Guyana Times Saturday May 11, 2019

Persons with disabilities are dependable people P17 – CMO

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 3920

THE BEACON OF TRUTH SATURday, may 11, 2019

No-confidence Motion appeals

APNU/AFC lawyers asking court to rewrite Guyana’s Constitution – Mendes to CCJ

See stories on pages 3, 9, 10 & 17

– Boston insists MPs cannot vote “conscience” but toe party line – Datadin counters, says Ministers have abstained from voting but not expelled – Basil Williams asks CCJ to rule not for legal reasons but expediency ...says "unrest" might follow adverse ruling against Govt Page 7

Miner stabbed to death at Mahdia Hard Rock Café opens in Guyana Page 10

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE: 2 years after legislation

Tobacco Control Council finally launched P16

P10 GPL’s interconnected system shuts down again

No arrest for biker’s murder

…Police reviewing CCTV footage P8

Guard charged for discharging firearm in P8 public place Brazilian P16 navy ships in Guyana for military drills

Constant power outages

Opposition Leader questions Govt’s energy policies Page 7

…criticises lack of progress in renewable energy initiatives

As Maduro P17 cracks down, Venezuelan legislators see intimidation

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news

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SATURday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Saturday, May 11 – 09:30h-12:30h (no marine traffic) and Sunday, May 12 – 09:30h-11:00h (no marine traffic).

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, May 11 – 08:40h-10:10h and Sunday, May 12 – 10:00h-11:30h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery showers can be expected throughout the morning, followed by light cloudy skies, with sunny intervals in the afternoon. Partly cloudy skies are expected in the evening, with temperatures ranging between 23 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 09:18h and 22:13h reaching maximum heights of 2.35 metres and 2.23 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 02:47h and 15:32h reaching minimum heights of 0.99 metre and 0.85 metre respectively.

wednesday, may 8, 2019

LOTTERY NUMBERS E

04

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19

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26

FREE TICKET

01 Bonus Ball

friday, may 10, 2019

DAILY MILLIONS

01

05

02

06

26

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0

9

Afternoon Draw

8

7

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

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PAY DAY

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18 SUPER PAY DAY

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By Vahnu Manikchand in Trinidad and Kristen Macklingam

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f the Government of Guyana believes that the proportional representation for a majority in its National Assembly should be considered as 34 of 65 instead of 33 as part of allowing a ruling party to have a “leeway” then this would not serve much of a purpose.

This is according to Trinidadian Senior Counsel, Douglas Mendes, who is a part of the battery of lawyers representing Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in relation to the validity of the No-Confidence Motion passed in Guyana’s National Assembly on December 21, 2018.

During his submissions on Friday, the Senior Counsel submitted that the “ordinary” meaning of the word majority ought to be applied and that would mean that 33 is in actuality, the majority of 65 in Guyana’s National Assembly.

“If you have to pass a budget, and you have to get a majority, and, of course, if you don’t pass the budget then you cannot spend any money then you would also need a little more leeway there as well. Wherever you find the word majority in the Constitution, it ought to be interpreted in such a way as to give the Government a leeway.

But with all due respect, there is no warrant for that,” Mendes submitted.

He added, “with all due respect I don’t think that takes you anywhere because if the idea is to give the ruling party some leeway then [even] two really should not be enough because two members of the Government can defect. It won’t be that much difficult than one if the idea is to give the ruling Government some leeway, well, why not half plus two or half plus three, why just stop at one? If it is that you are concerned about being defeated, then you should apply it to all measures under the Constitution”.

Stretching provisions of the Constitution

LUCKY 3

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APNU/AFC lawyers asking court to rewrite Guyana’s Constitution – Mendes to CCJ

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

In relation to the arguments put forward by the coalition Government’s attorneys that Article 156 (3) of the Constitution of Guyana dictates the manner in which a Member of Parliament should operate when casting a vote, the attorney pointed out that this is not so, adding that this section specifically speaks about certain factors involved

in the process.

“156 (3) says nothing about how you vote in the National Assembly, so it is a stretch in the first place to say that it limits anyone’s right to vote but it is even worse to say well there are exceptions to that implied limitation. The implied limitation is you can vote against the Government if you have a coalition Government, with all due respect that is asking this Court to rewrite the Constitution. Not just simply to say that there is an implied limitation on the right to vote but that there is an implied limitation on the right to vote provided that you don’t have a coalition Government in which case, the implied limitation does not apply to the coalition partners, so my learned friends are asking you to write in provisions of the Constitution, this is not the normal process of necessary implication at all,” the Senior Counsel told the judges.

Mendes argued that while some may contest that former AFC Member of Parliament, Charrandas Persaud, was a “usurper” and should face penalties, the question is left to ask whether he knew he was not qualified to sit in the Parliament on December 21, 2018.

He added that it is a known phenomenon that persons who are not qualified are in Parliament. “…did he know he was not qualified to sit in the Parliament on December 21, 2018? Mr Persaud was not a usurper on the day… Section 58 of the Constitution can only assist you if there is a finding that Mr Persaud had or knew he was not entitled to vote as he did. If he was charged under this provision, then he would be able to say to the Court that he did not know. Certainly, he would be entitled to say in such cases that you cannot challenge me anymore, as far as I knew I was entitled to vote…there is no basis for saying he had reasonable grounds to know he was not entitled to vote. As of 21st December, he would be acting reasonably to think he was…”

He added that if Guyana’s Parliament has addressed the question about voting when a member is not supposed to and that individual is only fined $50 as the only sanction then this does not mean that the vote is/was invalid.

Meanwhile, former Attorney General of Guyana, Anil Nandlall, who is also one of the lawyers representing the Opposition at the hearings, on the sidelines of Friday’s Court proceedings told Guyana

Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes

Times senior journalist Vahnu Manikchand, who is in Trinidad, in an exclusive interview that he is confident that his side will succeed in the cases that were heard at the CCJ. “That the No-Confidence Motion will be upheld and that Charrandas’ vote will be counted and declared to be valid, the important part now is what orders will the Court make should our appeals be successful, as you know, had the NoConfidence Motion not been challenged the elections ought to have been held by March 21st. That did not happen. So the Court I think, once it rules that the No-Confidence Motion was validly passed, has an obligation to give effect to the letter and spirit of the Constitution which is for elections to be held now that the 3 months have expired, for elections to be held within the shortest period of time,” he stated.

He noted that fortunately, “[During] the proceedings of these appeals, we heard the GECOM Chairman appeal, and naturally the two sets

of cases are inter-related because GECOM is fundamental to the holding of elections.

Of course GECOM lawyers, I believe in conspiracy with the Government have advanced arguments that they are unprepared and not ready for early elections. That was expected”.

He said that these lawyers, have now “thrown up a whole host of obstacles,” none of which in his view can be considered to be reasonable and none can be considered to be a lawful obstacle to the holding of early elections.

“So, fortunately, the Court has seen this battle that is going on now and the Court has indicated that they will fix a date and time specifically for the purpose of dealing with the consequential orders that will have to be made should the Court rule that the NoConfidence Motion was validly passed.”

According to Nandlall, the Court has indicated two things fundamentally to be done, the first being that it will have to deliver its ruling. There is also the question of the consequential orders that ought to be made based upon the ruling.

“The ruling cannot be that the No-Confidence Motion was validly passed, let us assume that is the ruling, the Court cannot just leave it like that.

The Court needs to make orders that would make effect to the spirit of the Constitution now that the letter of the Constitution can no longer be achieved having regard to the expiration of the time contemplated by the Constitution for elections to be held if the NoConfidence Motion is successfully passed.”

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

Caring for the elderly

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iven the fact that the world’s population is aging rapidly, calls are being made for countries to take the necessary steps to ensure that people reach old age in the best possible health. Everyone desires to reach their ‘golden years’ in good health as better health is central to human happiness and well-being. It also makes an important contribution to economic progress, as healthy populations live longer and are more productive etc.

According to the WHO, in the next few years, for the first time, there will be more people in the world aged over 60 than children aged less than five. Additionally, the WHO has predicted that by 2050, 80% of the world’s older people will be living in low- and middle-income countries.

It should be stated that the Caribbean has been recognised as having one of the fastest growing older populations in the developing world. This certainly poses its own challenges and governments and other actors will be required to take the necessary measures to ensure that this segment of the population is adequately taken care of.

Even though the issue of aging populations and how they could be better cared for is not one that is known to dominate discussions at the national and international levels, it has implications for a range of social policies for the region. As is the case with many other countries, one of the main health challenges for older people in Guyana is non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung disease. There is therefore an urgent need for health authorities to take appropriate steps to prevent noncommunicable diseases, and to ensure that systems and the necessary services are in place to provide treatment and care when it is required. Many of these services are highly costeffective. For example, high blood pressure – a key risk factor for both heart disease and stroke – can be effectively treated at a minimal cost.

Also, the risk of developing non-communicable diseases can be significantly reduced by adopting healthy behaviours, such as being physically active, eating a healthy diet, avoiding the harmful use of alcohol and not smoking or using tobacco products. The earlier people adopt these behaviours, the better their chance of enjoying a healthy old age.

On this basis, there should be greater awareness and knowledge in the society about the dangers of chronic illnesses. What is needed is an aggressive awareness campaign to address various health issues. For example, research has shown that the numerous media campaigns on HIV/AIDS prevention and care, stigma and discrimination have impacted positively on attitudes and lifestyle changes. Messages in a similar fashion should be created and distributed for non-communicable illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes as this is an effective means of encouraging behavioural changes.

The Caribbean Charter on Health and Ageing 1998 has as its guiding principle, a coordinated, systematic approach to ensuring the health and full integration of older persons into Caribbean societies and economies.

The Charter was adopted at the Second Meeting of the Council for Human and Social Development in 1998, and launched in 1999. It recognises the principle that “health and wellness encompasses the need for preventive strategies, creation of supportive environments and the availability of senior-friendly goods and services”.

Included in this guiding principle are many recommendations geared towards ensuring that the older population lead healthier and happier lives; these include; developing and strengthening policies on ageing; developing a Bill of Rights in support of the elderly; sensitising health workers about the special needs of the elderly; strengthening primary health care services targeted at the elderly; establishing norms and standards for institutional care of the elderly; working with caregivers to ensure that standards of care are being met; preparing adults for healthy aging; educating the elderly on ways to maintain and improve their health and collaborating with Government organisations, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and the media.

The time has come for Governments in the region, including Guyana, to measure the progress made and perhaps determine where there is need for improvement as it relates to caring for the elderly population.

Mothers in the military: Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Patrick West, in an early Mother’s Day observance, presented hampers to several mothers from units across the Guyana Defence Force (GDF photo)

Brazen attempts to ignore President Jagan’s sterling achievements Dear Editor, So Guyana is going to have an Avenue of Honours to showcase the names of Guyanese who have made significant contributions to the country’s development.

If this monument is to be initiated and rolled out by the current Administration, we can expect – going from their past performance – that the honourees will be selected solely from among the PNC/APNU party faithful which will make it an-

other blatantly partisan and racist exercise from which the majority of deserving Guyanese will find themselves excluded. The honourees will undoubtedly include those tainted by criminal convictions, those who have performed dishonourable and corrupt acts on behalf of the PNC/ APNU, and even those who have contributed in great part to the country’s underdevelopment.

This will be another opportunity for Granger to

showcase a jealousy that stems from his inability and abject failure to measure up to that heroic Guyanese – President Cheddi Jagan.

He baulked at and halted the printing of commemorative stamps for President Jagan and omitted President Jagan from his list of Indian Guyanese stalwarts on Indian Arrival Day of all days.

Despite these open and brazen attempts to ignore President Jagan’s sterling achievements, Cheddi will

always be remembered and honoured by fair-minded Guyanese as will all the Indian Guyanese who have contributed to this country’s development and who could well be omitted from this Government’s list of honourees.

It is part of Guyana’s abject failure as a nation that such partisanship is expected even before it is announced.

Sincerely, Ryhaan Shah

Political parties should refrain from “jingoistic” approaches to governance Dear Editor, Over the past few days, I have attended the Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas, with its expansive display by hundreds of companies and countries, including Guyana, as well as conference sessions and collateral events.

Guyana is well represented at this conference, and it must be a fascinating reality check for many of us, I would think.

I have always been aware that our oil and gas industry would be a boost to our economy, but must admit that what I have learnt during this conference has really opened my eyes to the enormity of the positive impact this sector can have on the quality of life of the Guyanese people; if we manage it well and confront some of the challenges, including social ills such as human trafficking, which are likely to intensify as our level of prosperity is heightened.

