Guyana Times Thursday October 10, 2019

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Differently abled persons given 'agriculture experience' …charged to use agriculture for entrepreneurship

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4072

thursday, OCTOber 10, 2019

Shrinking workforce shrinking NIS finances – GM

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Guyana looking to tap into Qatar’s petroleum P7 expertise

Page 3

...7000 sugar workers fired by Govt a major factor

advisor No National President’s attempts to woo Assembly Region 10 RDC for sitting today – clerk biomass project P12

P2 Workers entering Guyana should be vaccinated – PAHO …country should seek complete Yellow Fever vaccination coverage

Page 10

69 persons rescued from cages at T&T church

Page 16

Double suicide

Man succumbs after attempting to P7 kill wife

“I am apolitical” – cricketer Chris P10 Gayle

No discussions on PM candidate – Granger P11

P9 Minister, Chairman clash on long-term investments for NIS

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thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Workers entering Guyana should be vaccinated – PAHO …Guyana should seek complete Yellow Fever vaccination coverage

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uyana has been free of the Yellow Fever virus for many years but maintaining this positive track record will require stringent efforts by public health and other related officials.

This is according to Country Representative of the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), Dr William Adu-Krow, who shared that Guyana sits between countries in South America where the virus is endemic – a factor which should not be ignored.

He was speaking at an event organised to create capacity in handling Yellow Fever in the country. This was amid concerns that Yellow Fever continues to pose as a major concern in the Americas. Despite vaccinations, the virus is spread among non-human primates, especially mosquitoes in the tropical rainforest.

PAHO/WHO is seeking to eliminate the international spread of Yellow Fever by ensuring that countries achieve total vaccination coverage. Countries in South America, such as Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru and French Guiana, presently have active cases.

“If we have been Yellow Fever-free since 1968, we need to do more in terms of surveillance to keep it that way. In 2019, three countries in the regional Americas: Bolivia, Brazil and Peru re-

ported confirmed Yellow Fever cases, occurring between December 2018 and February 2019,” Adu-Krow informed.

Presently, the Public Health Ministry’s vaccination coverage reaches 95 per cent of the population.

He critiqued that while this coverage is significant, other persons are still alienated.

As such, the other five per cent should now be targeted, achieving total coverage.

“Even if we have a 95 per cent coverage for Yellow

Fever. That means that for every birth cohort, we are missing five per cent. In four years, we have about 20 per cent of persons without effective vaccination. And that is why we talk about mass immunisation campaigns now and them to do more the part for these that are missing,” he related.

It was shared that there are many ways to target every area of the country.

To prevent international spread, the vaccine can be introduced during the country’s mass campaign. For endemic regions, health officials are asked to conduct vaccination campaigns while collecting data.

“The strategic objective of the elimination is to protect populations at risk, prevent international spread and contain outbreaks quickly. For this, it is recommended that the introduction of the Yellow Fever vaccine into the national vaccination scheme for chil-

dren in endemic countries, achieving high vaccination coverage, vaccination campaigns for persons residing in risk areas and updates in campaigns in susceptible geographical areas”.

Another concern is the transmission of the virus from international workers to a country where the vector is present.

The Country Representative signalled, “A particularly concerning scenario would be exportation of the disease to a country where the vector is present and population immunity levels are low, which could lead to local transmission.

It is recommended that major sectors recruiting international workers with potential exposure such as the extractive mining industry, construction workers and forestry industries take measures to ensure their staff and families are vaccinated”.

Yellow Fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic disease which is transmitted from one person to the next by infected mosquitoes.

According to the WHO, the “yellow” in the name refers

PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr William Adu-Krow

to the jaundice that affects some patients. Symptoms vary from fever, headache, jaundice, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

In fact, persons were informed that the vaccine is “safe, affordable and a single dose provides life-long protection against Yellow Fever disease. A booster dose of Yellow Fever vaccine is not needed”.

Vaccination strategies which can be issued to prevent transmission are: routine infant immunisation, mass vaccination campaigns designed to increase coverage, and vaccination of travellers going to Yellow Fever endemic areas.

news

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thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Thursday, October 10 – 03:00h04:30h and 14:30h – 16:00h and Friday, October 11 – 03:30h – 05:00h and 14:30h – 16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Shrinking workforce shrinking NIS finances- GM

...7000 sugar workers fired by Govt a major factor

Thursday, October 10 – 14:35h – 16:05h and Friday, October 11 – 15:00h – 16:30h.

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

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

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

Winds: North-Easterly to South SouthWesterly between 2.23 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 02:15h and 14:41h reaching maximum heights of 2.29 metres and 2.35 metres.

Low Tide: 08:13h and 20:34h reaching minimum heights of 0.87 metre and 0.86 metre.

wednesday, october 10, 2019

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NIS General Manager Holly Greaves

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s the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) rings in its 50th anniversary of serving the nation, General Manager Holly Greaves has warned of the effects the shrinking legitimate workforce is having on the scheme’s finances and long term viability.

The General Manager was at the time speaking on Wednesday at the distribution of bursary awards that mark the 50th anniversary. According to Greaves, the scheme has had to face a shortfall in contributions during the period under review.

Greaves noted that from January to August 2019, the fund collected little more than half of the $26.6 Billion target.

And during that very period, NIS spent $16.8 Billion or 65 per cent of the $25.7 Billion allocated for current expenditure.

“At the end of December 2018, the fund stood at $32.9 Billion. A brief examination of our performance over the period January to August 2019 revealed that the NIS collected $15.8 Billion or 59 per cent of the $26.6 Billion budgeted target for 2019.”

“A further $9 Billion is projected to be collected between September to December 2019.

As a result, the projected revenue is targeted at $24.8 Billion,” Greaves informed the gathering, which included Finance Minister Winston Jordan.

According to Greaves, the main contributor to these escalating expenses was benefit payments which amounted to $15.3 billion. Pension accounted for most of this, at $14.3 Billion, while short term and industrial payments were $960 and $155 Million respectively.

Greaves also spoke of the recommendations from the 9th actuarial review, which includes a 2 per cent hike in the contributions rate. But for all these recommendations, the shrinking workforce is still an issue NIS has to grapple with.

“Over the 50 years of our existence, the scheme has registered 30,563 employers, 731,917 employed persons and 35,134 self-employed persons.

However, the scheme is currently providing coverage to 5,679 active employers, 173,758 active employed persons and 10,734 active self-employed persons," she said.

“The decline in the active employed population does not augur well for the future of the scheme since it is expected that those in the workforce would be able to sustain payments to the pension population. The trend of movement from the structured workforce to an expanding informal workforce that is not complying with NIS regulations seems to be continuing.”

Former Chairman of the Berbice Bridge Company Incorporated (BBCI), Dr Surendra Persaud, who is also the Chairman for the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), had announced steep increases to the tolls at the facility.

Guyana Times was told that Dr Persaud was forced to push for the increase in tolls in order to protect NIS investment. NIS has majority voting rights on the BBCI Board of Directors.

A gathering of NIS staff as they listened to General Manager Holly Greaves

NIS

NIS was started in 1969 as the main social security provider. Today, it has 14 offices across the country and over 600 permanent staff. But since the dismissal of thousands of sugar workers, late payment of their severances and the firing of about 2000 Amerindian Community Support Officers (CSOs), financial analysts have outlined worry about the financial status of NIS. Earlier this year, Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram in an interview with this publication on Guyana’s unemployment rate had explained that this may impact payments to NIS and income tax.

According to the accountant, many persons do not see their NIS deductions in the positive light of being a contribution to their future pension, but rather, they see it as a deduction from an already small salary.

Tax collection is not the only thing taking a hit when there is large-scale unemployment, as NIS contributions are also affected. For instance, concern has been expressed that layoffs in the sugar belt could undermine the scheme’s position.

This is particularly so if the scheme were to pay unemployment benefits.

Between 2017 and 2018, Government closed Wales, Enmore and Rose Hall Sugar estates and fired over 7000 workers.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had said that the idea of paying out these benefits did not take into account the current financial status of the Scheme and its ability to meet its current obligations.

He noted that the last actuarial report recommended that focus be placed on building the reserve to avoid a deficit. In fact, it was disclosed in that report that the life of the Scheme should come to an end by 2022 unless strategic plans for revenue earnings and expansion of the investment portfolio were effectively implemented.

“What has happened since is that this Government has fired 7000 sugar workers, many others. Let’s say maybe 20,000 more have lost their jobs. Take of the 20,000, just take another 8000 who were paying NIS, so those are people who are not contributing to NIS,” he explained.

This translates to decreased inflows for NIS and payouts that would remain constant or increase. In the last financial statement issued by the Scheme, it had showed a deficit of over $800 million.

In addition to the over 7000 sugar workers, who were fired from the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and the CSOs who were dismissed by Government, Barama Company Limited was also forced to close its operations after several of its concessions were taken back by Government

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guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, october 10, 2019

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

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Misinformation

ust a few days ago, the People’s National Congress (PNC) held a rally in Linden in observance of its 62nd anniversary. The occasion, which was seen as a launch of its campaign as an election approaches, saw the presence of West Indies cricket giant Chris Gayle. That raised questions as to his possible support or endorsement of the PNC, and by extension, the APNU/AFC coalition.

From the images, those in attendance were clearly overjoyed at being able to interact with one of the world’s most famous cricketers. Not many would want to pass on such an opportunity, having been informed of his intended presence.

The specifics of that is unclear. However, to mobilise and energise the party’s base for that political event in the mining town, one could speculate that there may be more than just informing of Gayle merely gracing the occasion.

The APNU/AFC coalition government has become very unpopular, even among its strongholds in various parts of the country. That’s by its own doing having failed to deliver on any of its promises since taking office in May 2015. Its boast of providing a good life for all Guyanese remains just that: a boast. During that time, it gave itself a hefty raise in salary and unleashed some two hundred new taxes on the ordinary citizens.

Under its watch, cost of living skyrocketed, making it extremely difficult for many Guyanese to adequately provide for their families.

As the citizenry struggles to cope with soaring prices, increasing crime and unreliable electricity supply, the Government seems engrossed with extravagance at the expense of the now burdened taxpayers.

The extravagance seems pervasive from travel, dietary, outreaches, security, regional and national events. Many stories have been written about this and concerns have been raised over the depletion of foreign reserves, allegedly used to sustain Government’s increased spending. With over twenty-five Ministers in the Government, the extravagance therein, is difficult to miss.

With a focus other than trying to improve the lives of all Guyanese and to move the country along a development trajectory as was the hallmark under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration, the APNU/AFC Government seems more concerned about itself. This, which is evident from the massive pay hike it took and benefits allegedly derived from wanton corruption, has cause much discontent among Guyanese, including its supporters.

Having confined itself to offices and having been broadsided by the No-Confidence Motion (NCM), APNU/AFC rushed and implemented outreach programmes, suddenly under the guise of bringing Government to the people. They were poorly attended despite the lure of promises and service provision. Even meetings within strongholds have not met the desired outcome.

It is within that context Gayle’s presence in Linden would have to be examined. Is it, cognisant of being unable to attract good crowds, APNU/AFC saw Gayle’s presence as an impetus to improve attendance? Just before that, Gayle visited the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre, interacted with students and teachers and made a donation. The excitement on the faces of those he met there speaks to how revered he is and the positive impact he has, especially on young minds.

From all reports, this is what he does in his homeland in Jamaica and other places he visits. It is most commendable and probably expected. Is it, cognisant of Gayle’s humane gesture, the APNU/AFC saw an opportunity to cash in with the sole intention to maximise participation given the ongoing discontent?

It seems a fair question, especially since Gayle is not seen as a political figure, and that the Leader of the PNC, President David Granger, was booed by his own supporters in the past in Linden.

With his presence giving rise to the belief of support or endorsement, Gayle may have taken some flack. He was quick to release a statement pointing out that he didn’t endorse or support any individual or political party while in Guyana. He said he was invited to Linden to participate in a community outreach, which is an opportunity he relishes as a sports personality. He also pointed out that he decided to go to Linden since it’s one of the places he never went to in Guyana.

That raises the question: what exactly was the supporters of APNU/AFC told with regard to Gayle’s Linden visit? Were they given the impression that his appearance could be seen as an endorsement? Whatever the answer, one can be led to believe that APNU/AFC capitaliszed on Gayle’s passion for community outreaches and deliberately scheduled it to coincide with the rally.

It can also be asked if there was an element of misinformation on the part of APNU/AFC in enticing supporters through Gayle’s presence. Misinformation is not alien to the coalition. It’s because of that, it challenged the validity of the NCM. The current political stalemate has its genesis in that challenge.

Despite evidence to the contrary, APNU/AFC continues to peddle misinformation on its adherence to the Constitution and the provision of the good life to all. A valid question would therefore be: was Gayle, who should have known better, deliberately misinformed?

People’s Progressive Party/Civic Presidential Candidate, Irfaan Ali shares a photo moment with some members of the Sanskaar Bhaarati International Guyana Hindu Mandir, Diamond Housing Scheme on Tuesday evening

Handouts cannot develop lives over the long term Dear Editor, I refer to a news report in the Guyana Chronicle of October 1, 2019, caption “Nappi residents overjoyed about first-time water access in homes”. Editor, I found many misleading statements in that article that brings into question its credibility.

Editor, under the PPP/C administration, the water sector had experienced unprecedented progress and development, as the focus was on ensuring greater access to potable water was given to the local residents. The PPP/C administration’s investments in the sector included, but was not limited to, solar water systems, drilled wells, trestles and gravity feed systems.

The strategy, if we had won power in 2015, was to expand the water treatment facilities to ensure more people can benefit from potable water.

But the record of the PPP/C Government can stand up to scrutiny since it has enough empirical evidence to show that the PPP/C administration transformed the lives of thousands in the Amerindian communities. It is an incontrovertible fact that the successive PPP/C administration made Hinterland Development a priority which redounded to the benefit of Guyana’s first peoples. Numerous socioeconomic initiatives were implemented in all hinterland communities—all to eventually bring hinterland development in conjunction to coastal development without sacrificing traditional values and customs.

Primarily, the ultimate goal of these development projects under the PPP/C was focused on making these hinterland communities self-sufficient, with a robust system of self-administration under the Amerindian Village Councils. After all, it was the PPP/C who established the first ever Ministry of Amerindian Affairs in 1992 to focus the agenda on rapid hinterland developments.

And we should not forget that it was then President Cheddi Jagan who designated Amerindian Heritage Month and honoured the first Guyanese Indigenous Member of Parliament, Stephen Campbell,

by naming September 10 every year as Amerindian Heritage Day. Editor, I want to take this opportunity to remind the readers of the following:

Presidential grant

The PPP/C Government had provided the necessary funds for presidential grants, which had significantly impacted Amerindian communities. The presidential grants had allowed many villages to implement empowerment/development projects.

Land titling and demarcation

The implementation of the US$10.7M Land Titling Project was well advanced under the PPP/C administration. This programme, which began in 2013, had targeted 45 villages and the process should have been completed by the end of 2016.

Unfortunately, the Granger administration has not completed any land titles since May 2015, causing massive delay in the process.

Housing

Hinterland communities had also benefitted from the National Housing Programme.

Among the communities that benefited were White Water, Manawarin and Oronoque in Region One, and Kwatamang, Annai, Massara, Katoka and Apoteri in Region 9.

Hinterland Electrification Programme

Hinterland communities were provided with electricity through the Hinterland Electrification Programme with upgraded grid systems in Madhia, Port Kaituma, Lethem and Matthews Ridge.

Education opportunities

Amerindian communities were provided with the necessary infrastructure which had enabled them to receive the quality of education for their development.

Spread across the hinterland regions, are approximately 250 schools, inclusive of secondary schools at Annai, Aishalton, Sand Creek, Kato and Waramadong. All of these

schools had dormitories to accommodate students from farflung areas. The PPP/C transformed the secondary school network in the hinterlands of Guyana.

Social assistance

The National School Feeding and Uniform programmes aided thousands of hinterland students, providing them with hot meals and school uniforms. The direct benefit of this programme was better school attendance and performance.

Each student in the public school system benefitted from the PPP/C government “Because We Care” $10,000 cash grant that ensured they were properly outfitted at the beginning of the school term.

Hinterland scholarship The Hinterland Scholarship Programme had provided academic facilitation, both at the secondary and tertiary levels for hinterland students annually.

Transportation boost Amerindian communities had benefitted from transportation assistance in the form of buses, All Terrain Vehicles, boats and engines, and pickups to aid in community projects, transporting students to school, emergencies, among others. Tractors and trailers were also given to boost agriculture ventures and were also used to transport villagers.

Road infrastructure

To create greater linkages between Amerindian communities and improve access to goods and services, the PPP/C government had invested huge sums on the establishment of new roads and maintenance of existing ones. There were consequently reduced costs resulting from easier accessibility to goods and services, all due to improved road networks.

Health

The PPP/C Government had ensured Amerindians received much-needed healthcare, which was seen through the expansion of hospitals or health centres in every hinterland community.

Development plans

Community Development Plans (CDPs) were aimed at securing livelihood options for Amerindian communities under the Amerindian Development Fund of the Low Carbon Development Strategy, to embark on projects in the areas of agriculture and tourism, among other job and wealth-creational areas.

