Guyanatime 4 may 2018

PAC to develop Guyana’s protected areas by 2020 P14

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

Issue No. 3553

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Friday, May 4, 2018

Captain killed, crew missing in another pirate attack Page 15

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE: CFATF conference

Members urged to band together in fight against P15 money laundering

– 1 more body, another survivor discovered from 1st pirate attack – 6 suspects nabbed offshore Suriname

Cyber Crimes Bill reminiscent of PNC’s National Security Act – Jagdeo

Head in bucket trial

See stories on pages 3, 9 and 12

Defendant P8 claims he found victim dead – to know fate next week

…legislation breaches Guyana’s Constitution – T&T activist

…AG says Cabinet will look into concerns; Ramjattan, Trotman at loggerheads

Officials urged to create P14 enabling environment for Region 10 youths

Appointment of new Top Cop not P12 imminent Members of the National Dance Company perform at the 183rd anniversary of the arrival of Portuguese immigrants to Guyana. The celebration was held in the compound of the Sacred Heart Church, Main Street, Georgetown on Thursday (Carl Croker photo)

32% of deaths caused by cardiovascular diseases Page 13

Granger could be challenged for PNC’s leadership …as party ‘bigwigs’ prepare to duel Page 7

for key posts at upcoming Congress

Judicial appointments

“There is nothing to P13 discuss” – President

2

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

news

3

FRIDAY, may 4, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, May 4 – 05:00h-06:30h and Saturday, May 5 – 05:30h-07:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, May 4 – 06:30h-08:00h and Saturday, May 5 – 07:10h-08:40h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery to light rain showers can be expected in the morning, with light to partly cloudy conditions prevailing in the afternoon and throughout the night.

Temperatures are expected to range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly to North-easterly between 2.23 metres and 7.15 metres.

High Tide: 06:46h and 19:15h reaching maximum heights of 2.57 metres and 2.40 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 00:22h and 12:48h reaching minimum heights of 0.75 metre and 0.66 metre respectively.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS C

04

11

21

22

24

27

05 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

THURSDAY, MAY 3, 2018

DAILY MILLIONS 04 12 14 21

26

LUCKY 3 8 7 6

7

Afternoon Draw DRAW DE LINE

02

03

08

13

0

3

Evening Draw

16

17

19

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

Cyber Crimes Bill reminiscent of PNC’s National Security Act – Jagdeo

D

isappointment was expressed by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo at the fact that despite being categorical about the position of the parliamentary Opposition on the Cyber Crimes Bill, “falsehoods” are still being peddled to convey the impression that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) supported the increasingly controversial Bill, which includes a section on sedition.

In an interview with Guyana Times, he reasoned that such acts were either reflective of an unwillingness to directly criticise the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition Government – part of the balancing act employed by some commentators – or an effort to mislead Guyanese.

At his Monday (April 30, 2018) news conference, Jagdeo acknowledged that the parliamentary Opposition “dropped the ball” in addressing the Cyber Crimes Bill, given the absence of PPP/C Members of Parliament (MPs) at the meetings of the Select Committee dealing with the Bill.

“You can blame us and some of the MPs for not attending the meetings (of the Parliamentary Select Committee) and it would be justified… the PPP, and I speak for the PPP, does not support this inclusion, this undemocratic inclusion, in the cybercrime bill. In fact, we are opposed to it…the fact is that several MPs on our side were members of the Special Select Committee, which met several times to consider the provisions of this Bill, and were absent sometimes. However, their presence alone, being named to that committee, does not elevate to support by the PPP.” The Opposition Leader was categorical in reiterating that the PPP/C was not supportive of the controversial Bill.

“This provision has no place in a democratic Guyana, in a free Guyana. In a Guyana where free speech is an important part of our democracy, where freedom of expression is defined and protected by our Constitution, this Bill has no place,” Jagdeo said.

After being tabled in the National Assembly on August 4, 2016 – with no hard copy

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

made available to parliamentarians, the Cyber Crimes Bill was sent to a Parliamentary Select Committee. At the February 15, 2018 meeting, the controversial Clause 18 about sedition was fashioned, according to the minutes of the Committee’s report, which also made clear that no PPP/C MP was present for the meeting.

Reminiscent of National Security Act According to Jagdeo, Clause 18 is reminiscent of the old National Security Act,

which was upheld during the Burnham era, but repealed in the late 90s. The Opposition Leader said, “The insertion by the Government of Guyana of (this) provision in the cybercrime bill could mean or could have grave implications for freedom of speech in Guyana.

In fact, looking at the provision or that specific provision of the Bill, which was inserted in the Special Select Committee, is reminiscent of the old National Security Act that obtained in the period of undemocratic rule. “….that Act was, specifically, designed to stifle dissent and to take action against individuals who may disagree with the Government of Guyana. It was a repressive tool in the hands of a repressive Government. In Guyana, we have seen a trend towards unilateralism. We have seen a trend where the Government acts with impunity regardless of laws or provisions of our Constitution or in direct contravention of provisions in our Constitution. So, I see this insertion in this new Bill as another tool available to a Government that is becoming increasingly undemocratic in

its march towards a dictatorship.”

Jagdeo argued that it was for these reasons that Guyanese must fight to ensure that “this retrograde step” to charge people for sedition, an “archaic” offence, is not passed into law. “If you look through quite a few elements of that provision, you will see that they are not so much concerned about people in Guyana or protecting their rights.

“The entire cybercrime bill (as envisioned by the former PPP/C Government) was for a purpose, not to protect the Government of Guyana, but to protect our children against child pornography, to protect people against electronic assault on their privacy; it was to protect the people of the country in their business, so that their data or their computers would not be compromised, that cyberspace in Guyana without overregulating, without affecting content of speech, that it would have some rules that people can’t act illegally in harming others. That was the purpose of the Bill.” turn to page 7

4

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, may 4, 2018

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

Building a Green Guyana

T

he local Private Sector and the Government of Guyana must redouble their efforts to ensure that no stone is left unturned in transforming Guyana into a modern and resilient “green economy” that caters to the socioeconomic needs of its citizenry in an environmentally sustainable manner.

This is critical because Guyana has unparalleled opportunities for green business development and immense potential to be green business leaders, not followers. It is therefore imperative for the Private Sector Commission (PSC) to be active partners in the effort to realise the immense potential of green business opportunities.

This must be done against the backdrop of Guyana’s historic offer of the Iwokrama Rainforest to the Commonwealth as a laboratory for sustainable forest management and its crafting and implementing one of the developing world’s first Low Carbon Development Strategies (LCDS). These are no doubt examples of how it has led the way already in the area of green policy creation, environmental sustainability and the fight against climate change.

Also, the move with the Kingdom of Norway, which saw the setting up of the world’s second largest international partnership on climate change and sustainable forests management, and more recently, Government’s commitment to a green development path through the Green State Development Strategy are other examples of how Guyana has made a reputation for itself across the world as green leaders.

There is still further potential to be grasped from these initiatives – for business, for Government, and for communities across Guyana.

Serious thought must therefore be given to the suggestions made by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association last year at a business dinner as to how this could be done.

It is no secret too that in the manufacturing sector energy efficiency measures and behavioural change were leading to reduced energy costs in other parts of the world and many local businesses were now moving towards hybrid systems utilising solar technology.

And while the Private Sector could – and should – make progress on its own initiative, its ability to deliver sustainable development outcomes could be elevated through the right kind of enabling environment, and crucially – through public-private partnerships.

Additionally, At the policy level – to this day, the Guyana-Norway partnership is a model for forest countries across the world because of its central themes – protecting forests; earning revenue; using revenue to diversity and green the economy; building resilience to climate change – which were radical back then are now the goals that are recognised by others.

There is a commitment by Government to power our economy through renewable energy and several initiatives are being pursued.

The LCDS featured the Amaila Falls Hydropower project and the GSDS opens the door to other options in the future. There is broad consensus on the key economic green sectors, and much work has been done on environmental management systems and conservation of biodiversity.

Put together, this is a platform for ambition, not incremental change.

Many of our country’s most exciting economic development sectors were outlined originally in the National Development Strategy, and subsequently in the National Competitiveness Strategy.

The LCDS drew on the National Competitiveness Strategy to set out several low-carbon growth areas, one of them being business process outsourcing. Through a combination of policy and publicprivate partnerships, we have seen tremendous growth in the business process outsourcing sector with international operators investing and creating thousands of jobs – earlier this week, one of the pioneer investors in the sector expanded its operation to create more jobs.

This shows that it is possible for key sectors that we recognise today as green growth sectors to be transformed in a relatively short period of time if the enabling environment is in place to encourage investment.

Recall too that the Government has expressed its intention to continue this theme of developing green economic sectors and to support initiatives in this regard.

All Guyanese should be proud of what we have achieved over many years but the Private Sector’s and Government’s challenge in the months ahead was to ask, what do we need to do to further support greening of businesses and achieving this ambition?

Guyana needed to work towards building public-private partnerships for green projects and while Government has already initiated several incentive measures to encourage investments in green technologies, consideration should be given to expanding incentives and to considering performance benefits as a means of encouraging businesses.

We should work together to push for an internationally recognisable Guyana brand to act as a ‘green label’ for Guyanese products which takes on board all our efforts, for example on EITI, EU-FLEGT, having one of the lowest deforestation rates in the world, commitment to renewable energy, etc. Costa Rica and other countries have made progress with this but it must be argued that Guyana has the potential for a world-leading brand.

There is still need for the country to commence a genuine and wellthought out national programme for the greening of businesses which can result in the type of outcomes that we seek.

President David Granger received a courtesy call from Baroness Patricia Scotland, Secretary General of the Commonwealth, at State House on Thursday

AFC leaders seem permanently settled in ‘la-la land’ Dear Editor, The attempts by the Alliance For Change (AFC), a spent political force, to assert some kind of relevance in Guyana’s political arena is such an abysmal failure that it forces rational thinking persons to question the clear lack of drive behind that effort.

And, that question leads to the obvious answer – there is no drive from the AFC leaders who are enjoying the perks of office without representing the people of Guyana.

Having read the missive from the AFC about its National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, I dare say that the AFC leader seems permanently settled in ‘la-la land’. How else can you explain the AFC’s contention that Guyanese workers are “significantly better off” under the coalition Government?

There was no mention about the increased cost of living resulting from the new taxes and fees imposed on the Guyanese working class.

There was no mention of the fact that thousands of sugar workers are on the breadline, having been fired, and this coalition Government has failed to respect the rule of law to ensure that all severance payments are made in full.

This was the least of the fictions embraced by the AFC. Party Chairman Khemraj

Ramjattan reportedly informed the party that rice farmers are “pleased” with the coalition Government’s efforts.

What effort is Ramjattan referring to exactly? The increase in land rental fees from $3500 to $15,000? The threat issued to farmers that they will face the full force of the State apparatus and be ‘hauled’ (Ramjattan’s favourite word) before the courts if the new, increased fees are not paid? The imposition of Value Added Tax (VAT) on tractors and other machinery? The imposition of increased taxes on other agricultural inputs? Or is he referring to President David Granger’s statement that rice farmers are on their own because rice is a Private Sector? It is instructive that the only reference to ‘effort’ made by Ramjattan is the installation of street lights on the Corentyne Highway, as if this was done because of the benevolence of this Government.