I really hope that all

Guyanese, especially our politicians, can come to grips with the reality that if they do what is right they could chart a course that would provide for every Guyanese to enjoy a quality of life about which they never dreamt.

On Wednesday there was a session on Guyana, which focused on sustainable development of Guyana’s oil and gas industry. It was a good panel discussion. While much of the information was not new, what made it useful were the perspectives offered about the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (swot) which the sector must analyse and address.

One panellist spoke of the “complex political structure” in Guyana, which I interpreted to be among the challenges which must be addressed if the sector is to realise its full potential to be of benefit to each and every Guyanese.

I would hope that, in quick time, the political structure of Guyana would

change via constitutional reform. In the meantime, however, it is my fervent wish that the political culture in Guyana would change even sooner, thereby providing for heightened collaboration among the major political parties, and drastic reduction in the real and/or perceived animosity which exists among them.

Guyana has to have a predictable environment to facilitate investment, private sector and economic development, and job creation.

This requires consultation and collaboration among the parties, which would provide for continuity of policies whenever there is a change in Government.

In short, what I am proposing is that the major political parties refrain from their “jingoistic” approaches to governance, and work toward some form of unified governance which would not negate a reasonable plurality of outlook, but presuppose it.

Seeking to eschew corruption in all its forms and at

every level must be the pillar of their collaborative efforts, along with putting an end to political favouritism/ loyalty in the appointments to key positions. Perhaps it is time that the major political parties seek to attract to their ranks and leadership persons with a greater commitment to ‘Putting Guyana First’. Failure to so do could torpedo the good life, of which the country is now positioned on its cusp.

Some time ago, I attended a business meeting in Curacao at which Paul Keens Douglas was the keynote speaker at one of the luncheon sessions. In referring to “group think” of regional politicians, he said these guys “feel their countries are at the precipice of great developments, and all they have to do is take one great step forward.” Let’s hope this is not the current thinking of our Guyanese politicians.

Regards, Wesley Kirton

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

India votes in world’s largest election Dear Editor, Hundreds of millions of Indians voted in five phases of balloting so far. Two phases of voting remain -one this Sunday and the other the following Sunday -- to complete the process.

The general election has been billed as a referendum on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The campaign takes the form of a Presidential election. Modi’s nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won a historic landslide in the last elections, in 2014.

Modi staked his claim in 2014 to lead India on a tough image against terrorism and a truly secular government without favouring any religious or caste group. He has been tough against those who infiltrated the porous borders of India to spread terror. Modi ordered surgical strikes against camps in Pakistan in February. His action won overwhelming approval from the nation.

In India, people gen-

erally vote against the incumbent. Most of the incumbent MPs of the BJP are disliked, including the popular Bollywood actress Hema Malini, who is seeking re-election from Mathura, the holy city of Lord Krishna.

But voters tell this writer they want to give Modi a second term; thus they will vote for the incumbents on account of Modi, who remains the BJP’s main vote-getter.

Modi is campaigning everywhere on behalf of the candidates of his party, the BJP, which is in an alliance with other parties called the NDA. The largest opposition party is the Congress, which is in an alliance with other parties called the UPA. Sworn enemies in the opposition have come together to defeat Modi, but opinion polls put the NDA ahead of the UPA by almost two to one. However, the polls say the NDA will not win a majority of the seats. It takes

272 seats to form the government in a parliament of 543 elected members of the lower house, or Lok Sabha.

This writer, in his own informal polls, puts Modi ahead of the Congress and likely to come close to a majority of seats, giving him a second five-year term in office. Without an opposition alliance, the BJP would win over 300 seats. As it is now, the party is struggling to capture 250 seats. The BJP won 283 seats in the last election.

The seven-phase elections commenced on 19th April and will conclude on 19th May. Counting of ballots is on 23rd May. There are some 970 million eligible voters across the country.

This is the largest election ever conducted in the world.

The tone of the campaign has been acrimonious, especially against opposition leader Rahul Gandhi and two of his alliance partners, Akilesh Yadav of SP and Mayawati of BSP.

The BJP faces strong challenges from other regional parties in the south and in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has been trying to bring together the parties to form a coalition to unseat Modi. Rahul’s father (Rajiv), grandmother (Indira) and great-grandfather (Jawaharlal Nehru) were all Indian prime ministers.

His mother, the Italianborn Sonia, declined the PM position in 2004. Rahul himself declined the PM position in 2009. His sister, Priyanka Gandhi, formally launched her political career in January. She is not contesting a seat, although it was announced she would contest against Modi. Had she done so, she would have been trounced.

Modi is contesting in the prestigious Benaras seat.

This writer’s poll has him well ahead to win by a landslide. Priyanka is campaigning for her brother and moth-

er Sonia, who is contesting a seat Rae Bareli, from Uttar Pradesh, the state where 70 percent of Indo-Caribbean people trace their roots.

Rahul is also contesting from UP in Amethi constituency. Fearing he would lose, Rahul has fielded himself in a second seat in Kerala state. In India, a candidate can run for more than one seat, but can only represent one seat in parliament and resign the others if elected from more than one.

The Lok Sabha, or lower house of Parliament, has 543 elected seats, and any party or coalition needs a minimum of 272 MPs to form a government. Opinion polls say Rahul will lose Amethi.

However, this writer found from his survey that Rahul would win Amethi and also in Kerala.

The main issues in the campaign are high unemployment, national security, and India’s role in world affairs. Caste and religion also play critical roles in how peo-

ple vote. Chamars, called dalits in India, are voting for the BSP led by Mayawati.

The Yadav cast is voting for the Yadav party, called SP. At Friday namaz before each vote, imams instruct Muslims to vote for the party they feel would defeat the BJP. But Muslims are divided, with women supporting BJP because the party has given women equal status to that of males, angering the latter. In addition, the BJP has sought to outlaw multiple marriages and triple talaq divorce in which a man simply tells his wife he divorces her.

It is hard to predict the exact number of seats each alliance would win, but everywhere this writer has travelled, voters tell him the NDA under Modi would be returned to office for another term, unless something major goes wrong.

Yours faithfully, Vishnu Bisram (In India)

Additional burden on our tax dollars

Dear Editor, The APNU/AFC Government will go down in history for all the wrong reasons: unprecedented corruption, cronyism and blatant conflict of interest imbroglio, mismanagement, and a plethora of failed promises; but probably the most notable will be its penchant for violating the Supreme Law of the land, our Constitution.

We have seen on two occasions that the Coalition failed:- in literally interpreting the Constitution in relation to the appointment of the GECOM Chairman, and in determining the ‘majority’ as stipulated by Article 106(6); and they claimed that the ‘spirit and intent’ are different from the literal interpretation.

Unfortunately, we are now witnessing an act which, on the surface, seems to obey the letter of the law, but which completely violates the spirit and intent of the law. This is the resignation of the four ministers, which resulted from the ruling of the High Court and which was upheld by the Court of Appeal. These Courts have held that it is unconstitutional for per-

sons swearing allegiance to a foreign state or power to be eligible for election to Parliament. The ministers affected are Joseph Harmon, the Minister of State; Carl Greenidge, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Dominic Gaskin, Minister of Business; and Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, Minister of Public Service.

The resignations and subsequent filling of the ministerial vacancies so created would seem to adhere to the letter of the courts’ ruling, but we have seen that these ministers will continue to function in positions created to give ‘lip effect’ to this ruling. The resignations were described by the Cabinet as ‘politically correct’ and a ‘demonstration for the rule of law’, while the President claimed that ‘adherence to the Constitution is an essential element of democratic governance and maintenance of public trust…I have a duty to ensure that the Government acts in accordance with the Constitution at all times.’

My question is: What would happen to ‘public trust’ when taxpayers come to realisation of the political

correctness ensuring that these four ministers will still continue to receive their salaries and perks while their ‘double’ will now be receiving those fat salaries and perks as well?

Instead of four ministers fleecing the Treasury, we now have eight. For instance, we now have Dawn Hastings-Williams as Minister of State and Joseph Harmon is the newly created Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency.

Of course the latter continues to ‘chair’ Cabinet, and is also the ‘duplicate’ for President Granger! Why this additional burden on taxpayers? I am sure we will be equally shocked when posts are announced for the remaining three.

We have seen, since this coalition’s assumption of office, that they have no regard for taxpayers’ dollars, other than taxing them to the hilt and then creating duplicitous positions to ensure the ‘good life’ for the ‘boys’ .

The PPP/C Government had 15 ministers, with

some, such as Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali, carrying at least three ministries on their shoulders.

But lo and behold! The coalition has nearly doubled the number of ministries.

This Government has 27 Ministries, a gigantic increase of 80 per cent! But this is not all, their salaries and benefits increased by between 50 and 100 per cent.

Can you imagine a minister with a greatly decreased workload being paid twice the amount? This is a brutal rape of the Treasury! This shows the ingenuity of the coalition when it comes to reckless spending and cronyism.

In conclusion, President Granger correctly concluded that ‘the ministers are not gone altogether, they are only resigning from the National Assembly’. They will remain to violate the spirit of the law and be an additional burden on our tax dollars!

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

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Foundation

...this question could help you make better decisions in your life

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t’s one thing to say that you want to achieve certain life goals, whether education, career, financial, or some others. It’s an entirely different thing to actually do the work necessary to accomplish those goals. In other words, talk is cheap! You have to want it and you have to want it bad! Why? Because the chances are that you have a lot of forces in your life that don’t always align with your life goals and can, in fact, actively pull you away from them. Even worse, they can actually hurt your efforts to accomplish your goals. These conflicting forces might include wanting to stay out late with your friends, eating unhealthily, spending too much time staring at a screen, not exercising, not studying enough, the list goes on. When faced with these options, you have to make a choice about what’s most important to you.

Forks in the road

I call these choices “forks in the road”, in which you have the option of two or more directions you can take. In fact, you are faced with potentially meaningful forks in the road every day in your life: “Should I go to bed early tonight?”

“Should I eat this junk food?”

“Should I put my phone away?”

“Should I do my homework now?”

There are many influences that can determine which fork in the road you take; for example, fatigue, boredom, equally or more attractive alternatives, and a multitude of distractions that now inhabit your life.

There are also bigger forks in the road at various times in your life: “Do I want to stay in school?”

“Should I change my major?”

“Should I quit my job?

These “existential” questions are impacted by some of the immediate forces I described above, but also by bigger concerns including your current capabilities, what school you want to attend, what your dream job is, and whether you can afford to take a particular fork in the road.

There are no right-or-wrong answers to any of these questions. The so-called correct answer depends on your values, interests, and goals. At those many forks in the road that you face every day, you must decide what is important to you. You must look at each fork and decide which one you will take. The motivation you bring to your goals, your commitment and determination to achieve your life goals, the priority that you place on those goals, and the competing forces acting as a siren’s call for your attention, time, and energy will dictate which road you take and whether you ultimately accomplish your goals.

Efforts = goals?

An important question for you to ask yourself as you are faced with these forks in the road is whether your efforts are consistent with your goals. In other words, are you putting forth enough effort to achieve your goals? I see a lot of people with big goals, but when I ask them whether their efforts equal their goals, few are willing to raise their hands. But one thing is for sure; if your efforts aren’t in line with your goals, you will not accomplish them. You have two choices, either increase your efforts to match your goals or reduce your goals to match your effort. Again, there is no clear fork to take here, just the fork that you choose.

people, their parents are also making a significant commitment of time, energy, money, and sometimes making big sacrifices in their own lives. This commitment from parents makes the ongoing commitment of young people especially important. For sure, parents don’t always feel like, for example, writing big cheque or waking up at 5:30h to drive their kids to early-morning sports practice, but they do it anyway because they want to support their children’s passion for something that is as positive and healthy. In turn, young people need to reciprocate in a similarly committed fashion by making choices that also best support their life goals. Without an alignment of commitment between children and their parents, there are going to be some very frustrated parents and some very unhappy kids. At these forks in the road, you should always go back to the basic question I suggested that they ask first: “Will it help me achieve my life goals?” Then, when you take the good road, everyone wins. (psychologytoday.com)

The question to ask

If you have made a true commitment to pursuing your life goals and are willing to “put your money where your mouth is”, then when faced with difficult forks in the road, you can ask yourself one simple question: “Will it help me achieve my life goals?”

This question takes all of the complexities of the many competing forces and boils them down to one simple notion that lies at the heart of striving toward your goals. This question also provides a clear distinction when you are tempted by other forces in your lives, most notably, screen time, sleep, and nutrition.

