters Contract.

The sub-committee says they will basically wait until the decision of the court is given. The

lenge it up to the Guyana Court of Appeal (level). And there again we will, depending on the decision, we will take it up to CCJ”.

The MAPM body began protesting in early February of last year, after M&CC implemented its paid parking system in the capital city.

The parking meter fees were rolled out on January 24.

However, as a backlash to the “exorbitant” fees, motorists had mostly stopped parking in the central business district, where several areas were metered.

The M&CC had, on May 13, 2016, entered into a contract with Smart City Solutions (SCS) Inc for parking meters to be im-

M&CC had first imposed as much as G$200 per hour for parking in the city. However, after much protests and renegotiations, City Hall reached agreement for persons to pay G$150 per hour and G$800 for eight hours of parking in the city.

Residents of the city would have been issued with a restricted residential pass for free parking from 17:00h-19:00h Monday to Friday, while parking would have been free on Saturdays.

Advocates have since managed to land the case in the hands of the local court, where it is presently awaiting a ruling.

Ariskar Maniram being escorted after his court appearance

riskar Maniram of Lot 121, Number 73 Village, Corentyne, Berbice on Monday appeared before Georgetown Magistrate Judy Latchman on a charge alleging that he had forged his own adoption papers.

The charge specified that between July 17 and July 20, 2018, with intent to defraud, Maniram conspired with a person or persons in Georgetown to forge a Certificate of Adoption in favour of himself, purporting to show that it was issued by the General Registrar’s Office.

Police Prosecutor Quinn Harris told the court that the 30-year-

old resident of the United States since 2003 paid someone G$73,000 to forge the document, then attempted to use the document to apply for citizenship in the United States of America, but was caught.

Maniram told Magistrate Latchman he was unaware that the document had been forged, and is as such innocent of the fraud.

He was placed on bail in the sum of G$100,000 and the matter was adjourned to August 13.

As a condition of his bail, Maniram was ordered to lodge his passport and to report to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) weekly.

34 FASHION CHAT

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

...Designer Nelsion Nurse B y L akhram B hagirat

N

e l sion Nurse, a name you must have heard while

watchi n g t h e live broadcasts of the annual Mashramani Costume and Float Parade since he is more than often responsible for the extravagant pieces on display. However, Nelsion is not only a costume designer rather he is involved in every aspect of the fashion industry.

Nevertheless, according to Nelsion he never had his eyes set on being a part of the creative indus-

try rather he has and still does have his eyes on a career in veterinary medicine. His love for animals, have over the years, led him to have non-traditional pets such as snakes, caimans and tarantulas. Nelsion’s first job was at a Pet Store but because of his love for costume

designing, he was forced to leave that job and enter into an industry where his place was uncertain.

The 30 year old recalls his childhood in Albertown, Georgetown as one that was spent mostly indoors since he was never fond of sports or outdoor games. His mother being

a seamstress and a single parent meant that Nelsion and his siblings spent their August vacations tacking buttons on orders or hemming.

“How I got involved in fashion/ creative thing is normally during the August holiday my mom was a single parent and she was a seamstress so during august while everyone was outside we had to be indoors helping with sewing. I did that during my school days and I am grateful for that because that is what trickled the little creativity in me.”

While a student at the St John’s College, Nelsion was further introduced to the creative industry when he was asked to design a costume for the Headstart Nursery School in 2001. He was just a second former at that time and did not even know his piece would be part of a competition but was pleasantly surprised when he was awarded third place. Two years later would see him copping the top award and since then he has been domi-

natd e copt h e “A said steady a misl o o k on the made I grets,” i d c o s -

ing costumesigning scene ping most of two awards. lot of people that (leaving a job) was making take. But I can back now based progress I have don’t have any rehe said.

With a solbackground in tume designing,

Nelsion’s transition into the world of high fashion was imminent. He recalls that not being satisfied with the way p a n t s w e r e m a d e in the

Dominican Republic, while being a missionary with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, led him into the world of high fashion.

After returning home in 2009, Nelsion met with local fashion designer Sonia Noel who urged him to be a part of the Guyana Fashion Week and he did. He launched his first collection called “Patches” and not only won the hearts of the fashion savvy but also copped most promising young designer award.

“Beauty is in simplicity and for me I am all about making creative yet simple designs,” he noted.

Like everyone in the fashion industry, Nelsion feels that not much is being done to further develop the industry.

“Everything I do have a story.

I love using white and most times my designs are not extravagant because I believe that beauty is in simplicity. I would say that I am a more of a realistic designer because most times people would make haute couture and with our culture and climate, it is not realistic.”

Nelsion has taken a break from the industry and is now focused on further developing his brand “Nandre’s Kreation” which focuses on not only fashion but also interior decorating as well. Nevertheless, you can expect a comeback fashion show from Nelsion by the end of 2018 or early 2019.

"To be creative means to be in love with life. You can be creative only if you love life enough that you want to enhance its beauty you want to bring a little more music to it, a little more poetry to it and a little more dance to it,” according to Nelsion. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

FEATURE 35

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

By Lakhram Bhagirat

T

here are certain traits of our parents we emulate without even trying and according to Loretta Fiedtkou, it is the leadership skills of her father that landed her in the Toshao’s chair. Fiedtkou is the Toshao of Muritaro Village located some 25 miles from the mining town of Linden in Region 10.

She hails from a large family and explains that among her 12 siblings she always stood out as the one who would lead them into every task. It was a trait that her father took special notice of, and he would quite often take

her on his campaigning trips and various meetings.

“We grew up in the Upper Demerara River and as a child my father always in leadership and I always admire him and I would follow him. I would be in farm and fishing and so, and when I was playing with other children, I always be the one leading the game. After that, when I started going to school I grew with my grandmother and I was put in the leadership role. I always look out for my smaller siblings and so on,” she said.

Fiedtkou tells me that after she got married and gave birth to her four children, she later left and ventured to the city with her family so that her four children could receive a proper education. It was during that time she took several crash courses in floral craft, sewing and business management. After her children completed their education, she ventured back to her home and began leading her people.

Muritaro has a population of approximately 300 persons and is located along the banks of the Upper Demerara River. While providing a brief history, Fiedtkou revealed that when she returned a Community Development Council (CDC) was running the village and they would have meetings and so, but it never produced any proper developmental plan.

“So I said okay and then they asked

me to be the CDC Chair and after that we talked about getting the place into the Titled Community and after then I ventured out. I took the opportunity and I got letters done and sent them to then President Jagdeo,” she said.

After indicating their interest to become a titled community, Fiedtkou then invited then Amerindian Affairs Minister Carolyn Rodrigues to visit the village and began mobilising the villagers. She had the support of over 85 percent of the villagers when the Minister visited and they signed an agreement which saw the village becoming a titled community in 2002.

Impressed with her leadership skills, the people of Muritaro elected Fiedtkou to the office of Toshao and ever since she has remained in the post after various elections. When I asked her to describe her village, she said it was a forgotten land, one that was untouched, the air is fresh and crisp with some of the best people of Guyana.

The main economic activity in Muritaro is logging, and before there was advocacy for sustainable harvesting and preservation of trees, the people of Muritaro have been practicing sustainable harvesting. But like every other community there are developmental issues the residents are forced to face and one such issue is the lack of a secondary school for the children of Muritaro.

The village has a primary school and used to have a primary top where children would attend school until Grade

Nine (Form Three), but that was discontinued without any consultation or notice. Ever since, the children have to travel the 25 miles to Linden to attend secondary school, but Fiedtkou has been in constant consultations with the authorities to restore the primary top.

“We have a primary school with like 60 children and the children have to come out to attend secondary school in Linden and we are faced with that challenge. Because of that, we have a lot of dropout children. I can’t see that so sometimes we have to use some of the community fund to help the children to attend school and it is tough for the children. My burden is to take care of all the children. I look at ways and means to see how we can help the children.”

The children who receive community support are now excelling in their studies and making the village proud.

Additionally, Fiedtkou has been trying to get a doctor or nurse stationed in the village, but has been met with a lot of hurdles. She explained that because of the lack of a health centre the community built a health post with the hope of it being converted into a health centre so that it would save them from travelling to Linden to access treatment, but to date, despite representation, that is yet to be done.

Fiedtkou plans to continue campaigning for the development of her people and advises everyone to follow their passion. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Guyanese must ensure an accurate image of our country is portrayed

By Ashley Anthony

O

n July 20, 2018, “The 20 Billion Question for Guyana” hit the New York Times. In said article, one Mr Clifford Krauss attempted to discuss the potential impact of our recent oil finds on the country. I will not address the parts of the article that delve into the impacts of oil, the parts which warn of potential mismanagement, nor even the parts which draw comparisons to other countries that have found oil in the region. These concerns raised are valid ones, and I do not think that there is any Guyanese who does not have doubts about whether or not the resource will be handled responsibly and the money will reach the people.

Instead, I wish to focus on the parts of the article dedicated to describing the country. The article opens with a punch of descriptive imagery, “Guyana is a vast, watery wilderness with only three paved highways.

There are a few dirt roads between villages that sit on stilts along rivers snaking through the rain forest.

Children in remote areas go to school in dugout canoes, and play naked in the muggy heat.”

Now, anyone familiar with modern day Guyana

would immediately recognise that this statement was purposefully misleading. It attempts to create a caricature of this country to make the oil find that more dramatic.

Understandably, people were not pleased with the way the country was described, and Mr Krauss has found his twitter subject to tweets from the angry.

One interaction, however, which I found particularly interesting, was when twitter users contested his opening sentence, in particular the bit about Guyana only having three paved roads. To this he replied that he never said roads, but instead said highways. Now, according to the United States code, the term highway and road are interchangeable.

Specifically 23 USC 101: Definitions and declaration of policy, having defined the term highway as including roads, streets and parkways. However, for the purpose of discussion, let us assume that Mr. Krauss meant highways to be defined as main roads (usually connecting cities).

His response is therefore meant to be interpreted as: Guyana may have more than 3 paved roads, but only 3 paved main roads.

Yet this is not what will be understood by someone

whose first introduction to Guyana is this article. His immediate juxtaposition of the dirt roads and villages along rivers in the rainforest lends one to believe that, outside of our three paved highways, this is all that exists.

The situation of children going to school in dugout canoes and playing naked is one of an extreme. And even though the article specifies children in “remote areas” it does very little to present what the life of a child living in a non-remote area (say Georgetown), looks like.