Works like installing street lights are routine works, Minister Ramjattan; it is what governments are expected to do – serve the Guyanese people.

Instead of serving the people, what Guyanese have witnessed is a complicit AFC – serving self-interests – involved in some of the most egregious acts of corruption

this country has ever seen.

It was only a few weeks ago that David Patterson, one of the AFC’s leaders, faced private criminal action, over his involvement in paying to a private limited liability company, Homestretch Development Inc (HDI), the sum of $906 million of public funds, without any resort to the procurement process as is required by law. This is not the least of the countless breaches of Guyana’s financial laws and regulations.

Editor, realistically, it can be concluded that with Local Government Elections (LGE) on the horizon, the AFC is attempting to recreate its image. But Guyanese have seen through the AFC’s charade.

The AFC has been complicit in not only the egregious acts perpetuated on the Guyanese people, but has joined the People’s National Congress-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in blaming, of all groups of people, Guyanese public servants for its own incompetence and failures.

All Guyanese must reject the AFC’s attempt to blame hardworking public servants in the health sector for the consistent shortages of drugs and medical supplies, by arguing that health workers are involved in an “unusually high dispense rate” of supplies.

Has the AFC forgotten that it was Public Health

Minister Volda Lawrence, in May 2016, who admitted that there were problems with the procurement system used by this current Administration and these problems resulted in the shortages of drugs and medical supplies?

Has the AFC forgotten that it was this coalition Government, which changed the procurement system that worked under the former People’s Progressive Party/ Civic Government after it took office in May 2015? Has the AFC forgotten that talk about changing the procurement system, again, came up at the same time – a diversion clearly – when the Government was dealing with the media disclosures about the $4 billion+ of taxpayers’ monies that were spent on pharmaceuticals and medical supplies without any public tendering processes?

The AFC seems intent on perpetuating the view that it somehow has an independent voice in the coalition, but actions speak louder than words, and the Guyanese people will not be duped by the latest contrived ramblings of the AFC – months out from the expected Local Government Elections.

Sincerely, Adrian Anamayah, People’s Progressive Party/Civic parliamentarian

Linden security guard’s rape exposes shameful social issues Dear Editor, I am appalled and deeply hurt by news reports about the vicious rape of a female security guard while she was on duty in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) trying to make ends meet.

This crime is most disturbing to me because the victim works in the security industry of which I am a

part, and also because she is a mature lady, old enough to be her attacker’s mother.

This rape exposes two shameful social issues that are exploding in our society like dynamite. The first is the increasing risks faced by women who work as security guards .The other is the spate of violent crimes against women and girls of

all ages.

No matter what job you do, there will be occupational risks. If you work in an office or as a minibus driver or conductor on the road, or in a field, factory, mine, or hospital, you simply cannot help being exposed to certain risks while on the job.

Some jobs have a much higher risk factor than oth-

ers, like being an airline pilot, a Police Officer, a military officer, a bodyguard or a security officer. Jobs like these are called “high-risk employment” and the risks associated with them have to be carefully managed or else there will be a backlash.

That is why I am particularly worried about the security industry. continued on page 5

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, may 4, 2018

5

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

Foreign reserves in trouble Dear Editor, In March 2018, the Statistical Abstract published by the Bank of Guyana reported that the net international foreign currency reserves at the Central Bank were US$498.5 million, a 16 per cent decrease from 12 months prior. So let us examine these numbers.

The general understanding Since 2016, the current account situation has started to deteriorate drastically. Why is this occurring, and what effects might it have on the future economy?

A current account deficit implies that, in a given year, the expenditures made by consumers, investors and the Government in Guyana exceed the value of goods and services produced in the country. Of importance, the Government expenditures have skyrocketed since 2016, with the biggest Budget ever declared for 2018 with no certainty on how this will be funded.

The figure below shows Guyana’s current account balance from 2014 to the projections in 2018, which was sourced from the National Budgets and the Bank of Guyana Annual

place their focus there, not on pageantry projects like the D’Urban Park Parade Ground and idle arches. As an example, the actions taken by the Granger Government in the sugar belt have caused the US dollar cash inflow from that one sector alone to drop by US$40 million since their assumption of power in May 2015 to the end of December 2017. The decline in foreign currency inflows from the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) is set to decrease by a further US$10 million over 2018 as a result of the closure of three more estates. The fact remains, closure of these estates can be an option if you have a replacement foreign currency earner to take its place.

Unfortunately, the Granger Government had no replacement for the reduced foreign currency inflows from GuySuCo but continues to sell the incomplete analysis that some GY$9 billion was being used to subsidise the industry annually.

But when the disaggregation is done, some GY$3 billion of new funds had to be pumped into the Central Government Drainage and Irrigation efforts because GuySuCo is not footing that bill any more. This is

Charges against Dr Singh, Brassington are frivolous, vexatious (Part 2) Dear Editor, In an earlier letter, I highlighted the fact that the charges brought by SOCU/ SARA against Dr Ashni Singh and Mr Brassington are “frivolous and vexatious” in the law and should be withdrawn. My reasons are: you cannot charge ministers of Government for carrying out their duties expeditiously and successfully; it defies intelligence.

Where in that charge was the state of Guyana negatively impacted by those ministers’ decisions? The answer is nowhere.

For the very same reason, I think the DPP has dismissed charges against the five ministers of this present Government.

She would have contended that for sitting ministers to be charged in dispensing their duties in office, it would be improper, seeing they are in the process of doing “their work.” It would also cause a logistical nightmare having to summon ministers from their “busy” schedule to attend court, and having to sift through volumes of paperwork. This should not happen.

Not a legal answer, because no one should be immune from prosecution, Government nor Opposition, but plausible enough for the common man to go with.

So, these charges brought against Dr Singh and Mr Brassington would not stand the test in a court of law,but would only amount to another “witch hunt,” another futile attempt to besmirch the good name of these noble gentlemen. But, let me get back to my main discourse.

Governments are given the mandate to manage the ship of state in a developmental way, and this is done by careful planning and meticulous execution of same.

Experts Singh and Brassington are living testimony to those principles, the indelible evidence is shown in decades of sustainable growth for our country.

To do otherwise runs against the grain of economic strategy and economic principles; that is: Governments must provide the framework for development to take place.

That framework was exemplified in Dr Singh’s policy of “getting the best deals in the market,” as well as by “attracting” the Internationals to invest.

This principle is the root cause for Sir Arthur Lewis earning The Nobel Prize for Economics.

You must lay the groundwork or provide the climate for investment. Poor, oftentimes underdeveloped countries like Guyana have grave difficulty attracting foreign investment.

It is a huge problem. No one would want to come to a country where the infrastructure is archaic and rundown, in certain cases non-existent; and where telecommunications, cable and Internet are still in the Stone Age. To attract these investors, there must be some incentive to attract them, affordable land is one of those incentives.

Those of our tourist neighbours who are already entrenched in the multi-million tourist industry utilise that principle by granting tax holidays. It is normal, routine procedure for Governments to grant five, most often 10 years of tax holidays to large foreign companies to invest in the Caribbean. It marks progressive thinking and forward planning.

Well, judging the book from the PNC’s SOCU’s and SARA’s Standards, this would be gross misconduct and fraud of state funds. The progressive Caribbean neighbours, on the other hand, would be laughing themselves to sleep to ascertain where the Guyanese are going with such retrograde thinking.

Following the PNC’s line of reasoning,

then we must investigate the establishment of all those housing schemes that were established under the PPP/C regime, examples are Sophia, La Parfaite Harmonie, Little Diamond, Cummings Lodge.

All of these mega housing areas which provide housing for poor Guyanese were created from scratch, with lands which were acquired as a result of purchasing at undervalued market prices.

Should we haul those poor land owners before the court to have their lands revalued and make them pay the state the true price? You see where I am going and how ridiculous these charges are? And to think of it, we are only talking about the purchase price for the landed property, what if we compute the price paid for the modernization of those areas, bringing them into habitable housing; the roads, water, electrification, drainage, telecommunication and the like? Here you get the real picture of how backward their misconduct charge is.

There is a whole gamut of information, processes, facts and figures you would have to go through in order to ascertain misconduct, and I don’t think this Government, far less its Attorney General, who is extremely limited (and that is putting it mildly) can sensibly defend.

Thus far, what the PNC have succeeded in doing is to bare their witch hunting abilities before a hapless, hopeless nation that they themselves have pauperized.

This is done by a bunch of geriatrics who lack the brain as well as manpower to govern in a civilized manner. Their unintelligent and base posturing is becoming more and more intolerable, as their time to demit office draws near.

Sincerely, Neil Adams

Linden security guard's rape...

from page 4

Reports and shows a massive deterioration in this situation.

Indeed, Guyana’s increasing current account deficit has been mainly driven by a flatlining of exports and a creeping increase in oil prices since June 2017. But in a case of increasing oil prices, how is it being funded? Our export sectors are under a clear and present danger as the Finance Ministry continues to under serve them. The outcome – rapid decline in the international reserves. These international reserves are composed of cash and other assets

set to increase as GuySuCo reshapes its interventions in the drainage and irrigation efforts in Berbice and Demerara.

The empirical data on the developments in the Guyanese economy remains quite worrying. Anyone who is committed to progressing the welfare of the poor and the working class has to recognise that our economy needs immediate surgery (financial policy interventions).

Guyana’s greatest national threat today in 2018 remains the economy; not Venezuela.

The main agenda should be to

denominated in mainly US dollars. According to the Bank of Guyana Statistical Abstract from March 2018, these international reserves at the Central Bank have declined by US$110 million since the arrival of the Granger Government, as seen in the figure below in blue. The red line is a reflection of the situation when the stocks of foreign currencies at the private banks are included, but the trend is the same – a decline.

In an economy like Guyana that is constructed around the six productive sisters (gold, rice, sugar, bauxite, timber, and seafood), any government must

attract new foreign direct investments but this is a tough road to travel when the majority of the local population has now lost confidence in the economy and in how it is being managed by President David Granger and his team. An even bigger agenda is the enhancement of our people’s productivity, who are still underpaid and even more demotivated today.

There is no time to waste on sloganeering like the “good life for all”, just get on with the job at hand or get out!

Sincerely, Sasenarine Singh

I am hearing about too many cases of female security workers being murdered, raped and assaulted. In many cases, these women do not get justice and their attackers go unpunished.

The sad thing is that these attacks are happening at a time when there are more women in the security industry than ever before. Since many of these women have no other source of income to take care of themselves and their families, the security industry is a mainstay of many Guyanese families.

I remember a Labour Minister once advocated the removal of female security guards from night duty. But is that really the solution?

Isn’t security work, whether it involves males or females, whether it is done day or night, a risky business?