Once you’ve made a real commitment to your goals, this “Will it help me achieve my life goals?” question filters all of the forks in the road you face and makes your choice abundantly clear.

Especially for young people who are still figuring out their priorities and their commitments, one of the most common responses I hear when they are faced with a fork in the road is: “I don’t feel like it today.” This reaction often comes when they are confronted with a fork in the road between short-term fun and long-term commitment to their goals. I hear this when people are required to do extra work to get ahead, take on more responsibilities, when they are tired and aren’t in the mood to do the work, and when they would rather just enjoy themselves. Each of these situations is a test of your commitment to your life goals. The fork in the road that you take may very well determine whether you actually achieve your life goals.

“Commitment means staying loyal to what you said you were going to do long after the mood you said it in has left you.” —Jonathan Field, 5-time martial arts world champion

L

et’s take pop-up cards to a new level – we are going to show you how to make a twist-and-pop Mother’s Day card!

It might look like it’s a tricky card to make, but reality is it’s easy peasy and kids will make them in no time.

As you open up this card, the twisting mechanism inside will open up and pop out the ?? MOM sign (or anything else the kids write or draw),

What you need:

printable template (see site for full version) markers scissors glue scrapbook paper (optional)

It’s not just your commitment

As the saying goes, “It takes a village,” and that often applies to achieving life goals as well. When you make a commitment to pursue your life goals, you may not be the only ones making a commitment. Most notably, for young

Instructions

Print the template, the page with card on the coloured cardstock and the page with instructions and a couple template parts on white (or other bright) cardstock.

Colour the letters (and backgrounds if you wish).

Cut out the template parts (both sheets).

The card is ready to assemble.

Start by folding the largest of rectangles (the one with two triangles) in half. This will be the card base (the triangles should be on the inside).

Next, take the rectangle with three parallel dashed lines.

Fold along those dashed lines (w shape).

Fold along all dashed lines on the last rectangle. Make the folds crisp.

Unfold.

Grab the ends, gently pinch them and start bringing them together, this might look tricky, but it’s really easy.

Now apply glue on the triangle part of the folded paper (one side only)… …and stick it onto the card base (in the designated are marked with a triangle). Apply glue on the other side of the folded paper (on the triangle area).

And close up the card. Press down and wait for the glue to set.

Take the W folded paper and glue the ?? MOM on it.

Open up the card base (you’ll see a cross shape). Apply glue on the areas marked with the word glue.

Stick the W folded paper on the card. Set aside for the glue to set.

Trace the two rectangle shapes on scrapbook paper (both of them two times).

Decorate the card with them.

Larger one goes on the outside.

All done! (easypeasyandfun.com)

news

7

saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Constant power outages

Opposition Leader questions Govt’s energy policies …criticises lack of progress in renewable energy initiatives

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

W

ith constant power outages continuing to plague Guyanese on an almost daily basis, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is questioning exactly what Government is doing to improve the energy sector and implement viable renewable energy projects.

According to Jagdeo, Government has failed to live up to expectations when it comes to renewable energy. He noted that he, like many other Guyanese, is affected by blackouts on an almost daily basis.

“The blackouts are raging. I live on the East Coast.

And every single day, sometimes two, three times a day, we have blackouts. And

sometimes it lasts for several hours. I’m not sure if it’s just an East Coast problem, but what I heard, people elsewhere are getting it,” the Opposition Leader said.

He added that the party is appalled that there seems to be no immediate plans to address the situation.

According to Jagdeo, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is currently looking into the situation, adding that when it comes to the Demerara Interconnected System, no new power generation facilities are being put in place. This is despite the country being close to peak demand.

“And many of the sets are old, their installed capacity is close to peak. So the old sets are not performing and there’s no plan to fix it. That’s my big worry. This can only get worse.

This Government has failed on every plan it spoke about.

It spoke about solar, 80 to 100 megawatts of solar power. Nothing so far,” the Opposition Leader said.

Jagdeo noted that Government’s plans for wind and a project that would see a mixture of hydropower and heavy fuel oil have also resulted in no benefits to the interconnected grid. Additionally, he said that businesses and ordi-

The new power plant at Anna Regina

nary Guyanese continue to feel the effects.

It was only recently that Government commissioned a $1.8 billion power plant on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), but just one day after, reports emerged of residents being faced with constant power outages.

The multibillion-dollar plant was commissioned by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and other Government officials in April. At the commissioning, the Prime Minister boasted that with the new power

plant, there will be a stable and reliable flow of electricity.

However, mere hours

after the launch, the entire Essequibo Coast was plunged into darkness. At that time, residents thought

it was just a changeover but they remained without electricity. The situation worsened in the days that followed with the electricity fluctuating all day.

The long overdue 5.4-megawatt power station was commissioned at a time when residents living along the Essequibo Coast were plagued by a series of nonstop power outages, which affected persons throughout the region.

At the time, residents had said they had lost faith in the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) which they said was incapable of ending their woes. In 2018, only two of the five standby generators at the Anna Regina Power Station were functional. As such, engineers are appointed to work on a 24-hour shift.

Miner stabbed to death at Mahdia

A

miner was stabbed to death during a row over alcohol at Princeville Village, Mahdia, Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni).

Dead is Leavern Daniels, 44, of Princeville Village, Mahdia.

Reports are at about 23:45h on Thursday, Daniels and his friends were imbib-

ing at a shop when the suspect approached their table and requested a portion of their alcohol but this request was denied.

At this time, the suspect became annoyed and threatened to kill the victim after which he left. Shortly afterwards, Daniels was on his way to his mining camp when he was attacked and

stabbed to his abdomen by the suspect.

The victim was picked up and rushed to the Mahdia Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The suspect has since gone into hiding.

The victim’s body is presently at the hospital’s mortuary awaiting an autopsy.

8 News

saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

No arrest for biker’s murder as Police review CCTV footage

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s investigations continue into the gunning down of a 23-year-old biker, Patrick Matthew Fraser, at Norton Street, Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara, the police are yet to make an arrest.

This was confirmed by A Division Commander, Marlon Chapman, who told Guyana Times that the crime scene detectives continue to process the crime scene and the bloodstained items that were removed from same.

In addition, the police are also reviewing the CCTV footage that was retrieved.

The police contended that the victim was reportedly in a yard with friends consuming alcohol when it was alleged that someone discharged two rounds at him.

But Guyana Times had reported that the young man, who hailed from Republic Park, EBD, was hanging out with a group of friends during which an

Dead: Patrick Matthew Fraser

argument broke out among them and it was at this time that one of the men whipped out a handgun and discharged two rounds in Fraser’s direction, hitting him to the right side rib and the right upper leg.

However, a police source had also told Guyana Times that the young man was known to persons in the

area since he would visit his friends on a regular basis. He added that based on information gathered, the young man is not known to have enemies.

As such, detectives are working on the theory that the young man might have been shot and killed by someone he knew.

After the shooting, one of his friends, Alex Dwayne Doodnauth also called “Alli G” of Eccles, EBD, was interrogated whilst at the Diamond Hospital.

During interrogation, he reportedly told detectives that on the night in question, he was close by and overheard persons in the area talking about a shooting and upon enquiring further, he was told that “Whiteboy get shoot”.

He claimed that he immediately went to the crime scene where he saw the young man lying on the ground in a pool of blood and without hesita-

tion, he picked him up and rushed him to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre to receive medical treatment but unfortunately, he succumbed while doing so. Doodnauth was expected to be further questioned by the police.

Meanwhile, the police stated that although the young man was shot twice, they have only retrieved one .32 spent shell and one warhead. In addition, a pair of slippers and a bloodstained Polo hat were found at the scene.

Meanwhile, when contacted, a relative informed Guyana Times that the family is not in a position to speak to the media.

However, Guyana Times was told that the father of the dead man had warned him numerous times not to hang out with the “guys” in the “drugs block”. Patrick Fraser was described as a friendly young man who loved motorcycles.

Guard charged for discharging firearm in public place

A

42-year-old security guard attached to the GEB Security Service on Friday appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after he was charged with one count of discharging a loaded firearm in a public place.

Neville Garnett of Lot

15 C Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, denied the charge which was read by Magistrate Leron Daly, detailing that on March 2, 2019, at Camp Street, Georgetown, he discharged a loaded firearm within 100 yards of public way.

According to the prose-

cution’s case, on March 2, Garnett was carrying out his duties as an armed security guard at Republic Bank’s, Camp Street, Georgetown location, when several rounds went off, hitting a number of persons in the process.

The matter was reported

and advice was sought after which the charge was instituted.

In court on Friday, Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh did not object to bail.

Magistrate Daly released the guard on $50,000 bail.

The case will continue on May 24, 2019.

on Friday brought before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts and were remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan after they both denied joint

charges of breaking and entering, along with assault.

The first charge detailed that between May 4 and May 5, 2019, at Kumaka Waterfront, Region One, North West District, they broke and entered the dwelling house of Dwayne Payne

and stole US$5000 (GY$1 million), GY$330,000, one CCTV camera among other items totalling $1.5 million.

Meanwhile, another charge stated that on May 8, 2019, at the same location, the duo assaulted George Torrez, causing him grievous bodily harm.

Defence Attorney Mark Conway made an application for bail in which he presented the particulars of his clients.

However, Police Prosecutor Tracy Gittens objected to bail citing the seriousness of the offence and the overall cost of the valuables. Gittens further noted that Singh is a known character to the Police as he is facing similar charges in another court.

As such, the Chief Magistrate remanded the duo to prison. The case was transferred to the Mabaruma Magistrate’s Court and will continue on May 21.

Region 1 men remanded on break and enter, assault charges

T

wenty-five-year-old Leon Singh and his 24-year-old alleged accomplice, John Peters; both of Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini), were

Usurpers…

I

…in the house? t seems that in addition to Charrandas Persaud being a “Judas”, a “bribetaker”, a gold smuggler etc, he’s also a “usurper”. The former appellations were bestowed by the PNC/AFC combine right after the NCM vote, while the latter was uttered in the final appeal as to the validity of that vote in front of the CCJ by the Govt’s lawyer, one Courtenay, a former AG of Belize.

If the latter gentleman is representative of Belize’s legal talent, then it’s clear we don’t have to hang our heads or be sheepish about us having Basil Williams as our AG!!

After being hauled over the coals by the CCJ bench the day before on the matter of Granger’s unilateral appointment of Patterson as GECOM Chair, the fella repeated his bumbling performance as he concocted theories to rival the PNC/ AFC’s contention that 33 isn’t greater than 32!!!

Being a dual citizen makes Persaud a “usurper””!!

A usurper, of course, is someone who seizes or occupies a position either by force or without any legal right. The Belizean probably didn’t realise that we Guyanese know more than a thing or two about usurpers. We experienced Burnham rigging elections to be Prime Minister and then President and dictator from 1968 to 1985, and then Hoyte from 1985 to 1992!!

Now, on this dual citizen business, of course Persaud knew he was a dual citizen; but then, so did his party leaders. If he occupied his seat illegally, didn’t his party leaders conspire with him to do so?

More pertinently, if Persaud’s vote was invalid, weren’t those of the other Govt MPs -- Greenidge, Roopnaraine, Gaskin, and Harmon -- also invalid? And since the PPP had only 3 dual-citizen MPs to the Govt’s 5, wouldn’t they have won the NCM in that rump Parliament in any case?

The Belizean Basil-doppelganger, in his desperation to earn his mega fee, also didn’t worry that all the Government business, including its budget, would’ve been vitiated if dual citizen votes were “null and void” as he insisted!! Grilled on the issue by the CCJ, he blithely suggested that the courts could issue “temporary orders” to save budgets etc, out of “necessity”!!

Well, didn’t the lower courts validate Persaud’s vote by that same doctrine of necessity??

Courtenay also insisted that, in Guyana, MPs ALWAYS have to vote the party line because of the ‘crossing the floor’ rule; and NEVER THEIR CONSCIENCE!! Well, if that were so, what’s the purpose of Art 106 (6) when, with Govt MPs being merely rubber stamps, it could never kick- in to force the President and Cabinet to resign??

The man had the temerity to say that “debate in Cabinet” – which merely “advices” the President - suffices!! …and charlatans A “charlatan”, we’re told, is a person falsely claiming to have a special knowledge or skill; a pretender, quack, mountebank, sham, fraud, fake, humbug, impostor, masquerader, hoodwinker, hoaxer, cheat, deceiver, dissembler, double-dealer, double-crosser, trickster, confidence trickster, cheater, swindler, fraudster, racketeer; rogue, villain, scoundrel; phoney, sharp, shark, con man, con artist, hustler, flimflammer, flimflam man; grifter, etc.