Youth empowerment – YEAP

The Youth Empowerment and Apprenticeship Programme, which was aimed at developing young Amerindians in various skill areas, recruited 1972 youth as Community Support Officers in various regions where Amerindians reside.

ICT

To ensure every Guyanese citizen has access to Information Communication Technology, the PPP/C Government initiated the One Laptop per Family Programme.

Computer hubs were in the process of installation in every Amerindian community so that they too could have benefitted.

Editor, I can go on and on to mention numerous achievements, progress and developmental initiatives that have taken place across the hinterland regions under the successive PPP/C administration, which are in stark contrast when compared to the PNC regime, currently the illegal coalition government.

Editor, it is evident the Granger group is traversing across the hinterland at the expense of taxpayers, distributing handouts, while using State resources in their bid for the Amerindians and hinterland residents to give them another chance at the upcoming elections. But handouts cannot develop the lives of the people over the long-term; they want opportunities and this is what this Granger group failed to give the Amerindians.

Regards, Alister Charlie PPP/C MP

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thursday, october 10, 2019

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NTC Chairman’s comments What are the protocols were blatantly misleading relating to a minor?

Dear Editor, I have observed the circulation of a video clip of the Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Nicholas Fredericks, which conveys a misleading impression that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) activity on Monday (October 7, 2019) evening to engage the Toshaos, who gathered for the 2019 NTC Conference, was somehow a last-minute event.

I wish to offer some clarity on this issue.

Mr Fredericks, as per the recording, claimed that, “... (they are) now circulating invitational cards to a reception by the Opposition when we were verbally invited, and documented invitations also, to a reception with His Excellency this evening. He is expecting us to interact with him this evening”.

Editor, first, the PPP/C followed a respectful process in seeking to engage the Amerindian leaders who gathered for the 2019 NTC Conference.

Mr Fredericks’ comments were blatantly misleading.

A letter, dated October 2, 2019, was sent to him as Chairman of the NTC,

by PPP/C Parliamentarian

Pauline Sukhai on behalf of the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo. That letter requested that the NTC communicate with the PPP/C a convenient date for an engagement with the NTC Executives, Toshaos and other stakeholders who gathered for the 2019 NTC Conference. A response was proffered and the evening of October 7, 2019 was suggested as an appropriate time. We began circulation of the invitations over the weekend, continuing up to the morning of Monday, October 7, 2019.

Secondly, Editor, the official agenda for the 2019 NTC Conference did not feature an engagement with Mr David Granger on October 7, 2019.

Rather, Mr Granger’s activity was clearly a last-minute attempt to counter the engagement planned by the PPP/C. The official agenda for the 2019 NTC Conference made it clear that an activity with Mr Granger was scheduled for Friday, October 11, 2019.

While the PPP/C consulted with NTC on its planned activity, I am sure that Mr Granger did not.

Editor, I also wish to address other comments made by the NTC Chairman, who

sought to link the ‘behaviour’ of PPP/C Parliamentarians in attendance at the opening of the 2019 NTC Conference, to the attendance of the Toshaos and stakeholders at Mr Granger’s event. The PPP/C officials who attended the opening ceremony did so out of respect for our Amerindian leaders. We are under no obligation to Mr Granger.

Respect has to be earned. Why must we be asked to respect an official who demonstrated no respect for the Guyanese people or our laws; rather, he continues to defy our Constitution and has pushed our nation into unconstitutional rule?

It is clear that Mr Fredericks was clearly prevailed upon to act in the manner he did – trying to find an excuse to dissuade the Amerindian leaders from attending the PPP/C activity.

Regardless, the PPP/C activity was well attended and we are greatly appreciative of the fact that our Amerindian leaders took time to engage with us.

Editor, for added clarity, I have attached the documents I referred to earlier in this letter.

Sincerely, Nigel Dharamlall, PPP/C MP

Dear Editor, A recent article in the media stated that, “…a 15-year-old girl who attempted to take her own life has been placed in the National Psychiatric Hospital. She was reportedly placed there with only a piece of sponge to sleep on, which she said is smelly and the surroundings are unsanitary and inhumane.

According to the teenager, she attempted to take her own life on numerous occasions because she was sexually molested but relatives did nothing to help her”.

This article raises a number of critical issues.

Firstly, given that the young lady is alleging rape, should the case not have immediately been handed over to the Childcare and Protection Agency, since she’s a minor and it is well known that rape is often a catalyst for suicide attempts? Are there any protocols in this regard? If so, should the Police and the psychologists/psychiatrists at the National Psychiatric Institution not be aware of these protocols? Can the

Disrespect for Amerindians – APNU/AFC must apologise Dear Editor, Amerindian Toshaos are in Georgetown for the National Amerindian Toshaos Council (NTC) 2019. As is practice, the Government provides boarding and lodging for the Amerindian leaders during the meeting.

Complaints have emerged that the Amerindian leaders are housed in a city hotel, considered by most people as a “shorttime” hotel. Some of the leaders, including many female leaders, have complained that they have been housed in substandard conditions, with beds and mattresses that are filthy and small, rooms often with no running water, or running water that is smelly, brown and dirty.

While they are housed in substandard conditions, the illegal Government Ministers are living in luxury, travelling around the world, staying at posh hotels. Those not travelling are musing themselves at the Marriot and other posh places, at taxpayers expenses. It is truly disrespectful and disgraceful.

Before 2015, Cheddi Jagan, Sam Hinds, Janet Jagan, Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar— former Presidents— attended every one of the NTC meetings. David Granger disrespectfully has not attended all of the NTCs between 2015 and 2018. But he made sure he attended NTC 2019, even as an illegal President, because elections are coming up and he wants the Amerindian votes. From day 1 of NTC 2019, Granger and his colleagues have treated the Amerindian leaders with total disrespect and sheer callousness. Granger had invited the leaders to a reception at State House for Friday, but having learnt that Bharrat Jagdeo had invited them to a reception at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition

on Monday evening, Granger brought forward his reception to the same Monday, clashing with the Jagdeo reception. The generous Amerindian leaders attended both receptions. Many went first to Granger’s reception, expecting dinner. Instead, other than some snacks, there was no dinner. Thankfully, the Amerindian leaders had a sumptuous dinner at the Jagdeo reception.

The change in timing for the Granger reception was disrespectful to the Amerindian leaders, but the disrespect was amplified when the Government team refused to provide transportation for the Amerindians to go to their hotel first to freshen up before they went to the Granger reception. This shows callousness, not just disrespect.

But the disrespect with which the Amerindians have been treated this week is even more egregious because it happened while fellow Amerindian leaders like Sydney Allicock, Dawn Hastings-Williams, George Norton and Garido-Lowe were complicit in the betrayal.

Yet, APNU/AFC’s disrespect for Amerindian leaders is just a continuation of the disrespect for Amerindians over a long time. We cannot forget Sydney Allicock’s insult to Amerindians during the opening of Amerindian Heritage Month 2019 when he chastised Amerindians for being unreasonable and greedy for simply asking for their land titles, part of their fundamental rights. The same Allicock has sided with persons like Eric Philips and Keith Scott who have consistently sought to derail Amerindian Land Rights.

Allicock has been stone-silent as APNU/AFC stalled or even completely abandoned the demarcation and titling of Amerindian

lands. Joe Harmon lied when he promised on February 22, 2019, in Sand Creek, Region 9, that Amerindian land demarcation and titling would restart in March 2019, but Allicock made no mention of this.

This same Allicock, who is now begging for votes, insulted, disowned and betrayed Amerindians in October 2017, during a meeting of the NTC, when he shamelessly rebuked the Toshaos for objecting to Granger’s appointment of a Land Commission of Inquiry to, among other things, study the demand of certain Afro-Guyanese organisations for rights to ancestral land.

Incidentally, this is the same Allicock who in June 2017, defended Keith Scott, who had called Amerindians greedy and avaricious for demanding “so much land” and who had disavowed the founding principles of Indigenous affairs, now regarded as a right – Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).

In fact, the betrayal of Amerindians started soon after May 2015. Allicock, together with other senior PNC operatives in the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples, such as Mervyn Williams and Martin Cheong, disbanded the then very successful Amerindian Land Titling (ALT) Unit. The AMT Unit was fired because from the very inception Allicock and his PNC Amerindian colleagues at the Ministry were tools for APNU/AFC to stop the demarcation and titling of Amerindian lands. In fact, funds for demarcation and land titling, acquired and allocated by the PPP ($US10.7M from the REDD+ GRIF Project), were then squandered, for other non-related activities.

Not only has APNU/AFC, through Allicock’s Ministry, in-

stituted a de facto cease order on titling of Amerindian lands, there has also been a corresponding intrusion into Amerindian communities, reducing lands available to Amerindians and abrogating their fundamental rights. In converting Lethem, Mabaruma and Bartica into townships and in creation of NDCs in Amerindian communities, without FPIC, boundaries have been extended encroaching on Amerindian lands.

This diminution of Amerindian lands and change of governance collide with the Amerindian Act 2006. Allicock has been the instrument for this hatchet job on Amerindian Rights, guaranteed in Guyana’s Constitution and in the Amerindian Act 2006. Furthermore, Allicock, Dawn Hastings, George Norton, Garrido-Lowe and Mervyn Williams have stood silently as APNU/AFC utilised other laws, such as the forestry and mining legislations, to breach the Amerindian Act 2006, robbing them of sub-surface benefits.

The disrespect so visible at NTC 2019 is not new. It has been evident before and since May 2015. When APNU/AFC voted against the budgetary allocations for the Amerindian Development Fund and the upgrading of hinterland airstrips in 2014, APNU and the AFC disrespected the Amerindians.

After May 2015, when they dismissed more than 2000 community development officers in Amerindian communities, it was an assault on Amerindian dignity. This is the track record of APNU/AFC and the NTC 2019 disrespect is just another visible assault on Amerindians

by APNU/AFC. Sincerely, Dr Leslie Ramsammy

CPA and Ms Ann Greene please, please enlighten us whether there are any protocols in this regard that relate to the role of the CPA? Secondly, while the Police got the child placed on a suicide watch, it seems that they did absolutely nothing regarding her allegations of sexual abuse?

Were they not supposed to first take her to a medical facility to get her tested with a rape kit? This begs the questions as to whether appropriate training has been—or is being— provided to the Police in this regard.

Third, here is a case of attempted suicide leading to the arrest of a child, reinforcing the critical need to decriminalise suicide. In fact, it is well known by now that this would already have been done but for political grandstanding. Meanwhile, Guyanese are still waiting on the current Government to act on a promise made more than a year after it voted in Parliament against decriminalisation of suicide.

Fourth, placing that child under those alleged conditions at the National Psychiatric Institution will only worsen her mental condition. It has been common knowledge for years that this institution needs largescale renovation and upgrading. Does the law about placing individuals on suicide watch apply to minors as well? Is the child being offered counselling therapy and other needed interventions?

All of this raises the issue of the child’s human rights,

which seemed to have been violated by both the Police and the National Psychiatric Institution. But perhaps the very critical issue also is the parents’ role in all of this.

Did they ever seek counselling for the child after that first suicide attempt? Did they ever take measures to determine whether the allegations of sexual abuse are true? Sexual abuse activists and advocates all agree that once an allegation is made, parents and caregivers must first accept that it is true and immediately act on it.

Meanwhile, there is urgent need for the rape allegation to be investigated since, for if it is found to be true, such information could be very revealing as it relates to actions by the family and the Police respectively. As well, while this specific case has reached the public domain, The Caribbean Voice is aware of numerous other cases of sexual abuse/incest by family members that are swept under the carpet as the ageold ‘need to protect family honour’ is now compounded by other family members going into denial when victims reveal their abuse and occasionally mothers as wives preferring to ‘hold on’ to their husbands who are the abusive step-fathers and so will either do nothing about the allegations or will further abuse the victims physically, emotionally, verbally and/or financially.

Sincerely, The Caribbean Voice

Who is Granger’s “we”?

Dear Editor, In a Stabroek News article carried on October 6, 2019 under the heading “‘Give us a chance’ Granger in re-election appeal to Linden voters”. It was reported that President Granger said, “From the time we were born, we were born to lead and we are leading the country to greater independence now in 2019”.

I need the President to explain to me who is the “we” he is referring to? Is it the PNC? If this is so, then it therefore means that his government has no need for the AFC, the WPA and the other parties that make up the coalition.

Or is the “we” he is referring to Afro-Guyanese?

What does this, therefore, mean to the members of the coalition that are of other races?

What is most troubling about his statement is that his inference is that only this “we” he referred to is capable of providing leadership in this country and that those outside of this “we” can’t contribute anything towards the development of Guyana. It is this kind of divisive thinking that has the country in the current sad state it is in. It is therefore incumbent upon Mr Granger to clarify who is the “we” that he is referring to.

Sincerely, Todd A Morgan

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thursday, OCTOber 10, 2019

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Foundation

The road Getting past obstacles to resilience W

hen we’re struggling with something, it’s natural to turn to others for help.

Helping each other is all part of the giving and receiving that makes up good relationships.

Getting help sounds simple. But it’s not always easy to do. Sometimes we stand in our own way without realising it. Certain beliefs or ways of thinking can make it hard to see opportunities for help. Here are some examples of the kinds of attitudes that can stand in the way – and ideas on how to get past them.

Obstacle 1: Believing that needing help is a sign of weakness

Asking for help shows maturity and confidence.

It’s a sign of strength, not weakness. You know what you need and you’re not afraid to reach out for it.

For example, instead of thinking: I don’t want my coach to find out I can’t nail that move in case he thinks I shouldn’t be on the team.

Change it to: I’ll show my coach how committed I am to the team – and how hard I practice – by asking him to share tips on how I can improve.

Obstacle 2: Thinking you don’t deserve help or support

Everyone needs help now and then. No one can – or should – handle everything alone. Accepting help can strengthen friendships and relationships.

Everyone feels good when

they can support a friend!

For example, instead of thinking: I’d really like to find out how Katy is coping with her parents’ divorce, but she’s so popular and busy I’m sure she doesn’t have time for me.

Change it to: I’ll ask Katy if she has time to talk and let her know how much her perspective means to me. Maybe some of the stuff that happened to me can help her too.

Be choosy about who you ask to help, though. Share your feelings or a problem with someone who listens and cares – not someone who judges, criticises, or blames you. Most of the time we can guess which way people might react.

But on rare occasions, they catch us off guard. If you do get rejected, it’s not because of anything you did.

It’s what’s going on with the other person.

Tell yourself: If Katy says no, she might not be ready to talk about her own experiences.

If she’s rude, then I’ll know from the start that she’s not friend material.

Obstacle 3: Not speaking up to ask for help

Sometimes you’re lucky enough to have people in your life who see what you need and offer to help before you ask. Usually it’s a parent or a close friend. But sometimes when we need help, we have to ask. The best approach is to be clear and direct, like saying, “I’m having trouble with this.

Can you help me?”

For example, instead of thinking: I’m afraid my friends won’t want to hear that my boyfriend pushed me — they already think I’m ignoring their advice about him being too controlling.

And I don’t want to worry my mom. So I’ll just keep this to myself for now.

Change it to: I’ll tell my friends they were right and I’m starting to worry about my boyfriend’s behaviour. I’ll ask them to help me figure out what to do and how to tell my mom.

Obstacle 4: Waiting for someone else to make the first move

It’s not always easy for other people to see when we need help. Maybe we’re putting on a cheerful face to mask the problem or giving off a vibe that we don’t want to talk. Don’t wait for someone to read your mind or notice what you need. Ask. For example, instead of thinking: I really wish Shanya would ask about the scars on my leg so I can talk to someone about my cutting.

I know she suspects, but maybe she doesn’t really care.

Change it to: I’ll tell Shanya what’s going on and say I could really use some help.

Obstacle 5: Giving up too easily

If help doesn’t get us what we expect right away, it’s tempting to give up. But getting help takes ongoing effort. It might take multi-

ple attempts.

For example, instead of thinking: You’d think the college prep advisor would know right away what’s best for me! He’s supposed to have all this experience, but now that I’ve met him I wonder if it’s all just a big waste of time.

Change it to: My first meeting with the college prep advisor was a little disappointing. But it will probably take him some time to get to know my personality and which college is the best fit. I’ll give it two more meetings before I make a decision. I’ll also try harder to share what I want and not expect him to read my mind.

Why asking for help is important

None of us can go it alone. The people who believe in us remind us that we have what it takes, that we matter, and that we’re loved. But sometimes we just have to reach out and ask for that help. Our friends and family love us, but they can’t always know what we want, especially if we are putting a brave face on things.

Because it can be hard to reach out for help, don’t hesitate to reach out and offer support to another person if you think he or she needs it. Giving and receiving help are great life skills to learn. They help us learn character qualities like empathy and generosity, as well as understand other people better. (kidshealth.org)

H

ow do people deal with difficult events that change their lives? The death of a loved one, loss of a job, serious illness, and other traumatic events: these are all examples of very challenging life experiences. Many people react to such circumstances with a flood of strong emotions and a sense of uncertainty.

Yet people generally adapt well over time to life-changing situations and stressful conditions. What enables them to do so? It involves resilience, an ongoing process that requires time and effort and engages people in taking a number of steps.