There have even been cases where male guards were attacked and raped by bandits and thieves. In my company and others, there have been situations where security guards were attacked and murdered.

The attacks on female security guards put the spotlight on the plight of all women in Guyana. They are left alone to care for their child or, in some cases, several children.

This is a serious problem in this country. Single parents have produced some amazing, brilliant, outstanding children with whom they are unable to spend sufficient time as they have to work eight hours or more shifts. Neglected children often turn to criminality and take out their frustration on society.

Maybe this is one underlying factor behind the horrific cruelty against women.

Recently, in Berbice, an elderly woman in pampers was raped and the Police did not even believe her. Old women in Wakenaam, Essequibo and even Georgetown were raped and murdered in their homes by young men.

Of course, this wickedness occurs worldwide. When such people are caught, they ought to be sentenced to life imprisonment.

I believe in jail time with hard labour for such people, as well as those who are involved in child molestation and rape.

To hear that someone’s wife or mother has been raped is painful and hurtful to me as an operator of a security company.

Female security guards have proven themselves to be more professional, dynamic and enthusiastic. They are more committed to their jobs because they need cash to care for their families and most of them are single parents.

To me, female security personnel are a most important component in security in this country because they are usually more trustworthy and reliable than men and would not risk jail time because they have commitments to their children.

As the head of a security company, I know that a whistle has great psychological impact in crime fighting. Also, if this guard had a baton in her hand, she could have hit her attacker and protected herself. Of course the Police might have turned around and charged her.

Female security guards and male guards need to build a rapport with the neighbours around, keep an eye out for the neighbours.

They have to think outside the box; for example, if there is no alarm system, no whistle, no baton, no firearm, they can keep a tin can to hit with a stick to raise an alarm.

As a society, we need to

find innovative ways to deal with shameful social issues of the risks female security guards face and the cruelty to women and girls in our society.

Sincerely, Roshan Khan Sr CEO/Founder – RK’s Guyana Security Services

6

friDAY, may 4, 2018

Page

S

guyanatimesgy.com

Foundation

focus on the times they fail rather than the times they succeed lack confidence doubt their ability to do things well

Having low self-esteem can block success. It can leave children distracted by the stress of how to deal with everyday challenges.

Why self-esteem matters When children feel good about themselves, it sets them up for success – in everything from school to friendships.

Positive feelings like self-acceptance or self-confidence help children try new challenges, cope with mistakes, and try again.

Taking pride in their abilities and accomplishments helps children do their best.

By contrast, children with low self-esteem might feel unsure of themselves. If they think others won’t accept them, they may not participate as often. They may allow themselves to be treated poorly and have a hard time standing up for themselves.

Here’s how to praise children the right way: Children who don’t expect to Avoid over-praising. Praise that doesn’t feel earned do well may avoid challengdoesn’t ring true. For example, telling a child he played es, give up easily, or be a great game when he knows he didn’t feels hollow and unable to bounce fake. It’s better to say, “I know that wasn’t your best back from misperformance, but we all have off days. I’m proud of you for not giving up.” Add a vote of confidence, “Tomorrow, takes. you’ll be back on your game.”

Praise effort rather than fixed qualities. Avoid focusing praise on results (such as getting an A) or fixed qualities (such as being smart or athletic). This kind of praise can lead children to avoid challenges that may threaten the good ‘reputation’ they get praised for most.

Instead, offer most of your praise for effort, progress, and attitude. For example: “You’re working hard on that project,” or, “You’re getting better and better at these spelling tests,” or, “I’m proud of you for practicing piano — you’ve really stuck with it.” This kind of praise encourages children to put effort into things, work toward goals, and try. When children do that, they are more likely to succeed.

How self-esteem develops Contrary to what some might think, self-esteem does not come telling children they’re wonderful, special, and great (even though they are!). Giving every child a trophy doesn’t help children’ self-esteem. Indeed, it’s possible for children to feel good about themselves even when they fail.

When children compete – win or lose – they see that their own hard work and practice can make a difference. Earning a prize contributes to self-esteem only when a child knows he or she earned it.

Self-esteem is the result of experiences that help a child feel

ometimes it’s easy to notice when children seem to feel good about themselves – and when they don’t.

We often describe this idea of feeling good about ourselves as “self-esteem.”

Children who have healthy self-esteem tend to: feel valued and accepted feel confident that they can do what’s expected feel proud of a job well done think good things about themselves feel prepared for everyday challenges Children with low self-esteem often: feel self-critical and are hard on themselves feel insecure, or not as good as other children

capable, effective, and accepted.

When children learn to do things for themselves and feel proud of what they can do, they feel capable.

Children feel effective when they see that good things come from efforts like trying hard, getting close to a goal, or making progress. For example, children who take part in a service project feel good about themselves when they see how their actions matter.

When children feel accepted and understood by a parent or someone close, they are likely to accept themselves, too.

Their good feelings about themselves multiply as parents praise good behaviours, help when needed, and give encouragement and support.

How parents can nurture self-esteem Self-esteem develops over time. And if it’s low, it can be raised. Here are things parents can do: Help your child learn to do things.

At every age, there are new things for children to learn. Even during babyhood, learning to hold a cup or taking first steps sparks a sense of mastery and delight. As your child grows, things like learning to dress, read, or ride a bike provide perfect opportunities for self-esteem to take root.

When teaching children how to do things, show and help them at first. Then let them do what they can, even if they make mistakes. Be sure your child has lots of opportunities to learn, try, and feel proud. Don’t make new challenges too easy – or too hard.

Praise your child, but do it wisely. Of course, it’s good to praise children.

Your praise is a way to show that you are proud, too. But research shows that some ways of praising children can actually backfire.

Be a good role model. When you put effort into everyday tasks (like raking the leaves, making a meal, cleaning up the dishes, or washing the car), you’re setting a good example. Your child learns to put effort into doing homework, cleaning up toys, or making the bed.

Modelling the right attitude counts, too. When you do tasks cheerfully (or at least without grumbling or complaining), you teach your child to do the same. When you avoid rushing through chores and take pride in a job well done, you teach your child to do that, too.

Ban harsh criticism. The messages children hear about themselves from others easily translate into how they feel about themselves. Harsh words (“You’re so lazy!”) are harmful, not motivating.

When children absorb negative messages about themselves, they feel bad about themselves, and act accordingly.

Focus on strengths. Pay attention to what your child does well and enjoys.

Make sure your child has opportunities to develop these strengths. Nurturing strengths is better than focusing on weaknesses if you want to help children feel good about themselves and succeed. (kidshealth.org)

news

7

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Granger could be challenged for PNC's leadership

…as party ‘bigwigs’ prepare to duel for key posts at upcoming Congress

By Michael Younge

L

eader of the People’s National Congress (PNC), David Granger may have to defend his seat at the party’s upcoming 20th biennial Congress, as at least two senior PNC leaders are mulling the idea of mounting a serious challenge for the top party post.

Granger is currently President of Guyana, Leader of the PNC and Chairman of the A Partnership for National Unity which forms part of the governing coalition with the Alliance For Change.

A source close to Congress Place on Thursday confirmed that even though traditionally the leader of the PNC is the person who is automatically its Presidential Candidate, there are those in the party who believe that the powers and portfolios Granger currently holds within the party

and coalition must be re-examined and reduced to allow others to also influence the destiny of the party.

“It is currently a one man show. Mr Granger controls every facet of our party and it is as though, he is the reincarnation of Burnham. Sure, we have a General Secretary but she is powerless to make any changes unless it is rubberstamped by Mr Granger.

This is creating uneasiness amongst grassroots and diehard PNCites who do not support the manner in which the party is being run,” the source said.

Asked whether those who were considering challenging President Granger for the post could become the subject of sinister attacks and smear campaigns or even ostracised from the party by those loyal to the incumbent leader, the source said “they are fully aware of the consequences but someone

Leader of the People’s National Congress, David Granger has to shake up the party and remind it of its focus”.

“Many of us feel the party has gotten too soft and has given too much away to the AFC. We don’t see the need for the AFC and we want a PNC Government that will transform this country’s land-

AFC requests to meet with Granger on May 7 – to discuss party’s position on LGE accord

A

s mandated by the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Alliance for Change (AFC), party Leader Raphael Trotman has formally written Leader of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), President David Granger, requesting a meeting with him on Monday, May 7, 2018.

The party said in a statement on Thursday evening that request was based on a letter received from Granger on April 30, 2018, and that was in response to Trotman’s letter of February 26, 2018.

The aim of the meeting is to commence discussions on the path to Local Government Elections (LGE).

“The AFC NEC stipulated that the party will allow additional time for the two parties to have a definitive written agreement in the form of a Local Government Elections Accord. The NEC also took a decision for all party groups to fully activate its campaign preparations protocols and this will commence in earnest.”

In addition to these matters, Trotman’s letter has also detailed some AFC po-

AFC Leader Raphael Trotman sitions for negotiation of the LGE Accord. The AFC has named its team for these discussions. The team comprises: David Patterson, Michael Carrington, Marlon Williams and Dr. Vincent Adams.

Last month, after months of uncertainty, AFC Chairman Khemraj Ramjattan had said the party will be going into the LGE with the APNU under one ticket.

“We have made a decision that we are going as a coalition. We have to thrash out a number of issues, preferably

in relation to candidacy candidates.” The AFC chairman noted that the party has also noticed some unfortunate developments in the Georgetown municipality. Ramjattan was referring to the attitude of APNU Councillors, including Town Clerk Royston King, towards AFC members, which he claimed is “bothering us.” He indicated that statements in this regard have been made, and will be raised through communication with APNU officials.

In mid-January, Trotman had announced the possibility of the party breaking away from the APNU for this year’s LGE. The AFC leader went as far as to reveal that there was a strong body of opinion within the party that the AFC should go alone, which may have been prompted over delays with reviewing the Cummingsburg Accord.

The AFC has, of recent, come under fire for the perceived submissive role it played when it joined forces with APNU. In 2017, top leadership of the AFC had decided to revise its governing agreement with APNU.

Cyber Crimes Bill...

from page 3

He added, “They have converted this. By inserting this provision, the purpose and something all Guyanese would agree to, that is, protecting all of us and our children, they have converted it into protection for Government and the Ministers….we already have laws protecting all of our citizens and I would assume that the Prime Minister and the President and Ministers are citizens of Guyana and they too are afforded the same sort of protection that we all enjoy under certain laws against criminal acts. Why do they need a special provision in this Bill to protect the interest of only those categories of people?”

The coalition Government has remained silent on these criticisms of Clause 18, particularly the comparison to the National Security Act under

the former People’s National Congress (PNC) Government.

An about-turn

Meanwhile, as was done with the controversial parking meter project, despite having been discussed at Cabinet, where several AFC Members sit, the party’s leader, Raphael Trotman, has now indicated that his AFC parliamentarians, on the Government side, would vote against the increasingly controversial Cyber Crimes Bill, over the inclusion of Clause 18.

Trotman’s comments came after the parliamentary Opposition, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, sections of the trade union movement, the Guyana Press Association and other civil society groups objected to the Bill over the sedition clause.