There are so many synonyms for the charlatan because there are so many of them in the world. Now, there’s not much wrong when you puff yourself up a tad; everybody does it, since we all think we’re better than we actually are!!

But when people who’re in charge of our country -- as the PNC/AFC are right now -- go along with charlatans, then they guarantee disaster for our nation.

Just look at the Minister of Agriculture who was foisted on us for four years and you begin to get a glimmer of what’s at stake.

The question, of course, is why?? And the answer is: those in Government are also charlatans!! …and handlers Folks are wondering why Pres Granger sent 5 ministers to the CCJ hearings - Sydney Allicock, Nicolette Henry, George Norton, and newbies Tabitha Sarrabo-Halley and Haimraj Rajkumar. To keep an eye on the charlatan Basil and his doppelganger Courtenay??

Didn’t work!

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

news

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saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Govt Ministers have abstained from voting but not expelled – Datadin

Attorney-at-Law Sanjeev Datadin during his submissions to the CCJ on Friday

T

hirty votes have been accepted over the years in Guyana’s National Assembly as the majority and have been the deciding figure for numerous bills and motions being passed or shut down.

Therefore, to say that the vote in favour of the NoConfidence Motion against the Government by former AFC parliamentarian Charrandas Persaud did not help tip the scales to the majority is not in keeping with Guyana’s parliamentary trend.

This is according to Attorney-at-Law Sanjeev Datadin, who is representing Persaud at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in relation to the NoConfidence Motion against the APNU/AFC coalition Government which was passed on December 21, 2018, where Persaud’s vote

was seen as what has been described as the “deciding factor”.

Datadin in his submissions to the CCJ on Friday said that the Opposition – People’s Progressive Party (PPP) – when it was in Government, in the 2011 National Elections, had secured 32 seats in the National Assembly and the APNU and AFC together had one more seat than the ruling party of the day.

This, he said, resulted in a number of motions and bills put forward by the Government side in the House being voted against and ultimately no progress for some years since together, the two opposition parties joined forces and voted them down.

The CCJ heard that eventually, the now Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, then brought

a No-Confidence Motion against the PPP in 2014 but before that motion could have been debated, the then President, Donald Ramotar, had prorogued Parliament which eventually led to elections being called in a short time frame.

Datadin further explained that after the 2015 elections, the APNU/AFC coalition took office and had a one-seat majority in the National Assembly which they used to pass a number of motions and bills to date.

He pointed out that in some cases, the PPP had a majority on some of these bills since, in a few instances, Government Ministers themselves abstained from voting, adding that some of these very Ministers were also “dual citizens”.

Giving an example to the court, Datadin said that on July 30, 2018, several Government Ministers abstained from voting for duty-free concessions for two officials of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). He noted that despite the fact that they did not vote with their party, they were not removed from Parliament by the Government.

“Apparently, as much is being said about what transpires and yesterday (Thursday) there were some comments about the society that Guyana is…the truth is that before now several dual citizens have been in Parliament, participated

in Parliament, continued.

It was more honoured in its breach than in its observance. I am not saying that it is right your honour,” the lawyer said.

According to the attorney, 33 votes had been accepted as the majority when voting in the National Assembly for years by all parties in the House and, therefore, it still should be seen as such in the case of the validity of the NoConfidence Motion where Charrandas Persaud voted against the Government.

“We go on and on about where we would find a view about the interpretation of the Constitution. We have a Constitution that is fairly simple in what it says. It is unique.”

Crossing floor position

Meanwhile, attorney-at-law and President of the Guyana Bar Association, Kamal Ramkarran in his arguments pointed out that Guyana’s history in the National Assembly does entail the “crossing floor position”.

He explained that three members of three different parties had left their respective parties but were still sitting in those seats in the Parliament and continued to do so for a number of years.

Former AFC parliamentarian Charrandas Persaud

“Two are now Ministers in this Government, Minister Raphael Trotman and Minister Khemraj Ramjattan. One is now dead, Mrs Shelia Holder, so both parties had a rare moment of bipartisanship and got together and put this recall legislation in process.

And to answer the question of any similar NoConfidence Motion ever brought? One was brought in 2014 by current Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo.

But before it could be debated, the President prorogued Parliament and six months later dissolved Parliament and called elections, one was brought but it was never heard,” the lawyer submit-

ted.

According to Ramkarran, interestingly enough, at the time that the 2014 NoConfidence Motion was brought to the House, the combined Opposition (which is now Guyana’s Government) had 33 seats in Parliament.

He reiterated that given the historical background of Guyana, the case being tried in the Court has fundamental issues of democracy and rule of law intertwined with it.

“Those issues cannot be untied from the case, your honours…the suggestion by the Attorney General (AG) that the vote of a person against the votes desired by the other members of his list means that that vote is automatically nullified from the time he makes it or even from the time that he gets the idea. But this could not be so, that would mean that there is some sort of dictatorship of the list, we would not need the National Assembly, we could just have decisions by decree based on numbers in Parliament….”

He added that if the court were to take this this argument to its logical conclusion, then Parliament is a charade – that is – a dictatorship of the list. (Kristen Macklingam)

10 news

saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Boston insists MPs cannot vote “conscience” but toe party line ...to invalidate Charrandas’s NCM vote

A

s the case on the validity of the NoConfidence Motion passed against the APNU/ AFC Government on December 21, 2018, continued on Friday before the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Senior Counsel Neil Boston is maintaining that any Member of Parliament (MP) must vote in accordance with the party he represents although there is no statutory provision that supports this claim.

Boston, who is representing coalition Government supporter Compton Reid in the matter of the validity of former Government MP Charrandas Persaud’s vote against the Administration, told the Court that a political party functions on the strength of shared beliefs and that any freedom of its members to “vote as they please independently of the political party declared” will embarrass the party’s public image and popularity. It will also undermine public confidence which Boston said is the “source of substance” in its very survival.

Loyalty to party is the norm, he said, adding that “it is not like in London, this is a different system in Guyana, loyalty to the party is the norm being based on shared belief. To vote against your list is disloyalty, voting with the other side smacks of conspiracy… Mr Charrandas,

Attorney Neil Boston

pursuant to our system, Mr Charrandas has no constituency, he is put there as a front for the APNU/AFC list, that is his function there, and he has to carry out the mandate and the dictates of the list, nobody voted for him”.

However, this argument put forward by Boston was questioned by Justice David Hayton, who sought to clarify the evidence that would support the attorney’s line of reasoning.

“Where is the statutory provision that says he must vote according to the list?

And that if he doesn’t do so then his vote can’t be recorded? If that was what was intended, it could be simply stated like that. Nowhere can I find any provision like that,” Justice Hayton enquired.

Boston conceded that as much as there is no such provision, it is an obligation of the Court, having construed the purpose and intention of that section of the

Constitution, to prevent a member from voting against his list, adding that then the Court is duty bound to give effect to that.

“That would be the idea but the essence of ideas or the execution of them, it does not appear that the idea has been carried into effect in clear language in the Statutes,” said Justice Hayton.

Senior Counsel Boston confirmed to the Court that there is no section in the Statutes which says that the vote is not valid if a person votes against his or her party from which his or her name has been extracted.

“It does not say so. It is the Court [that] has to construe Article 156 (3) and come to the conclusion if this is the spirit and intention of Article 156 (3) that you can’t vote against your list without sending a letter to the list representative or the Speaker of the National Assembly then the Court is duty bound to

give effect to that spirit of the Constitution,” Boston said in his submissions to the court.

Boston was asked by the CCJ Justice Winston Anderson “How do you reconcile your position with the possibility under 106 (6) that the Cabinet could fall because the Government is defeated in a vote of confidence in the Parliament?”

But the attorney alluded to that having to be decided by the National Assembly at

“some future date” and that the legislators will have to “deal with this conflict”.

However, this did not sit well with CCJ Justice Winston Anderson.

“We are presented with it now and we have to interpret the Constitution now and it seems to me that 106 (6) is suggesting that the Government could fall on a vote of confidence. Would you accept that? …So how can a Government fall on a vote

of confidence if nobody can cross the floor? If nobody can vote against their list? How is it possible to give effect to 106 (6)?”

Boston in answering this stated that the relevant authorities “probably did not review that section in the way it ought to be reviewed and they will have to go back to the National Assembly to deal with that issue.”

(Kristen Macklingam)

ers at the Garden of Eden Power Plant. This caused a “lock out” of the busbar, facilitating the transfer of power from four generators.

According to GPL, the “sudden” loss of 18 megawatts of generator capacity resulted in the shutdown.

GPL’s poor services have come under criticism many times, primarily by the general populace. Residents on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), were faced with constant power outages in April, just one day after the commissioning of a $1.8 billion power plant at Anna Regina.

Just a few months ago, a loan was granted from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) to the tune of US$20 million, to be provided to the Guyana Power Light (GPL) for upgrading the services.

The loan was expected to facilitate the rehabilitation of 153km of GPL’s medium voltage and low voltage network and 6941 smart meters, including the associated transformers, service lines and distribution boxes along with the rehabilitation and extension of two 69/13.8KV substations at Kingston and Vreed-enHoop.

GPL’s interconnected system shuts down again

T

he Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS), which is operated by the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) on Friday reported yet another shutdown, causing power outages in several communities.

The utility company announced shortly after that the system was indeed nonfunctional and promised that the situation will be rectified.

On Wednesday, a burnt primary conductor on the L23 transmission line caused disruptions along Canefield to Auchlyne in Berbice. The interruption was necessary to connect the transmission line to the Skeldon generation facility.

Meanwhile, two weeks ago, the DBIS recorded a shutdown due to a fault in one of the circuit break-

Hard Rock Café opens in Guyana

A glimpse of the tasty burgers being offered by Hard Rock Café

H

ard Rock Café, an international franchise, on Friday opened its doors to Guyana at the Movietowne Mall, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown. Promising an unforgettable experience, management is offering food, drinks, entertainment and lots of side attractions.

The café is known for its exciting collection of memorabilia, such as an original piece worn by Michel Jackson that decorates the walls.

Rock star fans can now indulge in mouth-watering dishes and perfectly priced cocktails prepared by trained and enthusiastic staffers, while sitting among guitars and other musical instruments signed by legends such as Elvis Presley, Bon Jovi and pieces worn

by Rihanna, Katy Perry and Elton John among others.

Guests can look forward to fresh, high quality items from the Hard Rock’s menu,

already in 75 countries, as he explained why the brand was brought to Guyana.

“We saw the potential in Guyana and we thought now is the moment. This country is about to blow up. We think it’s gonna be very successful economically and I think this is the time for the brand to come,” Perez explained.

Hard Rock Café also promises non-stop entertainment with a stage already set

Vice President of Hard Rock Cafe, Tom Perez

including a selection of legendary burgers. The café also boasts an award-winning drink menu which includes Hurricanes and Margaritas with collectable glassware.

The entity have already hired 75 Guyana who are being trained by persons from across the world in preparation of the grand opening of the 4600 square-foot, stateof-the-art café this weekend.

The Vice President of Hard Rock, Tom Perez, told the media that the Café is

for locals to showcase their talent as well as foreigners.

The Café also has a mini store where music-inspired items as well as Hard Rock merchandise, such as T-shirts and key rings and other items can be purchased.

Guyana Times caught up with Perez who revealed that the brand already has plans for future expansion.

According to him, Guyana’s main airport may see a Hard Rock Café soon.

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Saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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Saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

The history of Mother’s Day

M

other’s Day is always celebrated on the second Sunday in May. It’s not a public holiday, but Mother’s Day is widely celebrated as a special day to honour all mothers and motherhood. Together, let’s honour the women who raised us—and all the mothers who sacrificed for their children.

Although the custom of setting aside a day to honour mothers has ancient roots, the modern observance “I can imagine of Mother’s Day mainly no heroism greater through the efcame about than motherhood” forts of a devoted daughter, Anna M ―Lance Conrad Jarvis.

A f t e r the death of her own mother in 1905, Jarvis wanted to recognise the sacrifices mothers made for their children. She organised the first official Mother’s Day celebration in May 1908 at a Methodist church in Grafton, West Virginia.

On May 8, 1914, US President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating the second Sunday in May Mother’s Day, and within a few years, the idea gained worldwide prominence. (adapted from almanac.com)

M o t h e r’ s D a y g i f t

M

other’s Day is such an important day: how can you ever say thank you enough to the woman who gave you the gift of life? We know that you want to celebrate mom the right way, but that finding a great gift can be an overwhelming task. That’s why, to help you, we’ve found the best Mother’s Day gift ideas for every superwoman on your list from new moms to mother-in-laws to grandmas. Whether you want a sentimental customisable gift, a timeless classic pick, or a cheap, last-minute gift on a budget, our gift guide has got you covered.