It truly does not give the reader an understanding of the life that most Guyanese live, and this is done deliberately. Who wants to read about a Third World country where most children go to town on the coastlands by way of regular means of transportation?

Schools which manage to produce the Caribbean’s top performers year after year? This is because things like these do not fit your narrative. It does not support the idea that Guyana is a dismally poor (mentioned two separate times as being “one of the poorest countries in South America”, and once as “one of the poorest countries in the western hemisphere”), which the jackpot of oil has come to save. I suppose

when we are saved, those children may finally be able to afford some clothes.

The second paragraph goes on to read, “Hugging the coast are musty clapboard towns like Georgetown, the capital, which seems forgotten by time, honeycombed with canals first built by Dutch settlers and African slaves. The power grid is so unreliable that blackouts are a regular plague in the cities, while in much of the countryside there is no electricity at all.” Here, again, we see purposeful exaggeration where he diminishes cities like Georgetown to “musty, clapboard towns”, giving the reader the imagery of a town comprised of mostly wooden buildings (of a particular style), possessing a stale or mouldy smell; whilst in reality, although Georgetown maintains some old colonial buildings, significant parts of the town have been overcome with newer architecture.

The last sentence is again also painfully misleading, as it gives no context to the reader; in this instance, the context being the percentage of the Guyanese population who live within towns and neighbouring areas. While a large part of the country may not have electricity,

what percentage of the population live in these areas?

Finally, there is one other line that bothers me tremendously. It reads as follows, “A vast majority of college-educated youths emigrate to the United States or Canada, while those who stay behind experience high rates of HIV infection, crime and suicide.” I suppose by simply existing in Guyana I should personally experience HIV infection, crime and suicide?

Yes, Guyana has social issues, but to paint the country with such a broad brush, to say that anyone who remains in the country remains to experience these things, is just careless reporting. It does not address the fact that a large part of the reason why HIV infection is so high is due to education, and that certain groups are more vulnerable than others (perhaps because if it had mentioned this nuance, one would see that college educated youths are part of the least at-risk).

Perhaps the experience he meant is second hand experience, but even so, the purpose of the sentence is simply to bring up social ails within Guyana. Not once is time taken to explain the things that Guyanese

enjoy about Guyana; and the mention of educated youth leaving gives the subtle inference that those who are smart enough and have the ability to leave do.

Very little time is taken to address the fact that people may leave (for example, in my instance) to become better educated (in ways that UG cannot provide), or because they simply cannot reach the heights of their careers within Guyana.

For example, a budding physicist who wants to work at CERN and leaves his home in Iowa hasn’t left because conditions in Iowa are unbearable, but simply because, for his career, CERN is the best place to be.

This article struck a wrong cord with many Guyanese, and we must be vigilant in portraying an accurate image of our country to the rest of the world. Prior to this, Guyana’s calling card has been Jones Town. We are in the public eye now, and we must ensure that we present a favourable image of our country (whilst not ignoring legitimate issues we may have).

36 FEATURE

By Jarryl Bryan

U

nder the cool night breeze, the gathering crowd of laughing and chattering patrons at local bars could be mistaken for partygoers. But they have a more sober purpose. They are there at a "Spanglish Night" event, a fast-growing new initiative, to learn to speak a foreign language.

The organisers of the event are Guyanese education administrator Gordon Roberts; English anthropologist Charlie Tokeley and Chilean engineer Christian Vargas.

These three may hail from different countries, but they are united in their desire to help Guyanese get more in tune with their South American side.

As such, they have been holding "Spanglish Nights” and "Language Lounges” at various entertainment venues on the first Wednesday of every month. Over drinks and 'cutters', curious Guyanese come together to network, practise and learn Spanish.

It's a method of im-

mersion learning that's as fun as it's effective.

Tokeley, who speaks English, Spanish and Portuguese, in fact, revealed that this method helped his language learning.

"I found that learning Spanish, one of the greatest difficulties was confidence," he explained in an interview. "I felt like I sounded silly, and this in turn meant that I spoke slower and made more errors. After a few drinks, however, I was pretty fluent!" ""Spanglish" allows people to reach that point of confidence and, therefore, increase their second-language fluency, which in turn helps them improve further. It also helps people break down the cultural barriers that make it hard to speak a second language," he added.

According to Tokeley, the more someone understands another culture, the easier it is to understand the language.

Meanwhile, Vargas pointed out that contrary to the belief in a “grammar first” approach to

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Persons gathered for Argentina night at the Grill Bar and Restaurant were given the opportunity to learn and practise salsa, a renowned Latin dance

language learning, the aim should be to talk to people first.

“Practising conversations – rather than learning from a book – makes a real difference,” Vargas explained.“Sometimes it's hard to learn English because people can be impatient with you when you try. Finding people who are interested in your culture and willing to listen is a really im-

portant step in the process.”

Vargas, who speaks English and French as second languages, revealed that they have been partnering with other organisations like the Alliance Francaise and the Deaf Institute of Guyana (DAG).

He noted that for each "Spanglish" event, they would feature a different Spanish-speaking country. For instance, on Wednesday, July 11, Argentina was featured, with traditional drinks, food and music from that country also showcased.

Nor does it end with foreign languages, as they are interested in including Indigenous languages.

“The Language Lounge will continue to incorporate more languages, and we would love to encourage a table for one of Guyana's Indigenous languages so that we can spread awareness and education there, too.”

Background

In explaining the background of their enterprise, Roberts said that they initially planned the event as a gathering of friends and acquaintances who wanted to practise English and Spanish.

He noted that they have several Cuban and Venezuelan friends, as well as Guyanese who are studying Spanish.

But their plan was easier said than done.

“For our first event in March, we expected 10 to 15 participants, but nearly 50 people turned up! "Spanglish" has continued to grow since, with 80 plus participants at our last two events,” Roberts explained.

“Although there are Spanglish-type events in other countries, Spanglish Guyana was an original idea influenced by the desire to help Guyanese and foreign-language immigrants socialise to-

gether and learn more about one-another's cultures. Our events centre around 15-minute periods, where the language changes from English to Spanish and back again each period.”

Besides the opportunities to network with persons of different cultures, Roberts pointed out the fact that the ability to speak Spanish and Portuguese would bring significant opportunities for Guyanese to do business and make money with neighbouring countries.

“More importantly, perhaps, is that it will generate understanding towards people of different cultures, and it will help to integrate migrants from Cuba, Venezuela and Brazil – giving them the opportunity to better their English and assimilate at the same time,” Roberts posited. (Guyana Times

Sunday Magazine)

From left: British anthropologist Charlie Tokeley, Chilean engineer Christian Vargas and Guyanese education administrator Gordon Roberts

WEEK

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feature 37

ENDING JUNE 29, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

ot e v eryone can say that while in school they were afforded the opportunity to create something unique and invent something that could possibly position them on the frontline of greatness, but for a few students of the Bartica Secondary School that opportunity has presented itself and they are taking full advantage of it.

Bartica is being touted as the “Green Town” of Guyana and with that in mind, the Bartica Secondary School’s STEM Club invented the Roco163A. The Roco163A was created to aid the Town to promote the green agenda by assisting with garbage disposal.

The Club was started in February as a part of the STEMGuyana initiative to introduce STEM into the school’s curriculum.

“We have 20 students with 16 being active members, and they are involved in robot building and Scratch coding and we don’t have any problems as yet, but we were able to gain outstanding research in the recent robotics comp e t i tion,” Coach Onicka Chisholm said.

Onicka is the Science and

Putting together Roco

Testing Roco

The Bartica Secondary School STEM Club during the Robotics Expo

Technology teacher at the School and was selected to undergo the Coaching Training Workshop with STEM Guyana after which she started coaching the Club along with her co-Coach Clinton Bobb.

“The children are very excited about it, especially about the robot building and when it comes to the Scratch coding the students are able to express their ideas through stories and how they see it in Scratch coding. It’s basically allowing them to create different animations of their choices and it is encouraging to see them create things,” she noted.

“It has impacted the students and their eagerness to learn. Come September we will be taking in

more and more for our STEM Club.

We are trying to have more females join the Club because we have 65 per cent males and 35 per cent females.”

For now, the Club meets Monday to Friday after classes.

At the recently-concluded STEM Robotics Expo, apart from introducing Roco163A, they also built a bulldozer that works hand in hand with Roco to aid in garbage disposal.

When asked what advice she has for a young person wanting to be a part of the STEM field, Onicka said that they should follow their passion and dream big. However, she noted that focus and determination were everything. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

38 feature

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Marian Wright Edelman:

By Lakhram Bhagirat

C

hildren’s rights activist Marian Wright Edelman famously said, “Education is for

improving the lives of others and leaving your community and world better than you found it,” and it is on this foundation that Baramita's first female Toshao intends to reshape the lives of villagers.

The small village of Baramita is located in the Barima-Waini region some 20 miles west of Matthews Ridge, and it is one of the most populated Amerindian settlements in Guyana.

The village is predominantly occupied by the Carib tribe and recently they broke away from traditional male leadership and elected their first female Toshao. The community is said to have some 23 settlements with approximately 3000 persons living there.

Thirty-two-year-old Sharmain Rambajie said she was elated at the chance to serve her people, but noted that that opportunity came with heavy responsibilities, since Baramita has its fair share of issues. The

village is said to have one of the highest suicide rates in Guyana coupled with the highest teenage pregnancy and school dropout figures. This is attributed to the effects of the mining industry, which saw coastlanders invading the community and wreaking havoc.

According to a study titled "Impact of Mining: Survival Strategies for Interior Communities in Guyana" conducted by the Guyana Human Rights Association, Baramita has a lot of social ills with very little being done to address them. It identified that girls as young as 14 were being raped, forcing them to take measures to protect themselves.

In addition, because of those issues and the fact that girls are being impregnated at an early age, the school dropout rate is extremely high compared to other communities.

The need to combat these issues and to ensure that the people of Baramita are positioned to take advantage of every developmental opportunity is what inspired Rambajie to run for the office of Toshao.

“You always hearing people talking bad thing about Baramita, but it is not like that really. I have three girls and I want to be a role model for them.

We never had a woman Toshao before nor did they compete for Toshao and this is the first time and we all would see like how men would lead, so the people want to see how a woman would lead and they nominated me,” Rambajie told me.