Make connections. Good relationships with close family members, friends or others are important. Accepting help and support from those who care about you and will listen to you strengthens resilience. Some people find that being active in civic groups, faith-based organisations, or other local groups provides social support and can help with reclaiming hope. Assisting others in their time of need also can benefit the helper.

Avoid seeing crises as insurmountable problems. You can’t change the fact that highly stressful events happen, but you can change how you interpret and respond to these events. Try looking beyond the present to how future circumstances may be a little better. Note any subtle ways in which you might already feel somewhat better as you deal with difficult situations.

Accept that change is a part of living. Certain goals may no longer be attainable as a result of adverse situations. Accepting circumstances that cannot be changed can help you focus on circumstances that you can alter.

Move toward your goals.

Develop some realistic goals.

Do something regularly – even if it seems like a small accomplishment – that enables you to move toward your goals. Instead of focusing on tasks that seem unachievable, ask yourself, “What’s one thing I know I can accomplish today that

helps me move in the direction I want to go?”

Take decisive actions.

Act on adverse situations as much as you can. Take decisive actions, rather than detaching completely from problems and stresses and wishing they would just go away.

Look for opportunities for self-discovery. People often learn something about themselves and may find that they have grown in some respect as a result of their struggle with loss.

Many people who have experienced tragedies and hardship have reported better relationships, greater sense of strength even while feeling vulnerable, increased sense of self-worth, a more developed spirituality and heightened appreciation for life.

Nurture a positive view of yourself. Developing confidence in your ability to solve problems and trusting your instincts help build resilience.

Keep things in perspective Even when facing very painful events, try to consider the stressful situation in a broader context and keep a long-term perspective.

Avoid blowing the event out of proportion.

Maintain a hopeful outlook .An optimistic outlook enables you to expect that good things will happen in your life. Try visualising what you want, rather than worrying about what you fear.

Take care of yourself .Pay attention to your own needs and feelings. Engage in activities that you enjoy and find relaxing. Exercise regularly. Taking care of yourself helps to keep your mind and body primed to deal with situations that require resilience.

Additional ways of strengthening resilience may be helpful. For example, some people write about their deepest thoughts and feelings. Meditation and spiritual practices help some people build connections and restore hope.

The key is to identify ways that are likely to work well for you as part of your own personal strategy for fostering resilience. (Excerpt from apa.org)

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thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana looking to tap into Double suicide Qatar’s petroleum expertise Man succumbs after attempting to kill wife A T

s Guyana prepares for its budding oil and gas industry, the Government is looking to capitalise on the State of Qatar’s vast expertise in the petroleum sector.

This was indicated by President David Granger as he accepted the Letter of Credence from the new non-resident Qatari Ambassador to Guyana, Ahmed Ibrahim Abdulla AlAbdulla.

In his remarks, the Head of State lauded the existing bilateral relation between the two countries and at the same time, suggests new fields of cooperation, such as the energy sector.

“Guyana is keen on enhancing partnerships with experienced oil producers such as Qatar. I am confident that your appointment as Ambassador will provide opportunities for fruitful discussions and exchanges in the oil and gas sectors of both our countries,” President Granger asserted.

The Middle Eastern nation, which has oil reserves of over 20 billion barrels and an advanced economy, has long expressed interest in Guyana’s budding oil and gas sector. In fact, the State-owned Qatar Petroleum has bought a percentage of French oil major, Total’s share of its existing interests in the Orinduik and Kanuku blocks offshore Guyana.

The Orinduik oil block is just a few kilometres from Exxon’s discoveries in the Liza and Payara fields.

Eco Guyana and United Kingdom’s Tullow Oil signed a 10-year Petroleum Prospecting licence and Production Sharing Agreement with Guyana in 2016 for the Orinduik block. French firm Total E&P Activities Petrolieres entered the fray in 2017, partnering with Eco with the option to get a 25 per cent share in the block.

Qatar Petroleum has since reported in July that it struck a deal to acquire 40 per cent of Total’s 25 per cent participating interest in the Orinduik block, and 40 per cent of Total’s 25 participating interest in the neighbouring Kanuku block.

he man, who attempted to kill his wife before ingesting a dose of poison on Tuesday in the Black Bush Polder, Berbice, has died; while the husband of a now deceased woman, who also died on Tuesday after a lethal dose of poison, is denying that he forced her to consume it.

The two suicides rocked

President David Granger with the newly-accredited Qatari Ambassador to Guyana, Ahmed Ibrahim Abdulla Al-Abdulla, along with Foreign Affairs Minister, Dr Karen Cummings (left) and Director General at the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Ambassador Audrey Waddell (right)

However, Director of the Energy Department, Dr Mark Bynoe, has said that they are yet to receive the necessary documents regarding this farm-in deal from Total.

Meanwhile, the other partners in the Orinduik Block, Tullow holds a 60 per cent participating interest, while Eco Atlantic has 15 per cent interest.

At present, Tullow has made at least two oil finds: in its Jethro and Joe wells.

On September 16, the same day that ExxonMobil announced its 14th oil find, the British company revealed that it had made its second oil find in just a matter of weeks – 14 metres of oil reservoirs at the Joe well.

Meanwhile, Repsol Exploration, a Spanish oil company, last month commenced drilling in the Kanuku Block at the Carapa 1 well site, which will conclude on November 30, 2019.

Nevertheless, at Wednesday’s accreditation ceremony, President Granger noted that another new area he wants to explore cooperation with Qatar is tourism.

This comes some two weeks after Guyana signed an Air Services Agreement with Qatar to promote and facilitate airlines of Guyana and Qatar to operate any number of services between both countries as well as beyond to any third country, with no restrictions on capacity, frequency, air-

craft type and routing.

According to the Guyanese Head of State, this agreement will pave the way for future cooperation in investment, enhanced trade, air travel and the movement of people.

“Guyana welcomes this important milestone and remains committed to working with the Government of Qatar to enhance air connectivity in an effort to link the Caribbean and the Middle East. I wish to convey Guyana’s interest in deepening cooperation with Qatar in trade, capacity building and education,” he added.

Meanwhile, the newly-accredited Qatari Diplomat conveyed wishes from the Emir of the State of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim Al-Thani.

“His Highness Tamim has instructed me to assure you, Your Excellency, of his willingness to develop and strengthen ties between our countries in all fields of cooperation to benefit both of our countries and people.

Despite the geographic difference between the State of Qatar and the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, the two countries have excellent relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations between them,” the Qatari envoy noted.

Ambassador Ahmed Ibrahim Abdulla AlAbdulla is currently posted in neighbouring Brazil.

Guyana and Qatar established diplomatic ties some 23 years ago, in August

Dead: Shanesia Hussain

Mibicuri, Black Bush Polder, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

Dead are 30-year-old Amar Jeffrey of Lot 7 CZ Community Zone, Mibicuri, South Black Bush Polder and 27-year-old Shanesia Hussain of Lot 224 Mibicuri North; while Sherry Satnarine Muhammad is now hospitalised after being forced to drink a poisonous substance.

Reports are that Hussain consumed the poison about 14:00h on Tuesday and was pronounced dead an hour later. This publication understands that the mother of two and her husband, who were married for 10 years, were having marital issues that led to the breakdown of the marriage.

Hussain’s husband, who gave his name only as Murphy, said he was at

home watching television when his wife rushed into the bedroom and bolted the door. Sensing that something was amiss, he said he tried to enquire from his wife what the issue was but he was unable to get into the room. He said that he then kicked opened the bedroom door.

According to Murphy, he found his wife lying at the foot of the bed. He said he smelled poison and called a neighbour and rushed her to the hospital.

However, villagers told this publication that Hussain had been accusing her husband of having extramarital affairs. Murphy, however, denied those allegations and also denied allegations that he forced her to drink the poison.

“All the allegations that people are making are not true,” he told this publication.

Meanwhile, in another section of Black Bush Polder, Amar Jeffrey forced his wife to consume the poisonous substance before also gulping down the substance.

Reports are that Sherry Satnarine Muhammad had moved out from their home and spent six days with a male friend at Johanna, which is another of the four polders in Black Bush.

After returning home, she spent five weeks before leaving again.

On Sunday evening, Jeffery reportedly went to Johanna and demanded that his wife returns home.

She agreed but on her way home, she was flogged by Jeffrey.

Later that evening, she left home and went back to Johanna.

On Monday, Muhammad’s friend reportedly telephoned Jeffrey and told him to come and collect his wife.

This newspaper was told

Dead: Amar Jeffrey

that Jeffrey collected her but she did not go to her home; rather, she went to a neighbour's home and spent the night. Jeffrey also stayed at the neighbour’s house.

On Tuesday morning, Muhammad made a report to the Police that Jeffery had been stalking her.

According to the neighbour, who asked not to be identified, Muhammad was leaving to go to her mother’s home at Belvedere, when Jeffrey went into her storage room and collected a bottle containing poison.

“Some boys was passing on a tractor going to work and she call them to come and see what Jeffery doing.

When they stop the tractor, he get up and run and grab she and throw she down”.

The woman said she then rushed to get the Police.

Meanwhile, eyewitnesses say that Jeffery held his wife’s throat and threw some of the contents of the bottle into her mouth and then threw some on her face before drinking the rest.

Both were rushed to the Mibicuri Hospital, where Jeffrey died.

Somewattie Satnarine, the mother of Muhammad, said that her daughter was living in an abusive relationship and was trying to get out. continued on page 9

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thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Single mother beating the odds: admitted to Guyana’s bar

A

34-year-old single mother who recently graduated from Hugh Wooding Law School was admitted to practice in Guyana on Wednesday at the Demerara High Court.

Sophia Findlay, a former employee of Guyana Times, petition was presented to Chief Justice (acting) Roxane George by Attorneyat-Law Nigel Hugh, who described her as an ambitious, hardworking and dedicated individual.

Chief Justice (acting) Roxane George-Wiltshire told the ambitious woman that she must commit to the hard work success entails and she cannot afford to slack off now, because she has much to offer the profession.

“You need to commit to conducting thorough research in order to serve the people of this country.

People will be dependent on you, so you will build a reputation that people will depend on,” Chief Justice told the new attorney in accepting the petition.

The Chief Justice encouraged Findlay to “utilise all

Attorney-at-Law Sophia Findlay with her son Aedyn

that makes you who you are today. You bring a wealth of experience, so don’t lose or don’t disregard it, use all that you have to ensure a successful career”.

Findlay, after listening to the Chief Justice’s advice, expressed her gratitude for being added to the bar. She added that her advice will not fall on deaf ears and she

is committed to honouring the oath taken.

The young single mother highlighted that there were moments of tears, sleepless nights and times she doubted herself but with her faith in God, she pulled through.

She further expressed her gratitude to everyone who played an integral role in her success.

The single mother barely held back tears while speaking about her son, Aedyn, whom she acknowledged was her motivation. According to Findlay, moving to Trinidad to pursue her studies was no easy task, since she had to migrate with her son and commence studies.

“Even though I had the opportunity to attend law school, I would not have gone if my son couldn’t go with me. I always told him that we are doing this together, you are working hard for your high school and mommy is working hard for her LEC (Legal Education Certificate) and together we made a dream team. He is at the Bishop’s High School and I am here. This is for him,” said Findlay.

The new lawyer expressed that she was always an advocate for justice and wanted to be the instrument to change and with this platform, she will advocate for the voiceless.

Findlay is attached to Hughes, Fields and Stoby Firm, where she will be practicing in criminal, corporate and oil and gas law.

Mother of wanted man charged for narco-trafficking

T

he mother of wanted man Alfie Norman Garraway was on Wednesday hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to answer to a narcotics trafficking charge.

Roseann Garraway, a food vendor, of 71 Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown, appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty and pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The charge stated that on October 5, 2019, at Norton Street, she had in her possession 39 grams of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking. The 55-yearold woman was represented

by Attorney-at-Law Siand Dhurjon.

Police Prosecutor Annalisa Brummel informed the court that on October 5, Police, acting on information, went to the woman’s home, carried out

a raid and found the cannabis in her bedroom.

The Prosecutor told the court that when the cannabis was discovered, the woman admitted ownership. A further search was conducted and an illegal firearm, along with ammunition, was found, which belonged to the woman’s son, Alfie.

The Prosecutor further objected to bail being granted on the grounds of the

prevalence of the offence and the penalty the charge attracts.

Magistrate McGusty placed the defendant on $60,000 bail. The case will continue on November 6, 2019.

Alfie Norman Garraway, 39, is wanted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for questioning in relation to possession of a firearm and ammunition at Norton Street, on October 5, 2019.

Robbery charge lands West Ruimveldt man in prison

A

West Ruimveldt, Georgetown man was on Wednesday remanded to prison after he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged with robbery.

Fazel Shaffee appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty and denied the charge which stated that on September 14, 2019 at New Market Street, Georgetown, while being in the company of others, he robbed Anitta Mohan of a cellphone valued $80,000 and a bag val-

ued $5000.

The court heard that the Virtual Complainant (VC) was walking along New Market Street, Georgetown when she was approached by the 24-year-old defendant and others.

According to the prosecution’s case, Shaffee demanded that the woman hand over her belongings. The prosecution is contending that in fear for her life, the VC complied with the defendant’s demands and hand-

ed over her belongings. The court heard that Shaffee and his accomplices then made good their escape. The incident was reported to the Police, who later arrested Shaffee.

Police Prosecutor Ceon Blackman, in an application for bail to be denied, contended that a stern message needed to be sent to persons committing robberies since it is a prevalent issue.

Shaffee was remanded, and the case would continue on November 2, 2019.

Labourer slapped with robbery charge

A

Bourda Market labourer was on Wednesday hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts after he was slapped with a robbery charge.

Travis Allen is accused of committing the robbery at the Rio Night Club, Queenstown, Georgetown.

The 22-year-old of West Ruimveldt, Housing Scheme, Georgetown appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty and denied the charge, which stated that on

August 18, 2019, at Forshaw Street, Queenstown, he robbed Lakresha Parks of a phone valued $170,000 and $43,000 cash.

Allen was represented

by Attorney-at-Law Clyde Forde, who made a successful bail application for his client.

Police Prosecutor Annalisa Brummel informed the court that on August 18, the Virtual Complainant (VC) was leaving a concert when Allen approached her and held on to her bag;

however, the woman quickly raised an alarm, which caused him to flee.

However, the woman proceeded to a party at Rio Night Club when she was again approached by the defendant.

The court heard that Allen dealt the woman several slaps to her face and body, relieved her of the articles, and escaped. The matter was reported to the Brickdam Police Station, and Police ranks, acting on information received,

went to Leopold Street, Georgetown and apprehended Allen.

The Prosecutor contended that bail should not be granted given that Allen was positively identified by the VC, the offence is serious in nature, and the penalty it attracts.

Allen was, nonetheless, released on $150,000 bail.

As a condition of bail, he was required to lodge his passport with the court. The case will continue on November 6, 2016.

Spending the loot…

Y

…from oil our Eyewitness has been thinking about why exactly all those countries that found oil and had oodles of money pouring into their treasuries yet contracted the dreaded “Dutch Disease”. Did the money itself have a virus with it or something, or was it one of those non-communicable diseases we’ve been hearing so much about? For Guyana, your Eyewitness believes the cause is that virus called “greed”!

And going by what’s been going down ever since oil was struck in 2015, we’ve already contracted the disease bad! And why not? Isn’t greed one of the defining characteristics of the PNC? Think of it…why else would you have a fella like Trotman insist that the three-day seminar he took at Harvard qualified him to negotiate with all those high-flying lawyers from Texas and England? He was just plain greedy to live the high life – which is distinguished from the “good life” as chalk from cheese! – and just bent over to give away the store! And let’s not hear any noise about Trotman being “AFC” and not PNC”. Don’t worry about his rhetoric…just look at his actions. You can take the man out of the PNC but you can’t take the PNC out of him!!

And Trotman is as good an example as any to exemplify the innate nature of greed in the PNC’s functionaries.

It all stems from what Granger announced at Linden last weekend: WE ARE BORN TO RULE GUYANA!! PNC born to rule!! This, of course, was the rallying cry of the monarchy in Europe for centuries and is the defining trait of the PNC brass. The shopkeeper is looked down upon as “grubbing for a living” and those that labour in the fields are even further beyond the pale. The symptoms of Dutch Disease, we’re told, is the sectors of the economy that had been sustaining the country are allowed to wither away by policy makers who only see the oil dollars pouring in. And these sectors have been the infra-dig agriculture and business!!

Trotman and the rest of the PNC top echelons, like the European nobility of old, see themselves “ruling” as merely issuing decrees from – in modern times – air conditioned offices. However, they resent the selfearned rewards of those who work for their living and insist on living more luxuriously than them. They’re to be taxed and harried out of existence – hence Dutch Disease – while the PNC overlords enjoy the oil spoils and tax collections as their birth right to rule.

Their model is the Plantation Manager, lolling around being served hand and foot. But they forget there will always arise a Cuffy!! …and spiking the US$ Your Eyewitness is sure, dear reader, you’ve been reading about the US dollar becoming scarce and the conversion rate rising inexorably upwards. For most of you, that mightn’t seem such a bad thing since that “small piece” Aunty Mildred sent from New York with neighbour Sunil is now not that small!! But the problem is, that’s only one piece of the picture – a very small part.