Like the parking meter project, widespread objections preceded the AFC’s shift in position.

Clause 18 states that: “A person commits an offence of sedition if the person, whether in or out of Guyana, intentionally publishes, transmits or circulates by use of a computer system, a statement or words, either spoken or written, a text, video, image, sign, visible representation or other thing, that: a) brings or attempts to bring into hatred or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law in Guyana.”

Disaffection, according to the Bill, includes disloyalty and all feelings of enmity. A person who commits the offence under this clause is liable on conviction of indictment to serve five years or as much as life in prison.

scape like Desmond Hoyte and Forbes Burnham did.

The AFC brought nothing to the table but are enjoying everything even though their Ministers are performing poorly… just look at agriculture for instance,” the source complained.

Questioned further about the identity of the would-be challengers, the source said vaguely, “it is not newcomers.

At least one of the men who said he was contemplating challenging Granger should have been leader before him, as he is more seasoned and has much more experience in governance and party politics than the current comrade leader”.

He would neither confirm nor deny if that reference was directly pointing to Carl Greenidge who also with the late Dr Faith Harding and Dr Van West-Charles had challenged Granger for the key

leadership post in the past.

When contacted on Thursday, Party General Secretary Amna Ally told Guyana Times that all of the necessary arrangements are being put in place for the party’s upcoming congress which is slated for August 17-19.

Ally said the “first circular” had already been sent to party groups who are being encouraged to fully participate in the highest decision-making forum of the PNC. Asked whether any official nominations have been made for key leadership posts to date, Ally responded in the negative. She said next week, the media would be briefed on the process and all other details pertaining to the actual congress.

Ally, who took over the reins of the party from PNC stalwart Oscar Clarke, confirmed that the leadership

posts were wide open to any member of the party.

“Any member can contest any post once they are a legitimate member of the PNC”, Ally insisted. She did not say when the period of nominations was expected to commence or close but said a number of candidates would be fielded as is the norm.

Even if Granger is not challenged, whoever secures the Chairman of the party is likely to be groomed as his successor and the party’s next Presidential Candidate.

Many feel that the AFC’s decision to renegotiate the terms of the Cummingsburg Accord could result in it wrestling away more political and executive power from the PNC and they blame President Granger for not being more inflexible and assertive in order to safeguard the interests of the PNC.

8 NEWS

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Head in bucket trial

Defendant claims he found victim dead – to know fate next week

Accused: Vindra Siriram

D

efence Attorney Damian Da Silva and State Prosecutor Seeta Bishundial on Thursday presented closing arguments in the case involving Vindra Siriram who has been accused of submerging the head of his common-law wife, Shelly-Ann Persaud, in a five-gallon bucket of water between June 9 and June 10, 2014.

The defence team contended that the prosecution failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that the accused murdered the mother of his three children at their Friendship, East Bank Demerara (EBD)

home.

In an unsworn statement before Justice James BovellDrakes, the murder accused told the court that he loved his wife and also wanted to know who killed her, claiming that he was beaten by the Police.

In addition, he stated at a garbage bag was placed over his head and was forced to sign a caution statement.

Siriram claimed that in fact, on the morning of June 10, he woke up and found his wife in that position and immediately called out to a neighbour. This, he contended, is evidence of his innocence.

“I did not kill my wife.

I wake up and saw her like that…. If I killed my wife, I would never sit down home and cry.” This he claimed he told the Police at the Ruimveldt Police Station.

He added that a rank told him that “people like me don’t deserve to live in society and you’re going to go to jail for the rest of your life”. The defendant also stated that on the Monday before the murder, after work, the bus stopped at Herstelling, EBD, where he and some co-workers drank at a rum shop before leaving around 19:00h.

Siriram noted that after he reached home, an argument

Deceased: Shelly-Ann Persaud

erupted between him and his wife during which he was hit to the wrist. He added that after his daughter parted them, he went and “get knock-out” and woke up around 02:00h the following day.

The accused went on to add that the back door was left open and as he looked outside, he saw his wife lying face down in the five-gallon bucket of water.

The defendant further explained to the court that after hollering for “Shell!” and no getting a response, he called out to a neighbour, “Aunty Iris”, ‘“please come and see

how I wake up and see Shelly”.

“I asked her to call the Police and she asked: ‘Did you do this?’ and I told her, ‘I did not kill Shelly’,” he told the jury.

Siriram added that he went across the road and spoke to Shelly-Ann’s father, Ovin Morris and “Seon” and told them, “Come and see how I wake up and see Shelly.”

Prosecutor Bishundial, however, impressed upon the jury members that they should not be fooled by Siriram’s story, adding that it was built on convenient explanations.

She recalled the testimony of Persaud’s sister, SherryAnn, who witnessed the accused slapping her sister in front of others. Witnesses, including the couple’s young daughter, testified that Siriram and Persaud would often fight.

The pathologist testified that there were marks of violence about the body and signs of compression as if someone forced her down.

Persaud who had known Siriram since she was 13 was said to have dropped out of school during the relationship.

The jury is expected to deliberate on Tuesday afternoon.

(Shemuel Fanfair)

Lorry driver gets 108 years for 2010 fatal accident

A

lorry driver was on Thursday sentenced to a total of 108 years imprisonment after he was found guilty on 12 counts of causing death by dangerous driving. Chaitram Moonsammy, 42, of Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, received the sentence from Justice Brassington Reynolds at the Berbice Assizes.

On October 29, 2010, along the East Coast Berbice Highway, a lorry and a mini-

Chaitram Moonsammy

bus collided resulting in the death of 12 people.

Moonsammy, the lorry driver, was on trial for driving motor lorry GLL 8863 in a manner dangerous to the public, resulting in the deaths of Oudit Narine Babulall, Salmaa Razac, Marques Ault, Cindy Jaggernauth, Josiah Khan, Talika Mendonca, Patricia Asgarally, Salmar Juman, Orlando De Mattos, Nazaradin Mahinudin, Chetram Ramphal and Janet Baker; all of Number

19 Village.

The mixed jury found him guilty on a 10-2 majority.

Attorney Mescaline Bacchus asked for leniency, stating the psychological impact of having to wait almost eight years for trial.

Bacchus argued that Moonsammy would have already been punished for the crime and called for the court not to impose a custodial sentence.

He said the 12 deaths were caused as a result of an accident and not an intentional offence.

However, Justice Reynolds said those psychological impacts will not outweigh public interest. The Judge also sounded a warning to would be errant drivers, saying there must be proper use of the country’s roadways.

“We are a country of less than a million people and can ill afford one death; we need all for the development of Guyana. We do not know what contributions those 12 would have made to the development of Guyana, the Judge stated.

Following the proceedings, some relatives of the deceased were seen dancing while others wept.

The father of four was arrested the very day of the accident and remanded on November 2, 2010. Twenty days later, he was granted bail.

Justice Reynolds said the court took into account all the mitigating factors which were presented and deducted one year leaving him with nine years for each count.

The prosecution’s case was presented by State Prosecutor Tuanna Hardy. During the three and a half weeks of trial proceedings, the prosecution called 18 witnesses.

It’s a shame…

W

…by the PNC on Jagan hen David Granger, Leader of Guyana – and President of Guyana through the help of AFC’s self-professed “Jaganite” Moses Nagamootoo, pulled the commemorative stamps that were supposed to be released on Cheddi Jagan’s 100th birthday, March 22, some bought his claim that the thing “had to be done right”! Meaning that the stamps would be released officially by the State and NOT through the sponsorship of the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (CJRC) in collaboration with the GPOC and the subject Communications Minister, Cathy Hughes.

What a crock that turned out to be! It had nothing to do with “doing the right thing” and all about political spite!! It sticks in the craw of the PNC that Jagan, as the man who founded the PPP, can be credited as “father of Guyana’s Independence”!! Granger just couldn’t allow the CJRC to release the stamps and give proper credit to Jagan. PNCites like Granger contort themselves into pretzels trying to “explain” how Burnham “also” founded the PPP. But the PPP was already formed with individuals who were representative of the country’s polyglot origins. Ashton Chase was the “African” rep. However Jagan’s contact in the Communist Party of England informed him that Forbes Burnham had just become an English lawyer and he’d garner more support in that section. Chase was asked to step aside for Burnham – which he graciously did. So when the PPP was launched with Burnham as the chair and Jagan as the Leader in 1950, space had been created for him in a structure that was already in place!! All that was left was the announcement!!

The PNC will NEVER concede Jagan’s pre-eminence!

NEVER!! But do they have to be so petty about it??

How’d they issue the commemorative stamps at the Ministry of the Presidency and the President – with every one of his Ministers and Vice Presidents skip the event??!! The unkindest cut of all was the absence of Moses Nagamootoo, who invariably didn’t only call himself a “Jaganite” – but actually referred to Jagan as “Pa”!!

Hydar Ally of the CJRC showed up – but after seeing as to how the great man was being snubbed by the Government, he should’ve done the decent (and honourable) thing and walked out! What Granger and the PNC has done is insult all the people who saw Jagan as their leader – half of this country. History will never absolve him from this act of infamy and betrayal to the generosity of spirit that this country is noted for.

He should remember that the people of Buxton represented that spirit when they insisted that Jagan’s funeral cortage stop at their village.

Granger should hang his head in shame!! …to take PPP’s credit Public Infrastructure Minister – used to be called “Works”, but that’s the Granger touch! – is basking in the glory of some projects that are proceeding under his watch. But if he had any shame, he’d give much of the credit to the PPP Administration which conceptualised, designed, sourced funding and contractors for the projects!! And which were all criticised by his AFC and PNC when in Opposition!!

Take the biggest one over which Patterson’s been preening and puffing out his chest about – the expanded CJIA. Exactly what did he do there – save pay more for less?? And the WCD Highway?? And the EBD bypass – which he’s only gotten around to doing the paperwork with the Government of India!! Three years later!!

Does he really want to say he did anything on the new Demerara Harbour Bridge, save ensuring the “Ming Swing” gets into the design so the PNC’s financier can sell his land for a kingdom??

But to be fair to him, he is responsible for the D’Urban Park wood ants-stadium!!

…the law’s been made an ass Some folks don’t even know when to come out of the rain. Three years – and billions of dollars forked out – later, AG Basil Williams finally decided he’d better find out what outstanding cases he’s responsible for!!

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

News

9

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Cybercrime legislation breaches Guyana’s Constitution – T&T activist

Transparency activist Afra Raymond

A

s there continues to be mounting concerns over the Cybercrime Bill that is currently before a parliamentary Special Select Committee for review, a Trinidadian based transparency activist believes that the contents of the proposed legislation breaches the Constitution of Guyana.

On Thursday May 3, World Press Freedom Day was observed under the theme: “Keeping Power in Check: Media, Justice and the Rule of Law”. However, this observance comes at a time when many feel press freedom and freedom of expression in Guyana is being threatened by sections of the proposed Cybercrime legislation such as penalising whistle-blowers, institutionalisation of criminal defamation and sedition clauses.