When I asked Rambajie how she planned to address the issues plaguing her people and clear up the misconceptions about Baramita, she said that the dominant trait of the Carib people was their ability to

persevere and battle their way through every situation. It is with that Carib spirit that she intends to lead her people into the 21st Century.

Rambajie was born and raised in Baramita and remembers growing up being tough because they were not allowed to write Common Entrance (now the National Grade Six Assessment) which meant that their education was limited.

The children never got scholarships, but now that has changed and they are allowed to sit the NGSA and would get scholarships to attend secondary school out of the village.

“It is now developing because nobody was paying any attention to Baramita because of how it is and now it is developing. I became Toshao because I wanted to help develop my community and the people of Baramita like in leading and so on and for the place to become a better place."

Rambajie said that she planned to introduce sports as well as advocate for a secondary school in the village so that children would be more motivated to attend school.

She also plans to push for more scholarship opportunities to be made available so that they can have their own doctors, teachers and health workers.

“If we get a secondary school then the children would not be going to other places like Mabaruma and Port Kaituma and they would get a secondary education right in Baramita. They would also get a chance to write CXC,” she said.

Rambajie urges all young girls to take up the mantle of leadership and make the world a better place for themselves and future generations. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

NEWS 39

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

New FAO report warns of significant impacts on C'bean fisheries due to climate change

B

RIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) — A new research report from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) cautions that climate change is expected to significantly reduce fisheries globally by 2050, including in the Caribbean.

The report also advises countries to build a more sustainable and resilient sector through climate adaptation and mitigation strategies that can protect marine species, as well as strengthen fisheries production, food security, revenues and fisheries governance.

Titled 'Impacts of climate change on fisheries and aquaculture: Synthesis of current knowledge, adaptation and mitigation options', the 654-page report is the world's most comprehensive publication on climate change and fisheries to date.

It features a 22-page chapter on marine fisheries in the Western Central Atlantic Ocean, which includes the Caribbean region, Gulf of Mexico and Northern Brazil area. The chapter, entitled Climate change impacts, vulner-

abilities and adaptations: Western Central Atlantic marine fisheries, was coauthored by Dr Hazel Oxenford, Professor of Fisheries and Marine Ecology at the University of the West Indies (Cave Hill), and Dr Iris Monnereau, Regional Project Coordinator of the Climate Change Adaptation of the Eastern Caribbean Fisheries Sector (CC4FISH) Project, which is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and is executed by the FAO. Dr Oxenford and Dr Monnereau argue that the fisheries sector of the Caribbean's Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is one of the most vulnerable to climate change in the world. They provide a thorough analy-

sis of climate change impacts on the Caribbean fisheries sector; warmer sea temperatures, rising sea levels, coral bleaching, sargassum influxes and more frequent high intensity storms and hurricanes are already disrupting fishing operations and infrastructure, fish landings, fisher livelihoods and coastal communities.

They warn that if countries do not increase their efforts to build climate resilience at multiple stakeholder levels, including among local and regional fisherfolk and fisherfolk organisations, the disruptions will worsen as climate change progresses over the next three decades.

The chapter emphasises potential socio-economic impacts on the sec-

tor, including a decline in food security and nutrition and an increase in poverty among people who rely on the fisheries sector for their livelihoods. Some of the expected negative outcomes of the climate change on fisheries include a drop in fish populations; food safety risks; negative economic impacts; possible strains in fisheries-related international agreements; and, the increased likelihood of conflict.

“The fact there will be few winners in this sector as a result of climate change emphasises the importance of mainstreaming of climate change into fisheries management planning at multiple levels. Our work also highlights the knowledge gaps in species-level responses and socio-eco-

nomic impacts in this region, particularly within the Caribbean, in the context of climate change and justifies the need for increased attention to this kind of research,” Dr Oxenford said.

“While several countries have already been engaging in some adaptation measures, for example in the development of mobile apps for improving early warning and safety at sea, a lot still remains to be done. The FAO, under the CC4FISH project, is supporting countries in the region in assessing the vulnerability to climate change of coastal fishing communities.

The project delivers capacity-building opportunities such as business skills training to improve record keeping in order to facilitate access to loans and insurance, safety-atsea training, and the development of additional livelihoods, including aquaponics and seamoss farming. CC4FISH also seeks to mainstream climate change in policymaking and legislation, as well as improve hurricane preparedness of the fisheries sector,” explained Dr. Monnereau.

At the national level, adaptation activities

within the framework of the international climate change regime (the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement) are set out in countries' five-year Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

The authors found that within the Western Central Atlantic a total of 24 independent nations have submitted NDCs, of which 14 (mostly the Caribbean SIDS) specifically mention the fisheries sector, though primarily in the context of highlighting its vulnerability to climate change.

Only two of these countries make specific reference to fisheries in terms of mitigation strategies, although ten countries list some aspect of fisheries within their stated adaptation plans.

Dr Oxenford and Dr Monnereau describe adaptation measures that countries are already carrying out and make recommendations for including fisheries in their national climate adaptation and mitigation plans, thus enhancing the sustainability of the sector.

40 NEWS

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Law students take Caricom bodies to court

… over non-acceptance into regional law schools

H

olders of non-University of West Indies (UWI) law degrees have taken legal action against several regional bodies under the Caribbean Community (Caricom) over their nonacceptance into regional law schools, a decadesold problem.

The litigation was filed by President and Co-founder of the Association of Caribbean Students for Equal Access to the Legal Profession (ACSEAL), Jason Jones, at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) against the Council for Legal Education (CLE); the Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) and the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED).

Jones is contending, in what was described as a “significant and historic move for justice”, that his right, as a national of Trinidad and Tobago, to access vocational training in the Region in order to become an Attorneyat-Law, eligible to practise within Caricom Member States was infringed upon with his non-acceptance to pur-

sue legal studies at regional institutions such as the Hugh Wooding Law school (HWLS).

He pointed out that by agreement made among Caricom Member States, pursuant to the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC) and further, the Treaty establishing the Council for Legal Education, any Caricom national can become an Attorney-atLaw eligible to practise in any member state, after having first obtained a University of the West Indies or an equivalent undergraduate law de-

gree and then completed vocational training at one of the regional law schools such as the HWLS. “However, since 1996, holders of non-UWI law degrees have consistently been denied equal access to the regional law schools on the basis of an entrance examination fraught with discriminatory practices that seemingly contradict Caricom’s integration principles such as the acceptance of evidence of qualifications and movement of skilled Community nationals.

Furthermore, all holders of UWI law degrees are granted automatic exclusive entry to the regional law schools, regardless of their degree classification,” Jones outlined.

These actions, he posited, are contrary to the rights and/or benefits which are intended to be conferred upon Caricom nationals as provided for in the RTC, especially under Articles 35, 36, 37 and 46, effectively restricting participation in the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME).

This decision to liti-

gate was not taken lightly. In fact, it was explained that ACSEAL was established by Jones in March 2016 after he, along with hundreds of other non-UWI law graduates, was denied entry to the HWLS in 2015.

Additionally, ACSEAL’s National Representatives endeavoured to engage with the Caricom Heads of Government and the Council for Legal Education through the Secretary General, Irwin LaRocque.

The matter is being ably pursued by Dr Emir Crowne and Matthew Gayle of New City Chambers, Portof-Spain, Trinidad, Attorneys-at-Law, on behalf of the applicant, Jones.

In April, ACSEAL released a report it compiled highlighting the need for a law school in Guyana. According to the body, its support for the law school in Guyana comes from a study, which was conducted to consider the “status and relevance of the current legal education system; the extent to which it meets the needs of the respective Commonwealth

Caribbean societies; and concerns of discrimination in access to legal education and, by extension, the legal profession.”

ACSEAL also noted that the initiative of the law school, along with the other suggestions it made in its report, are intended solely to improve justice for the citizens in the Region.

Some of the noteworthy findings and recommendations of the report include: the establishment of the UTech Law School in Jamaica, as well as law schools in Guyana and Antigua; the abolition of the preference-based admission policy at the regional law schools, which presently grants automatic entry exclusively to UWI law graduates. “[This was in] recognition of students’ concerns of the lack of transparency and accountability in the Council of Legal Education (CLE) Annual Entrance Examination; [also recommended were] the abolition of the CLE Entrance Examination in its current form; and the reconstitution and reorganisation of the CLE,” the body had said.

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44 TRAVEL & TOURISM

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com The Kopinang Waterfalls

The Village of Kopinang

T

his week we transport you to Kopinang Village, which is located in the North Pakaraimas on both banks of the Kopinang River. The Village is described as one of the most beautiful villages in Guyana and is the home of the Patamona people.

The land around Kopinang Village bears witness to a long-term interaction between people and their surroundings. There are rock paintings close by and a cave with two entrances into which, according to local stories, enemies (Akawaio and Arekuna) were lured and killed. The older residents explain that their grandparents told them often about the time of tribal wars in the region and how they had to defend themselves against the neighbouring peoples.

The land also features several sacred caves that were used for hunting and fishing rituals and were said to lead to another world. Some shamans (piaman) used to lead groups down into one of the caves where they would enter a world where a single arrow would kill many hogs and haimara fish.

During the 20th century, there was an influx of coast landers seeking minerals in the area. Many of these people married local Patamona women and Kopinang Village is today

Preparing for a day in the Backdam

also the home of the descendants of these people. There is an estimated 762 persons living in with village with Kamana, Kaibarupai and Maikwak as its neighbours.

Residents survive on subsistence farming, hunting and fishing. Important hunting, fishing and gathering areas are Kuribrong, Potaro and KĂšwaĂš, all outside the title. A number of people also carry out artisanal mining close to the Village. Young people often go out to mining areas elsewhere in Guyana to make money that can sustain them for a while before coming back.

Miners are polluting Potaro River and the stretch of Kuribrong downstream from Amaila Falls and game is near depletion close to the Village due to over-hunting. Fish and forest products, such as mukru, hiari and resins are also scarce near the Village due to heavy use. Residents also report that their crops are affected by changes in the climate.

Despite that the struggles, Kopinang is a beautiful place with tallest Pakaraima peaks in the distance, mountain streams, waterfalls, vast savannah land and pristine rainforests.

So pack your bags and take a trip to this beautiful village. (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)

Residents of Kopinang

The mighty Pakaraima

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WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

Review of local content policy to be completed next year – Gaskin

T

he second review of the local content policy is expected to be completed by the first quarter of next year. This is so according to Business Minister Dominic Gaskin, who made the announcement while addressing a recent forum at the Pegasus Hotel.