The bigger part is that since almost everything we consume or wear or enjoy has to be imported – since we only manufacture plantain chips (as advised by Granger) – it takes more Guyanese dollars for our importers to buy those foreign goods. And you can be sure they’ll be passing on those increased costs once their present stocks are used up. And since you’re not getting that small piece from foreign every day, you’ll have to be digging deeper into your pockets to make do.

This, of course is what they call “inflation”. Part of the Burnham legacy Granger insists he will fulfil!!

…by hook or crook We’ve also noticed the spike in robberies in the country. The PNC doesn’t want to accept it…but there’s little money circulating in the lumpen elements.

Yet they want to live it up like the PNC big ones!!

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

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thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Minister, Chairman clash on long-term investments for NIS ... Jordan claims local housing “safer than foreign stocks, bonds”

W

hen it comes to the future viability of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and investments, Chairman John Seeram and Finance Minister Winston Jordan held differing views on how the Scheme should maximise its earnings through investments.

During the NIS’ 50th anniversary celebrations, which kicked off with bursary awards at its Brickdam office, Seeram spoke of the need to revamp the Scheme’s investment portfolio, particularly through overseas investments.

“Its investment portfolio has not been earning the rates of returns on some of its bonds and shares, in keeping with global returns. We will need to consider purchasing more attractive bonds and shares, which are traded on the global stock markets such as New York, London, Japan, Hong Kong, as opposed to renewing the terms of the securities”.

He added that going this route, which is highly recommended, will require approval by the relevant authorities, adding that both 2017 and 2018 audited financial statements have revealed

quired since we are looking at the Scheme’s financial viability in the next decade”.

Clash

Finance Jordan

Minister

Winston

deficit net income. There is the possibility, he added, that the deficit can be gradually reduced, eventually eliminated and lead to NIS showing positive net income in the near future.

Seeram also referenced the 9th actuarial report, the product of a review last year that was conducted by the International Labour Organization (ILO). Seeram stressed that the recommendations from this report must be acted on.

“This report contained nine recommendations. And presently, the board and the management are looking at the findings and the recommendations. But I’ll emphasise that positive action on the recommendations is re-

Minister Jordan, who was the feature speaker of Wednesday’s event, took the time out of his speech to pour cold water on Seeram’s suggestion of overseas investments. The Minister likened the suggestion to the “dog and the bone” analogy.

“You know Guyanese got a saying, your eyes big? We have to be careful. Yes, the interest today from treasury bills are returning virtually nothing. But at the same time, it is safe. So I would pick a bone with the Chairman, about sending our money into lands where we don’t have that security,” Jordan said.

“We have to be careful.

And in any case, to take $5 million of NIS money to be invested on stock markets in New York requires it to be converted to US dollars.

You’re converting at the selling rate, so if the selling rate is $218 and you take that and invest and you get a return of US$1 million, that US$1 million will come back into Guyana at the buying rate,

Man succumbs after...

“He don’t give she money and plenty times I does got to help them. When I ask she ‘Why she staying with him?’ She tell me that because of the children. The girl did not want to stay with him because he threaten she that he gon kill she,” Satnarine said.

“Me daughter always telling me, ‘Mommy, steady he ah beat me’…he giving she to run the house, it aint enough”.

Meanwhile, Jeffrey’s mother, Lela Harilall told this publication that her son was finding it very difficult with his wife’s actions.

She explained that during the days leading up to the incident, Jeffrey told her to collect the valuables from the house and the children.

She said on Tuesday afternoon she received a phone call and the caller informed her that her son was at Mibicuri Hospital after ingesting poison.

“When I go, he tell me that he sorry fuh what he

did…He tell me that he got too much of pain and he ask me fuh some water fuh drink,” the woman related.

Jeffery had been working as the pound attendant for the Mibicuri Police Station and had also worked as a la-

from page 7

bourer for a rice farmer in Mibicuri.

Meanwhile, Muhammad remains a patient in the hospital, while the two children are with their grandmother.

Police have since launched an investigation.

Authority), work with known groups… to see how we can continue to do our social part by creating more housing, while also improving monies we receive”.

The Ministry of Finance’s Half-year Report shows that the NIS is in a worsening position, as its multimillion-dollar deficit continues to grow while revenue collection increases.

Deficit

NIS Chairman John Seeram

which might be $215, $212.

So you’re going to be losing… so don’t be big-eyed”.

Jordan proffered housing as a safer investment opportunity waiting for NIS, noting that at the moment, there is a demand for housing. He stressed that the Scheme should avoid carpetbaggers and work with reputable organisations.

“There’s a huge demand for housing and office space.

I say to you, get your property section going. And see where you can invest and get a quick, fast return that is better than the one you are getting on treasury bills”.

“There’s a huge demand for housing and if you work with CH&PA (Central Housing and Planning

According to the report, NIS recorded an overall deficit of $748.4 million for the year, compared to the $715.6 million it recorded in the same half-year period for 2018. Revenue collection so far for 2019 was $11.9 billion, 9.7 per cent more than the same period for 2018.

“This improved position resulted from higher wage bands, on account of an increase in wages and salaries, as well as improved collection of outstanding contributions from delinquent employers,” the report says.

At the same time, however, NIS continues to struggle with collecting contributions from the self-employed persons. Some $492 million was collected from the self-employed. According to the report, this is 22 per cent low-

er than the half-year target of $627.8 million, despite ongoing campaigns.

According to the report, NIS is working closely with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to update its database of self-employed persons. And as of June 15, 2019, self-employed persons can pay their contributions using Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GTT) Mobile Money.

As fast as money has been coming in, the Scheme has also had to keep up with the payment of claims. According to the report, expenditure for the period under review increased to $12.6 billion, from $11.5 billion at the end of June 2018, mainly owing to an increase in benefit payments. The report notes that these payments were 91.4 per cent of total expenditure.

“The latest forecast projects a deficit of $546.7 million, a worsening position from a budgeted surplus of $469.3 million. This was mainly due to a shortfall of $1 billion or 4.5 percent in employee contributions, compared to the amount budgeted for at the half-year, as well as an increase of $449.3 million, or 1.9 per cent in benefit payments,” the report also stated.

10 NEWS

thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

President’s advisor “I am apolitical” – attempts to woo Region 10 cricketer Chris Gayle RDC for biomass project P L rominent West Indian cricketer Chris Gayle has categorically stated that he was not affiliated with any political party amid negative comments when he showed up at a rally organised by the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) on Saturday.

Gayle was spotted in photos on social media alongside members of the party during the event at Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) and many condemned his presence.

However, the Jamaican batsman clarified that he did not endorse any political party in Guyana. As a matter of fact, he sought to set the record straight by stating that the trip was an invitation to participate in a community outreach.

During last weekend’s activities, the PNCR was observing its 62nd anniversary at Congress Place in the mining town with a grand rally and cultural presentation.

He explained, “I, Christopher Gayle, would like to make it very clear that I in no way, manner or form endorse or support any

Cricketer Chris Gayle

individual or political party in Guyana. I have noted the many social media comments in relation to my recent presence in Linden and I wish to set the record. I was invited to Linden to participate in a community outreach.”

He further went on to say that meeting fans was a great outlet as a sportsman and condemned any attempts to tarnish his brand.

When it comes to politics, Gayle stressed that he is apolitical.

“As a sports personality, I relish the opportunity to meet with my fans and also to reach out to any community under the neutral ban-

ner of sports. I am apolitical of any political commitment and strongly condemn attempts to tarnish my brand and personality.”

Ever since President David Granger announced March 2, 2020 as the election date, political parties have begun the race to campaign by rolling out manifestos and visiting their support base.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had already called out the coalition last month as Cabinet outreaches continued, unabated.

He had noted that approximately $2 billion had already been spent on what he essentially called political campaigning.

Jagdeo made this observation during a press conference in which he referenced statements from Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon. Harmon had defended the outreaches by saying that they were catered for in the budget.

“Harmon said it’s provided for in the Budget. They have spent about $2 billion on these outreaches.

The outreach is part of their campaign,” Jagdeo said.

ocal company National Aerodrome Inc is currently eyeing biomass fuel production in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), as part of its proposal which is set to be submitted to Government for the Linden Re-forestation and Green Energy Project.

The company is also proposing for the Linden Airstrip Rehabilitation Project, of which it has since received full support for from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC).

The company’s secretary, Gary Best, who is an advisor to President David Granger, facilitated consultations on the projects with the RDC, Linden Mayor and Town Council (LM&TC), and the Linden Chamber last Thursday. Best delivered the proposal for the project to the RDC. “In Linden, you have about 2000 hectares of mined-out lands, you also have seepage into the Demerara River. So what you have developing slowly is an environmental disaster. Now we all know that mining companies meant to

Presidential Advisor Gary Best making his proposal to Region 10 RDC

do re-forestation, (but) that has not been done in decades...So I think we have an opportunity in Linden,” he claimed.

Best further said that the project will entail re-forestation and re-vegetation in which the aim would be to re-forest the mined-out lands in the community, sustainably harvest them, and use the forest as biomass for a biomass plant which would produce clean energy.

“We have partnership with a company in France that has done the re-forestation in French Guiana and that project is going well... using the natural forest...” he added.

The Linden communi-

ty has vast mined-out areas owing to over one hundred years of bauxite production.

Best also said that another company, which his company has partnered with, also did a high-fibre cane project with the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo). He said provided that the project comes on stream, clean energy can be used as an alternative for diesel, which is currently being used to supply electricity to the community. He noted that if the community can switch to utilising green energy, it can save lots of carbon. The plan, according to Best, is to also sub-lease lots to Lindeners who wish to pursue the re- planting project.

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thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

No discussions on PM candidate – Granger

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s the APNU/AFC coalition continues to review the Cummingsburg Accord, the parties are still to deliberate on who will be its prime ministerial (PM) candidate for next year’s March elections.

This is according to the coalition’s Presidential Candidate and current President, David Granger.

“We expect that in the course of the discussions with the Alliance for Change, we will look at personalities. Right now, we are just dealing with policies and principles… So we haven’t come down to personalities,” the Head of State told reporters on Wednesday.

The Cummingsburg Accord, which the two parties signed in order to form the governing coalition back in 2015, stipulates that the APNU gets the Presidential Candidate while the AFC will provide the PM candi-

date.

As such, the minority party has elected its leader, Khemraj Ramjattan, to lead alongside Granger at the upcoming polls.

But while Ramjattan is confident that he will be running as the PM candidate, the APNU is yet to accept his candidacy. The majority coalition party said that this will have to be discussed by the two partners, which are currently the in the process of reviewing the Accord.

According to the Head of State, the review process is being done through a threestage process, that is, compiling core principles, reviewing the Cummingsburg Accord and drafting a joint manifesto.

He explained that APNU had compiled their core principles among its five partners – the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), the Working People’s

President David Granger

Alliance (WPA), Justice for All Party (JFAP), National Front Alliance (NFA) and the Guyana Action Party (GAP).

Among the issues within the partnership were Indigenous affairs and cash grants from oil revenues.

The APNU leader noted that these corresponding changes, as well as others from the other parties, were also made.

“These discussions took

place over a period of weeks so only when we achieved a high degree of consensus that we approached the AFC and happily, the AFC has agreed on our core principles. So that now is finished and we are now discussing the reviewing of the Accord,” the Head of State said.

Nevertheless, the coalition leader expects that during the course of this month, they will move further along towards resolving issues regarding the Cummingsburg Accord.

While the AFC is confident, it is uncertain if it will get the prime ministerial candidate position in the elections slated for March 2, 2020.

In fact, when asked if the PM candidate would be selected from the AFC last week, Granger had noted, “It is not prudent to anticipate the outcome of negotiations”.

However, there are some who believe that APNU would sidestep AFC and go the route of choosing a prime ministerial candidate from within its own grouping. Minister of State, PNC’s Dawn Hastings-Williams, has been rumoured as the APNU’s pick for the post.

But AFC’s General Secretary David Patterson had said back in June that Ramjattan’s candidacy will

have to be accepted by the majority APNU as long as the Accord is in effect.

Since coming into office after joining forces with the APNU, the minority AFC has been criticised for the submissive role it has been playing.

Decisions such as the closure of sugar estates, which put thousands of sugar workers out of jobs, were passed unchallenged and even been supported by the AFC. In addition, there has been the strategic reallocation of responsibilities away from Ministries headed by AFC officials, to other Ministries.

There is also the fact that despite the Cummingsburg Accord stipulating the Prime Minister –in this case Moses Nagamootoo— has responsibility for chairing Cabinet and domestic issues, this was not followed through.

es to conduct certain types of business transactions which can be done at the post office.

“We want to make it more comfortable and easier to serve you,” the Minister stated, adding, “around the world, the postal service is renewing and reviewing and reorganising and in Guyana, it is no different. We are still keen on making sure that all the post offices can provide modern facilities and tech-

nology in this digital world that is coming”.

Postmaster General (acting) Anastasia Lynch said that the GPOC continues to evolve to effectively serve the populace.

“GPOC has diversified and is developing, we are undergoing a transformation, a positive one. Our half-year financial for 2019 is a reflection of this. The reopening of this building is a re-

flection of this as well. We have made a turn towards development and while the path ahead may resemble an obstacle course, I am reassured by the commitment of the Minister and Board of Directors – the catalyst behind this transformation,” she underscored.

Lynch noted that the GPOC is operating at an optimal level, delivering 98% of its mail within two days.

AFC’s Prime Ministerial Candidate Khemraj Ramjattan

$12M upgraded Anna Regina Post Office open for business

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he Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC), in observance of World Post Day, commissioned a rehabilitated Anna Regina Post Office in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The Department of Public Information (DPI) reported that the re-opening of the post office falls in line with the theme for this year’s celebration: “Delivering Development”.

The rehabilitation of the building cost approximately $12M and now has improved security features, caters for persons with disabilities, better seating arrangements and washroom facilities for pensioners and a room to house an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) hub.

In her remarks at the ceremony, Public

The rehabilitated Anna Regina Post Office (DPI photo)

Telecommunications Minister, Catherine Hughes said the anniversary and rehabilitated post office signifies another worthy stride by the GPOC. The Minister noted that in a changing world, the postal service must be able to adapt to meet the needs of the people.

“I am happy to see that we are celebrating, and bit by bit, we are converting

and changing and ensuring that we are providing better facilities. In time, I hope that all the post offices in Guyana will reflect the kind of service, the kind of standard we will provide here at Anna Regina,” the Minister is quoted by DPI as saying.

Minister Hughes said that the post office will also help to ease the hassle of persons travelling long distanc-

12 news No National Assembly sitting today – clerk thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

...as Parliament comes out of recess

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s Parliament comes out of recess today, no sitting has been fixed according to the clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs.

He told Guyana Times on Wednesday that there is no indication as to when the sitting will be held.

As it is, President David Granger and his caretaker coalition government is under pressure to dissolve Parliament since an elec-

Head of State had said, “The Government of Guyana must, as a consequence, return to the National Assembly to request an extension. The National Assembly reconvenes on 10th October, 2019. The President is required to both dissolve Parliament, as provided for in the Constitution at Article 70 (2), and the ten Regional Democratic Councils, as provided for in the Constitution at Article

proclamations, calls have been mounting for President Granger to now dissolve the 11th Parliament.

But Attorney General Basil Williams last week said the coalition is still hopeful that the parliamentary Opposition – People’s Progressive Party/C (PPP/C) – will return to the National Assembly to extend its life; otherwise, he foresees a “crisis” situation in Guyana.

Williams had indicated that Government was supposed to make a decision on its return to Parliament at its Cabinet (which, according to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), stands resigned) meeting on Tuesday.

Cold water

tions date has already been announced.

However, during a recent address to the nation on September 25, 2019, the

73 (2)”.

Since announcing March 2, 2020 as Elections Day weeks ago, and subsequent issuance of the elections

However, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had long thrown cold water on any expectation that his party will return to Parliament. In fact, the Opposition had not attended any parliamentary sitting since January when House Speaker, Dr Barton Scotland, had refused to overturn the December 21, 2018 passage of the No-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

Confidence Motion as requested by Government and directed them to seek redress in the courts.

The CCJ – Guyana’s highest appellate court – has since validated the passage of the Oppositiontabled motion, which it said activated Article 106 of the Constitution. This provides for Cabinet, including the President, to resign and call elections in three months unless there is a two-thirds majority vote of all sitting members of the National Assembly to extend that timeline.

Jagdeo, a former President, had clarified that an extension of Government’s life is unnecessary since it is not linked to any decisions that should be taken to facilitate the polls.

Moreover, the CCJ would have bestowed the coalition administration with a caretaker status, indicating that

President David Granger

its main function is to host elections.

“He sought to link the date with the return of the parliamentary Opposition to Parliament to extend the life of his Government…

Therein are several fallacies. One, there is no link to the extension of his Government, which has been illegal since March 21.

He never sought that extension before,” Jagdeo had pointed out.

The Opposition Leader further added, “Secondly, the extension is wholly unnecessary for him to discharge the caretaker responsibility that had been accorded to him by the CCJ. Because a caretaker Government is only vested with one responsibility, that is, holding elections and having the authority to do all the things necessary with the holding of elections. By virtue of being caretaker, he can proclaim the date and he can dissolve

National Assembly Sherlock Isaacs

Clerk

the Parliament”.