Delivering the feature address at a World Press Freedom Day lecture at Moray House on Thursday, activist Afra Raymond, said that Section 18 of the proposed Bill, which deals with those matters, clearly at-

tempts to traverse and restricts the right of freedom of expression with respect to how people discussion affairs.

“In particular, the Section appears to be aimed at the conduct of the State and the conduct of official affairs, and criminal offences are put in. The Act itself is creates quite a number of criminal offences so I’m not in support of that approach.

I actually think, apart from it being unsupportable and quite likely in breach of the Constitution and Guyana’s treaty obligations… there is also the question of enforceability and bringing the system into ridicule,” Raymond posited.

The Transparency Activist went onto point out that while the proposed legislation maybe a “satisfactory piece of law” as in that it could withstand a test in court, it is still flawed. He further explained that people are going to create memes, cartoons, calypsos, and make fun on social media about something that government is doing that they

do not approve of or like, asking how the State intends to prosecuted those persons who have anonymous profiles or those who live in other countries. “…Who are they going to prosecute because the way the world is now, all of those things would emanate from outside of Guyana…

So that’s the world now, the very said thing that you try to fight with (cyberspace bully and crimes) is not even in the room,” he asserted.

To this end, Raymond opined that there need not be such heavy restrictions and called for the Cybercrime legislation to be reviewed, especially with regards to the whistle-blowing section which has a three to 10 years imprisonment penalty for anyone “illegally” releasing information from a public office.

“So that needs to also be rectified. It’s a mismatch between whistle-blowing and cybercrime, and we have to decide where we stand on this question of information, where we stand on this question of growth and development. Can you have growth and development if you have these serious restrictions on information? If it’s not a national defence matter, there is no real serious ground for having [to] continue those protections and shields, and so on,” the Transparency Activist posited.

This position was also echoed by President of the Transparency International Guyana Inc. (TIGI), Troy Thomas, who said that a free press is an important element in the fight against corruption and that the proposed Cybercrime Bill seeks to hinder avenues which media operatives use, i.e. whistle-blowers, to highlight issues and keep government in check. He added to that the proposed legislation also sets parameters within which persons should express themselves, par-

A section of the gathering

ticularly on social media platforms.

On this note, President of the Guyana Press Association (GPA), Nazima Raghubir, reiterated the need for policy makers in the National Assembly to come together to correct the legislation, pointing out that a truly independent media is vitally necessary to guard against societal ills such as human rights abuses, electoral malpractices, lack of transparency and accountability and gender-based inequalities.

“Our association takes this opportunity to publicly urge the Government of Guyana and the Opposition to discuss and arrive at a consensus to delete from the proposed Cybercrime legislation, provisions that will amount to the institutionalisation of criminal defa-

mation. Those provisions, we contend, must be removed because they are not in accordance with the global shift towards the removal of criminal defamation from the law books of several countries, and these include a number of Caribbean

countries. Guyana will be retrogressing instead of progressing by entrenching the criminalisation of freedom of expression if certain sections in the Cybercrime Bill are enacted into law,” the GPA President stated.

10

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

S RAIGHT A reflection on the main purpose of any government!

O

ne of the principle reasons we have a government is to promote the general welfare of all. How to do this economically? By helping the market forces work better.

The State acts as an arbiter between the owners of capital and the users of capital to legislate order and greater fairness.

The ruling politicians have forgotten the narrative on why they were elected in 2015. Because of this major mistake, the entire economic system is collapsing. Rather the focus of the ruling politicians remains – using the Government to serve their selfinterest rather than the people’s. Such a strategy will always put the domestic tranquility of the nation at risk and will have longterm adverse consequences.

When a Government borrows almost GY$53 billion from the Central Bank as at April 25, 2018, and cannot explain to the people why, then Guyana has got BIG ISSUES. Although this story broke two weeks ago, the Finance Minister still has the audacity to bury his head in the sand like the proverbial ostrich on this gross act of mal-administration. Today, the Central Bank is at its weakest financially in decades and continues to get weaker as its total assets continue to shrink. This has to stop.

The solution lies in coordinating with the Private Sector and the workers to spread innovation and business expansion seamlessly. Easier said than done, but if you start by redesigning the National Budget to make the business community and the workers your primary clients rather than the ruling politicians, economic progress is assured. But even more importantly, Guyana has to become a training mill to help the workers to up-skill in the right skills and quickly. In this new world order, human skills have to match the job, not the other way around. Thus, we must stimulate our people to re-invent themselves constantly. But after spending over GY$30 billion on the education sector per year in the last decade and the Maths pass rate in 2017 at still below 33 per cent, mass inequality is guaranteed. The empirical evidence is clear; we have to evaluate the outcome of the dollars spent because it is not benefiting the students.

Rather, all of this spending is helping to increase the concentration of the national wealth into the hands of a small governing cabal along with their business buddies and the evidence is clear, this system has not worked for decades. So why would it work in 2018? This mentality of the People’s National Congress of “WE WON, WE PUN TAP”, is utter foolishness and is a principle reason why innovation and entrepreneurship continues to be driven out of the country. The outcome of such a narrow political and economic strategy is certain economic decline. What are the new innovations in Guyana? Plantain chips?

There are consequences for such an infantile economic strategy.

Income will stagnate, jobs will disappear, the tax base will flatline in aggregate amounts, small companies will run into bankruptcy in increasing numbers, aggregate demand will evaporate and there will be a general environment of hopelessness across the majority of the population. Once such an atmosphere takes hold in the economy, it will take years to walk back to the centre where people are willing to trust, take greater risk and invest more. The first order of business of any incoming Government in 2020 is to spur innovation and new investments using the State machinery as the stimulus to drive the necessary change in attitudes and mindsets. Thus any new Government of Guyana post 2020 must establish two super-Ministries with highly talented leaders – firstly a Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) like Japan, Singapore and Korea that is focused on sell Guyana internationally as a global investment hub that is ready and willing to embrace private enterprise, entrepreneurs and human talent. This entire Foreign Affairs Ministry has to be dismantled and reconstructed as an economic machine with the obligatory authority to sell the potentials of Guyana.

The second big Ministry shall be an expanded Finance Ministry and Economic Development (MFED) that will run the fiscal and monetary policies of the nation but more importantly will develop, evaluate and monitor the implementation of a 10-year national development plan. We must not only talk about the road to Lethem or a deep water harbour or hydropower plant, we must do it! The vision is a ring-fenced relationship in a triangle of action between the Office of the President, the MITI, and the MFED. Big decisions that are taking months today to make under this current Granger Administration must be made within days in the new post-2020 Government of Guyana; if not hours.

The entire process has an endgame which destroys the Darwinian mentality of “winner take all”. Guyana has to change the way we educate our people, we employ our people, we remunerate our people and the way the system embraces new investments. Politics will not be a criterion, investments and new jobs created should be the dominant factors.

Guyana cannot continue on this journey, it is a highway to gross unhappiness for the people. As the ancient Greeks once reminded us, the primary purpose of a Government is to improve Please your thoughts at sasesin1@yahoo.com. the lives ofshare its citizens.

When will President Granger get it!

news

11

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“My dream has been snatched away from me by the system” – juvenile murder accused

T

he dreams of 19-year-old Ian Henry of Baramita, Region One (BarimaWaini) were snatched from him seven years ago when he was charged for murder and taken into custody without even being afforded the right to counsel, thus violating his fundamental rights as prescribed by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Article 40 of the Convention states “Children who are accused of breaking the law have the right to legal help and fair treatment in a justice system that respects their rights”. Governments are required to set a minimum age below which children cannot be held criminally responsible and to provide minimum guarantees for the fairness and quick resolution of judicial or alternative proceedings.”

Henry was 13 at the time when he was charged and then brought to the Sophia Juvenile Detention Centre where he spent the next seven years awaiting judgement.

However, the Director of Public Prosecutions a few days ago dismissed the case against Henry after the Rights of the Child Commission and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with the Legal Aid Clinic provided legal representation for the then minor.

While detailing the steps that led to highlighting and later the dismissal of the charges against Henry, Chief Executive Officer of the Rights of the Child Commission, Amar Panday, said they would have become aware of Henry’s case after visiting the Sophia Juvenile Detention Centre and interacting with him sometime in 2015.

He further related that Henry’s demeanour and level of intelligence made them relook at his case. Investigations would have shown that at the time, over 95 per cent of the inmates at the Sophia Juvenile Detention Centre were denied the right to counsel, thus violating a number of child rights declarations.

Panday related that they then approached UNICEF, which then released funding that was disbursed to the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic to begin providing legal representation to the children and youths at the Sophia Juvenile Detention Centre, the New Opportunity Corps and both Timehri and New Amsterdam Prisons. It was then Henry’s case was tak-

Nineteen-year-old Ian Henry

en up and followed through resulting in the dismissal, further explaining that had it not been for their intervention then the youth would still be waiting on justice to be served.

The Commission’s CEO said more needs to be done to tackle the problem of unrepresented children behind bars, reiterating it violates a number of international conventions of which Guyana is signatory to. Panday welcomed the recently passed Juvenile Justice Bill, explaining that it will address a number of violations.

According to Henry, his life is now in shambles since he was detained for over seven years for a crime the Police had no evidence against him. The youth is appealing to the Government to ensure that this does not happen to another child.

“When I was incarcerated I encountered some horrible experiences, dark moments in my life and this incarceration has clearly jeopardised my future, no one can give me it back….

I am not the only one that has been affected by this kind of system but there are other youths who are

incarcerated I have spent time with them,” he related.

“If I hadn’t met these people while incarcerated, I would have still been in prison and don’t know when the time will come for me to be released. Just imagine it from the age of 13 to the age of 19 during this process I was denied my right to education. How could I go back to a secondary school to start over back my whole educational process? It is impossible, the only option is go to a college and do a trade…my dream has been snatched away from me by the system… my whole future has been jeopardised by the system,” Henry added.

The youth said he was held despite the authorities having no substantial evidence against him resulting in him suffering for over half a decade. Meanwhile, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan said he was unaware of Henry’s situation and when it was

Rights of the Child Commission CEO, Amar Panday

brought to his attention, he felt it was his duty to fast track the Juvenile Justice Bill to address the issues.

However, he noted that it will be costly to enforce the recommendations of the Bill but said Government is committed to seeing the process through.

The Rights of the Child Commission and its partners are also looking at several other cases similar to that of Henry.

12 news

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Cyber Crimes Bill outrage Appointment of new AG says Cabinet will look into concerns Top Cop not imminent – Ramjattan, Trotman at loggerheads

T

Guyana Police Force Headquarters

he appointment of a substantive Police Commissioner could take a while longer, as there are certain clear plans that must be first put in place to make way for this to happen.

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President David Granger, said Thursday the appointment of a new Police Commissioner is dependent on an agreement with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.

Speaking to the press briefly, the President said the Police Service Commission and the Public Service Commission must both be appointed in order to make way for the nomination of a new Top Cop. “Well, again I have to resort to consultation with Leader of the Opposition,

and the Chairman of the Public Service also has to be appointed,” he asserted.