“There is currently a second draft local content policy framework being reviewed and consulted on. We’ve also recently completed a terms of reference for a consultancy to complete the local content policy based on consultations and a draft, also an implementation plan depending on whether or not legislation is going to be needed for the implementation.

This process should be completed by the fourth quarter of this year or the first quarter of next year,” the Minister informed.

He added that it was important for the new legislation to be ‘balanced’, since a ‘too strongly national’ local content policy can jeopardise the efficiency or the viability of the company being relied on to harness the resource.

Gaskin, however, warned that Guyanese would not be able to benefit from the local content policy if they were

…over NYT report on oil prospects s his job demands, your (conscientious) Eyewitness scours the dailies on his phone even before rolling out of bed in the mornings. And he was quite riled up when not one, but THREE Muckraker columnists went ballistic over an article filed on our oil prospects by a New York Times reporter.

From what these fellas described, the snotty foreigner “washed his mouth” all over our reputation; which wasn’t exactly stellar to begin with, thanks to the Muckraker’s sensationalism!!

Now, your Eyewitness is as patriotic as anyone out there – he’s still living here, isn’t he? So he immediately googled the NYT to read the libellous (to put it mildly)

A

Business Minister Dominic Gaskin

unable to meet the capacity of the oil and gas sector. According to him, capacity development costs should be borne by the industry that is going to benefit in the long run.

In continuing, the Business Minister advised that Guyanese should be willing to carry the burden of oil expenditure and not only seek to benefit from oil revenue.

“As the owners of this oil, Guyanese people must become the main beneficiaries of those production costs.

In other words, we have to benefit not only from oil revenues, but from the spending that is associated with oil production,” he pointed out.

article captioned, “The $20Billion question for Guyana”. Being a US newspaper, the $ meant US greenbacks, of course. The sub-headline explained, “This largely underdeveloped country on South America’s northern Atlantic coast is the unlikely setting for the world’s next big oil boom. But is it ready to handle the riches?”

So far so good; and wasn’t this exactly what the Guyanese chatterati had been clamouring about? So your Eyewitness dug into the article, and THERE IT WAS!! The claim that we had only THREE highways! Now your Eyewitness breathed a sigh of relief, since he’d assumed that for the Muckraker reporters to become so apoplectic, the NYT gringo had actually written we had NO highways, and the

Gaskin said despite the fact that oil and gas will provide growth opportunities, persons should not only be dependent on job opportunities in the sector as he noted that “we should not be blinkered in our own approach to investments”.

The primary aim of the policy is ensuring the education, inclusion, and advancement of as many Guyanese as possible in the industry.

As ExxonMobil prepares to officially commence production in 2020, there is much preparatory work currently ongoing, which requires services tailored to the specific needs of the industry.

The draft local con-

tent policy has been criticised in recent months for lacking provisions which would safeguard against exploitation by companies, especially since there have been intensified reports of the local companies being bypassed for contracts and services with foreign companies being favoured.

The document does not cater for issues such as how to avoid procurement fraud, conflict of interest and favouritism, among others.

According to the draft local content framework document, the policy seeks to address the suite of opportunities that may arise and the approaches to be taken in selecting and developing opportunities related to enhancing the capabilities of Guyanese nationals and businesses through training and well-tailored social contributions for greater impact and benefits among others.

Earlier this year, following the closing of the inaugural Guyana International Petroleum Business Summit (GIPEX), the Private Sector Commission (PSC) vowed to continue pushing for an effective local content policy that would benefit all Guyanese.

Buktas in a knot… “three” was a typo!!

After all, the fella was being VERY kind to say we have three highways!!

Do the Muckraker wankers KNOW what are the MINIMUM requirements for a roadway to be dubbed a HIGHWAY? How about TWO lanes in either direction from end to end, plus a 10foot shoulder? WE won’t mentions clover-leaf exits and such like!! The only one in Guyana that MAY qualify is the West Coast “road”!!

And what’s wrong about describing Georgetown as a “musty clapboard town, which seems forgotten by time, honeycombed with canals first built

by Dutch settlers and African slaves”? Even the slums of Harlem are more dapper than

Georgetown!! Or that blackouts are more the norm with GPL than anything else? Your Eyewitness thought the writer was being very generous when he concluded: “If all goes well, one of the poorest countries in South America could become one of the wealthiest.”

Was he being snarky when he qualified that assertion? “But there are obstacles. If history’s any guide, countries that discover oil often waste their opportunity, as the resource blends seamlessly with corruption.

Countries with weak political institutions like Guyana are especially vulnerable.” Isn’t this what every Guyanese with some nous has been warning about?

Rejecting…

W

…the water boy

e live in interesting times. And your Eyewitness isn’t even thinking of all those interesting Haitians trying to blend in with the locals; their giveaway, however, is their being quite religious folks who just have to practise their “Voudou” — which we call “Voodoo”, and which some folks are VERY leery about, and have reported them to Khemraj Ramjattan, who’s supposed to be in charge of Public Security, but not Immigration, of which he was stripped!

No, that’s grist for another mill. What your Eyewitness wants to talk about is the Opposition Leader’s telling it like it is about Moses Nagamootoo.

Seems the PNC government’s been peddling a canard to the international community that the PPP doesn’t want to negotiate with them on several nettlesome matters. Now, everyone in Guyana — and their uncle — knows the reason for the PPP not sitting across the table from the PNC. And it ain’t that they don’t like Moses Nagamootoo, whom the PNC selected as their lead negotiator. Heck, back in the day, Jagdeo negotiated with Desmond Hoyte – and there was no love lost between them!! And Jagdeo was then just cutting his (presidential) teeth!!!

Mouth open and story jump out when Jagdeo recently revealed he got a call from US former President Jimmy Carter – who, of course, brought back free and fair elections to Guyana in 1992. The stillborn negotiations had nothing to do with Nagamootoo being disliked, abhorred, scorned, loathed, detested, despised, or abhorred by the PPP. Of course, folks in the PPP feel that way about Nagamootoo – take your pick!! Who wouldn’t?? In fact, that’s the one thing that unites both PPP factions right now!!

Jagdeo revealed that, in essence, they wouldn’t waste their time negotiating with a fella who’s been so neutered by the PNC he can’t even negotiate an appointment to see President Granger in six months!!

About his own neutering!! But Nagamootoo should understand these things – the water boy in cricket just passes on messages from the captain, he has absolutely no authority to answer questions from the fellas in the middle!! To change the analogy, as a man who’s tippled in rumshops from Point Playa to Crabwood Creek, Nagamootoo knows that “lil bottle and big bottle don’t be on the same shelf”!!

If the truth be told, his erstwhile comrades in the PPP are actually quite embarrassed about his treatment at the hands of the PNC. And they’re even more embarrassed at how he’s been forced to become a sycophantic, “toothless poodle” (in the words of Cheddi Jagan) to a party he cussed out for 50 years! At his age, accepting being just a columnist for the Chronicle!!

Ah… how low has the mighty (in his mind!!) fallen!!

…the military build-up

The economy might be sputtering because of the novice the PNC placed to head Finance. Agriculture might be ruined because of the nonentity the AFC (?) is represented by at the helm. Oil might be gifted away because of the “Man from Nassau’s” perfidy. But if one thing’s growing quite nicely, thank you, it’s the Disciplined Forces!!

Recruitment for the GDF is up…recruitment for the GPF is up…the Cadet Corps (which gave us Brigadier Granger!) is up and running, and we’re even getting photographs of newly-recruited Prison Service Officers in the papers!! And now we’ve just been told that 1608 persons have already been inducted into People’s Militia!! Imagine that!! And 2020’s still two years away!! What’s the connection, you ask, dear reader? Well cast your mind back to the good ole days of PNC-run elections, if you can. Or read up on it, if you can’t.

The Disciplined Forces are an integral aspect of elections under the PNC. Think why the largest number of People’s Militia are in Region Six!!

…Spewed gas

As your Eyewitness has said again and again, and again….this fella Patterson is full of that stuff; and of course gas, which is its precursor!

He’s spinning tales about gas-fired generators, but hasn’t tied down Exxon to providing any gas as yet!!

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WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

Indian Indentured Labour and Emancipation

By Ravi Dev

I

t’s the run-up to Emancipation Day, and sure as the sun rises in the East, there will be the claim made by folks from the African Guyanese community that Indian indentured labourers “undercut” the bargaining power of the freed slaves after 1838, and that is what pushed them off the plantations.

“It’s like déjà vu all over again,” as Yogi Berra was alleged to have quipped.

In vain I’ve pointed out over the years that it’s futile to play the “blame game” when, in the development of capitalism, after constructing its base on the back of African chattel slave labour (following genocidal extermination of the Indigenous Peoples), it went on to appropriate the very FORM of unfree labour they had used before slavery – indentured labour (of Europeans).

That’s right…plantations here were devel-

oped first by indentured European labour; in Barbados, for instance.

In fact, the first Slave Laws (in Barbados) of 1661 distinguished Africans Slaves from White workers on the basis of the latter being “Christian”, not their colour (negro).

There is no question the planters did intend to undercut the bargaining power of the freed slaves after Emancipation, because of the new dispensation of Free Trade. But the new 19th Century indentureds were also contributing to what Marx dismissed as “primitive accumulation” in the drive of capitalism to create what he called “doubly free labour”: free to sell their labour-power to anyone they choose, and (ironically) freed from any ownership over the means of production.

But I was just as unsuccessful in pointing out that the details of their claim of Indian per-

fidy was so blatantly incorrect it suggested that more was at play than careless historiography.

In 1998, I noted in my paper, “Aetiology of an ethnic riot”, and almost annually afterwards: “It was not Indian labour that broke the back of African attempts to wrest higher wages from the planters. Rather, if labour were to be “blamed”, it was more the Portuguese and, ironically, fellow Africans from both the WI and Africa who played key roles.

After their successful strike of 1842, the exslaves called the strike of 1847 at a point of financial crisis for the planters; who, encouraged by the indentureship of 15,747 Portuguese, 12,897 Africans from the WI, and 6957 Africans from Africa – a total of 35,601, compared with only 8692 Indians — held off the demands for higher wages. After 1848, by when more than half of

them had moved into villages and towns, the unskilled ex-slaves by and large decided to make their living off the plantations, because even though Indian indenture was suspended between 1838 and 1845, and then again in 1849-50, there was no movement back to the plantation by the Africans, nor was there any increase in the wage scale. Available land was the pull factor for the move in Guyana (and Trinidad).