According to Jagdeo, Government is looking at the extension as a legal footing for activities which are not authorised under a caretaker administration.

“We believe the real reason for all of this [is] they want legal coverage for all the criminal acts of theft and transfers of resources that they have committed because they believe if we extend the life of the Government, there will be no prosecution. There can’t be prosecution,” he signalled.

In this regard, he reaffirmed that there is a zero per cent chance of them returning to the National Assembly.

“We have no intention of going to Parliament to extend the life of his Government.

Absolutely none. No intention whatsoever,” Jagdeo positioned.

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thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Differently abled persons given ‘agriculture experience’ …charged to use agriculture for entrepreneurship

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he Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) on Wednesday welcomed a group of differently abled persons to their operation at Mon Repos, on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) where first-hand information was provided on the dynamics of agricultural activities.

The initiative, called the Agr-Ability Programme, is the first of its kind and aims to attract persons with disabilities into the sector. It was made possible through collaboration with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities.

Throughout the day, per-

sons were given a tour of the facility and the countless areas of agriculture which can be pursued. The GSA ranges in a number of fields, including farming, livestock production, forestry, animal health, and agro-processing.

Those who attended came from Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Four (DemeraraMahaica), Five (MahaicaBerbice), Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Present at the event was Agriculture Minister with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Valerie Adams-Yearwood,

who insisted that persons with disabilities should take advantage of such opportunities to advance their personal growth.

Meanwhile, Coordinator Ganesh Singh urged the gathering to take up agriculture as a form of entrepreneurship. They have been trying to encourage more persons to get involved in such initiatives.

Singh explained, “Over the past three to four years, we’ve been trying to get more persons with disabilities involved in agriculture.

Whether it’s at the level of food processing or starting

their own little farm, in ensuring that we start our own little business, become entrepreneurs and plant those two plots in your backyard”.

He added, “We need to go in that direction and today could be the beginning of that.

Some years ago, we started some hydroponics. With this visit, I hope we can definitely restart those initiatives”.

This year, Agriculture Month is celebrated under the theme: “Sustainable Agriculture for Ensuring Food Safety and a Green Economy”. A calendar of activities were launched throughout this time. The main high-

Participants touring the facility during the visit

lights include the National Tree Day observance at Ebini in the Upper Berbice River

and World Food Day observance at Lake Mainstay, Wyaka, in Region Two.

GTT donates shirts for Bartica’s Youth leaders trained to become better ‘change agents’ Cancer Awareness Walk

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Participants of the recently concluded Youth Leadership Training Programme

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ixty-four young people from across the country have benefited from a training programme which will allow them to become better leaders and agents of change in society. The exercise was facilitated by the Department of Youth—Youth Empowerment Unit.

This would mark the Unit’s 13th Youth Leadership Training Programme, as it continues to deliver on its mandate to provide empowerment opportunities for the nation’s youth.

The training, which was conducted at the Madewini Training Centre located on the Linden Highway, targets youth leaders and those with leadership potential.

The Unit executes a num-

ber of programmes and has collaborated with facilitators from various organisations to ensure that the participants receive the requisite skills and knowledge needed to enable them to become better leaders and change agents.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Social Cohesion, the Youth Leadership Training empowers young people to develop soft skills in leadership through the use of practice and theory, job market readiness, and creating youth organisations among others.

As part of the programme, the Unit conducted a ‘Mock Youth Parliament’ session which provided the opportunity for participants to express their views and possible solu-

tions on the topic of youth unemployment.

In her address to the graduating class, Director of Youth (acting), Leslyn BoyceGarraway congratulated and encouraged the students to exude excellence by being the best they can be in their respective fields.

The Youth Director also urged the graduating class to use their skills to contribute to the development of their respective communities.

Recipients of the special prizes were Nayman Gill and Deondra Wishart, who received prizes for Leadership and Best Exemplified, and Most Outstanding Personalities went to Rawle Major and Delicia George.

he Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) has donated 200 Pinktober T-shirts to the Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall in support of that city’s Cancer Awareness Walk.

According to the Mayor, the annual activity, which will take place on October 23, is part of the partnership between the Bartica Teachers Union and Nurses of Bartica.

“Over the last two years, the council has recognised the need to participate in the Cancer Awareness Month and we are very impressed with the lead GTT has taken. We have modelled our activities similarly to what GTT hosts in Georgetown and we look forward to the success of this event,” Marshall said.

Bartica’s Cancer Awareness Walk in Bartica, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) will start at 18:00h from the Cenotaph (Stelling Square) and will go through the streets of Bartica. The walk will end at the basketball court, where those participating will engage in a planned activity— a number of local artistes will be performing.

Mayor Marshall encouraged persons in the Bartica community to come out and support the cancer aware-

Bartica Mayor Gifford Marshall receives the donation of shirts from GTT

ness venture. “The reason why we are walking is because active mobility is a critical aspect of staying healthy, and we want to remember those who would have survived cancer and those loved ones we have lost along the way. We also want to remind all of Bartica that we all have a responsibility to ourselves in ensuring our own health and wellness,” the Mayor stated.

On September 6, GTT launched its annual Pinktober event which is aimed at educating Guyanese on cancer care and raising funds to support treatment for cancer patients in Guyana. The company has month-long activities planned to observe Cancer Awareness Month.

GTT’s 5k/10k walk and run event occurs on October 26, 2019.

14 news

thursday, october 10, 2019| guyanatimesgy.com

ExxonMobil continues community outreaches

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ExxonMobil’s outreach at Lake Mainstay

xxonMobil is continuing engagements in coastal regions in a bid to educate persons about its operations in Guyana.

Last week, one such event was staged at Lake Mainstay in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), the US super-major said in a press release on Wednesday.

Updates are simultaneously being provided on Payara— the third project— which is scheduled for start-up in 2023.

“We are also providing and showcasing information about oil spill response and equipment. We are working with the CDC in this effort to better educate and have awareness of how we would respond in the event of an oil spill emergency,” explained Senior Director for Public and Government Affairs, Deedra Moe. This activity was preceded by an ‘Open House’ on the

Payara Project Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) on September 30, 2019 at the Pegasus Hotel.

Attended by close to 200 persons, it featured information desks at which subject matter experts were available to answer questions.

Many of those in attendance were Environmental Science and Engineering students of the University of Guyana.

“Trying to channel the feedback from folks at previous projects and engagements, the consultants have developed a non-technical summary of the Environmental Impact Assessment to provide key information and learnings from that assessment,” Moe said.

Similar engagements will be held in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Three (Essequibo Islands-West

Demerara), Five (MahaicaBerbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) over the next few weeks.

ExxonMobil has made 14 discoveries offshore Guyana.

This latest discovery adds to the previously announced estimated recoverable resource of approximately 5.5 billion oil-equivalent barrels on the Stabroek Block.

ExxonMobil has previously said there is potential for at least five floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels on the Stabroek Block, producing more than 750,000 barrels of oil per day by 2025.

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

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

Global Fund seeks US$14B to fight AIDS, malaria, TB

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he Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria on Wednesday opened a drive to raise US$14 billion to fight the global epidemics but face an uphill battle in the face of donor fatigue.

Host President Emmanuel Macron is to chair the final day of the two-day meeting in the French city of Lyon on Thursday and meet African heads of state.

The fund has asked for US$14 billion, an amount it says would help save 16 million lives, avert “234 million infections” and place the world back on track to meet the UN objective of ending the epidemics of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria within 10 years.

“I count on every one of you to bring together the financing necessary to give the Global Fund the means necessary to support the worst affected countries,” said French Health Minister Agnes Buzyn as the meeting opened.

“We are here to send a strong signal. A collective, universal and ambitious signal,” she added.

The UN’s World Health Organisation says 770,000 people died of HIV-related causes last year. Tuberculosis, a high risk for HIV-positive people, claimed some 1.7 million lives in 2017, and malaria more than 430,000.

The meeting is the sixth to

replenish the fund since it was set up in 2002, with prominent supporters including Microsoft founder Bill Gates and U2 lead singer Bono in attendance.

But officials said ahead of the meeting that collecting such a large sum could prove challenging, especially as global attention moves from AIDS towards fighting climate change.

Anything more than the US$13 billion pledged at the fund’s last meeting three years ago in Montreal “will be considered a success”, said an official in the French presidency.

Macron, however, made it clear at the UN General Assembly in September that he expected no less than US$14 billion, saying “no-one any longer can understand” that people are unable to access medicines for the deadly disease trio.

NGOs insist even more is needed — as much as US$18 billion.

Some countries have announced their contribution. The US is the number one donor with a US$4.68 billion contribution voted by Congress.

Britain is set to pledge US$1.7 billion and Germany US$1.1 billion. It remains to be seen what France will contribute, although Macron has vowed it will be worthy of the country’s historical status as the Fund’s number two donor.

France also wants the pri-

vate sector to play a bigger role, and the fund is seeking US$1 billion of the total from the business world.

“No amount less than US$14 billion will be acceptable,” the AIDES and Coalition PLUS NGOs said in a statement, urging France to ramp up its contribution by 25 per cent.

“We are here to remember that behind this financial bargaining there are human lives,” said AIDES president Aurelien Beaucamp.

AIDES said that as things stand now, the meeting risks falling US$200-US$500 million short of its target.

Macron will meet leaders including Niger President Mahamadou Issoufou and Cameroon President Paul Biya, while Rwandan President Paul Kagame is also set to be in attendance.

The Global Fund groups states, NGOs and private firms to support public health programmes around the world, investing about US$4 billion every year.

It says it has helped save 32 million lives and provided prevention, treatment and care services to hundreds of millions of people, while the number of deaths caused by AIDS, TB and malaria each year has been reduced by 40 per cent since 2002 in countries where the Fund invests. (AFP)

Commonwealth SG commits to helping C’bean fight climate change

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ominica-born Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Scotland has pledged to rally international support for hurricane-hit Bahamas and other islands feeling the brunt of climate change.

She reaffirmed her commitment to addressing climate change after witnessing first-hand the devastation wrought by Hurricane Dorian in The Bahamas.

Scotland, who said that what she saw was “remarkably sobering”, told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) there can be no more delay in taking appropriate action.

“We have spoken for so long about the existential threat that this climate crisis presents to small vulnerable island states and to the least developed. But this is the evidence, if we needed further evidence, as to the utter devastation which is produced…This is a moment where the world needs to stop and understand that change has to happen and it has to happen now,” she said.

From September 1 to 3, the Category 5 Hurricane Dorian, packing maximum sustained winds near 185 miles per hour with higher gusts, tore through the northern Bahamas, killing more than 50 people and causing widespread destruction in the islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama.

Scotland said she was taken aback by what she had seen in Abaco.

“When I visited Abaco

Commonwealth Scotland

SG

Patricia

it was startling. Abaco was an island which was thriving, somewhat luxuriant in the beautiful, blue turquoise seas that surround the Bahamian archipelago. Now what you see is a dust-ridden, barren piece of land where virtually no house is left standing, save for the government building and the hospital. And it is an extraordinary, extraordinary sight to behold and none of the pictures or the videos taken of it actually represents fully what you see when you stand and look at it for yourself.

“I think the vision will be scarred in my memory for ever. It also will enable me to describe with a greater degree of intimacy and immediacy what I have witnessed to members of the international community that we will see not only at the World Bank meeting [later this month] but later at

COP in Chile,” she said.

The Commonwealth Secretary General, whose own homeland was devastated by another Category 5 hurricane – Maria – two years ago, pointed out that the hurricane season was not yet over and more major hurricanes could impact the region.

But she said she intended to keep up the fight on behalf of the islands.

“The Commonwealth’s support is absolutely needed and I am determined to continue to rally support across the world and across all international agencies and institutions and in the upcoming meetings that all happen between now and the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Kigali in Rwanda in June 2020,” she said.

“And it is absolutely clear the climate will remain near the top if not the very top of the Commonwealth’s agenda….There is much that we have to do as an international community and we must do it together.”

The Commonwealth has created a Disaster Risk Finance Portal – which will serve as a one-stop shop for streamlined access to the numerous sources of financing – that it will present to the Commonwealth Finance Ministers meeting to be held in the margins of the upcoming World Bank meeting.

Scotland said she hoped the portal would help The Bahamas and other member states that are similarly threatened to know what sort of help is available for them. (CMC)

Singapore overtakes US as world’s most competitive economy

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ingapore has knocked the United States out of the top spot in the World Economic Forum’s annual competitiveness report.

The index, published on Wednesday, takes stock of an economy’s competitive landscape, measuring factors such as macroeconomic stability, infrastructure, the labor market and innovation capability.

Singapore pushed the world’s largest economy down to second place this year, with the Asian city state scoring top marks for its infrastructure, health, labor market and financial system.

And while the United States lost out to Singapore overall, “it remains an innovation powerhouse,” the report said.

Singapore and Vietnam put up strong performances this year partly thanks to the US-China trade war.

The report noted that the two Asian economies “appear to be benefiting from global trade tensions through trade diversion.” Vietnam jumped 10 spots from last year to rank 67th out of 137 countries.

US imports from Vietnam rose by 36% in the first five

months of this year, as companies have been shifting manufacturing from China to Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries to avoid steep tariffs.

The trade war hasn’t been a clean win for Singapore, which is heavily reliant on exports and counts China as its biggest trading partner.

Singapore slashed its forecast for GDP growth in August, after reporting a big drop in economic activity in the second quarter of this year. It’s heading for its weakest annual growth since the 2009 global financial crisis.

Hong Kong, the Netherlands and Switzerland

rounded out the top five. Hong Kong climbed four spots from last year’s report, despite the political crisis taking a toll on its economy. The financial hub received high marks for its macroeconomic stability and financial system, but fell short on its capability to innovate.

Escalating trade and geopolitical tensions “are fueling uncertainty” around the world, the WEF report warned.

“This holds back investment and increases the risk of supply shocks: disruptions to global supply chains, sudden price spikes or interruptions in the availability of key resources,” the report said.

(CNN Business)

news

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thursday, october 10, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

“Let us network” – Henry American Airlines cancels 737 MAX flights until January 2020 tells CPCE Centre reps A H eads of the centres under the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) were, on Thursday, encouraged to network to share their ideas and best practices, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported.

According to DPI, during the feature address at the launch of the two-day workshop at CPCE, Education Minster Nicolette Henry said that “nothing can be achieved by a singular effort. It takes all of us in our various roles to be able to perform at an efficient rate and hopefully at maximum capacity”.

The Education Minister further stressed the importance of such collaborative efforts, noting that it is crucial for the development of the education sector.

“We cannot rest until we have all of our students, all of our students reaching their full potential and the role of our teachers is a very important role in achieving that outcome,” the Minister is quoted as saying by DPI. She advised the participants of the workshop to use the forum to highlight issues and to exchange practices.

Nicolette Henry

Many of the educators were receptive to Minister Henry’s remarks and sought to make it the focal point for the two-day workshop.

Salome Castro, of the St Francis CPCE Centre in the hinterland, shared her view on the opportunity to collaborate with centres along the coastland. “I welcome that.

In there [hinterland], we really don’t have many resource persons. So, it will be a good thing for us in there,” the educator stated.

With 29 students at the Mabaruma Centre, representative David Hernandes lauded the opportunity to network. According to him, “[networking from] the Mabaruma Centre itself will

be successful. We can share ideas and we can be more familiar with what is going on the coast”.

Beverly Collins, Head of the Anna Regina CPCE Centre, in an interview on the sidelines of the workshop, noted that networking among CPCE Centres on the coast has been rewarding and is, therefore, a mode of operation she hopes to adopt within the hinterland communities.

“We look at our differences, our weaknesses, our strengths and we try to enhance each other’s Centre, based on the network. And I think networking is good because what might work in one area might not work in another area. Then, you can put these things together and help enhance the education sector,” the Anna Regina representative continued.

The workshop is being held under the theme: “Towards Effective and Efficient Leadership in Teacher Training”.

Currently, there are 12 functioning CPCE Centres throughout the nation, with 3 more to come on board within the near future.

merican Airlines Group Inc on Wednesday extended cancellations of Boeing 737 MAX flights through January 15, running contrary to the US planemaker’s promises that the grounded jets would be flying again before the yearend.

The largest U.S. airline, which had previously canceled about 140 flights a day through Dec. 3, upped its estimate for the impact of the groundings on third-quarter pre-tax profit to $140 million, $15 million more than a previous estimate.

Its shares, down about 16% in a rough year for airlines, rose, however, on the company’s statement that lower fuel costs had boosted margins in the third quarter. Boeing shares, buffetted this week by conflicting signals on European regulators’ attitude to the MAX, were also marginally higher.

In July, American said full-year profit would be reduced by about $400 million if the MAX remained grounded through Nov. 2, and that figure is likely to increase now with a spillover effect into 2020.

Boeing’s sales numbers on Tuesday also showed that

by the end of September it had delivered only half the number of aircraft it did in the same period of 2018.

Regulators are still reviewing proposed software changes to the grounded plane with no certain timetable for the jet’s return.

American, which canceled 9,475 flights in the third quarter, said it expects to gradually resume MAX flights starting Jan. 16, adding that software updates could lead to the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) “recertification of the aircraft later this year and resumption of commercial service in January 2020.”