Asked how soon these commissions, particularly the latter, could see becoming effective, he said that due process will also have to follow for those.

Crime Chief Paul Williams recently expressed confidence in taking up the most senior job within the Guyana Police Force, saying that he is prepared and ready if given the chance to serve as the next Police Commissioner.

Williams is said to be the top pick to take over the helm of the Force, with Assistant Commissioner Nigel Hoppie as his second in command.

Williams was recently interviewed for the position along with: David Ramnarine, Clifton Hicken,

Leslie James, Lyndon Alves, Marlon Chapman, Nigel Hoppie, and Maxine Graham.

David Ramnarine has been acting in the capacity of the Top Cop for quite some time now, and there has been speculation that he may cop the title too.

In November of 2017, when asked whether Williams was likely to take up the mantle, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, who was then acting in the capacity of Public Security Minister, offered no direct reply.

Harmon, however, had hinted at the possibility of a female assuming the position of Top Cop when he outlined that while there was a line of succession in the Guyana Police Force, female officers were also to be considered when deciding on a Police Commissioner.

In so doing, he noted, “You don’t just look at the male ranks in the Police Force; we have female officers as well. And therefore if it is that a female officer is to be the person, then so be it.”

Nevertheless, as mandated by the Constitution, the President would have consultations with the Opposition Leader on the names for the Top Cop position and the Deputy Commissioners of Police.

Attorney General Basil Williams

D

ue to mounting criticisms, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams has committed to having the controversial sedition clause in the proposed Cybercrime Bill looked at, while highlighting that the Government is in no rush to have that piece of legislation passed.

While the bill holds two controversial clauses which seek to penalise persons who “attempt to bring into hatred or excite disaffection towards the Government,” Williams maintains there is no reason for the concerns expressed, as the sedition clause has always been a provision within local criminal law.

Nevertheless, the Attorney General told the media on Thursday, “We will look at it.

We will take it to the cabinet.

Just like how it took two years to have it drafted, what’s the rush?”

He argued that the bill in its current form would be able to achieve its original purpose and fight cybercrimes.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan has said while he understands the public’s concerns, the sedition clause is necessary because sedition is part of Guyana’s existing law. He went on further to state that the clause does not prevent online users from being critical of the Government.

“We were very careful to ensure that we put a subparagraph that says if you criticize the Government it is not sedition, so we put limitations to what it is,” he said in Government’s defence.

But in a recent statement to sections of the media, Alliance for Change (AFC) Leader Raphael Trotman said the AFC is prepared to vote against the bill in the National Assembly if the sedition clause is not deleted.

“I can say that, as presently

AFC Chairman and Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

AFC Leader and Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman

constructed, I, as Leader of the AFC, cannot support Clause 18.1 in the Bill, and will therefore be urging for an amendment; and if none is forthcoming, I will vote against it.”

In response to questions posed regarding stakeholders as well as their coalition Government partner rejecting the specific clause in the Cybercrime Bill, Williams said they were negligent.

“Everyone had ample time…The AFC also had representatives in the Special Select Committee… The fact that there has been no objection for well over two years when everyone who’s saying no now had representatives there (means) they were all negligent. It’s poor leadership,” he explained.

Since the introduction of the legislation, many members of the public as well as several organisations have sought to criticise the clauses and Government, while calling for them to be removed from the Bill, the original purpose being to protect Guyanese and their children from the dangers of cyberspace.

On Wednesday, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) expressed its concern over Section 18 of the Bill, which provides a structure for the charge of sedition. The GCCI believes sedition as an offence impinges on an individual’s right to criticize, and has no place in a democracy.

The Chamber is of the view that freedom of speech and expression of views through debate, discourse and discussion underpin a healthy democracy and foster a conducive environment for development. It is under these grounds they think Government should give serious consideration to removing that clause.

The Guyana Press Association (GPA) has also made calls for the removal of the offence of sedition from the Cybercrimes Bill because of the danger it presents to free speech. Prior to that, telephone giant GTT, via a correspondence, expounded similar concerns, as well as the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC).

Laid in the National Assembly in 2016, Guyana’s Cybercrimes Bill had catered for, inter alia: illegal access to a computer system; illegal interception; illegal data interference; illegal acquisition of data; illegal system interference; unauthorised receiving or granting of access to computer data; computer-related forgery; computer-related fraud; offences affecting critical infrastructure; identity-related offences; child pornography; child luring; and violation of privacy among a slew of other offences.

A Special Select Committee had been working on the Bill for the past few years, and their report on the Bill was presented recently.

That committee was comprised of Williams, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, Education Minister Nicolette Henry and parliamentarians Michael Carrington and Audwin Rutherford.

The People’s Progressive Party was represented by Chief Whip Gail Teixeira and parliamentarians Clement Rohee, Anil Nandlall and Gillian PersaudBurton.

The party noted, however, that PPP “members of the Select Committee that met on several occasions to consider this Bill were there and were absent sometimes” while outlining that their “presence alone, just being named to that Committee, does not elevate this to support of the PPP.”

news

13

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

32% of deaths caused by cardiovascular diseases G

uyana’s population is currently being faced with an outrageous amount of cases in cardiac diseases; this being listed as one of the leading causes of deaths among its citizens.

This was revealed by Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence during a presentation on Thursday on the importance of cardiac health.

The Minister noted that despite the fact that Guyana is a small country, there are a substantial number of cases and deaths being recorded as a result of cardiac diseases.

“For us in the health sector, cardiac disease is one of the challenges and today the statistics are very alarming for such a small populated country. We have noted that cardiovascular deaths account for some 32 per cent nationally and an estimated 22 per cent is living with cardiovascular diseases,” the Minster stated.

Some of the creators of the video with public health officials and Ministers Volda Lawrence and Cathy Hughes (seated centre)

She highlighted that this arises from the fact that Guyanese tend to pay very little attention to their symptoms and other health related issues.

“The general tendency of Guyana is not to pay much attention to [the] health aspect unless someone close to us is affected. On the other hand also, we take too much for granted.”

However, the Health Minister noted that regular checks must be made which

will result in the prevention of these alarming cases of heart attacks.

“We’re learning to appreciate that the outside does not mean that the inside is the same. We have to ensure that we do what is necessary to by checking with our community health centres to ensure that we are on the right track,” Lawrence related.

To address this issue, the Public Health Ministry has collaborated with the Canadian High Commission

and the Guyana Programme for Advance Cardiac Care (GPACC) to educate the population through public service announcements.

Seven short videos were produced by representatives of GPACC which targets a different aspect of addressing cardiac arrest.

“The release of these videos will greatly assist us in supporting this campaign of heightening awareness at all levels in every region so that measures can be put

Judicial appointments

“There is nothing to discuss” – President

G

iven the decision to reject the nominee for the post of Chancellor of the Judiciary by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, President David Granger has said there is nothing left to discuss on the matter.

The Head of State said he had looked forward to a timely settlement of the appointment, which many deem critical to the effective functioning of the judiciary, but that didn’t happen.

“The ball is in the court of the Leader of the Opposition. I made my proposals, he simply rejected them. He has not made any counter-proposals, so there is nothing to discuss,” President Granger said.

President Granger reminded that the decision is solely dependent on consultations with Jagdeo.

He said,, “I had hoped that we would have moved forward and been able to make subsequent appointments at this point, but I have to depend on his compliance.”

Asked whether he has received legal advice on the way forward in regard to these appointments, he said, “I know what needs to be done. I am well advised. But I have to wait on the Leader of the Opposition to respond to my proposal.”

Justice Kenneth Benjamin was nominated for the position of Chancellor of the Judiciary, while Justice Yonette CummingsEdwards, the current acting Chancellor, has been nominated for the position of Chief Justice.

Concerns have been raised by the Bar Association

President David Granger

in Belize about Benjamin’s failure, up to recently, to clear a backlog of cases by writing his decisions.

Jagdeo, in a letter addressed to the President, said that after having duly considered the nominations of Justice Benjamin and Justice Cummings-Edwards under Article 127 (2) of the Constitution, he is unable to offer his agreement for their appointments.

However, the Opposition Leader has since indicated his willingness to further engage the President on substantive appointments to the top judicial positions.

To this end, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, subsequently said Government will be going ahead with “meaningful consultations” between the two sides, as provided for in the Constitution.

“Mr Jagdeo’s rejection is constitutional, the President’s powers are also constitutional; and there is a provision in the law which provides that in the event there cannot be agreement… then there is a second level which now requires meaningful consultations. So I believe that is the next step we will go to,” Minister Harmon had said.

According to Article 127 (2) of the Constitution, “If the office of Chancellor or Chief Justice is vacant…

then, until a person has been appointed…, those functions shall be performed by such other of the Judges as may be appointed by the President”.

Guyana’s Constitution requires the Opposition Leader’s approval before the President’s nominees can be appointed to those two top judicial positions.

in place to help decrease the mobility and mortality of coronary heart diseases in Guyana,” the Minister told the gathering.

Meanwhile, counselor attached to the Canadian High Commission, Jan Sheltinga explained that the most effective way of tackling this problem is through education since many are unaware of the magnitudes which surround cardiac arrests and other cardiac diseases.

Currently, health and well-being is third on the list of developing sustainable development goals.

“We will only achieve the sustainable development goal if we continue to achieve the progress in providing access to safe, reliable and high-quality services and information so that persons can be better cared for and that will allow them to care for themselves,” Sheltinga explained.

With these implementations, the Ministry and its collaborators are hoping that Guyanese will make greater strides to seek medical attention when the need arises. This will assist in the decrease of the high rates of cardiovascular deaths.

14 News

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Officials urged to create enabling PAC to develop Guyana’s environment for Region 10 youths protected areas by 2020

O

fficials were urged to create an enabling environment for youths across Region 10 (Upper Demerara- Berbice) during a consultation on Wednesday which shed light on numerous issues affecting youths across the region.

The consultation with youths and residents was hosted by the Ministry of the Presidency's Department of Youth, Culture and Sport, and was attended by Director of Youth, Melissa Carmichael, and other representatives, including Alicia Pompey Rosine and trainer/mentor of the Youth Innovation Project, Diane Pompey.

Carmichael, who listened to the concerns, noted that her department's mandate is going to every region to ensure that programmes are reaching and impacting young people, as well as to ascertain their needs.

She added that the consultation also aimed at incorporating necessary ideas as the department hosts National Youth Week from May 20 to 27.

"We want to ensure that what we're doing for National Youth Week is not only what we want to do, but rather what is necessary, what is needed by the young people whom we're representing",

I

Melissa Carmichael addressing youths, residents and officials on Wednesday

Carmichael said.

As such, she opened the floor for youths to list their needs, and shared their concerns before she told them about the programmes that are being offered by the department.

Regional Chairman Renis Morian, in his address to the gathering at the Bayroc Community Centre Ground, shared numerous concerns about the youths of the region and pleaded for assistance in creating an enabling environment.