What is also overlooked is that, eventually, there were more indentured Africans arriving from the Caribbean (40,783) than the Portuguese from Madeira (30,078) and from Africa (13,355).

In fact, between 1835 and 1838, exactly 5000 African ex-slaves had been brought from the smaller islands into Guyana. Somehow, these African indentured servants – mostly from

Barbados – have been forgotten.

Ironically, there were several instances recorded of Indian indentureds protesting that the West Indian indentureds were undercutting their wages!

I wrote to one interlocutor in 2004, “The point I have been making is that we are going against the analyses of history made by eminent West Indian historians such as Williams and Rodney (among others) when we lay blame to the immigrants – whether Portuguese, Indian, Chinese, West Indians or Africans, who were all indentured. It was the working of the systems imposed on us by the British; whether political (imperialism), economic (pre-capitalist) or cultural (cultural hegemony), that kept us all in thrall. Today we are still busy blaming each other for our mess, and not questioning wheth-

er those bequeathed systems are not still contributing to our problems.

And that we should get busy, as a first step, in modifying them to assist in leading to greater equity and justice for all of us.”

A decade after capitalism’s latest globalised financialised phase has imploded, the travails of “doubly free” labour continue, as Britain, Europe and the US blame immigrants who “took away their jobs”. When will we ever stop blaming the Indian in Guyana?

Cocaine in gas cylinder

2 jailed for 4 years each

Talking T

S

atiricus was livid, and his expression and gait betrayed this as he strode firmly towards the Back Street Bar. He didn’t care what the fellas said, he was going to give them a piece of his mind.

How dare the PPCEE demand his leader, Nagga Man, not be the lead negotiator between them and the Government?

“How dare Jagdesh complain about Nagga Man to Carter?” Satiricus demanded of his friends without even taking a swig of his beer.

“Eh! Eh! Sato? Like fyaah a come t’roo yuh nose!” said Bungi. “Cool dong wid wan beer, fus’ na?”

“OK,” said Satiricus, as he took a long pull from his beer bottle. “But I demand an answer!”

“Suh who tell yuh Jagdesh complain Carta?” asked Cappo.

“That’s what the papers say,” said Satiricus truculently.

“That’s NOT what the papers say,” said Hari quietly but firmly. “Carter was told JAGDESH didn’t LIKE Nagamootoo…so he had to clear that up!”

“And da w’en Jagdesh aks Carta wha’ mek ‘e sh’ud taa’k wid wan maan who cyaan even get wan meetin’ wid Grain Ja!” Bungi interrupted.

“That’s the problem I have with you fellas,” complained Satiricus. “How do you KNOW Nagga Man can’t get a meeting with Grain Ja?” “Budday!! Na Nagga Man seh ‘e waan fuh ta’k wid Grain-Ja fuh two year now about ‘e wuk?” asked Cappo.

“Well, maybe so,” conceded Satiricus. “But why Jagdesh said Nagga Man didn’t have power to make binding agreement?”

“Suh fram whe’ ‘e guh get dat powah?” demanded Bungi.

“Well…duh!” said Satiricus scornfully, as he slapped the table. “Pressie will give it to him to negotiate!!”

“Sato, my friend,” said Hari is his usual calm manner. “Wasn’t it Pressie who signed a piece of paper that Nagga Man would have power to Chair the Cabinet?”

“Yes,” conceded Satiricus. “But later Pressie found out the Constitution didn’t allow that.”

“Exactly!” said Bungi. “Suh wha’ mek Jagdesh sh’ud believe Nagga Man gat pawah fuh even arda fry rice from New Trivin’?”

Satiricus was silent.

hirty-three-year-old Mark Gomes and 38-yearold Mohamed Kadir who were jointly charged for the possession of 2.25 kilogram of cocaine found hidden in a gas cylinder were on Tuesday sentenced to four years in prison after they appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

The men were charged, along with Ryan Fowler, who had pleaded guilty to the allegation and was jailed for four years.

It was reported that two vehicles parked in the vicinity of Sheriff Street, Georgetown were being observed by ranks attached to the Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU). At approximately 19:45h, the ranks noticed Kadir exiting one of the motor cars, carrying a yellow gas cylinder. He moved to the other vehicle that was occupied

by Gomes and Fowler.

The three suspects were stopped by the investigators who conducted a search, resulting in the illegal substance being discovered. However, the two accused were given the opportunity to tell their side of the story before the Court and in an unsworn statement, Kadir first explained that he was called by Gomes to meet a friend who was encountering mechanical issues on his vehicle.

He told the Court that when that friend (R Fowler) showed up at a shop on Sheriff Street, Georgetown with Gomes as a passenger, CANU ranks reportedly pounced on them.

According to Kadir, he was unaware as to why he was arrested until much later. He told the Court that Fowler had told

Mark Gomes and Mohammed Kadir

him and Gomes that the drug found belonged only to him.

Gomes’s story meshed with what was related by Kadir.

Their Attorneys, Glenn Hanoman and Mark Waldron in summing up their case stated that the prosecution’s case was based on the reliability and credibility of one witness and called for a no-case submission.

However, in her rebuttal, CANU Prosecutor Konyo Sandiford said that the case against the defendants was proven beyond reasonable doubt.

Only four days ago, the fa-

ther of Mark Gomes, Andre Gomes, called “Zipper,” was freed of drug trafficking charges by Magistrate Leron Daly, who ruled that CANU had been unable to support its allegations against Gomes with enough evidence to warrant a conviction.

The elder Gomes, 57, of Craig Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, had been arraigned on trafficking in narcotics charges after a search carried out at his residence had allegedly unearthed 992 grams of cocaine, a quantity of cash, jewellery, and other valuables.

48 Bollywood

Mithila Palkar on co-star Irrfan Khan: He is a fighter

C

alling her co-star Irrfan Khan a “fighter”, actor Mithila Palkar says something feels “incomplete” as the team of their latest film Karwaan hit the promotion spree.

The promotional responsibilities have fallen on the shoulders of Mithila and Dulquer Salmaan as their co-star Irrfan is undergoing treatment for Neuroendocrine Tumour in London.

“It was extremely heartbreaking to hear this (Irrfan’s illness) but all our love and prayers are with him. He is a fighter. Hope we see him very soon.

These promotions are completely incomplete without him. He brings the most vibrant and refreshing flavor of him in Karwaan,” she told PTI. After making her debut in Hindi cinema with Nikhil Advani’s Katti Batti in 2015, Mithila will be sharing screen space with Irrfan and Dulquer for the first time. For Mithila, working alongside both the seasoned actors in the film was a huge opportunity.

“It took me a while for me to understand that I was acting with them. I had to pinch and remind myself that I am their co-actor. Initially, it was intimidating.”

L

ate Sridevi’s daughter Janhvi Kapoor recently made her Bollywood debut with Karan Johar’s production venture Dhadak.

The movie has been welcomed with open arms at the box office, and the debutante couldn’t have been happier.

She recently revealed that her father Boney Kapoor and her younger sister Khushi Kapoor are extremely proud of her success.

“The love has been overwhelming. More than anything else, it feels good to know that we’ve moved people with this message that we were trying to convey. I’m just happy about any form of acceptance, so I have a chance to work more and do better at what I

“There was a little bit of a pressure but they did not make me feel like that.

The minute we were on the sets it all went away. I was in awe of them,” she says.

Mithila, 25, learnt to be effortless and spontaneous from Irrfan and Dulquer, which she says was an “enriching experience”.

In the film, directed by Akarsh Khurana, the actor plays the role of a 19-year-old feisty, confident girl, who has a practical approach towards life and is unapologetic and inhibited. The film is slated to release on August 3.

Prior to Karwaan, Mithila acted in Muramba, a Marathi film and a web series called Girl in The City, apart from featuring in a few TV commercials. Mithila insists she never started her acting career with the aim of being a part of Bollywood.

“I just wanted to be an actor. I was hoping for opportunities to unveil and I wanted to make the most of whatever came my way. I was auditioning, but nothing seemed to have worked out.

Karwaan was meant for me.” (Indian Express)

love. To see my father (film producer Boney Kapoor), Shashank (director of Dhadak) and Karan (producer of Dhadak) feeling so proud and happy means the world to me,” Janhvi told the Hindustan Times.

In the interview, Janhvi Kapoor also spoke about Sridevi, and how watching the late actor’s films have helped her perform better on the big screen. She revealed how difficult it would be to recreate one of Sridevi’s films when asked whether she would grab the opportunity to play one of her iconic characters.

On her family’s reaction to the film, Janhvi said, “Khushi was crying…

She looked at me and said, ‘Why are you worrying?’ and then started crying again. Papa actually saw the film a month ago, and as soon as the screening was over, he went to the temple.

That night he came to my room and held me tight and started crying.”

Janhvi’s debut film Dhadak has been creating waves at the box office. It had opened at the box office with an impressive figure of Rs 8.71 crore. The movie has collected Rs 39.19 crore till now. The film also stars Ishaan Khatter, Ashutosh Rana, Aditya Kumar and Shalini Kapoor. It has been directed by Shashank K h a i t a n .

(Indian Express)

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

T

he shooting of Sujoy Ghosh’s A m i t a b h Bachchan starrer Badla has been wrapped up.

The director says the end of a film shoot is “heartbreaking”. “‘Badla’ shoot ends.

Had the most awesome awesome crew who did all the hard work and of course… Sir Amitabh Bachchan and Taapsee Pannu who took care of the acting department. Maine sirf chance pe dance kiya,” Ghosh tweeted.

“End of a film shoot is very heart breaking…

Dil solid toot jaata hai (The heart breaks badly),” he added.

Taapsee tweeted a video of Ghosh jumping in the air, and wrote: “Anddddd it’s a schedule

wrap from the youngest member of the cast and crew ‘Badla’ (considering we have a 2-year-old acting in the film, it’s quite an achievement).”

The film is a murder mystery, and its shooting took place widely in Scotland. Badla has been produced by

P

riyanka Chopra is back in India.

The actor is all set to start shooting for Ali Abbas Zafar’s Bharat opposite Salman Khan and Shonali Bose’s The Sky Is Pink also starring Farhan Akhtar and Zaira Wasim.