Flowers

When in doubt, opt for flowers.

Succulent Plants

Even if she doesn’t have the greenest thumb, a succulent garden is easy to maintain and brings freshness to

any room. It’s a great gift even for people who can’t keep plants alive, but still want some greenery.

Deep cleaning

Why does it seem like moms are always cleaning? Let her kick back while

unique characteristics your family.

of

Artisan 5-Qt stand mixer

If mom doesn’t have this iconic kitchen must-have already, Mother’s Day is the

perfect time to spoil her with one. It’s the best stand mixer we’ve tested, so rest assured knowing it’s a great gift.

Digital photo frame

Never again will she

using her smartphone for video streaming or for video chats. However, in such cases, the battery gets depleted quickly and your mom might not remember to charge it. This is when

a power bank comes in, which can help her prevent any of that situation when she wants to use her smartphone but can’t owing to the insufficient battery.

Smartphones

Smartphones have gradually become an essential part of our lives. If

Family Names Throw Pillows

This cute pillowcase basically brands your couch – and your mom will love the personalisation. (esty.com)

someone else does the work by booking her a deep cleaning session on cleaningpros @ facebook (231-5286).

Custom family portrait

What’s sweeter than a hand-drawn portrait of your family? Nothing! These custom portraits are drawn individually to capture the

have to switch out the photos in her old frames – this one does all the work for her, and can hold thousands of photos.

Power banks

In the age of smartphones, where displays are getting bigger with every passing day and the number of ways one can use a mobile handset is on the rise, your mother might be

13

Saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

ideas

your mom is still using a feature phone or you think she needs an upgrade, you

can also choose to gift her a new smartphone. (adapted from

goodhousekeeping.com and timesnownews.com)

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saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Bring mom flowers!

How about a bouquet with flowers that symbolise your relationship?

Mother’s Day founder Anna Jarvis en-

mother in Italian.)

visioned all mothers wearing a white carnation on Mother’s Day. Purple irises are also a special choice for mothers, symbolising faith and hope. Or, simply pick flowers that have meaning to your own mother!

Design and plant a garden

Give her the gift of a small garden. You can buy the plants and also plant them in the ground. Perhaps your mother wished she had flowers in a shady border? Or, if your mother enjoys cooking, perhaps she’d love an herb garden outside her kitchen window. (Here are good herbs for the kitchen.)

Bring mom breakfast in bed!

How about a chocolate croissant from your local bakery?

Or, wake mom up with this delicious Frittata de Nonna. (Nonna means grand-

Cook mom a special dinner!

Think about her favourite food. Here are some yummy recipes passed down through the generations—made by moms and grandmothers!

Bake a cake!

Traditionally, children in England always baked a cake for their Mother’s Day – called Mothering Sunday. If you like this tradition, here’s a truly delicious (and better than boxed) cake recipe: Chocolate Mousse Cake.

Ingredients 12 ounces semisweet chocolate morsels 3 tablespoons water 3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar 7 eggs, separated 1 teaspoon vanilla 24 ladyfingers

3 tablespoons light rum 2 cups heavy cream, whipped 1/2 square unsweetened chocolate curls Instructions Melt chocolate morsels with water in a double boiler. Add the sugar and mix well; cool slightly. Add the egg yolks and mix well. Cool slightly. Add the vanilla. Beat the egg whites until stiff and fold into the mixture.

Line the sides and bottom of a 9x5x2¾-inch loaf pan with transparent wrap.

Place a row of ladyfingers (unsplit), very close together, along the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle with ? of the rum and pour on half of the chocolate mixture. Repeat.

Finish with a third layer of ladyfingers sprinkled with rum. Chill for 24 hours.

To serve, turn upside down on a chilled platter; remove the plastic wrap carefully. Cover the sides and top with whipped cream. Spread the top with chocolate curls. Serve in slices.

Serves 10.

Make a homemade gift

Mothers love gifts from the heart! Here are a few simple ideas: Lavender Sachets Rose Potpourri Gooseberry Vinegar Fruit Jam Gift Jars

Give your mother a locket with your photos

Forget about a digital photo gift.

Imagine your mother’s delight to have a beautiful locket with photos of her children. She’ll treasure it forever!

Give your mother jewellery with your birthstone

For example, if your birthday is in August, give your mother peridot stud earrings. She’ll always think of her dear child when she wears them.

Make your own card

In our home, it’s a tradition to make a homemade card every year. Here’s one

way to make Homemade Note Cards.

Wondering what to write in the card?

How about sharing a funny story or happy memory of you and your mom? It will make her smile.

Funny stories and happy memories with mom

“My mom sang a lot around the house and I thought she made up all of the songs.

When I got older, I started to hear those same songs on the radio and was like ‘Hey …’” – Sarah P, editor “When I was a teenager my mother went back to college to get her Master of Library Science – studies that required she learn how to programme computers.

This put me in the unique position of being able to help my mother with her homework.” – Peter R, programmer “When I was young and all of my older siblings were in school, my Mom and I would have breakfast by the kitchen window and watch the hummingbirds. We loved watching the hummingbirds!” – Colleen Q, art director “Some of my happiest memories are singing songs with Mom as she played the piano. She also encouraged me to play.

Even though it was a struggle at times, I am glad to have had lessons, not only because I discovered how to play an instrument, but also because I learnt how to read music and how the notes worked together to make a melody.” – Heidi S, editor “My Mom and I have what we’ve always kind of called “our psychic connection” because it always seems like she will call me when I’ve been thinking of her a lot that day, or I’ll call her and she’ll say she’d been thinking of me. It seems like my daughter and I also have the “psychic connection”!” — Stacey K, staff “Before I started school, Mom took me to the library every week to take out 5 books, and return the 5 books from the prior week. We’d read together almost every day.” –Colleen Q, art director (Adapted from the Almanac)

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saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

16 news

SATURday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

2 years after legislation

Tobacco Control Council finally launched A

lmost two years after Guyana passed legislation to regulate the sale and use of tobacco products, the Government has finally assembled a council which will be responsible for enforcing the law.

Dr Shamdeo Persaud has been named Chairman of the 9-member council, and Attorney Cassandra Alves as the council’s Legal Officer. Other councillors are Mahadeo Ramjag from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Shailendra Rai from the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS); Desiree Edghill, Executive Director of Artistes in Direct Support; Melissa Del-Richards, Assistant Director of Sports; Dr Mayon Amsterdam, Technical Officer at the Public Health Ministry; Dr Latoya Gooding from the Giving Hope Foundation; and Chronic Diseases Coordinator Dr Kavita Singh as the council’s secretary.

The mission of the council has been influenced by the Public Health Ministry’s

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence (sixth from right) along with the Tobacco Control Council members

framework of the Health Vision 2020, which is a post-Millennium Development Goals agenda for Guyana through expanding universal health coverage and enabling health-enhancing behavioural and cultural changes in and through the delivery of improved health services.

The council was established following the mandate of the Tobacco Control Act, which stipulates that a council be established with the important role of advising the Minister on matters related to tobacco control and the administration and enforcement of the Act.

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence has said the council would play a pivotal role in how the ministry addresses non-communicable diseases.

“It is my strong belief that you (the council) are well positioned to do the things that are required of you, because you represent all sectors of our community and you can interface with our citizens in our community groups -- of the entertainment sector, of social media, our religious organisations etc -- to spread the message of how important it is of us kicking that habit of smoking,” Lawrence asserted.

The council’s Legal Officer, Cassandra Alves, told the gathering that Guyana is the first country in the Caribbean to implement a Tobacco Control Council. She, however, outlined the hard road ahead, as several regulations need to be implemented and enforced.

“In accordance with the

regulations passed last year, the tobacco industry had to start complying with the rules on the 25th of February this year, and they have started.

We still have some problems with compliance; some people have stretched out the image too much, some have opted to not put certain things, some have put things on the package that they were not supposed to put there.

“The tobacco industry cannot even put on the package a health message that they have made up, but only those that are prescribed by the regulations,” Alves explained.

The Tobacco Control Bill was passed in the National Assembly on July 27, 2017.

At that time, Guyana had the third highest prevalence

rate of smoking in the world.

However, in 2018, Guyana received the World Health Organisation’s (WHO’s) World No Tobacco Day Award for the passage of the bill.

The bill bans smoking at all indoor workplaces and certain outdoor places, such as in any waiting area or queue in a public place, including but not limited to any public transport stop, bus stand or bus park.

The legislation will be enforced by the application of several penalties in the form of fines and prison sentences for ‘certain transgressions’.

These range from a fine of $200,000 along with 6 months’ imprisonment for persons who breach the new regulations, to fines for business entities of up to $9 million dollars.

Brazilian navy ships in Guyana for military drills

T

hree ships belonging to the Brazilian Navy are currently in Guyana to conduct a military exercise, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has announced.

The vessels are docked at Port Georgetown and are berthed at the wharf at Coast Guard Ship Hinds (GDF Coast Guard Headquarters), Ruimveldt.

The patrol vessels, the NPa BRACUI,

the NPa GUANABARA, and the NPa GUAIBA, form the Brazilian naval contingent which is conducting the 2019 edition of CARIBEX. CARIBEX is an annual operation conducted by the Brazilian Navy, which sends a task force to navigate Caribbean waters and to visit ports of friendly nations in the region.

“The mission’s objective is to carry out military drills at sea in order to increase training and operational readiness among the ships involved, as well as to contribute to closer ties of friendship with the countries visited,” GDF said.

War and Sea Captain, Robledo de Lemos Costa e Sa commands the Brazilian military seafarers who number 121 in total.

As is customary, Captain Coata e Sa along with his senior naval officers, are scheduled to pay a courtesy call on Chief-of-Staff Brigadier Patrick West, prior to his contingent’s departure on Saturday morning.

News

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saturday, may 11, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

AG asks CCJ to rule not for legal reasons but expediency As Maduro cracks down,

...says "unrest" might follow adverse ruling against Govt

A

ttorney General of Guyana, Basil Williams has asked that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) confirm the decision of Guyana’s Court of Appeal in relation to the question of the votes being required for the validity of the passage of the No-Confidence Motion to be 34 votes in the National Assembly as against 33.

In his submissions to the court on Thursday, he also reiterated that “the principle is, the majority cannot be the same for simple and in absolute”. In this argument, the coalition Government presented that given the fact that there is no half human or half vote, one had to be added to make it 34 for an absolute rather than a simple majority in Guyana’s 65-member Parliament.

This argument was first proffered by Attorney-atLaw Nigel Hughes, the husband of sitting Government Minister, Cathy Hughes, following the passage of the No-Confidence Motion on December 21, 2018. Since

Attorney General Basil Williams

then, Government has held on to the notion and moved to the courts to offer validity to the view.

“The provisions in Section 106 (7) and 106 (7) of Guyana’s Constitution have dire consequences, catastrophic consequences, for Government. If successful, the motion could lead to the premature fall of the Government and possibly the premature disillusion of the National Assembly,” Williams told the Court in his submissions.

He stated that the

move by former AFC parliamentarian, Charandass Persaud, to vote in favour of an Opposition tabled No-Confidence Motion on December 21, last, is an “act of treachery” alluding to the fact that the coalition Government had only entered office for some three and a half years before this and that the former Member of Parliament’s vote should not be seen as valid given the arguments put forward by other attorneys representing the Government of Guyana.

In relation to elections being held in Guyana, the AG noted that in previous years, the country’s history has seen some unrest and aftermaths. He said that this could be repeated if an election is held in Guyana without the proper steps in place.

“That is the difficulty that we have. And which the Court, we are asking to take judicial notice of, that around elections if the list is not right, if there is a perception of people multiple voting, phantoms etc, and the list is not a credible list, it is going to be difficult and that is the history of Guyana.”

AG Williams added that the second highest court in the land had already spoken on this issue and, therefore, urged that the CCJ rule in that light as well.

The Court of Appeal, in March, last, had ruled in a 2-1 split decision, that a majority of 34 votes would have been needed to validly pass a motion brought against the Government.

Venezuelan legislators see intimidation

A

Venezuelan Opposition legislator on Friday fled to Colombia while others said threatening messages had been spraypainted on their homes or intelligence agents had been following them, amid a broad crackdown by the Government of President Nicolás Maduro against Congress.