The FAA said Wednesday it was “following a thorough

process, not a prescribed timeline, for returning the Boeing 737 Max to passenger service. The FAA will lift the aircraft’s prohibition order when it is deemed safe to do so.” The fast-selling 737 MAX has been grounded worldwide since mid-March while Boeing updates flight control software at the center of two crashes in Indonesia and Ethiopia that together killed 346 people within a span of five months.

Among other U.S. airlines that operate the MAX, Southwest Airlines Co has canceled flights through Jan. 5 and United Airlines Holdings Inc until December 19. (Reuters)

US air attacks in May on Afghan drug labs killed 30 civilians- UN UK court delays key Brexit

ruling until after EU summit

U

S air attacks on alleged Taliban drug labs in Afghanistan killed or wounded dozens of civilians in May, says a United Nations report, which has been rejected by the US military.

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) conducted a fourmonth investigation into the May 5 air attacks that hit more than 60 sites the US and Afghan forces identified as drug-production facilities in the western provinces of Farah and Nimroz.

UNAMA and the UN human rights office said in a joint report released on Wednesday that there were at least 30 deaths among the 39 civilian casualties.

The number included 14 children and five women killed or wounded in the air raids, which the UN said violated international humanitarian law as the victims were non-combatants.

“UNAMA has assessed that the personnel working inside the drug production facilities were not performing combat functions. They were therefore entitled to protection from attack, and could only have lost this protection if, and for such time, as they had been directly participating in hostilities,” the report said.

The US ForcesAfghanistan (USFOR-A) issued a statement, rejecting the UN report and claiming there were no casualties.

“USFOR-A is fighting

S UNAMA conducted a four-month investigation into the May 5 air attacks that hit more than 60 sites

in a complex environment against those who intentionally kill and hide behind civilians, as well as use dishonest claims of non-combatant casualties as propaganda weapons,” the statement said.

“USFOR-A took extraordinary measures to avoid the deaths or injuries of non-combatants.”

Since late 2017, US forces have attacked sites believed to be used for processing drugs as part of efforts to cut off funds to the Taliban group. Facilities that help fund parties involved in the 18-year war are considered civilian objectives under international humanitarian law, and thus drug labs and their workers are unlawful targets, the report concluded.

Afghanistan’s security forces and US-led NATO forces have been heavily criticised for inflicting civilian casualties during their raids and air attacks.

At least 3,812 civilians

have been killed or wounded in the first half of 2019, UNAMA said in a report published in July, noting a big increase in the number of casualties caused by government and NATO-led troops.

It said 1,366 civilians were killed and another 2,446 wounded in the six months to June 30.

The report attributed 717 civilians killed and 680 wounded to pro-government forces, representing a 31 percent increase from the corresponding period in 2018.

Taliban and fighters from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or ISIS) armed group killed 531 Afghans and wounded 1,437, said the UNAMA report.

The US formally ended its combat mission in Afghanistan in 2014 but still provides extensive air and other support to local forces battling both the armed groups. (Al Jazeera)

cottish judges will not rule on a bid to compel UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to obey a law designed to block a “nodeal” Brexit until after a key European Union summit.

They have delayed their ruling until October 22, days after the parliament’s deadline to reach a Brexit divorce deal, and days before the United Kingdom is due to crash out of the EU by automatic operation of law on October 31.

Under legislation known as the Benn Act, passed with the assistance of a “rebel alliance” of Conservative MPs - who were subsequently sacked from the governing party - the prime minister is obliged to request a delay if no withdrawal deal is agreed between the UK and the EU by October 19.

The European Council of the heads of EU nations is set to meet on October 17 and 18.

The prime minister and his aides have repeatedly implied they would not comply with the law, leading to fears among those seeking to avoid a “no-deal” Brexit - which many economists, healthcare administrators, infrastructure leaders and other experts say would be disastrous for the UK economy and global standing as well as those concerned for the rule of law in one of the world’s oldest parlia-

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson

mentary democracies.

“This is a state of affairs which seems to us to be highly likely,” read a statement from the campaigners who brought the legal case in Scotland.

“Only last night, for example, the president of the European Parliament stated that Boris Johnson had told him he would not be asking for an extension. If Boris Johnson was telling the truth, this would be a breach of his obligations to send the letter under the Benn Act. And if Boris Johnson was not telling the truth, this would, it seems to us, be a breach of his obligations not to frustrate the Benn Act.” But in a submission to the court in a previous case last week, the government formally pledged to abide by

the Benn Act - the total reverse of what cabinet ministers have been saying in public.

Campaigners had therefore lodged a bid at the Court of Session in Edinburgh to use the Nobile Officium - or “Nob-Off” power, which would allow a court official to send a letter to the EU requesting a delay on Johnson’s behalf if he were to refuse.

In the court in Edinburgh on Tuesday, the government argued it had already undertaken to follow the law.

Furthermore, its lawyers said, the deadline for a deal had not yet been reached, and so it would be inappropriate for the court to pass judgment at this time.

Campaigners argued that leaving a ruling until after October 19 would cause “massive” legal uncertainty; to wait until the deadline had passed would spark serious administrative and practical obstacles to enacting a legal remedy ahead of Britain leaving the EU without a deal on October 31.

But they say they are happy with the court’s announcement on Wednesday morning.

“These cases are about keeping the prime minister on the straight and narrow,” said Jolyon Maugham QC, one of the senior lawyers bringing the case. (Al

Jazeera)

16

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, october 10, 2019

Regional

69 persons rescued from cages at T&T church S ixty-nine people ranging from the ages of 19 to 70 years have been found locked away in cages at a church located along the Eastern Main Road in Arouca, Trinidad on Wednesday morning.

These people, both men and women, are believed to be victims of “modern-day slavery” and “human trafficking” according to Police Commissioner Gary Griffith, who spoke to the Guardian Media Limited’s

Mark Bassant earlier on Wednesday just outside the Transformed Life Ministry Rehabilitation Centre.

“What we believe is that we have cracked what we believe is the biggest human trafficking ring in the country ... some of them said they have been here for years ... this is a much bigger picture and we have to investigate each and every case ... this relates to virtual slavery with what we have seen here.

Some of them say they have

One of the persons found in the cages (St Lucia News Online)

been tortured. It is such a bigger picture with profit being made out of this ... family members deliberately sending their loved ones here and extracting the profits from the families,” Griffith said.

He described the scenes as “barbaric”: “Persons are seen in cages, handcuffed...persons were being tortured. We saw tasers and batons...and again this is a situation of virtual modern-day slavery.”

During a sting operation coordinated by Griffith

and executed by the Special Operation Response Team (SORT), the T&T Police Service (TTPS) rescued the 69 T&T citizens (65 men and 4 women). They were all held captive, where most of them were in cages and some in handcuffs.

The operation commenced about 12:15h on Wednesday, at the prominent church.

Six people were arrested at the church, including the Pastor. (Excerpted from Trinidad Guardian)

Mexican Mayor tied to car Ecuador protesters storm and dragged by angry locals Parliament as unrest worsens

E

leven people have been arrested in southern Mexico after the Mayor of their village was dragged out of his office, tied to a pick-up truck, and dragged through the streets.

Police intervened to free Mayor Jorge Luis Escandón Hernández, who reportedly suffered no major injuries.

It was the second attack by farmers demanding that he fulfil his campaign promise to repair a local road.

Extra officers have been deployed to the village in Chiapas state.

Mayors and local politicians in Mexico are often targeted by drug gangs when they refuse to coop-

erate with their criminal schemes, but it is less common for them to be attacked over their campaign promises.

Escandón said he would press charges for abduction and attempted murder.

Video taken by bystanders outside the Mayor’s office showed a group of men pulling him out of the building and forcing him onto the back of the vehicle.

Footage captured later

by Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) showed him being dragged along, tied with a rope around his hands to the back of the truck through the streets of Santa Rita, which forms part of Las

Margaritas.

It took dozens of municipal Police Officers to stop the vehicle and rescue the Mayor. Several people were injured in scuffles between the Police and those who had abducted the Mayor.

In an earlier incident four months ago, a group of men trashed his office when they did not find him there.

In the lead-up to the mayoral election in Las Margaritas, Escandón was himself arrested on suspicion of taking part in a brawl with supporters of a rival candidate.

He was released for lack of evidence. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Argentine libertarian running for President says country must “detonate” political past

A

rgentina needs to make radical changes including trimming back big government and freeing international trade to avoid slipping into disaster, presidential candidate and libertarian economist José Luis Espert told Reuters.

The fringe runner ahead of the October 27 election, who won around two per cent of the vote in an August primary, said Argentina needed to replace what he saw as a broken political and economic system over the last half century.

“If Argentina doesn’t detonate what it has done

in the last 50 years and do something radically different, then there is no economic plan that will work.

Everyone will fail, everyone,” Espert said at Reuters’ office in Buenos Aires.

Argentina, in and out of recession for decades, is battling an economic crisis amid steep inflation, a volatile currency and mountainous debts that threaten to tip the country into default.

Poverty levels, meanwhile, stand at above 35 per cent.

As elections near, Peronist centre-left candidate Alberto Fernández is the distant front-runner ahead of conservative in-

cumbent Mauricio Macri, whose Administration has been hit by the economic woes as voters face rising hardship.

Espert believes that both Fernández and Macri represent parties that have not implemented sufficient structural reforms that the economy needs to get out of its slump.

His Awakening Front party has 13 proposals to drive “real change”, including total free trade, a much reduced State spending to help cut the fiscal deficit, an education overhaul and labour reforms taking power away from powerful unions.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Jamaica: Detention of ex-Minister, other CMU functionaries “regrettable and unfortunate”

M

inister with responsibility for education, youth and information Karl Samuda has described as “regrettable and unfortunate” developments Wednesday morning which saw the detaining of key functionaries, including former Education Minister Ruel Reid by members of the security forces.

Addressing a post-Cabinet press briefing, Samuda said that while he had limited information about the development, the Government had not sought in any way to influence the investigative

process up to the moment, and remained committed to upholding the rule of law.

“We had nothing to do with the investigations ... the Government did not at any time seek to interfere with the investigations, that would be a major breach,” he noted.

“I know nothing about beyond what I have been advised, I find it regrettable, I find it unfortunate, it hits at the heart of all that we are trying achieve,” Samuda told Journalists.

The operations, which are being conducted simul-

taneously in Kingston, St Catherine and St Ann by the Financial Investigation Division, Major Organised Crime and AntiCorruption Agency, and the Constabulary Financial Unit of the Counter Terrorism and Organised Crime Division, began at 5:00h Wednesday and are ongoing.

Several people have so far been taken into custody, including President of the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU), Professor Fritz Pinnock, for further questioning. (Observer)

P

resident Lenín Moreno has imposed a night curfew near Government buildings after protesters clashed with security forces inside Ecuador’s heavily-guarded Parliament.

Demonstrators briefly burst through a Police cordon before being driven back with tear gas, witnesses said.

Moreno declared a state of emergency last week, but has failed to end protests led by Indigenous groups.

They are demanding an end to austerity and the return of fuel subsidies.

Petrol prices have soared by more than 100 per cent since last Thursday when the subsidies were removed.

The unrest has forced President Lenín Moreno to move the Government out of the capital.

Indigenous-led protests have toppled three Presidents in the past few

Amid the worst unrest in years, the embattled Government has said it is open to mediation through the United Nations or the Roman Catholic Church

decades.

Amid the worst unrest in years, the embattled Government has said it is open to mediation through the United Nations or the Roman Catholic Church.

Witnesses said protesters, some of whom were carrying wooden shields, broke through a security cordon around the National Assembly building on Tuesday. Once inside they waved flags and

chanted slogans before being forced back by security forces using tear gas. No staff were in the building at the time.

Other Government buildings in the capital were also attacked and damaged, local media reported.

Across Ecuador, two people have died in the recent disturbances and dozens more have been injured. (Excerpt from BBC News)

As Trump grows frustrated on Venezuela, US to “squeeze” Cuba, scrutinise Russia

P

resident Donald Trump’s frustration over the failure of his “maximum pressure” campaign to unseat Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has spurred foreign policy aides to ready further US actions and press for tougher sanctions by European and Latin American partners, a second senior Administration official said on condition of anonymity.

Abrams said Washington saw Cuba and Russia providing a lifeline to Maduro, nine months after the Trump Administration and dozens of other countries resolved to no longer recognise the socialist leader as Venezuela’s legitimate president.

“We’re always looking to ways to squeeze (Cuba) because we do not see any improvement in their conduct either with respect to Venezuela or human rights internally,” Abrams said in an interview in his State Department office.

The new sanctions under consideration for communist

American diplomat Elliott Abrams speaks during the United Nations Security Council meeting about the situation in Venezuela, in New York, US, February 26, 2019 (file photo)

Cuba, expected “in the weeks ahead”, would likely target the island’s tourism sector as well as Venezuela’s cutrate oil delivered to Havana, building on the US blacklisting of tankers used to transport the supplies, the senior official said.

While US sanctions on Cuba stem from accusations that it provides training, arms and intelligence to Maduro’s security forces, targeting Russia would be based heavily on Moscow’s fi-

nancial support of Caracas.

Oil giant Rosneft has helped Venezuela market its crude since Washington imposed sanctions on State oil company PDVSA in January.

Asked whether Washington is preparing sanctions against Rosneft, Abrams said the Administration was “taking a closer look at the ways in which Russia is sustaining the regime”, but declined to specify any entities or individuals. (Excerpt from Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, october 10, 2019

Around the World

Turkey launches ground offensive in northern Syria T

urkey has launched a ground offensive in northern Syria, hours after its warplanes and artillery began hitting territory held by Kurdish-led forces.

Turkish troops and Syrian rebel allies entered the area “east of the Euphrates”, Turkish officials said.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the operation was to create a “safe zone” cleared of Kurdish militias which will also house Syrian refugees.

Kurdish-led forces who were key US allies had

17

vowed to resist.

The Kurds – who helped defeat the jihadist group Islamic State (IS) in Syria – guard thousands of IS fighters and their relatives in prisons and camps in areas under their control and it is unclear whether those held will continue to be safely detained if ground battles break out.

The offensive was launched just days after President Donald Trump withdrew US troops from the border area, a decision that was widely condemned at home and abroad.

In an earlier state-

The offensive was launched just days after President Donald Trump withdrew US troops from the border area, a decision that was widely condemned at home and abroad

ment, Trump – who had threatened to “obliterate” Turkey’s economy if it went “off limits” – said the US did

not “endorse this attack”, calling the operation a “bad idea”.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Ugandan pop star-turned-politician escapes arrest on motorbike

U

gandan pop star and leading Opposition figure Bobi Wine has made a dramatic escape on a motorbike, avoiding arrest by security forces after they barricaded his home.

Wine shared a video on Facebook on Wednesday, captioned “Busabala Final Destination” of himself getting on a bike surrounded by supporters and well-wishers.

Other social media users posted videos on Twitter showing Wine being chased

by Police as he jumped on the back of the motorcycle, wearing his signature red beret.

The musician took to Twitter earlier in the day to post pictures of Police and security agencies surrounding his home and allegedly stopping him from performing

at his scheduled concert at Busabala.

It was revealed on Tuesday that the Inspector General of Police, Martins Okoth Ochola, had cancelled Wine’s Independence Day music show, local media outlets reported. Uganda marked 57 years of independence on Wednesday.

According to a letter Ochola wrote to the Kampala Metropolitan Police, Wine did not make sufficient preparatory plans for traffic control, medical care, and crowd control.

The musician was most recently arrested in April for allegedly staging an unsanctioned protest last year, but was released from jail after a few days.

White House “will not cooperate with impeachment inquiry” Ex-NBC anchor Matt

T

he White House has officially refused to cooperate with the impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump.

A letter sent to Democratic leaders rejected it as “baseless” and “constitutionally invalid”.

Three Democratic-led House committees are investigating Trump.

The inquiry is trying to find out if the President held back aid to Ukraine to push it to investigate Joe Biden, who

is running for the Democratic presidential nomination.

The White House letter comes hours after the Trump Administration blocked the US Ambassador to the European Union from appearing before a congressional impeachment investigation.

White House counsel Pat Cipollone addressed the eightpage letter to the leading Democrat and House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi, and the three Chairmen of the Democratic committees.

He accused the leaders of setting up an inquiry that “violates fundamental fairness and constitutionally mandated due process”.

The letter insisted that, because Democrats did not hold a vote on launching impeachment proceedings in the House, the inquiry was “constitutionally invalid”.

The letter also accused Democrats of trying to change the 2016 election result, and “deprive the American people of the President they have

freely chosen”.

“In order to fulfil his duties to the American people...

President Trump and his Administration cannot participate in your partisan and unconstitutional inquiry under these circumstances.”

In response, Pelosi called the letter “manifestly wrong” and accused Trump of trying to “normalise lawlessness”.

“Mr President, you are not above the law. You will be held accountable.” (Excerpt from BBC News)

Abrar Fahad killing: Bangladesh student was beaten for 4 hours

A

Bangladeshi undergraduate student killed in his dormitory on Sunday days after criticising the Government online was beaten for several hours before he died, witnesses told the BBC. Fellow students say Abrar Fahad was taken from his room around 20:00

(14:00 GMT) and beaten at least four hours.

The doctor who performed the autopsy on Fahad, who was 21, confirmed to the BBC his body was heavily bruised.