While nothing is known about her schedule for Bharat, she visited the office of Siddharth Roy Kapur’s production house Roy Kapur Films on Monday along with her co-actors Farhan and Zaira.

The official Instagram handle of Roy Kapur Films had photos of the three actors, Priyanka, Farhan and Zaira as they arrived for the preparation of the film. The caption on Priyanka’s photo read, “And she is back! @priyankachopra Exciting times ahead”.

Farhan’s click had, “Ready to roll!! @ faroutakhtar” written on it. Secret Superstar actor Zaira’s photo read, “The beginning of a beautiful journey… @zairawasim_” The film is scheduled to go on floors on August 8 this year.

The Sky Is Pink revolves around

Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment.

The movie will hit the big screen on March 8, 2019, which is incidentally Women’s Day as well. Both Taapsee and Big B had earlier shared screen space in another female-centric film Pink.

(Indian Express)

Aisha Chaudhary, who became a motivational speaker after being diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis at the age of 13. Zaira will be essaying the role of Aisha and Priyanka and Farhan will play her parents in the movie. The Desi Girl of Bollywood made the announcement about the film on her Instagram account as she shared a picture of the script.

The film has been written by Margarita with a Straw fame Shonali and the dialogues have been penned by writer Juhi Chaturvedi. “So they have started the workshop for the film. And Zaira is also a part of it. The Sky Is Pink is a working title. This is the first Hindi film Priyanka Chopra is doing after two years. Also, this is the fifth film she is doing with Ronnie and Sid Roy Kapur,” a source had earlier informed indianexpress.com.

Apart from The Sky Is Pink, Farhan is prepping up for the release of his production Gold starring Akshay Kumar.

(Indian Express)

Alia Bhatt on nepotism: If I was on the other side, I would be heartbroken

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ollywood star Alia Bhatt, who is currently busy shooting for her upcoming supernatural flick Brahmastra, recently got candid about nepotism and how the concept operates in Bollywood.

The actor said that she understands why there has been so much noise about the ‘N’ word, further explaining that it is natural for talented and deserving people to get dejected if they don’t get that one shot that they deserve to make a name for themselves in the industry.

“Of late, I have realised that there is no need to defend the nepotistic nature of the industry because it does exist.

The reason why it has become an emotional debate is because those who don’t get a chance, it is difficult for them. If I was on the other side, I would be heartbroken. I may have felt the same way.

Yes, it does exist everywhere, but this is

the only business where there’s no fixed fund. You need to be at the right place at the right time. For instance, if you want to be a doctor, you study, give your examination and get a job. In the film business, you can do whatever you want, but there has to be that X-factor that people talk about,” Alia told The Times of India.

On the work front, Alia will be seen in Ayan Mukerji’s Brahmastra, along with rumoured boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor and superstar Amitabh Bachchan. The actor has been sharing photos from the sets of the upcoming film on her social media handles. Apart from Brahmastra, the actor will reportedly make a special appearance in the Shah Rukh Khan starrer Zero. She will also be seen sharing screen space with livewire Ranveer Singh in Zoya Akhtar’s Gully Boy. (Indian Express)

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ruce Lee’s 1973 classic Enter The Dragon will soon witness a remake and Warner Bros is currently in talks with the Deadpool 2 director David Leitch for the same, reports Variety. The report suggests that the film’s remake does not have any

writers or any director attached to it as of now but the studio is planning to remake the film decades after its original release.

Enter The Dragon was originally directed by Robert Clouse. The film was Bruce Lee’s final film appearance and was released in Hong Kong six days after he passed away. The martial arts films inspired generations and is still said to be one of Lee’s most popular works. Even in India, the film took the

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roducer James Cameron is back with another visual treat, Alita: Battle Angel. The trailer of this epic adventure is out and it certainly looks exciting.

The film looks like its set in the future where the world has changed beyond recognition.

When Ido, played by Christoph Waltz, finds a cyborg who has a mysterious past, he decides to protect her from the rest of the world. Alita (Rosa Salazar) wakes up in a future where she isn’t aware of much of her past. She is an extraordinary human who is made up of technology that has not been seen in the past 300 years. And this unique factor makes her a target.

They live in Iron City and it comes as quite a surprise to Alita’s allies when she displays her strengths. They

I

rrfan Khan is currently undergoing treatment for neuroendocrine cancer in London, but his films continue to entertain the world. In India, his next release is Karwaan but the actor also has an international release, Puzzle.

Starring Irrfan Khan and Kelly Macdonald, Puzzle is the story of two individuals whose lives come together as they share a passion for solving puzzles. Alec Baldwin recently saw Puzzle and shared his thoughts

audience by storm when it came out in 1973.

David Leitch, known widely for his work in Deadpool 2, has made a name for himself with his quirky, unique point of view. He made his directorial debut with 2017’s Atomic Blonde.

Based on a graphic novel, the film starred Charlize Theron in the lead role. Earlier this year, with Deadpool 2, David took the franchise ahead and continued the momentum that was kick-started by the first film.

David is also directing Hobbs & Shaw, a spin-off of the Fast & Furious franchise. He is also directing the liveaction adaptation of The Division.

(Indian Express)

now have a task to protect her but Alita is more than capable of protecting herself. The new world starts giving her answers about her past and the more she learns, the more she is confident about herself.

Alita: Battle Angel is directed by Robert Rodriguez (known for Sin City). Along with Rosa Salazar and Christoph Waltz, the film also stars Jennifer Connelly, Mahershala Ali, Ed Skrein, Jackie Earle Haley and Keean Johnson, among others.

The film is based on the graphic novel series Gunnm by Yukito Kishiro.

It is said that the film’s story will focus on the first four books of the series. The film is scheduled to release in December 2018. (Indian Express)

on Instagram. He wrote, “A film you MUST see this summer!

Just saw a preview of #Puzzle which opens this Friday in NY & LA. There is magic in this one – the writing, performances, cinematography, and score

Aquaman trailer: Jason Momoa’s DC superhero is here to rule the underwater world

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inally, it is here.

Warner Bros’ panel at San Diego Comic-Con has released the biggest trailer of the day – James Wan’s Aquaman trailer. Jason Momoa takes up the mantle of Arthur Curry/ Aquaman after the events of Justice League and this time the conflict he faces is more personal. His half-brother Orm/ Ocean-Master (played by regular James Wan collaborator Patrick Wilson) plans to declare war on earth as he believes, rightly, that humans have polluted the seas.

Atlantean warrior Mera (a gorgeous Amber Heard) helps Arthur return to his homeland Atlantis. The trailer begins with Arthur telling about himself. He was born to Queen Atlanna (Nicole Kidman) and a lighthouse keeper. “But life has a way of bringing people together.”

Nicole’s Queen tells a baby Arthur, “You could unite our worlds one day,” meaning underwater world and the surface world.

The scene cuts to Arthur as a young boy staring at fishes in a gi-

ant aquarium before being taunted by two boys who say he is talking to the fish. A great-white shark barrels into the glass, freaking out everybody except Arthur. The kid who plays the young Arthur looks uncannily like Momoa.

Mera enters the picture, asking Momoa to come back to Atlantis.

She warns, “Your halfbrother King Orm is about to declare war on the surface world. There are visuals of a tsunamilevel wave engulfing a coastal region. “The only way to stop this war,” Mera continues, “Is to take your place as rightful king.” Arthur replies,

“Trust me, I am no king.”

But he goes anyway and then we see why this trailer was so delayed.

The underwater kingdoms do give a sense of another world as James Wan has said. The colour tone is vibrant and bright, a far cry from the days of Man of Steel and Batman v Superman.

Action is not much. We see only glimpses of Patrick Wilson’s King Orm and almost nothing at all of Yahya AbdulMateen II’s Black Manta but perhaps DC is saving them for the next trailer.

Aquaman releases on December 21 this year.

(Indian Express)

Jennifer Connelly is ‘perfect’ for ‘Top Gun Maverick’, says Tom Cruise

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om Cruise has welcomed Oscar-winning actor Jennifer Connelly in the cast of Top Gun sequel. The Paramount and Skydance’s feature, titled Top Gun: Maverick, will be directed by Joseph Kosinski. Connelly, whose acting credits includes Beautiful Mind and Darren Aronofsky’s Requiem for a Dream, recently joined the cast which also includes Miles Teller and Val Kilmer. She will be playing the female lead.

Cruise, who reprises his role of Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, said Connelly is “perfect” for the part. Teller will be playing Bradley Bradshaw, the son of Nick “Goose” Bradshaw and Maverick’s protege, while Kilmer will be reprising his role as Iceman.

“When you see the film, you’ll see why she’s perfect for it. She has such a very talented, very vibrant, and…

we’re just going to have a great cast.

(It’s) gonna be a lot of fun,” Cruise told Entertainment Tonight.

The actor is currently on a promotional tour for his new release Mission: Impossible Fallout.

Top Gun: Maverick will be set in a world of drone technology and will explore the end of the era of dogfighting, with Cruise portraying a flight instructor.

Jerry Bruckheimer, who produced the first film with the late Don Simpson, will produce with Cruise and Skydance CEO David Ellison.

This film will mark the third time that Tom Cruise stars in a sequel of his earlier film, the other two being, Mission Impossible and Jack Reacher.

Top Gun: Maverick is set to be released on July 12, 2019. (Indian Express)

work together beautifully. Marc Turtletaub has made a wonderfully subtle film and Kelly Macdonald and Irfan Khan deserve serious recognition for their work here.”

Mindy Kaling also commented on the post and wrote, “Irffan is my favorite living actor! I think this phrase is overused but he as such a quiet

intensity’s Great recommendation!”

Irrfan was humbled by Alec Baldwin’s reaction to Puzzle and wrote, “Thank you Alec, means a lot!”

Puzzle is based on the 2010 Argentine film of the same name.

The film premiered at Sundance film festival in January 2018.

Irrfan Khan will also be seen alongside Dulquer Salmaan and Mithila Palkar in the upcoming road trip film Karwaan. (Indian Express)

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he Barbados Tridents have announced that Australian batsman Steve Smith will join their squad for the 2018 Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) which will run from 8 August to 16 September.

According to CPL, Smith will replace Shakib Al Hasan who is no longer available for the tournament.