The country’s top court this week accused 10 legislators in the Opposition-run Congress of treason for participating in a failed April uprising against Maduro’s Government, and security forces on Wednesday arrested the second-highest ranking legislator, Edgar Zambrano.

Further arrests could cripple the functioning of the legislature, which has been a crucial part of the Opposition’s strategy to unseat Maduro amid a hyperinflationary economic collapse that has fuelled an exodus of millions of citizens.

Luis Florido, one of the lawmakers accused of treason, said in a social media post that he left for neighbouring

Colombia to avoid possible arrest.

“I consulted with many of my friends before leaving the country, and they all told me I should not let them catch me, that I should not give a trophy to the regime,” Florido said.

Earlier, lawmaker Maria Martinez posted a photo on social networks of a graffiti message she said was painted on her house on Thursday night that read “We’re going after the deputy.”

The message was signed with the word “colectivos”, which in Venezuela refers to armed pro-Government gangs that Opposition activists accuse of leading intimidation campaigns against Maduro’s critics.

Five other legislators said similar messages had been painted on their homes or the homes of family members.

Three legislators said intelligence vehicles were circling their homes or homes of their family members.

The Information Ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment.(Excerpt from

Reuters)

Persons with disabilities are T&T Cops stop plot to kill dependable people – CMO State witness outside court …as 11 graduate from training programme

– 13 hitmen halted

T

hirteen people from a well-known gang in the Northern Division, who were found lurking around the Tunapuna Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, were arrested in connection with a plot to murder a State witness as he was about to leave the court.

Manager of the Centre (left) Arthur Lewis with Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud (centre) and the graduates

E

leven persons with disabilities on Thursday graduated from a technical and vocational programme offered by the Open Doors Centre, which is organised to prepare individuals for the world of work.

Held at the Herdmanston Lodge, the graduates received their credentials and were charged by Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Shamdeo Persaud to utilise their skills by seeking employment. He stated that the concept behind this initiative was to promote inclusivity among everyone, regardless of their situation.

“No one should be left behind, regardless of what your condition is. Whether it is that you wear spectacles or whether you have something a little bit more challenging, that you’re all included in what we do as a society. You’re all included in social life…cultural activities…religious beliefs and your faith but also that you are gainfully employed,” he said to the graduates.

He explained that the Public Health Ministry will seek to find jobs for some of the persons who would have recently graduated.

“Wherever we can, we will try to find secure jobs for you. In several of our departments, we have a couple of graduates from this programme who come back to help us…Persons with disabilities are dependable people. They are there on time, they give more than their best most of the time.”

Meanwhile, Manager of the Centre, Arthur Lewis related that the organisation was established since 2001 and programmes were offered through financing from the European Union (EU). At that time, such services were lacking for persons with disabilities, making them very essential.

“It was on the strength of a background that lacked any form of vocational training for persons with disabilities and the employment opportunities that started working with persons with disabilities in Guyana. The

result was the Open Doors Centre. The aim of the project was to make available, opportunities for vocational, education and skills training,” Lewis stated.

According to him, extracurricular activities are also offered to the trainees, which demonstrates their potential in other areas. However, the main agenda is to create jobs for these persons.

“You could see that persons with disabilities do have potential and they can do things and go places and be recognised. Work attachment is one of the key components of the programme.

It gives the trainee an opportunity to gain real job experience,” he said.

The Open Door Centre offers training to persons with disabilities of all ages. The programmes include information technology, home décor, carpentry and a recently introduced beauty care course and barbering. The Best Graduating Student was Althea Thomas, a 32-year-old wheelchair user.

The State witness, 38, gave evidence in an attempted murder case on Wednesday. The attempted murder occurred in 2015 in St Joseph and the victim was said to be leaving a funeral when he was shot. The State witness was an eyewitness to the shooting four years ago.

Guardian Media understands that the State witness is currently in the witness protection programme, but may have gone to the court without Police protection on Wednesday to give evidence. The arrested suspects are between the ages of 20 and 35. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, MAY 11, 2019

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

dilbert

Keep your private matters secret. Don’t give anyone cause to take advantage of you. Focus on personal gains and improvements, and choose to live your life in a healthy and stress-free environment.

CANCER

Take on a challenge that excites you. Don’t worry about what others think. If you develop your plans and put them in motion, you won’t be disappointed. A reward is heading your way.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

Be careful how you handle domestic and personal matters. The changes that you or someone else wants to make should be considered and handled with maturity.

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

(June 21July 22)

Peanuts

Personal gains should be your intent. Take a break from professional worries.

Explore new places with someone who brings out the best in you.

Emotions will be difficult to dismiss. Don’t let the words and actions of others get to you. Be true to yourself, follow through with your plans and take time out to relax.

Don’t underestimate what you can do. Face change with optimism, and make whatever comes your way work for you. Attitude will make a difference. Stay positive and productive.

Deal with personal problems using common sense, and make adjustments to improve your life. Eliminate stress by doing the right thing. Lower your overhead.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Share your ideas only with like-minded people. If you let someone who doesn’t share your vision influence you, it will stifle your plans.

Determination and maintaining integrity are essential.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

Do what feels right and best for you. Don’t allow anyone to meddle in your affairs. Love, romance and quality time with someone special are encouraged.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

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

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Know your physical and financial limitations, and pursue a course that will bring positive change to your personal life and relationships. You can’t buy love.

Less talk and more action will be in your best interest. It’s what you accomplish that will count in the end. Concentrate on doing what you can to get positive results.

Don’t take on too much for the wrong reasons.

Trying to please someone who is critical or cranky isn’t in your best interest.

Put your energy where it will do some good.

saturday, MAY 11, 2019

19

VIVO Indian Premier League – Edition 12…

Clinical Super Kings set up finals date with Mumbai

I

t will be Chennai Super Kings v Mumbai Indians again. The two most successful franchises in the IPL will fight it out for the trophy once again after MS Dhoni’s men produced a clinical performance in a must-win game.

They chose to bowl, so they had to keep the runs down, and they did thanks to Dwayne Bravo, Imran Tahir and Harbhajan Singh. Their 12 overs cost only 78 runs and brought five wickets.

And needing 148 to win, they had their openinng partnership come good as Faf du Plessis and Shane Watson both hit fifties to turn an iffy chase into a cakewalk in the end.

The specialist Prior to this game, Harbhahjan had bowled 22 of his 36 overs in the Poweprlay this season. And he’s been effective, picking up eight wickets at an economy rate of 7.80. It was strange not to see him open the bowling but as soon as there were two lefthanders at the crease - one of them was Colin Munro, whose strike rate against spin this season is 66 (188 against pace) - it was time.

The offspinner eventually took out Shikhar Dhawan, which was even more useful considering he has been

Capitals’ most prolific batsman of the season. At the end of a good shift - 4-0-31-2 - the 38year old felt happy he could still keep up with the younger spinners in the IPL. DJ’s in da house Capitals were 54 for 2 after eight overs. And since they had Shreyas Iyer at the crease, with plenty of firepower to follow, ESPNcriicnfo’s forecaster had them reaching a total of 168 at that point.

But you know that thing with Dhoni and data, don’t you? You know, who wins that battle.

Capitals could make only 26 runs off the next 30 balls they faced, losing three wickets.

And they were suddenly 80 for 5.

A major reason for the slide was Dwayne Bravo, who finished with figures of 4-019-2. He is often criticised for being too predictable; going slower balls all the time. But here, he got his variations just right. Not simply changes of pace but of length. His first wicket came off a bouncer that Axar Patel guided to deep third man. And his second was a yorker at 139 kph, from round the wicket, taking out Keemo Paul’s leg stump. He signed off by bowling an 18th over that cost only three runs.

Pant bats like Dhoni He was 17 off 14. He saw wickets fall around him but he wasn’t panicking. And because of that, the captain of the team that was on top, was anxious.

Rishabh Pant was batting like Dhoni and Dhoni knew how dangerous that can be.

It seemed like time to celebrate though when the left-hander mis-hit a Tahir googly all the way to long-off.

Deepak Chahar was there, right on the edge of the boundary, but as he took the catch, he carelessly went over the rope. Fielders in the IPL have been pulling off those catches like it was routine and considering this was the wicket that could break the game - at a time when Pant was only 24 off 18 - that was a big mistake.

Dhoni immediately shook his head, instincts over-riding his captain cool persona, and yanked Chahar out and replaced him with du Plessis.

Pant couldn’t bat through the innings, finishing with 38 off 25 balls, and with the bighitter gone and only Nos. 9, 10 and 11 to face the eight balls still left in the innings, Forecaster suggested Capitals would only make 134.

But out came Trent Boult, Amit Mishra and Ishant Sharma and they contributed 22 runs together, with two fours and as many sixes, to drag them up to 147.

Bottas fastest as Mercedes dominate second practice

V

altteri Bottas led Lewis Hamilton as Mercedes dominated second practice at the Spanish Grand Prix with a performance that will worry Ferrari.

Ferrari have introduced an upgraded engine in Barcelona as the pressure builds to take their first win of the season but lagged behind their rivals.

Charles Leclerc was 0.301 seconds off the pace, with Ferrari team-mate Sebastian Vettel 0.088secs adrift.

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen was fifth fastest, 0.751secs slower than Bottas.

Practice is not always an accurate representation of form in qualifying, and it remains to be seen how the cars will compare when driven to their maximum.

But 0.3secs is about the average advantage Mercedes have had on pace so far this season.

Bottas, who leads the championship by one point after four races, was just 0.049secs quicker than Hamilton, who improved his time on his second lap on the fastest ‘soft’ tyres while his team-mate did not.

Bottas also headed the first session earlier

Valtterri Bottas

in the day, when the Finn was 0.115secs quicker than Vettel, with Leclerc a further 0.106secs behind.

And on race pace, Mercedes appear to be even further ahead, judging by the long runs on heavy fuel that the teams do at the end of the session.

The Mercedes cars appeared at least half a second quicker than the Ferraris on equivalent tyres, and on the basis of Friday pace Ferrari look more likely to be fighting off a threat from Red Bull’s Max Verstappen on Sunday than they do battling Mercedes for the race win.

Racing Point’s Lance Stroll came off the track at turn nine in the closing stages of first practice Behind the big three, Haas driver Romain Grosjean was best of the rest, ahead of teammate Kevin Magnussen, McLaren’s Carlos Sainz and the Toro Rosso of Daniil Kvyat, who was two places and 0.057secs ahead of Anglo-Thai rookie team-mate Alexander Albon.

British novice Lando Norris was 16th fastest for McLaren and George Russell was the faster Williams driver at the tail of the field, 0.590secs ahead of team-mate Robert Kubica. (BBC Sport)

The CSK top order finally steps up It had been a problem all through the tournament. They’d been slow. Capitals made as many runs in one over - 16 - as Super Kings did in their first four.

They’d lost wickets - the worst of all the teams - and here du Plessis and Watson began with a mix-up so bad that both of them were running to the same end.

Twice.

Also, they were playing on a pitch where it was best to get a lot of runs in the Powerplay because it would get slower (and tougher) as the game went on. That’s easy to do when you have confidence coming into a must-win game, but when you don’t, the only way forward is conserving wickets and hoping for the best. That’s probably why 27 for 0 after five overs might well be in line with Super Kings’ plans. The final over of the Powerplay went for 15 runs as du Plessis hit Ishant for a hat-trick of boundaries and began the surge that took him to a half-century off only 37 balls. Watson took a little longer to bring out the big shots and so well were they

3

SCOREBOARD

Delhi Capitals Innings (20 overs maximum) PP Shaw lbw b Chahar 5 S Dhawan c †Dhoni b Singh 18 C Munro c Bravo b Jadeja 27 SS Iyer (c) c Raina b Tahir 13 RR Pant † c Bravo b Chahar 38 AR Patel c Imran Tahir b Bravo 3 SE Rutherford c Watson b Singh 10 KMA Paul b Bravo 3 A Mishra not out 6 TA Boult b Jadeja 6 I Sharma not out 10 Extras (lb 5, nb 1, w 2) 8 TOTAL (20 Overs, RR: 7.35) 147-9 Fall of wickets: 1-21 (PP Shaw, 2.3 ov), 2-37 (S Dhawan, 5.2 ov), 3-57 (C Munro, 8.5 ov), 4-75 (SS Iyer, 11.3 ov), 5-80 (AR Patel, 12.5 ov), 6-102 (SE Rutherford, 15.5 ov), 7-119 (KMA Paul, 17.5 ov), 8-125 (RR Pant, 18.4 ov), 9-137 (TA Boult, 19.3 ov) BOWLING DL Chahar (4-0-28-2) SN Thakur (1-0-13-0) H Singh (4-0-31-2)

batting together that as early as the 10th over, Forecaster was

RA Jadeja (3-0-23-2) I Tahir (4-0-28-1) DJ Bravo (4-0-19-2) Chennai Super Kings Innings (target: 148 runs from 20 overs) F du Plessis c Paul b Boult 50 SR Watson c Boult b Mishra 50 SK Raina b Patel 11 AT Rayudu not out 20 MS Dhoni (c) † c Paul b Sharma 9 DJ Bravo not out 0 Extras (lb 5, w 6) 11 TOTAL (19 Overs, RR: 7.94) 151-4 Yet to bat: RA Jadeja, DL Chahar, Harbhajan Singh, Imran Tahir, SN Thakur Fall of wickets: 1-81 (F du Plessis, 10.2 ov), 2-109 (SR Watson, 12.2 ov), 3-127 (SK Raina, 15.6 ov), 4-146 (MS Dhoni, 18.4 ov) BOWLING TA Boult (4-0-20-1) I Sharma (4-0-24-1) AR Patel (4-0-32-1) A Mishra (4-0-21-1) KMA Paul (3-0-49-0)

predicting a Super Kings victory at 98%. (ESPN cricinfo)

20

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saturday, may 11, 2019

Blake’s agent questions resistance to his World Relays 4x200m inclusion

C

ubie Seegobin, the agent who represents Yohan Blake says he is still to understand why Jamaica’s track and field bosses refused to allow the 2011 World Champion to run the 4x200m relay at the IAAF World Relays this weekend.