Morian said that there is a well-funded and organised negative cultural system in the region, which acts against the success of its young people.

He said most are distracted young people who come from the background of lit-

tle or no parental support.

"They are most distracted by social issues of their homes.

The young people are looking for love, identity, and they're looking for someone that will embrace them without using them, and (help) them to find the way forward.

“The system is motivated by 3 things: music, sex and alcohol...,” the Regional Chairman noted, while adding that a counter balancing environment, which is necessary, does not exist in the region.

He urged leaders to stop making it "superficial," and address the situation on the ground by creating an enabling environment for youths.

Additionally, the Regional Chairman made calls for "concrete steps" to

be taken in an effort to assist youths. "We got to hit this 'head on'...Region 10 don't have the environment, and when these young people leave school, there is no place that they can go and further develop themselves...

Groups that are trying, the resources are thin to nonexistent, they need resources...," Morian stressed.

Youths who were present were advised on upcoming initiatives, including the Guyana Youth Business Summit, where young people will have an opportunity to attend and earn the chance to win $1 million to fund a business.

They were encouraged to submit proposals and models to receive the chance to receive funding to build on the idea submitted.

Block-maker denies stealing cellphone, granted bail

A

lex Beresford of Depot Dam, Swan Street, Malgre Tout, West Bank Demerara (WBD) was on Thursday arraigned at the Wales Magistrate’s

Court for allegedly stealing a Samsung Galaxy mobile phone worth $45,000, property of David Singh.

Police state that the incident occurred on December

23, 2017.

The accused, who works as a block-maker, entered a not-guilty plea when the charge was read to him by Magistrate Rushell

Liverpool. The court heard that Beresford was previously charged for committing an offence similar in nature, but was found not guilty at the end of the trail.

The prosecution had no objection to bail being granted, and as such, the accused was released on $25,000 bail. He will make his next court appearance at the Vreed-en-Hoop Magistrate’s Court on June 11, when a report on the matter will be presented.

The 20-year-old man was unrepresented.

n attempts to strengthen the network of protected areas in the Guyana Shield, the Protected Areas Commission (PAC) in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Amazonian Park of French Guiana on Wednesday hosted a discussion to acknowledge the aspects of sustainable developments in Guyana and its neighbouring countries, Suriname and French Guiana.

While using French Guiana as a demonstration, it was noted that Guyana can attempt to enhance its protected areas; a project which was expanded to 2020.

During his brief address, President of the Amazonian Park of French Guiana, Claude Suzanonm emphasised on the works done to establish 10 national parks in specific areas across French Guiana.

He related that the main factor behind the success of these parks stemmed from reliable law enforcement which tackles issues such as illegal mining in those areas.

Meanwhile, Deputy Director of the Amazonian Park of French Guiana, Arnaud Anselin further highlighted the methods which Guyana and other countries can adopt to successfully programme a national park that will boost eco-tourism.

“It’s interesting to see the difficulties that we share and the questions that we ask that can lead to successful cooperation of the projects in Guyana,” the Deputy Director said.

This, he reiterated, can only be made possible by establishing good relations with Indigenous communities and local municipalities. With this, the rainforest would be made available to all, including the disabled, he added.

Furthermore, the responsible sectors can capitalise on the human resources that are present within the regions, where training can be done to create an additional workforce to assist with the organisation of these proposed national parks.

Deputy Director of the Amazonian Park of French Guiana, Arnaud Anselin

“There is also the possibility to adapt the legal framework on regulations that can help in developing tourism and other economic projects.

The protection of biodiversity is adapting to the local communities,” he stated.

A d d i t i o n a l l y , Commissioner of the PAC, Denise Fraser, stated the difficulties being faced by Suriname and French Guiana are somewhat similar to that which Guyana is currently being faced with, as it relates to the forest resources and development.

“We feel that we have similar, very similar issues, especially when it comes to mining. We are trying to keep illegal mining out of the protected areas. We also have to deal with community engagement and our mission is to effectively manage our protected areas while ensuring that they advance to the lives of the present and future generations,” Fraser related.

To foster technical dialogue between countries that are attempting to develop their natural resources and establishing sustainably developed national parks, funds have been injected into projects by European entities which will see future partnerships between the PAC and Surinamese Ministries that are focused on the forest and natural resources of the country.

These projects are expected to last from 2018 until 2020.

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) met with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) 2018 Article IV Mission on May 2, 2018 at its headquarters to discuss “Labour Policies in the Public Sector”.

The meeting lasted for approximately one and a half hours and focus was placed on highlighting to the Mission challenges being faced by the Union in the application of those policies

news

15

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Captain killed, crew missing in another pirate attack

– 1 more body, another survivor discovered from 1st pirate attack – 6 suspects nabbed offshore Suriname

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo with the relatives of the missing fishermen on Thursday

A

lmost one week after sea bandits attacked a 20-member crew, mostly Guyanese, in four boats off the coast of Suriname, there was another attack Wednesday night, in which a boat captain was killed and his crew members are missing.

While details surrounding this incident remain sketchy, reports from Paramaribo reveal that this most recent incident occurred off the Coast of Matapica in the Surinamese waters. Secretary of the Visserscollectief (a fishermen’s association), Mark Lall, confirmed that the captain of the fishing vessel was killed while his crew members could not be accounted for.

Nevertheless, he disclosed that the local authorities, including the Coast Guard and Police, along with several fishermen, had ventured out to the area to investigate. “If we are on the spot, we hope to get more clarity,” Lall told local media operatives. However, there have been no further details about the attack off the Matapica Coast.

This most recent attack comes as Dutch authorities continue the search for the missing fishermen from last weekend’s horrific attack. Of the 16 fishermen who were initially reported missing, two have since been accounted for.

One of them managed to survive five days after the incident while being injured, but only the body of the other fisherman was recovered.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Justice and Police in Suriname, the fifth survivor of last weekend’s pirate attack near the Wia Wia Bank in the Atlantic Ocean was spotted on Thursday morning at Braamspunt by a passing fishing boat. The man has been identified as Cherwin Lovell, a Guyanese national.

“The victim indicated that he had walked through the marsh for five days in search of help, and arrived at Braamspunt this morning at 10.00 am. The man, who (has) injuries to his body, was caught by fishermen in the area,” the Ministry said.

The statement went on to

detail that the fishermen assisted the piracy victim and informed the Maritime Police, who later picked up the injured. He was transferred to Leonsberg, from where he was transported to the Academic Hospital for medical treatment.

The Secretary of the Visserscollectief had said on Thursday that many details surrounding the man’s survival were unknown at the time.

Guyana Times understands that apart from a possible broken arm and a few lacerations about his body, the man is recuperating well.

Meanwhile, the hunt is on for the other missing men. On Wednesday, the search party had spotted three bodies but only one was recovered. It was explained that the rescuers had to abandon the operation to retrieve the two other bodies because of the thick mud.

However, it was reported that they returned to the area the following day, but there has since been no further update.

Among those Guyanese who are missing from last weekend’s incident are:

Ramesh Sanchara; Ganesh Persaud, Vickey Persaud, Glenroy Jones, Bharat Heralall, Ralph Anthony, Randy Burnette and Tiaknauth Mohabir.

Meanwhile, six persons -all believed to be Guyanese -are now in custody and are be-

Six, that last weekend’s attack was a vendetta. Several persons operating out of the Number 66 Fishermen’s Coop related to this newspaper that the Guyanese fishermen operating in Suriname have a rift amount themselves. This is as a result of the availability and accessibility to licences to operate in the waters of the Dutch-speaking nation.

Back in Guyana, for the first time since the incident occurred, President David Granger on Thursday condemned the action, calling the incident a “great massacre” and a “tragedy”. He told reporters that local authorities are working with their Surinamese counterparts to bring the perpetrators to justice.

He went on to say that this incident has had an upsetting effect on Government’s an-

Survivor Cherwin Lovell

and is getting cooperation from the Surinamese authorities, there is only so much that can be done at this point in time, since the Surinamese officials would first have to do their investigations.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday afternoon met with

These six suspects, believed to be Guyanese, were nabbed offshore Suriname

ing grilled in connection with the attack on Saturday. One was nabbed by fishermen on Thursday morning and handed over to the Police, while the five others were apprehended later in the day.

Guyana Times was told by some fisher folks on the Corentyne in Berbice, Region

ti-piracy efforts, which have been successful of recent.

Since last year, there has been only one piracy attack recorded.

On the other hand, Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan has said that while Government is concerned over the horrific act,

the aggrieved families of those fishermen who are missing from last weekend’s attack, which has been described as one of the most horrific piracy attacks in recent history. During the meeting, the families expressed concerns over the lack of support from the Government. (Vahnu Manikchand)

CFATF conference

Members urged to band together in fight against money laundering

Commonwealth Secretary General, Baroness Patricia Scotland addressing delegates at the CFATF conference being held in Guyana

C

ountries of the Commonwealth have been urged to work collaboratively to counter violent extremism, money laundering and terrorism, and to build longstanding relationships with existing regimes.

Commonwealth Secretary General, Baroness Patricia Scotland told delegates at the opening of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) Judges and Prosecutors’ Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) workshop, “we can either swim together or drown separately”.

Scotland said it has been

a constant complaint from almost all Commonwealth countries, particularly small States that there was a lack of qualified and resourceful parliamentary draftsmen, who have the ability to create modern-day legislation to deal with the issues of money laundering, among others.

“We all have the same problem. So, rather than working separately, we can work together. We have been saying we have two choices.

We can either swim together or drown separately. And I am for swimming and since I don’t swim very well, I need some people to support me,” she asserted.

The Secretary General said the Commonwealth legal luminaries have a duty to be vigilant guardians, protecting the safety and well-being of all their people. They must ensure that the Commonwealth countries have the capacity to safeguard institutions in order to prevent them from being exploited by criminal and terrorist purposes.

According to her, the sources of funding for these activities are diverse and flow with “constantly shifting channels of distribution”. The SG pointed out that when one revenue stream was closed, another was opened. “And to stem the supply that sustains terrorism and violent extremism, we have to ensure that we have the best and the most up-to-date legal and criminal justice tools available.”

In delivering the feature address, President David Granger pointed out that given its geographic location, the Caribbean has become a haven for financial pirates, privateers, money launderers and tax evaders. He noted that present-day criminal cartels possessed the means to corrupt public officials too.

According to him, present-day Information Communication Technologies

can facilitate the transfer of financial assets across borders at the speed of light. Illicit transactions can contaminate “the voluminous transactions which take place in our countries’ financial systems.”

Robust legislation

As such, the Head of State stressed the importance of safeguarding the criminal justice system of States from the subversion of organised crime.

The President underscored the need for robust legislation and sturdy institutions, which he said could be used as weapons that could protect States from these activities.

He also made reference to Guyana’s efforts in countering money laundering and other financial crimes.

President Granger also reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to establishing a robust criminal justice system in its campaign to combat financial crimes, which have seen massive growth over the years.