Fahad studied at Dhaka’s Bangladesh University of Engineering (Buet).

Several members of

the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) –- the youth wing of the governing Awami League party – were detained in connection with the death.

The BCL has been widely accused of using torture and extortion against students.

CCTV footage from Fahad’s dormitory showed

several men carrying the victim’s body. Police detained nine men from the dorm, including at least five BCL activists.

By Tuesday the number of arrests had risen to 13, Police said, all from Buet, while six more suspects are being sought. (Excerpt from BBC News)

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Lauer denies rape allegation in new book

Matt Lauer and Al Roker host NBC’s “Today” in 2014

F

ormer NBC anchor Matt Lauer, once one of the highest-paid Journalists on US television, has denied a former colleague’s rape claim in a new book.

Former TV producer Brook Nevils alleges the attack in “Catch and Kill”, by investigative Journalist Ronan Farrow.

Farrow writes that Lauer invited Nevils to his room where he forcibly kissed and raped her.

Lauer – who lost his job in November 2017 – called the allegations “dangerous and defamatory”.

Farrow’s new book details a new claim from Nevils, the previously unnamed former NBC News employee whose complaint led to Lauer getting fired from NBC’s morning show Today.

Nevils says that when they were covering the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics in Russia, Lauer invited her to his hotel room after a night of drinks.

Once in the suite, she says, he pushed her against the door and kissed her, according to Variety magazine, which has seen Farrow’s book.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Gunman kills 2 in livestreamed attack at China plans to restrict visas for US visitors German synagogue with ‘anti-China’ links

A

gunman who denounced Jews opened fire outside a German synagogue on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish year, and killed two people as he livestreamed his attack.

Several German media outlets said the perpetrator acted alone on Wednesday in the eastern German city of Halle. He fatally shot a woman outside the synagogue and a man inside a nearby kebab shop.

Two other people were seriously injured, but regional broadcaster MDR said their condition was not critical.

Police said they had detained one person, reported by German magazines Spiegel and Focus Online to be a 27-year-old German

named Stephan B. His full name cannot be published under German privacy laws.

Video broadcast on Amazon’s gaming subsidiary Twitch showed a young man with a shaven head first reciting a short statement in broken English while sitting in a parked car.

“I think the Holocaust never happened,” he began, before adding “feminism is the cause of decline in birth rates in the West” and mentioning mass immigration.

He concluded: “The root of all these problems is the Jew.” A spokeswoman for Amazon said Twitch “worked with urgency to remove this content and will permanently suspend any accounts found to be posting or reposting con-

C

German Chancellor Angela Merkel attends a gathering at the New Synagogue in Berlin, Germany, October 9, 2019, after two people were killed in a shooting in the eastern German city of Halle

tent of this abhorrent act”.

In the video, the man drove to the synagogue, found the gates shut and unsuccessfully sought to force the gates open. He then shot several rounds at a woman passer-by.

“We saw via the cam-

era system at our synagogue that a heavily armed perpetrator with a steel helmet and a gun tried to shoot open our doors,” Max Privorozki, Halle’s Jewish Community Chairman, told the Stuttgarter Zeitung newspaper. (Excerpt from Reuters)

hina is planning tighter visa restrictions for US nationals with ties to anti-China groups, people with knowledge of the proposed curbs said, following similar US restrictions on Chinese nationals, as relations between the countries sour.

China’s Ministry of Public Security has for months been working on rules to limit the ability of anyone employed, or sponsored, by US intelligence services and human rights groups to travel to China.

The proposed changes follow the introduction by the United States of tighter rules for visas for Chinese scholars in May.

New US visa restrictions announced on Tuesday, on Chinese Government and Communist Party officials the US believes responsible for the detention or abuse of Muslim minorities, had bolstered the case for the new Chinese restrictions, one of the sources said.

“This is not something we want to do, but we don’t seem to have any choice,” the source said.

The Chinese rules would mandate the drafting of a list of US military and CIA-linked institutions and rights groups, and the addition of their employees to a visa blacklist, according to the sources, who declined to be identified. (Excerpt from Reuters)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, OCTOber 10, 2019

ARCHIE

ARIES

Take an overall view of what’s going on around you to avoid being taken for granted. If someone asks for too much, refuse them with no hard feelings.

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

You’re heading in the right direction. Change can be exciting if you oversee every step. Live in the moment and make the most of whatever comes your way.

Romance is apparent.

(March 21April 19)

dilbert

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO

SUDOKU

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

LAST PUBLISHED WORD

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

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Look for opportunities.

Do your research and verify what’s being offered. Don’t expect everyone to be honest. Emotional tactics will be used to manipulate you.

Proceed with caution.

Express your thoughts and check out new possibilities. Socializing will lead to exciting encounters that will spark your imagination. Personal gains, love and better health should be priorities.

Keep busy and focus on finishing what you start.

Someone will complain if you fall short on a promise. Don’t let someone else’s change disrupt your plans.

Expand your knowledge. Listen, learn and experiment. Getting together with people who share your beliefs will encourage you to do something that will improve your life. Romance is encouraged.

Problems at home can be solved with a little understanding. Listen to what others propose and consider where and how you fit into what needs to be done.

Patience will pay off.

You’ve got this. Stay focused and let your imagination, intelligence and experience help you gain ground and achieve what you set out to do. Romance is on the rise.

Don’t overreact. An emotional matter will be misleading. If you let your feelings consume you, it will lead to a mistake. Focus on your responsibilities, not on what others are doing.

Put your plans in motion. The changes you make will help you recognize what you want to do next. Trust and believe in your ability to make a difference.

Don’t let change disrupt your day. Consider what’s happening and who is masterminding the changes, and whether it’s beneficial for you to take part. Protect your money, possessions and passwords.

You’ll have too many options. Take a serious look at what’s available and choose whatever makes the most sense. You need to take the bull by the horns if you want to succeed.

thursday, october 10, 2019

19

Coco Gauff to break into James Anderson: England bowler to train at top 100 after reaching Manchester City 1st WTA quarter-final

E

A

merican teenager Coco Gauff is set to break into the world's top 100 for the first time after reaching her maiden WTA Tour quarter-final.

The 15-year-old, who made a memorable run to the Wimbledon last 16 in July, reached the Linz Open last eight when opponent Kateryna Kozlova retired.

Gauff has provisionally climbed to 94th in the rankings, closer to automatic qualification for the Australian Open.

She lost in Linz qualifying, but entered the main draw as a lucky loser.

Following Greek Maria Sakkari's withdrawal, Gauff beat Swiss Stefanie Vogele on Tuesday and progressed again when Ukrainian Kozlova quit while trailing 6-4 4-6 0-2.

Gauff, who does not turn 16 until March, is

Coco Gauff could face Dutch world number eight Kiki Bertens, who is yet to play her first-round match, in the Linz Open quarterfinals

the youngest player to reach a WTA quarter-final since Bulgarian Sesil Karatantcheva in January 2005.

The Austrian tournament is Gauff's first appearance since suffering a comprehensive defeat, which left her in tears, by Naomi Osaka at the US Open last month.

Gauff became the young-

est player in the Open era to reach the Wimbledon main draw and was given a wildcard to play at her home Grand Slam in New York.

Although most would expect her to receive a wildcard for the Australian Open, she is on course to qualify automatically with the top 100-ranked players going straight into the main draw in Melbourne. (BBC Sport)

ngland fast bowler James Anderson is being helped by Manchester City in his bid to recover from the injury that has threatened his career.

The country's leading Test wicket-taker, 37, missed the bulk of the Ashes series with a calf complaint.

He managed only four overs in the first Test against Australia at Edgbaston and has not played since.

City have agreed he can train at their Etihad campus, making use of the world-class facilities and medical staff.

The arrangement will see Anderson train at City for the next two months, and he will be accompanied by England's head of strength and conditioning, Rob Ahmun.

Anderson hopes to be fit for the tour of South Africa starting in mid-December, for a four-Test series over Christmas and New Year.

He has said he has no

James Anderson has 575 Test wickets, the fourth highest tally of all time

plans to retire and wants to emulate football legend Ryan Giggs by playing until he is 40.

Anderson and Ahmun met with City's head of sports science, Sam Erith on Tuesday to discuss what one England and Wales Cricket Board insider described as "a collaboration".

The insider said: "It is about a change of scene for

Jimmy, but also a way of tapping into some of the best facilities and experts in the world."

It is not the first time Anderson has trained at a Premier League club rather than at Old Trafford, home of his county Lancashire.

Last year, he spent time at Burnley, having been invited to train there by manager Sean Dyche. (BBC Sport)

Operation Aderlass: Cyclists Shanghai Masters: Novak Kristijan Koren and Borut Djokovic & Stefanos Bozic given 2-year bans

Tsitsipas win

W

Kristijan Koren turned professional in 2010

B

ahrain-Merida rider Kristijan Koren and sports director Borut Bozic have been given twoyear bans for doping by the International Cycling Union.

The Slovenian pair were provisionally suspended in May as part of the Operation Aderlass doping inquiry.

Koren's violations relate to 2011 and 2012 when he was with the former Liquigas team, while Bozic's relate to 2012 while a rider with Astana.

Bozic, 39, retired in 2018 to take up a sports director role

at Bahrain-Merida.

Koren, 32, joined BahrainMerida in 2018 and was withdrawn from this year's Giro d'Italia after the provisional suspension was announced.

The UCI said both had been banned for the use of prohibited methods or substances "based on information received from the law enforcement authorities of Austria".

It added both decisions can be appealed to the relevant National Anti?Doping Organisation and the World Anti?Doping Agency (Wada).

The Operation Aderlass inquiry, led by Austrian authorities, is looking into blood doping, a process where athletes have blood transfusions to increase their stamina and performance, which is prohibited under Wada regulations.

Austrian cyclists Georg Preidler and Stefan Denifl admitted doping and were provisionally suspended in March, a week after five Nordic skiers were arrested, before both were subsequently banned for four years by the UCI. (BBC Sport)

orld number one Novak Djokovic continued his fine form with a straight-set win over Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the Shanghai Masters.

Serbia's 16-time Grand Slam champion, who won the Japan Open last week without dropping a set, cruised to a 6-3 6-3 second-round victory.

Defending champion Djokovic will play American John Isner next.

Isner hit 19 aces and lost only six points on his first serve in a 7-5 6-3 win over France's Lucas Pouille.

Austrian fourth seed Dominic Thiem, who won the China Open last week, beat Spain's Pablo Carreno Busta 7-6 (7-3) 6-3 to reach

the third round in Shanghai for the first time.

Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas edged out Canadian Felix-Auger Aliassime in a match between two of the most exciting talents on the men's tour.

Tsitsipas, who had never beaten his 19-year-old opp o nent, even on the junior circuit, had to be patient before securing a 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (7-3) win.

Victory moved Tsitsipas closer to qualifying for the ATP Finals in London next month, while German fifth seed Alexander Zverev –- another still hoping to qualify and have the chance to defend his title – also needed two tie-breaks to overcome French veteran Jeremy Chardy 7-6 (1513) 7-6 (7-3).

Russian seventh seed Karen Khachanov, Spanish eighth seed Roberto Bautista Agut, Italian 11th seed Matteo Berrettini and Belgian 13th seed David Goffin progressed to boost their chances of reaching the season-ending finals. (BBC Sport)

Novak Djokovic did not drop a set on his way to the 2018 Shanghai Masters title

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GUYANATIMESgy.COM

thursday, october 10, 2019

Nand Persaud Group of Companies gears up for November 3 “All Races Are Classic” …CEO optimistic about event

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s horse racing season is in full force, fanatics will be able to witness “The All Races Are Classic”, as Sky Plus Inc presents its ninth horse racing event on November 3, 2019 at the company’s racing facility at Macedonia Estate, Number 36 Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

In an interview with Guyana Times Sport Nand Persaud Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mohindra Persaud said, “The date that we have chosen for this event is one of good timing for the region as they are about to finish their crops for the season. This means that there will be a break for the farming community. The horses are eager to race, as we are confident that we will have an excellent turnout. What makes us a standout as compared to many grounds is that we have an excellent facility which is always kept clean, provide top entertainment and food, and most importantly, we en- s u r e that all rules are adhered to.”

T h i s event will feature racing in seven categories as Guyana’s top horses battle for supremacy over 880 and 660 yards, with more than $1 million in

cash, trophies, and other incentives up for grabs.

The feature event will be for horses classified G3 and Lower, and will be run over 880 yards, or four furlongs, for a winning purse of $225,000 and a trophy.

There is an event for the H3 Maiden & Guyana Bred Open, which will race over 660 yards, or three furlongs, for a winning take of $200,000 and a trophy.

The event for animals 2 Years Guyana Bred Maiden will be run over three furlongs for a take=home prize of $150,000 and a trophy.

There is an event for animals classified J and Lower, which will be run over four furlongs for a winning take of $150,000 and a trophy.

There are two L Class races to be run over three furlongs. One is strictly for stallions and the other is strictly for mares, and both carry a winning prize of $100,000 and a trophy. The other event labelled as the 4th & Below from races 5 and 6 will see the animals competing over three furlongs for a winner’s prize of $100,000 and a t r o phy.

on

The champijockey, trainer and stable will all be rewarded with trophies and oth-

er incentives, compliments of Ramesh Sunich of the Trophy Stall.

Persons interested in entering animals in these races are invited to contact Mohini on 600-4728, or Amanda on 618-5966.

Boasting the only horseracing facility where the horses run in a straight line from start to finish, the Nand Persaud Group of Companies has the complete package: racing track, promotional group, race horses, and stables. The company also imports, produces, and sells feed.

This event is being promoted through Sky Plus Inc promotion group.

Rugby World Cup matches at risk as Super Typhoon Hagibis escalates

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wo crucial matches in the Rugby World Cup face cancellation or disruptive 11th-hour shifts to new venues as teams, organisers and tens of thousands of fans in Japan await updates on the progress of one of the most violent super typhoons in recent history.

England’s match against France on Saturday could be moved hundreds of miles south, while Scotland’s decisive meeting against the hosts on Sunday could be played in the country’s far north, according to sources.

Scotland will be praying their 61-0 bonus-point thrashing of Russia in Shizuoka on Wednesday will not amount to nought if their final Pool A game with Japan is cancelled because of powerful winds and heavy rain Super Typhoon Hagibis is expected to unleash on the Tokyo region over the weekend.

World Rugby and World Cup organisers may be forced into taking the unprecedented step of cancelling the two games as the Category Five super typhoon heads for a n area that includes Yokohama. Both matches were among the most in-demand when tickets went on sale.

The Scots are scheduled to play the hosts at the 72,000-seater Yokohama Stadium on Sunday, a day after England meet France at the same venue on the Pacific coast, south of the Japanese capital. But the stakes are highest for the Scots, who would be eliminated if their match against Japan

were to be cancelled, assuming that Ireland beat Samoa in Fukuoka on Saturday.

The potential for a tournament that has won praise for its near-seamless organisation to be disrupted by the weather has turned Scotland’s Head Coach, Gregor Townsend, into an amateur meteorologist. Asked if he had any weather updates, Townsend told reporters: “I checked the weather app this morning, about eight hours ago, and it did look like it was heading into Tokyo this weekend, unless it has changed since then.

“It is a few days away and it could miss the Tokyo area, or it could still go there and obviously we’ll be getting updates from World Rugby in the next two days as to what the contingencies are.

I’m sure that alternative venues and arrangements are being looked at, not just for our game but the other games that could be affected by it; England and France play in the same stadium the night before. I know it was getting looked at for the Ireland game as well when the forecast was that it was going to Fukuoka.”

World Rugby’s official position is that any games cancelled because of bad weather are registered as scoreless draws, with both sides awarded two points. But rumours the matches will go ahead at alternative venues were swirling as violently as the typhoon winds approaching the Japanese mainland on Wednesday evening. (The Guardian)

Neymar wanted to leave but “will defend PSG tooth and nail”

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eymar attempted to draw a line under months of transfer speculation by insisting he is “happy and comfortable” at Paris Saint-Germain, for whom he vowed to give his all.

The Brazil forward openly discussed the fact he wanted to leave the Parc des Princes after two years with the French champions, but says he is no longer at odds with the club.

PSG fans booed Neymar when he made his return to action this season, yet he has responded by scoring four goals in five Ligue 1 appearances.

At a news conference on the eve of Brazil’s clash with Senegal, in which he is set to win his 100th international cap, Neymar told reporters: “Everyone knows what happened in the summer market and the desire I had to leave.

“Today, I feel happy and comfortable with the club, too. It’s not just with the national team that I’m happy. The season started out very well for me.

“I will defend my club tooth and nail. I will give 100 per cent for us to achieve great

things.

“It was a long summer for me. I knew that I had to prepare, in all circumstances, for a good season. Thank God, it has started well and I hope it stays that way.”

The 27-year-old forward missed three months of the 2018-19 season with a foot injury, similar to an issue he suffered in the previous campaign.

The problems restricted Neymar to 20 Ligue 1 appearances in his first season in France and just 17 in his second, and he has targeted a healthier, more fruitful year for Thomas Tuchel’s men in 2019-20.

“There have been more than three months of injury treatment in the last two years,” he said. “This gets in the way of any athlete.

“But if you look at all the games and numbers you will see that I never stopped playing football. Unfortunately in an athlete’s life, this can occur. You have to have a good head and be prepared to go through it.