News broke this week that Blake, the second fastest man in history over the 100m and 200m, had withdrawn from Jamaica’s relay squad and did not show up in Yokohama, Japan, where the World Relays will be held from May 11-12.

Blake’s season-best 9.98s makes him the fastest Jamaican over the 100m in the world this season. His 20.57s makes him the third fastest Jamaican over 200m behind Akeem Bloomfield 20.24s and Andre Ewers 20.40.

Seegoobin said not allowing him to run the 4x200m relay is illogical.

“The truth is they selected him for the 4x100m and he wanted to be selected for the 4x100 and the 4x200m and we don’t understand why he wasn’t selected for the 4x200m because he has the second fastest time for all Jamaicans that are eligible,” Seegobin told Sportsmax.TV on Thursday.

“There is one university kid who is faster but apart from (Ackeem) Bloomfield, he is the one so he wasn’t selected and I discussed it with them (JAAA). I told them to let’s try to make it work and they didn’t seem to care to discuss. I sent them a letter officially (withdrawing Blake from the team).”

An incensed Seegoobin said Blake would have been a great asset to the team had he been allowed to compete in both relays but the team bosses chose not to yield to his requests.

“The last reason they said to me was that there were 39 minutes between the 4x100 and the 4x200 but they could still put him in the pool and he could still run a round and then we could see after the 4x1, how he feels,” Seegobin said.

“I mean, its Yohan Blake. How can you have (other) people in both the 4x100 and the 4x200 pool and you give me that kind of reason? It’s not logical what they’re saying so what is their reason.”

He said the coaches tried to give him assurances that Blake could have been included in the 4x200m relay had he been in Japan, but Seegoobin said he was sceptical about the suggestion.

“Coaches came to me and said, ‘you know once Yohan is there… I am not going to let Yohan go all the way to Japan on the word of a coach. I have a letter from them saying he is selected for the 4x1, it doesn’t say he is selected for the 4x2.

We get there and they start playing their politics and say you weren’t selected why are you here. We can’t run you,” Seegobin said while also wondering what criteria was used to select the squad that bows into competition on Saturday.

“They need to say what the criteria are for selecting that

team. What are the criteria? There doesn’t seem to be any criteria because there are people on that team, I don’t know how they got on that team.” (Sportsmax)

Yohan Blake

Madrid Open: Thiem beats Federer to set up Djokovic meeting

D

ominic Thiem saved match points to end Roger Federer’s clay-court return and reach the Madrid Open semi-finals.

Swiss Federer saved match points in his quarter-final on Thursday but squandered two of his own in the second-set tie-break against Thiem.

Austria’s Thiem eventually came through 3-6 7-6 (13-11) 6-4 to set up a meeting with world number one Novak Djokovic.

Fifth seed Thiem previously beat 20-time Grand Slam champion Federer in the Indian Wells final in March.

Fourth seed Federer, 37, was playing in his first clay-court tournament for three years.

Thiem, a predominantly clay-court player who lost to Rafael Nadal in last year’s French Open final, recovered from a slow start against Federer.

He created five break points on the Federer serve in the second set, but the Swiss held to force an eventual tie-break.

Federer had match point at 8-7 and 10-9 in the tie-break but Thiem saved them both and won four of the final five points to ensure a deciding set.

Thiem broke Federer early and went on to serve out the match at the second attempt.

He will play Djokovic on Saturday after the Serb received a walkover to the semi-finals.

Djokovic had been set to face Marin Cilic but

the Croat pulled out after suffering with food poisoning.

Meanwhile, Rafael Nadal will face Stefanos Tsitsipas in the other semi-final.

Halep to meet Bertens in final Simona Halep continued her bid to regain the world number one ranking by beating Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic to reach the Madrid Open final.

The world number three overcame a secondset fightback from 18th-ranked Bencic to win 6-2 6-7 (2-7) 6-0.

Romania’s Halep, 27, will overtake Naomi Osaka at the top of the rankings if she wins the title.

She will play Kiki Bertens in Saturday’s final after the Dutchwoman beat Sloane Stephens 6-2 7-5.

Bertens, who lost to Kvitova in last year’s final, has yet to drop a set in Madrid, although Halep leads the head-to-head record 3-2.

Halep has reached the Madrid final four times in her career and won the title in 2016 and 2017.

Bencic, who beat Japan’s Osaka in the quarter-finals, had won her past two meetings against Halep.

However, Halep, who describes clay as her favourite surface, was dominant in the final set.

(BBC Sport)

Simona Halep

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SATURday, may 11, 2019

21

UG Trojans sink Vikings in prep match FAB Mining Company continues cricket resuscitation on the WCD

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The victorious UG Trojans

n their bid to defend their title at the University Games in Colombia in May 2019, the UG Trojans have continued their winning ways, defeating the Vikings 87-38 last Tuesday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

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Having lost a few games, and placing fourth in the GABA/Let’s bet under-23 division tournament, the University side bounced back with a commanding win over the Vikings, whom they had encountered in the past.

The Vikings had come

with the intention of upsetting the Trojans before they depart for Colombia, but received the shock of their lives when the Trojans stifled their scoring.

The Trojans led 12-10 at the end of the first period, but accelerated their scoring in the second quarter to lead by 10, with the score reading 31-21.

Heading to the third quarter, fitness started to play a major role, as Trojans finished 43-31 at the end of the turn. Things took a drastic turn for the Vikings when they practically handed the Trojans the final quarter, scoring 7 against the Trojans’ 44.

For the Trojans it was do-or-die, as they needed the win to boost their confidence in preparation for the

University Games.

Speaking with Guyana Times Sport, Trojans coach Warren Wilson said,” For the length of time we have been training, I’ve seen improvements in the chemistry of our team. We have also seen improvements in our defensive and offensive readiness, but we still need to tighten up on a few minor fundamentals. Other than that, I think we are fairly ready; I have good confidence in the ability of the squad. I think we have bounced back well, as when we departed to Kwakwani we lost badly, but as a team we did not allow it to get to us. But other than that, we have a good chance of defending our title”.

The UG Trojans depart for Colombia on May 20.

Ireland seek to bounce back after opening defeat

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fter conceding the tri-series opener to West Indies by 196 runs, Ireland will look for their first win of the series when the two teams collide again on Saturday.

After round one of the tri-series, we’ve had a West Indies win, West Indies defeat, and a washout. It is now time for the next, and final, round in that cycle.

The last clash between West Indies and Ireland had a world-record opening partnership, a near-400-run total, and a near-200-run victory. On the positive side, that’s the sort of performance that will do wonders for the side’s confidence ahead of ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2019.

On the flip side, however, West Indies could do with more competition – the harder they are pushed ahead of CWC 2019, the better.

Ireland are not a part of the tournament, so there are no immediate big-picture implications from their perspective. But a win against two of the top ten ODI teams in the world would be a wonderful next step in their progression, exactly a year removed from their Test debut.

Kevin O’Brien, the big-hitting all-rounder can match the burly West Indies hitters stroke

for stroke, and can also contain some runs by not letting the ball come on with his right-arm medium pace.

Hope has scored back-to-back centuries in the series, notched up his career-best ODI score, starred in a record opening partnership with John Campbell and became the fastest West Indian to 2000 ODI runs. Enough said.

Malahide should offer slightly more friendly playing conditions, with minimal chances of rain despite lingering clouds through the game.

It could bring swing into play, making this an ideal orientation for conditions likely to be encountered in England during the World Cup. Squads Ireland: William Porterfield (c), Andrew Balbirnie, George Dockrell, Josh Little, Andrew McBrine, Barry McCarthy, James McCollum, Tim Murtagh, Kevin O’Brien, Boyd Rankin, Paul Stirling, Stuart Thompson, Lorcan Tucker, Gary Wilson West Indies: Jason Holder (c), Fabian Allen, Sunil Ambris, Darren Bravo, John Campbell, Jonathan Carter, Roston Chase, Sheldon Cottrell, Shane Dowrich, Shannon Gabriel, Shai Hope, Ashley Nurse, Raymon Reifer, Kemar Roach

Man-of-the-Match Malcolm Hubbard, who contributed 4 for 24 and 22 with the bat, receiving a trophy from FAB Manager/Company Secretary Troy Khan

Winning captain Yutesh Dhanpaul receiving a prize

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he Feroze Afzal Barakat (FAB) Mining Company has been throwing its support behind sports in general on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD). With the rains now approaching, the company is eagerly awaiting the dry season to continue the venture of bringing sports to everyone on the WCD. The FAB Mining Company recently concluded the Amerith Rai (Rocky) Memorial T20 tournament, which featured many of the top teams of the WCD battling it out for top honours. In the end, Zeeburg and Rising Stars contested the grand finale. Zeeburg emerged victors as, led

by Richardo Poloram who made an attractive 39, inclusive of two fours and four maximums, they posted 154; and Rising Stars could only amass 90 all out in 14.1 overs, with Malcolm Hubbard’s off-spin accounting for 4-24 and Travis Drake supporting with 2-9, thus allowing Zeeburg to lift the championship trophy and winner’s purse of $200,000.

Speaking with Guyana Times Sport, Manager/ Company Secretary of FAB Mining, Troy Khan, said, “Amerith Rai (Rockey) lost his life in a hit-and-run tragically on December 17, 2017. He was a very good cricketer, from the same village of the company’s CEO. Apart from that, he was a very respectful guy, so we just wanted to do something for him.”

Asked what the company has achieved through these sporting ventures, Khan responded, “Well, we are not looking for achievement; but we want to believe, after being so long among cricket in this region, it’s important for us to recognise the persons who have made contribution towards the game, so the youths can build on (it). Rocky certainly did.”

Khan also noted that it was only recently that FAB Mining Company started with a few neighbouring villages at the club, Meten-Meer-Zorg West. After that, the company was approached by almost all the teams in the West Demerara to join them, mainly because cricket was not being played in that area.

Khan related that the company has come a far way, and is currently working towards bigger and better things in the future.

22 Corporate entities significantly boost local boxer I saturday, MAY 11, 2019

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

n many other countries, sport is seen as a full time job in which an athlete’s only concern is to train and compete.

As a result, the belief that not having to focus on other commitments gives sportsmen and women alike the opportunity to completely dedicate themselves to perfecting their craft.

In Guyana, however, this is not the reality as yet in the sporting arena, and many athletes are forced to take up a day job to pay the bills.

The first instance of athletes being supported by corporate entities was witnessed on Thursday afternoon, when the Dquan Shipping and Trading and the Delmur Shipping entities presented decorated boxer Jamal Eastman with gear and a monthly stipend that they would continue to provide.

The Caribbean Lightweight Campion will now be able to focus on defending his title later in the year, and getting ready for other international engagements.

President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), Steve Ninvalle, views the companies’ commitment as a significant step in the right direction for boxing and sport in general.

“It’s a significant step, because we hope that other business enterprises will follow suit. It’s hard by itself to be able to concentrate on your training alone, so this will go a far way with assisting Mr. Eastman, who has to defend his title later this year in Trinidad and Tobago,”

Dquan Shipping’s Darren Elcock handing over a pair of gloves and a cheque to Jamal Eastman (centre) in the presence of Steve Ninvalle (left)

Ninvalle said.