Smith has played 64 Tests, 108 ODIs and 30 T20 Internationals for Australia and is currently the number one ranked Test batsman in the world. With more than 3000 T20 runs, including a century and 11 fifties, Smith brings a huge amount of experience to the Tridents squad.

The Tridents get their season underway with an away trip to play the Guyana Amazon Warriors on 12 August before a match against St Lucia Stars on 17 August.

The Tridents will then play Jamaica

RED AND GREEN STANDS – G$5000 ORANGE STAND – G$3000 GRASS MOUND – G$2500

Tallawahs in Lauderhill, USA before playing five matches at home between 25 August and 2 September.

Speaking of the signing of Smith, Tridents coach Robin Singh said: “It is a huge blow to lose Shakib for the tournament but in Steve Smith we have a truly worldclass replacement who can help to bring pow-

er to our batting lineup. As a man who has played cricket at the highest level all over the world we are very confident that Smith will be a big success with the Tridents.”

Guyana’s leg of the tournament will commence on August 9, with tickets for the first three matches to be played at the Providence stadium

currently on sale.

The first three home matches are: Thursday, August 9 – Guyana Amazon Warriors v St Kitts Patriots at 18:00h (6:00pm) Saturday, August 11 – Guyana Amazon Warriors v St Lucia Stars at 16:00h (4:00pm) Sunday, August 12 – Guyana Amazon

Warriors v Barbados Tridents at 18:00h (6:00pm) In all, five (5) group matches and two (2) playoff matches (7 in total) are scheduled to be played in Guyana, however tickets for the other four matches will be on sale at a later date.

Tickets for the 2018 Hero CPL cost:

CPL fans in the Berbice can purchase their tickets at the residence of Mr Vijai Ramdhan at Lot 19 Princess Elizabeth Road, Queenstown, New Amsterdam, Berbice.

While Essequibo patrons can get tickets at the Imam Bacchus & Son’s Limited at Affiance on the Essequibo Coast.

Georgetown patrons can uplift their tickets at the head office at Camp and Quamina Streets.

For further information on ticketing please feel free to contact the CPL Guyana office on telephone numbers 2315344, 231-2035 or 2255840 and on e-mail – cplguyana@gmail.com or Mr. Ramdhan on #622-0982/#333-5981 and Imam Bacchus & Son’s Limited on #771 4996.

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WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018| guyanatimeSinternational.com

CWI opens doors for Narine, Pollard and Bravo comebacks into national side

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return to the West Indies ODI team is a distinct possibility for the Bravo brothers, Sunil Narine and Kieron Pollard, following discussions between the players and Cricket West Indies (CWI). The development could potentially pave the way for the players to be involved in the 2019 World Cup. The development has been aided by a board decision to move their next domestic 50over competition to October this year, instead of February 2019 - a switch that means there will be minimal clash between the Super50 and the various domestic Twenty20 leagues Caribbean stars are such an integral part of.

The players have been asked to play in the Super50, perform and push for a recall.

"The overall message to Pollard, the Bravo brothers and Narine was 'come and play in the Super50 Cup', so that Courtney [Browne, chairman of selectors] and his selection panel will have all the players in system playing," Johnny Grave, board CEO, told ESPNcricinfo.

"This will not only increase the standard and hopefully give the panel a headache but will help our selectors better gauge and assess our young players if they're scoring runs against Dwayne Bravo or Sunil in the final overs or getting Darren [Bravo] and Pollard out."

Browne told ESPNcricinfo he was looking forward to seeing the players in action. "It's a very important tournament for us in preparation for the World Cup. People that want

Kieron Pollard high fives Sunil Narine (AFP photo)

to put their names in the hat for consideration would need to play Super50 and perform."

Although far from resolved, this would represent a distinct thaw in the relationship between the board and players in what has been a difficult year.

It began with Narine, Pollard and Darren Bravo choosing the PSL over helping West Indies in their World Cup Qualifiers, a decision that left Grave and CWI "hugely disappointed".

Matters escalated in April when the Bravo brothers, Pollard and Narine claimed they were denied an opportunity to help the Caribbean after being ignored for a Hurricane Relief charity game between West Indies and a World XI side.

Even then, however, Grave had spoken of meeting with the players after the IPL to discuss futures, meetings which have now taken

place. This breakthrough of sorts continues Graves' policy of building bridges with disaffected players. Last year's amnesty resulted in Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels returning to the team, Andre Russell's recent selection into a West Indies squad, improved player contracts and now this olive branch.

"Jimmy Adams [director cricket operations] and I met with Dwayne, Darren, Pollard and Narine's agent in Trinidad," Grave said. "We met with them individually because they all have different circumstances. I would describe the meetings as positive, as everyone was looking to the future rather than the past.

"We talked through our entire schedule, not just now and to the 2019 World Cup, but also through all the matches and tours scheduled up to the

Cyclists gearing up for summer events

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Flashback! 2017 winners, organisers and family at the 13th Regan Rodrigues Memorial Road Race

he 15th Seven Seas 11-Stage Cycling Programme, sponsored

by Massy and organised by National Coach Hassan Mohammed, will pedal off at the National Park from August 4-15.

Mohammed, the veteran cycling coach, will again help to exhibit Guyana’s vast talent on two wheels with a number of top cyclists billed for the event. The 2017 edition saw Raul Leal winning the senior 35-lap race while Nigel Duguid emerged winner of the junior 10-lap category.

Meanwhile, the 14th annual Regan

Rodrigues Memorial 46-Mile Road Race sponsored by Ricks and Sari Industries will ride off on Sunday, August 5, starting from the West Bank at the Harbour Bridge to Bushy Park and back.

Rodrigues was a former champion motor racer and cyclist as well as a former President of the Guyana Cycling Federation.

Last year’s champ, a top rider in the senior category, Jamaul John will be looking forward to a repeat while junior winner Briton John will also seek to emerge champ as he did last year.

World T20 in Australia 2020.

"We asked the players individually to take time to consider the requirements of Cricket West Indies, where we are going with the teams and how we are looking for prepare for international series.

"We have asked them to send us in writing a summary of their reflections confirming their availability and commitment to play for the Windies in different formats of the game."

The scheduling switch of the Super50, Grave said, wasn't aimed at getting the quartet to play but the result of a holistic review of the domestic system.

"We changed the contractual year to start July 1st, so that the off-season would be April-June when we would do new contracts, appraisals and renewals, while players in the system can do their core conditioning work, as well as obvi-

ously have a break", Grave explained.

"So now we start contracts in July and go almost straight into CPL. Hence in the review it just made sense to continue with white-ball cricket by having the Super50 in November with October to prepare for the change in format.

"Only because we are hosting the ICC Women's World T20 in the Caribbean it meant moving the Super50 to October for this year."

That switch has coincided with the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) moving to January, instead of its November slot. Grave said CWI had discussions with BCB on the matter, as West Indies are due to tour Bangladesh in November.

"It has transpired that the only league we will be clashing with this year is the Afghanistan League but you are always going to clash with some T20 league whenever you schedule it," Grave said.

"But it has potentially fallen at a good time as we used to clash with both the Big Bash and Pakistan Super League.

"We had discussions with BCB [Bangladesh Cricket Board] around when the BPL would be as we are touring them in November. We were very clear to them our Super50 was in October and it would be less disruptive for us if the BPL was played in January.

"That's probably the only tactical thing we have done with our schedules to assist players in having this window available to play for us in the Super50." (ESPNCricinfo)

Hetmyer’s magnificent 125...

from page 53

Windies’ 100 in the 23rd over with the Guyanese looking more comfortable with every delivery. Jason Mohammed’s (12) woes continued as he picked the wrong delivery from Rubel to cut and picked out backward point.

Hetmyer absorbed the pressure around him and soon reached his second consecutive fifty as he and Powell added a solid fiftypartnership. That soon turned into a century stand between the two as both batsmen looked to acquire as many boundaries as possible before the innings ended.

The Jamaican upped his scoring with a wide array of short-arm jabs and pulls, but the partnership was broken by Rubel, who got one to disturb the stumps of the right-hander, just six short of what would have been a well-deserved fifty.

Holder (07) joined in on the fun, smash-

Bangladesh’s Tamim Iqbal was stumped by the wicketkeeper shortly after passing the half-century mark

ing Shakib for a six back over his head before the veteran left-arm spinner had him stumped the very next delivery to send Windies plummeting further. Nurse imploded for 3, gifting his wicket to Mustafizur while Paul was caught behind off Rubel for 4.

But the milestone

could not be prevented as Hetmyer reached his first international ton on home soil with a dab off Mustafizur, which he celebrated with much elation. Bishoo was knocked over by Mustafizur soon after as the Caribbean side’s innings came to an end.

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WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

CAC Games…

‘We are going there to win’ …confident athletics and rugby teams depart for Barranquilla

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he Guyanese contingent at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Barranquilla, Colombia grew a little, after the national rugby team “The Green Machine” and the track and field athletes departed Guyana on Wednesday morning.

The 14-member rugby team (inclusive of Manager and Coach) and a six-member athletics team assembled at Camp Ayanganna before they left for the airport. At that meeting, both teams seemed to be in high spirits and that reflected in the remarks made by the coaches.

Speaking with the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) President and Coach, Peter Green, Guyana Times International Sport learnt the decision was made to expose some of the younger rugby players in this competition, as the exposure will do well for them and the se-

The rugby team were all smiles before leaving for Barranquilla, Colombia

nior players are in need of rest.

“From playing in tournaments before they know what to do, but we using this opportunity now to expose the youngsters, because as you can

see, we have too many tournaments coming up, so I have to rest some of the senior players for the Americas challenge,” he stated.

Despite being fairly new to international com-

petition, Green is confident that his team will be successful. “There’s one thing we’re going for, we put our frustration behind and take it out on the opposition; we’re not going there just to be

Dominican-born LeBlanc to lead women's football in CONCACAF

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ormer Canadian international Karina LeBlanc, by tone and rhetoric, seems ready to get the ball rolling in her new role as Head of CONCACAF Women's Football.

The former Canada goalkeeper, who takes up the post on Wednesday, August 1, is charged with the responsibility to spearhead the Confederation's campaign “to strengthen and grow the women's game throughout the CONCACAF region”.

“I am honoured and excited to join CONCACAF at a pivotal time for women's football. I have seen the growth and potential of our game across the CONCACAF region and around the globe and look forward to create additional opportunities for women in football.