“My hope for this season is to stay fit, to hope that nothing bad happens.” (Goal.com)

Neymar claims he is “happy and comfortable” at PSG

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, october 10, 2019

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21

MVP Sports rewards champion athletes for performances at Jefford Classic X

By Timothy Jaikarran

A

fter the hosting of the highly-anticipated Jefford Track and Field Classic X, MVP Sports Store at Giftland Mall, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, unveiled its partnership with champion athletes Cassie Small, Natasha Alder, and Jermaine Simmons.

Jefford Track and Field Classic founder Edison Jefford said: "Once again we are grateful we are officially concluding the 2019 edition of the Jefford Track and Field Classic by rewarding our top athletes with their respective prizes. Here we are this morning standing by our word and commitment, compliments of Under Armor, MVP Sports, and Urban Life. I would like to extend my thanks to Mr Ian Mahadeo (MVP Sports CEO) in supporting me for so many years. I sincerely want to thank him for his contributions not only to the Jefford Classic, but to athletes in

general in Guyana. You athletes deserve the top gears as a testament to your hard word."

Also speaking at the simple ceremony was CEO Ramdeo who said, "I just wanted to say that our support is something that is ongoing for us as it does not stop at this particular event.

We want to continue to be a part of helping athletes realise their dreams. I would like to say thanks to Edison for allowing us to be a part of this event and we would want to continue to support in the future. Most importantly, congratulations to the athletes for your hard work and hope that you can continue to do well in the future as you reach for greatness."

The Under Armor, MVP Sports, and Urban Life brands will be associated with the male and female 400m events. They will also sponsor the champion male and female events; prizes will include $25,000 worth of Under Armor gear and $25,000 each for the male

MVP Sports CEO Ian Ramdeo, Jefford Track and Field Classic founder Edison Jefford and champion athletes Cassie Small and Natasha Alder

and female champion athlete, along with trophies.

Small won the 100m (12.02s), 200m and 400m

Zeeburg demolish MMZ Future Youths W

ith the West Demerara Cricket Association (WDCA) Beacons 50-Over competition set to restart in October, after a break owed to intermittent showers, the Zeeburg Cricket Club got off on a winning note in a 20-over affair against MMZ Future Youths at the Meten-Meer-Zorg Ground.

MMZ won the toss and put Zeeburg in to bat first on a slightly damp wicket.

Having previously dominated many of the competitions held on the West Coast of Demerara, Zeeburg posted a mammoth total of 185 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs.

Despite losing a few wickets up front the Zeeburg side continued to rally, as they refused to go down without a fight.

Ronaldo Renee led the way as he smashed the ball to every part of the ground, dealing in boundaries and maximums. After Renee fell, Andre Seepersaud came to the rescue with a quick-fire 34. They then further upped the ante on their opponents who were left flabbergasted as Zeeburg made a resurgence with Malcom Hubbard (24) and Yutesh Dhanpaul (18) adding to the total.

Spearheading the bowling for MMZ was Dexter George (3 for 34) as all other bowlers took a beating.

Needing 186 runs to win from 160 balls, MMZ were revelling in their fortunate circumstances, considering that they had time

(one minute, 03.7s), while Alder also came up big, winning the women’s shot put (12.55m) as well as the wom-

en’s discuss event (37.92m).

Simmons won the male discus event and placed second in the shotput.

Garden State Cricket League Division 2…

Guyanese boys lead Jersey City to T20 title

Ronaldo Renee, Malcolm Hubbard and Mark Jeffers were the top performers of the day

to play themselves in and chase the total. Their openers came to the crease and got things off to a

moderate start during the ‘powerplay’ overs, but

failed to carry on, Mark Jeffers and Hubbard came into the attack and tormented the MMZ batsmen.

MMZ could not hold together any partnership, as the bowling of Jeffers and Hubbard dented their hopes of attaining a victory.

Ultimately, MMZ were bowled out for 64 in 18.3 overs.

Top-scoring for MMZ were Tevin Imlac (18) and George (16). No other batsman could contribute any worthwhile score, as Jeffers snared 4-12 and Hubbard picked up 4-19.

Ricky Narain, Kumar Joseph, and Shalindra Shameer

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ormer Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club players Shalindra Shameer and Kumar Joseph were instrumental in Jersey City’s T20 championship win over the last weekend at Cedar Brook.

Jersey City won by five wickets against Blitz Cricket Club in the Garden State Cricket League Division Two tournament.

Taking first strike, Blitz Cricket Club had scored 98 all out when 20 overs expired. The off-spinner Joseph was his economical best with figures of 2-11 in four top overs. He was well-supported by Ricky Narain and Shameer, his former Rose Hall Town teammate and former Guyana Under-19 player, who grabbed 1-16. In the chase, these same three players returned to dominate with the bat.

Opening the batting, Joseph scored a shot-filled 24, which included five fours. He shared a 44-run second wicket partnership with Narain, who scored 27 runs, which were decorated with three boundaries. Shameer, batting at number four, added the finishing touches in the chase, with a powerful 21, which included two maximums. The trio ensured Jersey City clinched the T20 title, achieving the target in 18.1 overs, to win by five wickets. Kevin Singh had 2-11 for Blitz Cricket Club.

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thursday, october 10, 2019

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

Captains confident ahead of CPL T10 Women’s Challenge – Taylor to lead NLCB Revellers, Fletcher to lead Courts Gladiators

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n addition to the five Guyanese women who will feature in the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T10 Challenge, top West Indies Women players will turn out today ,Thursday, October 10 from 15:00h at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Trinidad.

The two teams will be led by Stafanie Taylor and Afy Fletcher respectively. These two teams will play their second of two matches on Saturday, October 12 from 12:30h at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. The first T10 match is the National Lotteries Control Board (NLCB) Challenge while the second match is the Courts Invitational match-up.

Match One will bowl off before the second Qualifier while Match Two will commence prior to the CPL final.

These matches will be broadcast by CNC3 while Sportsmax will also bring coverage. Veteran left-arm seamer Erva Giddings, current West Indies Women all-rounders Sheneta Grimmond and Shabika Gajnabi, promising leftarm spinner Kaysia Schultz and fast bowler Cherry-Ann Fraser are the five Guyanese selected.

At the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, NLCB Revellers Captain Taylor stated that her team have been upbeat since the announcement of the Women’s T10. “I must say since we heard about this CPL, we have been competitive in nature, the preparation has been really good and we are looking forward for tomorrow’s game,” Taylor stated.

Meanwhile, Courts Gladiators Captain Fletcher stated the preparation in camp has been good. “The intensity is high and this is the first time we are preparing for a T10 game. We just want to stick to the basics and put on a good show. I must thank CPL for this initiative to expose women to this cricket,” Fletcher explained.

NLCB Gladiators: Stafanie Taylor (Captain); Anisa Mohammed; Chinelle Henry; Natasha McClean; Chedean Nation; Jodian Morgan; Reniece Boyce; Stacy Ann King; Britney Cooper; Felicia Walters; Karishma Ramharack; Caneisha Isaac and Shawinisha Hector.

Courts Gladiators: Afy Fletcher (Captain); Kycia Knight; Kyshona Knight; Hayley Matthews; Aaliyah Alleyne; Qiana Joseph; Akeira Peters; Erva Giddings; Shabika Gajnabi; Kaysia Shultz; Cherry-Ann Fraser; Shekera Selman and Sheneta Grimmond. (Brandon Corlette)

Light moment at practice! Hayley Matthews is set to return during the T10 Challenge

ANSA McAL Handicap BCB 80th anniversary celebrations… tournament underway Blairmont Community Centre

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e it a first-rate player or those fairly new to the game, the squash playing field was levelled Tuesday evening, as the ANSA McAL-sponsored Handicap Squash tournament was served off at the usual spot, the Georgetown Club, Camp Street.

The ANSA McAL Handicap tournament will see participation from approximately 35 players of varied age and ability. The large pool of players will be divided into two categories: Category A and Open, after which the winners will have bragging rights and tangible prizes.

In a teaser of what to expect in this year’s competition, a statement from the Guyana Squash Association (GSA) highlighted some players to look out for throughout the weeklong event.

“With many of the junior players on an uphill move, players such as Samuel InceCarvalhal, Gianni Carpenter, Michael Alphonso and Nicholas Verwey will be vy-

ing in the Open Category against seasoned players Deje Dias, Nicholas Narain and Javed Rahaman. Category A will hail a new champion as one of the younger players will have the chance to take home the trophy this year with the one to watch in this category being top seed Zachary Persaud,” the statement explained.

Given the nature of the tournament, the handicap points will even out the playing field and see some players enduring long rallies to climb the point deficient they will be awarded. Both categories will no doubt boast some outstanding squash. Matches will be the best of 3 games and will play to 15 points.

While the tournament commenced at the Georgetown Club venue, the matches will continue there for the remainder of the week, with the action serving off from 06:00h on weekdays.

There will be an afternoon and evening session on Saturday, while the finals are expected to be contested on Sunday morning from 11:00h.

Cricket Club collaborates with BCB

T

he Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has continued its progressive movement on and off the cricket field.

This progressive and positive attitude in development has rubbed off on cricket clubs in the Ancient County.

In observance of BCB’s 80th anniversary, the Blairmont Community Centre Cricket Club assisted seven less fortunate individuals/families with food hampers. These hampers were presented to individuals from Blairmont, Shieldstown, D’Edward and Cotton Tree.

This programme was an outreach programme that was collaborated on with the BCB on its 80th anniversary celebrations.

Among the sponsors are J&G Supermarket of D’Edward, ‘Supa’ Value of Bath, Greens Massive, and Right Choice Supermarket of Cotton Tree.

The 80th anniversary celebrations started with a presentation of a $20,000 bicycle to all Under-13 female cricketers in the Corriverton area while among the other activities were the Tribute to Heroes, television programme, a 256-page anniversary book, Berbice Greatest Cricketers, Tribute to Retired Cricketers, Hall of Fame for Cricketers, Administrators Hall of Fame, honouring of West Indies debutants, and producing a Youth Information Booklet.

Among the on-field events were the Trophy Stall Under-13 Cricket Tournament, Stag

Job well done! Member Javid Karim, along with his team-mates, presents a hamper to one of seven recipients

Beer 50-Over First Division Tournament, NBS 40-Over Second Division Tournament, Let’s Bet Sports 100 Ball Tournament, UCCA Inter Secondary School Tournament, Somwaru Tribute Tournament and a four-page newspaper pullout.

The BCB also assisted 15 young players with over $300, 000 worth of cricket gear. Cricket clubs benefited from $400,000 worth of water pitchers while three educational competitions were organised for nursery, primary, and secondary students.

Some 80 less-fortunate students collected school bags while donations were made to several institutions including the Port Mourant Public Hospital; anniversary souvenir cups were

distributed while clubs and players received scorebooks, bicycles, and cricket balls.

The main project was the upgrading of the BCB office, which is expected to be completed in late October.

The main objective of the upgrading project is to improve the general service of the BCB to the general public and to cut back on operational expenses.

As the BCB celebrations progressed, the Dr Tulsi Dyal Singh Wall of Fame will also be unveiled on October 26

by Dr Singh, who would be visiting Berbice. The BCB was established in 1939 by two former West Indies players, LS Burkett and CR Browne, who hailed from Barbados and were employed as senior Managers at the Blairmont Estate.

guyanatimesgy.com

thursday, october 10, 2019

23

TKR, Tridents set to clash today in battle for final spot

By Brandon Corlette

B

Kieron Pollard had scores of 20 and 03 against Tridents this season

arbados Tridents and Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) have contested in some cracking matches this season, but in today’s Qualifier 2, the stakes will be higher.

It will be more than who is the better captain when the first ball bowls off from 19:00h on Thursday at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Trinidad.

The tables have turned; Tridents lost on both outings against TKR in CPL 2018, but in 2019, TKR have suffered defeats against the Tridents twice this season.

In the most recent match, TKR have bounced back with a collective win in the Eliminator while Tridents were battered by the bat of Brandon King, who smashed the highest individual score in

Caribbean Premier League (CPL) history in Qualifier 1.

In Tridents’ first match against TKR this season, where the teams met at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, Barbados, Tridents won by 63 runs. The return fixture saw Tridents defeating TKR by seven wickets. In the 63-run win for Tridents, they scored 192-5 and bundled out TKR for 129 thanks to the Hayden Walsh Jr five-wicket haul and JP Duminy’s fastest CPL fifty.

Playing in their return fixture this season, TKR still found it difficult to defeat Tridents. A collective Tridents bowling effort restricted TKR to 134-8 and Johnson Charles, who has the most runs for Tridents, bossed the chase with a match-winning half-century. In the last five matches, the head-to-head encounters stand 3-2 in favour of Tridents.

Players to watch out for Without a doubt, the Tridents leg-spinner Walsh will be a key player. He has already rocked the TKR batting line-up this season with his career best 5-19.

Since then Walsh has been consistent, with 19 wickets to his name.

Lendl Simmons has been enjoying his return.

Despite him not being picked up in the CPL draft, he still showed his value with 429 runs under his belt this season.

Two of the

Johnson Charles watches Colin Munro on the reverse

biggest overseas purchases on the respective teams are Alex Hales and Colin Munro. Both are known to step up in big matches. Hales has only 159 runs in 10 innings and with a do-or-die match on the line, the Tridents marquee player will be aiming to prove his worth in the Caribbean. Shakib Al Hassan, arguably one of the best all-rounders to have graced the game will also be a key player for Tridents, along with Englishman Harry Gurney.

TKR are no doubt a starstudded team; the spin King, Sunil Narine, who returned from injury with a player-ofthe-match performance, will pose a threat to Tridents. In addition to Simmons, Kieron Pollard has been equally impressive with bat in hand.

The new West Indies white-ball Captain has 326 runs alongside his name.

T h e Kiwi, Jimmy Neesham has 11 wickets for TKR, the most, but Khary Pierre has been the craftsman in the bowling line-up. Since his playero f- t h e - m a t c h performance in the 2018 CPL final, the leftarm spinner, who has eight wickets, has never looked back.

Big overseas

CONCACAF Nations League

recruit Chris Jordan will be playing his first match against some of his home boys from the land of flying fishes.

The Barbados-born Englishman has shown glimpses of brilliance in his brief four matches with five wickets to his name. On a good day, Jordan may display the art of death bowling.

What they said Captain Jason Holder after the first Qualifier against Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) stated that TKR has played some good cricket in the Sunil Narine bowled 19 dot balls in his return match (CPL/Getty Images)

tournament and the second Qualifier should be a good game.

Player of the match for TKR in their Eliminator, Narine stated that he was going through a lot of pain.

“A little painful, but I was given the courage and the motivation, must give credit to the management. We needed to win; we will be back playing at home, in front of our crowd, that would be comfortable for us. Hopefully, we will win the match for them. We play well in those conditions and looking forward to the next game,” Narine explained.

Having defeated these two teams on numerous occasions this season, GAW will be confident of meeting any opponent. TKR will bank heavily on their 12th man (crowd support) to pull off their first win against Tridents this season.

GFF names 22-man squad ahead of back-to-back engagements

…Sese Norville and Trayon Bobb recalled

A

head of two very important encounters in four days in the CONCACAF Nations League, Golden Jaguars Head Coach Márcio Máximo has released the names of players making up his 22-man squad that takes on Antigua and Barbuda on Friday, October 11 at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium and on Monday, October 14 here at the Leonora National Track & Field Centre.

Boasting a balance of local and overseas-based players, the Golden Jaguars will be aiming for back-to-back wins in their quest to further consolidate their current second place in Group C of League B where they are on three points, the same as their opponents Antigua and Barbuda, but with a superior goal difference of -3, as compared to Antigua and Barbuda’s -5.

The local-based players have been going through their paces with Head of Sports Science, Wilson Toledo and Head Coach Máximo ever since Guyana’s 0-4 loss to Jamaica, in order to be fit and ready to claim full points over the busy weekend.

The players and staff, who will be sporting the new official uniform, apparel and equipment, compliments of the recently-inked deal with Capelli Sports, arrived in the Land of the ‘Benna Boys’ on Tuesday.

According to Head Coach Máximo, they already had a session on Tuesday afternoon and are prepared for a physical encounter against the hosts.

“For me, the team is coming good; after we arrived, we had a good session with the players on Tuesday and we also trained on Wednesday and I think that they have all held well so far and are focused on the task.

“They understand our tactical approach for this game.

Antigua is a very physical team and we should be smart to use our strategy well to win the game. We are very optimistic as we look forward to our international players blending well with the local players to do us well; I think we can take a win on Friday,” the Head Coach stated.

Recalled to the team are Goalkeeper Sese Norville, defenders Kadell Daniel and Kevin Dundas, midfielder Elliot Bonds along with forwards Trayon Bobb and Emery Welshman.Guyana will face the home team from 17:00h on Friday at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium and return to these shores on Saturday ahead on next Monday’s return match against the Antiguans at the Leonora National Track & Field Centre from 20:00h.

thursday, october 10, 2019

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Page 23

TKR, Tridents set

to clash today in battle for final spot CONCACAF Nations League

GFF names 22-man squad ahead of back-to-back engagements

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…Sese Norville and Trayon Bobb recalled The local players during a practice session GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.