The GBA boss went on to explain the advantage that foreign athletes hold over local athletes, who are forced to train and work simultaneously. Ninvalle has thus appealed to corporate Guyana to get on board with the movement.

Fernandes credits team preparation for Endurance win

“We honestly hope that other business enterprises will catch on to this. We have Keevin Allicock and many other fighters who need to just be able to focus on their sport alone. It is extremely hard when you go overseas and have to participate against other boxers who are just employed in the sport alone. In Guyana, you have people who have to work, and training has to take a back seat to employment,” he explained.

Speaking on behalf of the benevolent companies, Darren Elcock explained he is aware of the challenges that athletes may face, and said the companies are elated to lend Eastman a helping hand.

“We’re very proud and happy to be able to give support and help. I know how hard it is to train and be able to transform yourself to reach an international level, especially in a combat sport. So, anything we can do, we are very happy that we can. I wish you luck, and I hope that you can maintain your title and achieve bigger and better things,” Elcock stated.

Often described as a man of few words, Jamal Eastman lived up to the description. However, the young Berbician did not fail to express his eternal gratitude to Delmur and Dquan Shipping, and pledged that the stipend and gear would allow him to perform to the best of his abilities.

(Jemima Holmes)

GDF joins Int’l Military Sports Council

Second in Command of the Coast Guard, Commander Vernon Burnette (left foreground), represented Guyana and received the official certificate of membership (GDF photos)

T Adrian Fernandes receiving his trophy for the overall win

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t the presentation ceremony for the Endurance meet, decorated driver Adrian Fernandes, who has been dominating the track recently, attributed his success to rigorous preparation and the work of his team, Ramchand Wreckers.

The Endurance Championships presentation ceremony was hosted at the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club venue in Thomas Lands, Georgetown on Thursday evening, and saw some of Guyana’s best drivers and teams being duly rewarded for their efforts.

On their last race day at the South Dakota Circuit at Timehri, Adrian Fernandes had endured more than two hours on the track to take the overall prize in the 1600cc category with 81 laps completed.

Speaking about his achievement, Fernandes noted that all the credit is due to his competent team, who ensures that the vehicle is ready for the turf.

“It went very well. We did a lot of preparations with the car to ensure that things were nice and solid, and it worked out. The team worked very hard. I always think that I have the easiest job, which is to do my best on the day; but it’s the team that puts in the late hours in the night and grinding early into the morning to make

sure the car is well prepared.

“Lucky for me, we have a very strong team that keeps giving me the best car that does the best on race day,” Fernandes said.

Disclosing that preparation is key, Fernandes highlighted the importance of ticking all the boxes, especially in such a long race.

“The preparation is very difficult.

Sometimes they pull the car apart and put it back together. Unlike a circuit race, ten laps finish very fast, within like ten minutes; but to go for the two hours, you have to ensure that every bolt is tight and everything is double checked, and you don’t have a chance to come in and fix. So, luckily, we’ve been able to keep strong for this year so far,” he explained.

Other drivers who were rewarded on Thursday evening were: Anand Ramchand, who won the 2000cc class while coming in fourth overall with 72 laps; and Reeyaz and Richard Hamid, who finished on 71 laps.

The pair of Azaad Hassan and Davin Panday crossed the line second in both overall and the 1600cc class with 79 laps.

Dawolu Harper came third in the 1600cc and overall category with 77 laps.

he Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is now a full member of the International Military Sports Council (CISM), following the organisation’s General Assembly and Congress held recently in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

CISM is an international sports association composed of the armed forces from

resented Guyana and received the official certificate of membership, GDF said in a statement to the media Friday.

Guyana’s accession to full membership means that soldiers will now be able to compete at all CISM activities, considered by some to be the Olympics of the Armed Forces, with over twenty Military World

member nations accepted by the General Assembly. Membership is open to the armed forces of all nations officially recognised by the United Nations (UN).

The fundamental aim of CISM is to promote sport activity and physical education between armed forces as a means to foster world peace. This ideal is encapsulated in the CISM motto, “Friendship through sport”.

Attending the conference was Second in Command of the Coast Guard, Commander Vernon Burnette, who rep-

Championships for different sports.

CISM also organises continental and regional competitions, including the Military World Games and Winter Games.

These are multi-sport events organised

by CISM in conjunction with CISM member nations.

The 1st Military World Games was held in 1995 in Rome, where 93 nations competed in 17 different sporting events to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the end of the 2nd World War.

guyanatimesgy.com

saturday, may 11, 2019

Hand-in-Hand 3-Day Inter-County tournament…

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Berbice clinch title with 5-wicket win against Demerara – Umrao claims impressive 11 for 62

Kelvin Umrao had 5-21 and 6-41 in the match

By Brandon Corlette

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efending Under-19 Three-Day Inter-County champions, Berbice, regained their title with a hardfought five-wicket win over arch rivals Demerara at the Lusignan Community Centre Ground. On the third and final day, the match commenced at 13:00h due to the inclement weather and the wet outfield.

Kelvin Umrao was the star of the final day with 6-41, completing his fourth five-wicket haul in this 2019 tournament.

Demerara resuming the final day on 12-5, were bundled out for 58 in 23 overs, with a lead of six, after scoring 60 all out in their first innings.

Berbice were tasked with a chase of 65 for victory, which

they completed in 20.4 overs, ending victorious on 65-5.

Earlier, Demerara continued their nightmare performance with the bat, two runs into the final day, they lost Dequan Bamfield who was cleaned up by Umrao when he was taken at the wicket for two. The wickets continued to fall at regular intervals as two Demerara wickets bit the dust with the score on 18.

Sachin Singh, who was held back on the second day, was sent to bat at number eight, and he recorded the second duck of his poor match.

He was undone by a Junior Sinclair off-spinner that was full in length. Singh, a West Indies U-19 selectee, showed little foot movements to the dull delivery, and that led to his demise.

Demerara were further reduced to 18-8 when Pradesh Balkishun’s survival innings of three from 36 balls ended when Blairmont’s Nigel Deodat made a mess of his stumps.

Joel Spooner, arguably the best right-arm off-spinner in the tournament, added 19 runs with his captain, Ashmead Nedd, before his top-score of 17 came to a close.

After hitting a sweet six, he was taken at short cover

by Sinclair off the bowling

Kevlon Anderson

Sachin Singh is bowled all ends up for a second duck in the match (Brandon Corlette photos)

of Umrao. His innings was decorated with two fours and one six.

At 37-9, Demerara looked far from reaching 50, but Qumar Torrington added 15 runs with Nedd as the score progressed to 58 all out. The innings came to an end when Nedd was bowled for the second time in the match. On this occasion he scored five, and was bowled by Deodat.

Torrington, who hit one of the two sixes of the day, remained unbeaten on 15.

Umrao ended with 11 wickets in the match after his 6-41 in the second innings

from 13 overs, including three maidens. Sinclair and Deodat had two wickets each for the Berbice boys.

In reply, Berbice had a cautious start, with Alex Algoo and Sinclair adding 24 runs for the opening wicket.

Algoo was dismissed in limited overs fashion when he hit one at long-off to Andrew Samaroo off the bowling of Joel Spooner. He had scored 10 from 34 balls.

Sinclair was removed for nine via the run out route as Berbice slipped to 32-2 in pursuit of 65 for a championship win.

A 31-run partnership between Seon Glasgow and Kevlon Anderson ensured some calmness in the heated chase.

As the players were buzzing on the field, Anderson attempted to sweep a ball but was caught for 16.

Anderson departed with the score on 62-3, as Berbice required three more runs for victory. They lost two more wickets, and ended on 65-5 in an unconvincing victory.

Glasgow top-scored with a hard-working 18 from 35 balls, as Nedd and Spooner ended with two wickets each for

Demerara.

After the match, the Berbice captain disclosed that he had mixed emotions, as his team had played poorly with the bat. The player of the match, Kelvin Umrao, was happy with his performance, finishing with 11 wickets in the match.

Berbice will switch their attention to the one-day format when they meet Essequibo at Albion on Monday May 13, 2019.

NBS renews sponsorship of BCB 40 Overs 2nd Division Tournament

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he New Building Society (NBS) has renewed its sponsorship of the Berbice Cricket Board’s (BCB’s) 40 Overs Second Division Tournament, and will be pumping more than $800,000 into its staging for another year.

This tournament is by far the largest in the Caribbean, with 90 teams participating in its round-robin format.

BCB President Hilbert Foster has hailed the renewal of this sponsorship as another Red Letter Day in the rapid development of Berbice Cricket over the last fourteen months. He said the 2018 edition was completed in a record of seven months, despite a break of three months because of rain.

It has been revealed that the main objectives of the NBS in sponsoring this tournament are: to promote the game of cricket at the grassroots level in every Berbice village; to expose new talents; and to allow elder players to play and younger players to interact with experienced payers on the field and in the dressing room.

One of the new rules governing this tournament stipulates that no team can field more than two under-19 players (born on or after September 1st, 2000).

Teams preparing to participate in this edition

of the tournament are: Blairmont Community Centre, Achievers Cricket Club, D’ Edward Cricket Club, Cotton Tree Die Hard, Bush Lot United, Bush Lot Rising Star, Police Cricket Club, Edinburgh Warriors Cricket Club, East Bank Blazers, Tucber Park Cricket Club, Young Warriors, Rose Hall Canje Welfare, Mt Sinai Cricket Club, Mental Hospital Cricket Club, Guymine Cricket Club, Kildonan Cricket Club, Whim National, Rose Hall Town Bakewell, Port Mourant Cricket Club, Albion Community Centre, Tamarind Root, Toopoo Cricket Club, Fyrish Cricket Club, No. 72 Cut and Load Cricket Club, Dukestown Cricket Club, Skeldon Titans Cricket Club, Crabwood Creek All Family Cricket Club, No. 64 Fighting Marines and No. 48 Challengers Cricket Club.

The teams will be divided into eighteen zones, with the top one from each zone advancing to the playoffs and then quarterfinals.

Foster has hailed the BCB longstanding relationship with the NBS, and has said the financial institution’s sponsorship is vital to the development of the game in both Regions 5 and 6.

He has also related that the tournament will feature the likes of Kevlon Anderson, Kevin Sinclair, Adrian Sukwah, Kevin Umrao, Garfield

BCB President Hilbert Foster receiving a sponsorship cheque and Trophy from NBS Manager Rana Persaud in the presence of other staff members

Benjamin, Nigel Deodat, Seon Glasgow, Devon Clements and Sasenarine Sukhu.

NBS Manager Rana Persaud, in brief remarks, said the NBS is pleased with its relationship with Berbice Cricket, and expressed confidence that

the 2019 edition would be successful.

The winning team will carry home $100,000 and the NBS Trophy, while the runner-up team will receive a $50,000 prize along with a trophy.

CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championships 2019…

Guyana’s squad confirmed

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he Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) on Friday confirmed the final 12-player rosters for its Beach Soccer Championships.

Guyana is among the competitors in the biennial competition, which is set to take place from May 13-19 at the Puerto Vallarta Stadium in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The Jaguars are in Group ‘D’ along with El Salvador, Guadeloupe and Belize in the four-group tournament.

The Guyana squad is comprised of Trevon Archibald, Jeffon Figueira, Jermain Grandison, Jamal Haynes, Cordel Johnson, Deshawn Joseph, Simon Kennard, Shane Luckie, Jashaun Moore, Keon Sears, Ethan Sparman and Michael Wilson.

El Salvador will be Guyana’s first opponents on May 14, then Guadeloupe on May 15 and Belize on May 16.

The 2019 edition, to be held with the support of the Municipal Government of Puerto Vallarta, will have the participation of the best

national beach soccer teams in the region.

After round-robin play, the first and second place finishers of each group will advance to the quarterfinals, then quarterfinals’ winners will advance to the semifinals.

Semifinal winners will automatically qualify for the

tournament’s final, as well as the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Paraguay 2019.

In the last edition of the CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championships, held in the Bahamas, Panama overcame Mexico in the final to win their first Beach Soccer title.

saturday, MAY 11, 2019

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Hand-in-Hand 3-Day Inter-County tournament…

Page 22

Berbice clinch title with 5-wicket win against Demerara – Umrao claims impressive 11 for 62

Fernandes credits team preparation for Endurance win

Page 22

CONCACAF Beach Soccer Championships 2019…

Page 23

Guyana’s squad confirmed

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