“Our confederation is well-positioned to continue supporting and inspiring its member associations to build, develop and elevate the women's game,” said LeBlanc.

The Canadian — born in Dominica to Jamaican and Dominican parents — will see her new role embracing a focus on “developing women's football throughout the entire region, increasing

Karina LeBlanc

opportunities for women in the sport across multiple areas”, including through grassroots and competitions platforms — refereeing, development and administration.

LeBlanc, who will be based at CONCACAF's Miami head office, will report to the Chief of Football Officer, Manolo Zubiria.

M e a n w h i l e , CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani, welcomed his country woman to the post, at a time when the Confederation is broadening and con-

solidating its development and growth portfolio.

“We are very pleased to welcome Mrs Karina LeBlanc as head of CONCACAF Women's Football. She brings vast knowledge and passion for the sport, having played for 18 years and serving as an advocate to providing access for more women to the game,” he said.

“Mrs LeBlanc is the right leader to support our mission of advancing and promoting women's football in a sustainable and scalable

way. She will contribute to increase participation and awareness at all levels,” Montagliani added.

Throughout her career, LeBlanc represented Canada in five FIFA World Cups, two Olympics and three Pan-American Games.

She was a member of the bronze medal-winning team at the London Olympics in 2012.

In 2013, she became the first female professional footballer to be appointed as UNICEF ambassador.

From goalkeeper to host, broadcaster and motivational speaker, she has travelled across the world to raise awareness about the game as well as the importance of women's empowerment, especially through the sport.

“CONCACAF is creating a network of unified competitions, development and leadership that unites this diverse region into one strong body, with the goals of actively promoting universal access to the sport, and raising the quality of football across the Confederation,” said the sub-continental grouping in a widely circulated release.

(Jamaica Observer)

part of the crowd, we’re going there to win,” the President declared.

The two teams will join the table tennis, squash, cycling, boxing, field hockey, swimming and taekwondo teams

that are already competing.

Over in Barranquilla, the local swimmers took to the pool for the last time.

Copping sixth place in her heat, Jamila Sanmoogan clocked 28.72s in the 50-metre freestyle. Competing in the men’s 50m freestyle was Andrew Fowler, who clocked 24.66s.

On the squash courts, the male team of Sunil Seth, Nyron Joseph and Jason-Ray Khalil were locked in a severe battle with Clive Walters, Bruce Burrowes, and Christopher Binnie of Jamaica. However, the Jamaicans barely edged past the Guyanese to clinch victory 2-1.

However, the female team of Mary Fung-AFat, Ashley Khalil and Taylor Fernandes suffered a crushing 3-0 loss to Catalina Pelaez, Maria Tovar Perez and Laura Tovar Perez of Colombia.

Legendary cricket commentator Joseph “Reds” Perreira honoured in Berbice

“

You are a hero to several generations of cricket lovers and you brought the world of cricket into our imagination long before television came into our homes. Your voice inspired thousands of young West Indians to follow their dreams to become the next Sobers, Lloyd, Worrell, Richards and Greenidge. Most importantly, you were a role model to my generation and others, and have played a huge role in promoting Guyana and West Indies cricket. Today, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) has the greatest privilege to honour you with our highest award – the Dolphin Award of Excellence.”

These were the words of RHTY&SC Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Hilbert Foster, as the Club honoured legendary international cricket commentator Joseph “Reds” Perreira.

Perreira, who was in the Ancient County as a guest of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), received the Dolphin Award of Excellence during a special ceremony Friday last at the St Francis Training Centre.

He became the 33rd person to receive the award, which is given to friends of the RHTY&SC who have made outstanding contributions to the development of Guyana and also serve as a positive role model to youths.

Among the other awardees are President David Granger, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, former Test Player Roger Harper and Journalist Franklin Wilson.

Perreira started his legendary career in 1961 at the Rose Hall Canje Ground at the FirstClass level and broadcast his first Test Match in 1971 when the West Indies played India at the Bourda Ground.

Up to his retirement two years ago, Perreira did commentary in 147 Test Matches, 200 OneDay Internationals and over 350 First Class Matches. He also served as sports coordinator of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) for over a decade and was an advisor to the late Sport Minister Shirley FieldRidley in the 1970s.

A humbled Perreira, who was inducted as an Honorary RHTY&SC continued on page 54

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an-of-theM a t c h Shimron Hetmyer stroked his maiden ton at home, as the Windies levelled the ODI series 1-1 after completing a three-wicket win in Wednesday’s day/night affair at Providence.

Following up his fifty from Sunday, the former Windies U-19 World Cup winning skipper became the youngest Guyanese to score an ODI ton as he dealt primarily in sixes as he smoked

Hetmyer’s magnificent 125 helps Windies level series

seven huge maximums and three fours in his majestic 125 off 93 deliveries.

R o v m a n Powell flexed his guns for a bit, hitting four fours in his 44 and added a century stand of 103 with Hetmyer, to help the hosts rack up 271 all out in 49.3 overs. Fast bowler Rubel Hossain was the pick of the lot with 3-61 while Mustafizur Rahman and Shakib Al Hasan bagged two apiece.

Bangladesh almost got there thanks to fifties from Tamim Iqbal (54); Shakib Al Hasan (56) and Mushfiqur Rahim (68) as the visitors ended on

Shimron Hetmyer acknowledges the supporters after reaching his first ODI century on his home turf against Bangladesh at Providence

268-6. Windies used six bowlers with five returning a wicket each in a collective effort.

Anamul Haque smashed 23 off nine balls with two fours and as many sixes to help the Tigers rocket to their fastest team 50 in ODIs, before Joseph accounted for his dismissal. Tamim and Shakib continued from Sunday where they added 200-plus runs during an amazing partnership.

Khan reached his second fifty in succession striking at nearly 70, while Al Hasan also made a repeat of the first match by registering his mini milestone a few deliveries after. After toying with the Windies seamers for the majority of their 97-run stand, the introduction of spin yielded rewards for the hosts.

Bishoo outfoxed Tamim, who was stumped by Shai Hope while Shakib was caught off Nurse’s bowling to leave Bangladesh 1453. Top scorer Rahim and Mahmudullah then

staged another fightback which seemed fruitful before their respective dismissals. They steered the chase with a little more to do than Mossdek Hossain and Mashrafe Mortaza could have pulled off as they ended not out on 3 and 1 respectively.

Earlier, Evin Lewis looked ominous during his brief innings of 12 as he cleared the ropes once, while managing just one four, prior to Mortaza winning a successful LBW appeal. Chris Gayle (29), meanwhile, opened up his arms with a couple of fours and a six off Mehedy to keep the score ticking.

Windies’s team 50 came up in the 13th over with the big left-hander looking settled, but soon after he was pinned leg before wicket by Mehedy, who got his revenge for being smashed earlier by Gayle.

At 55-2, Hetmyer, the top-scorer from the last match, came out to join Shai Hope (25) who continued to scratch around the crease. Shakib capi-

talised on Hope’s lack of form and had him caught

by Sabbir in the covers after he escaped with his wicket following a beau-

ty of a delivery, the ball before.

A nice sweep for four by Hetmyer raised continued on page 51

54 SPORT

CPL 2018: Guptill ready to join Tridents’ attack

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artin Guptill is getting ready for the upcoming Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL), where he will be playing for his new team, the Barbados Tridents. The tournament runs from August 8 to September 16, and Guptill thinks the Tridents are well placed to compete with a new-look squad for 2018.

“I think it’s exciting; there’s some world-class players in there, both local and international, so I’m looking forward to getting over there. I’ll be batting again with Dwayne Smith, the way it was in Guyana a cou-

ple years ago. You know he’s an exciting player who gives the ball a bit of a whack at the top as well. We’ve got some exciting all-rounders with Shakib Al Hasan, Roston Chase also Jason Holder as well, so it is an exciting team to be a part of and I am looking forward to getting over there.”

As well as an opening partnership of Smith and Guptill, there is Hashim Amla in the middle order. Guptill is looking forward to linking up with the South African stroke-maker at this year’s Hero CPL. “I played with Hashim in IPL last year

and I got to bat with him in a few games, to watch the master at work down the other end was an experience, and I am looking forward to hopefully batting with him again over at CPL.” Guptill will be playing his home games at Kensington Oval, one of the most famous grounds in world cricket, when the Tridents arrive in Barbados for their five home games between August 25 and September 2. Tickets for all the matches are selling fast and can be purchased at www.cplt20. com.

“It’s a lovely ground

WEEK ENDING JUNE 29, 2018 | guyanatimeSinternational.com

to play. I’ve had a bit of mixed results there, but I’m looking forward to getting there. It is one of the iconic grounds of the West Indies, so I’ve loved playing there in the past with different teams, and to have it as my home ground this year I’m looking forward to getting out there and hopefully showing the home fans what I can do.”

Guptill had been a Guyana Amazon

Warriors player since 2013 and he says he has mixed feelings about playing against a franchise that he feels attached to.

“Amazon Warriors have been good to me for four years; you know, it’s a fresh start for me this year and it’s kind of good for me in a way, I get to experience different people in a different set-up and I’m looking forward to getting in to it.”

When asked about what makes the Hero CPL so special, Guptill said it was the atmosphere in the Region that makes it a great tournament to be a part of. “I guess it’s the laid-back

nature of the Caribbean.

The people there make it a lot of fun. You’re not putting too much pressure on yourself when you’re over there – you’re just relaxing and enjoying the experience.”

“I guess you could say it’s one of the nicest places in the world to be playing and to be based on Barbados is pretty cool.

I’ve loved every minute of being in Barbados, being there with other teams. so to be there this year and have it as my home base is pretty cool, you know, and, um, can’t wait to get there and get amongst them.”

(Excerpts from CPLT20)

Legendary cricket commentator...

from page 52

RHTY&SC Organising Secretary Keith Hicks hands over the Dolphin Award to Joseph “Reds” Perreira

member 15 years ago, stated that it was an honour to receive such a prestigious award from Guyana’s best.

Perreira stated that he had to work hard to achieve success including overcoming a severe stammer. Success, he stated, can be achieved once a person has a dream and is prepared to put in a long time. The

legendary commentator stated that many persons, including Raffeek Khan, opened the door of opportunities for him and he would always be grateful for it. Speaking on his career, he disclosed that it was a privilege to work with great Commentators like Tony Cozier, John Arlott and Jim Maxwell.

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