In his remarks, Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams pointed out that the Region’s overall rate of conviction and confiscation of criminal proceeds has been moderate, despite many countries implementing legislative measures to crimi-

Members of the diplomatic corps at the opening of the conference on Thursday

nalise money laundering and terrorist financing.

Minister Williams proposed that countries “also obtain convictions and pursue seizing and confiscating the proceeds and instrumentalities of crime for the benefit of States and victims”. He said this would in a large way help the global AML/CFT efforts to be effective and strategic.

The two-day workshop, which is being hosted in Guyana, will address issues in relation to investigative orders, the prosecution and management of money laun-

dering cases, international cooperation, confiscation and restraint orders, conviction-based confiscation and terrorism/terrorist financing.

The workshop will also serve as an opportunity for Judges and Prosecutors to deepen their understanding through the exchange of ideas on the regional and global dimensions of money laundering, terrorism financing, countering violent extremism and the recovery of the proceeds of corruption.

16 news

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Jagdeo discusses sugar workers’ plight with IMF team

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo meeting with an International Monetary Fund (IMF) team on Wednesday

A

s sugar workers, their families and the wider communities continue to face the financial uncertainties experienced as a result of estate closures and general downsizing of the industry, their plight was a topic of discussion with the visiting International Monetary Fund (IMF) team and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo on Wednesday.

That team is in Guyana to conduct an assessment of the country’s economy.

Through an official statement, it was disclosed that Jagdeo spoke with IMF representatives on a range of matters, which included the impact on workers and the ripple effects that are being seen since estates were shuttered. For the last several months, Guyana Times has been meeting with residents, former Guyana Sugar

Corporation (GuySuCo) employees, and market sellers, who have collectively observed their despair over the fact that communities were once bright and booming with varying ranges of economic activity.

On Wednesday, Jagdeo shared his views on the performance of the economy, and was quoted as having provided the IMF team with his and the Parliamentary Opposition’s analysis of key productive sectors. Other topics discussed with IMF focused on agriculture, rice, construction, bauxite, mining and service sectors.

The Leader of the Opposition was quoted as having outlined the vision of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), which foresees the prospects “of expansion and growth of the local economy, creating employment and generating

opportunities for Guyanese, including those for wealth creation, among other plans – all of which could sustain, diversify and expand the traditional sectors, while supporting new productive sectors.”

Jagdeo was accompanied by fellow PPP/C Parliamentarians Irfaan Ali and Juan Edghill at Wednesday’s meeting.

Some 4000 workers from Skeldon, East Demerara (Enmore) and Rose Hall were retrenched after GuySuCo terminated their employment up to late 2017.

Before then, over 1000 Wales Estate workers were similarly retrenched when the entity officially ceased operation in December 2016. These moves were in keeping with Government’s cost-cutting measures.

However, the David Granger Administration was strong-

ly criticised for not having a holistic approach to ageold industry, as many stakeholders, civil society groups including the private sector and opposition politicians called for social impact studies to be conduct before closures.

In December 2017, the Special Purposes Unit (SPU), which falls under the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), officially took over operations at Skeldon, East Demerara (Enmore), Rose Hall and Wales. It was announced that SPU was overseeing divestment plans by way of either selling off or restarting factories with minimal staff to attract investors – both domestic and foreign.

However, it was in March of this year that the SPU rehired about 100 cane harvesters out of thousands

to work the fields at Rose Hall Estate. The Enmore Estate was also restarted to keep it running. However, the workers, residents and sellers at Wales have made repeated cries for Wales to be restarted, but many feel that this would be near impossible following reports that much of the factory’s equipment and material was transferred to other estates. Also in March, NICIL put thousands of acres of land from Wales, as well as machinery from various estates, on the market.

It was only last month that Guyana Times visited the once famous ‘Friday Market’ at Wales, where sellers related their despair as they were packing up their stocks just before 13:00h, when this publication interviewed them.

Sellers were packing up their stocks for the day. This

was unlike before December 2016, when the market went later than 17:00h.

Seller Jocelyn Boston, who has been vending for over seven years, has bemoaned her continued struggles, which increase with each passing since the closure of Wales.

“It very hard, we ain’t getting the sales like before.

You come out, just so you gotta pack back and go in.

One and two residents coming out and buy; Uitvlugt workers don’t get pay here.

They don’t spend here because they got other markets that they passing,” Boston had noted.

“Is like you just want run away from here; is a hopeless place. Here nah got hope no more,” a female farmer and market vendor from Wales told Guyana Times in April.

Land rights issues major concern for Region 8’s Indigenous communities

A

new study of the land tenure situation of Indigenous people in Guyana, conducted by the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA), has identified land rights issues as a major concern for the communities according to the report, which was released on Thursday.

The report titled “Our Land, Our Life: A Participatory Assessment of the Land Tenure Situation of Indigenous Peoples in Guyana – Report for Region 8” was officially launched at the Regency Hotel, Hadfield Street, Georgetown.

It is the second of a series of participative land tenure studies conducted by the APA with funding from the United Kingdom Department for International Development and the Kingdom of Norway International Climate and Forest Initiative, with the field studies supported by the Forest Peoples Programme and Rainforest Foundation US. The study saw researchers visiting 22 settlements in the Potaro-Siparuni (Region Eight) area, and found that most of the villages were dissatisfied with the fragmented land titling approach to their customary lands and were calling for a collec-

Toshaos and other representatives with their copy of the “Our Land, Our Life: A Participatory Assessment of the Land Tenure Situation of Indigenous Peoples in Guyana – Report for Region 8”

tive territorial title throughout the region. The villages visited were Chenapou; Itabac; Kaibarupai; Kamana; Kanapang; Karisparu; Kato; Chiung Mouth; Kopinang; Kurukabaru; Maikwak; Monkey Mountain; Paramakatoi; Bamboo Creek; Mountain Foot; Taruka; Waipa; Campbelltown; Princeville; El Paso (Tumatumari); Maicobie and Moruwa.

APA Executive Jean La Rose said in 2012 the Association embarked on the first land tenure assessment in Regions One (Barima-Waini) and Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) in order to educate the residents as it relates to information

on their respective communities. The participants were trained in various aspects, and some of them were utilised in the 12-member team that conducted the assessment in Region Eight. The researchers would have spent a long time gathering data and mapping the coordinates of the villages so as to pinpoint the relevant proposed extensions, customary lands, and homestead areas.

The report highlighted that of the 18 settlements visited, 15 had land titles while three had no titles at all. Meanwhile, the land titles are limited in some villages by a save and except clause allowing exclusion of third-party private property

or land lease interests within the titled area.

It was also reported that the process of extensions and applying for new titles was one that was tedious and lengthy. Additionally, 14 of the titled villages were not consulted about the areas granted under the titles, with 12 of them reporting flaws in their title demarcations, with the demarcations not following the title description.

“The fragmentation caused by flawed demarcation exercises is causing disputes between several villages with regard to tenure rights and control over resources that were previously shared; titles and demarcation were granted and com-

pleted without an official procedure in place to avoid overlaps between title and extension applications of different villages, which can cause disputes,” the report stated.

It was identified that Itabac/Kanapang and Chenapou/Karisparu began having disputes after the demarcation process, stemming from errors in the title descriptions, which were not evident until the lines were drawn on the ground. The study found that five of the 15 titled villages have problems with mining activities or the movement of unauthorised miners within their legally-recognised titled land.

In some cases, the communities have reported bullying and physical abuse in key mining areas at the hands of those who trespass.

The report also made proposals to the Government; the National Toshaos Council (NTC); the Village Councils and the Indigenous People’s Commission (IPC). The report also recommended the reviewing and amending of the 2006 Amerindian Act so that it will align with articles in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and related international human rights trea-

ties to which Guyana is a signatory.

According to the report, the Act has made tenure security worse for Amerindian villages as it favours the rights of private leaseholders occupying the land before a title is granted. The legislation’s “save and except” clause places commercial property rights of miners, loggers, and agricultural leaseholders above the tenure rights of Indigenous peoples.

The communities called on the NTC to be strong and unified in its representation of the issues facing Amerindian communities while urging them to push for the President to address the outstanding land issues.

They also urged the Village Councils to unite with each other to discuss and agree on a strategy to obtain legal recognition for a collective territory while calling on the IPC to investigate Indigenous land issues according to its mandate and make recommendations for improved land security and good governance of tenure for Indigenous peoples in Guyana.

Another such report is expected by the end of 2018 focusing on Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, MAY 4, 2018

M

ajesty International is pleased to announce the 10 finalists in this year’s Miss World Guyana competition; one of whom will go on to represent Guyana at the Miss World international competition being held in Sanya, China, later this year.

Keeping with Miss World Guyana tradition, the top 10 finalists will be appointed as regional ambassadors for an entire year to represent Guyana’s 10 administrative regions.

The 10 finalists are Andrea Marslowe, Lalita Baliram, Joylyn Conway, Lateifha Goodluck, Donnette Linton, Nichola Munroe, Dianna Persaud, Ambika Ramraj, Tracy Smith, and Breeanka West.

In addition, the debate challenge was won by Ambika Ramraj, whereas the Five-year Plan Challenge was won

by Joylyn Conway. The Multimedia challenge was copped by Dianna Persaud and the Beauty with a Purpose Presentation Pitch Challenge was won by Tracy Smith.

The finalists will be sashed today at the Pegasus Hotel poolside starting at 19:00h.

Under the guidance of marketing team – NexGen Global Marketing – who has brought a new dynamic to the organisation’s strategic way of thinking, the team is asking corporate Guyana to support the delegates

T

he Indian Action Committee will host its 15th annual Cultural Mela to observe the 180th anniversary of Indian arrival to Guyana. The Mela is scheduled for Saturday, May 5, at the Albion Sports Complex ground, Berbice, starting at 17:00h.

Live band performances will be provided by Shakti Strings Band and Traveller’s

by giving them the opportunity to promote their products or services as brand ambassadors.

Displaying some of their talent, the semi-finalists teamed up with DP Records and previous titleholders in a national campaign to promote selflove and acceptance and completed a cover to the soon to be released song “This is Me”.

However, the Miss World Guyana finalists will join President David

Sound System.

There will also be cultural performances showcasing the contributions of Indians to Guyana through singing, classical dances, cultural exhibitions and lots more, in addition to food, games and other attractions.

Moreover, both events will have massive promotions, deals, and giveaways offered

Granger and Minister George Norton at Highbury, Berbice after which they will proceed to the Albion Sports Complex where the Indian Action Committee is hosting a grand 180th anniversary celebration of Indian arrival to Guyana.

The contestants will appear before thousands of Berbicians in their first public appearances, before heading to the Skeldon Heritage House Resort for a three-day photo shoot.

by GTT, with every purchase of a GTT SIM card or handset.

The Melas are the kind compliments of GTT; Banks DIH; AGM Inc; Texila American University and Rohan’s Auto Spares, along with other private businesses.

The event is non-alcoholic, family-friendly with Police security, and admission free.

T

As the competition continues, members of the public are invited to support the finalists in the Sports and Fitness competition scheduled at the Lusignan Golf Course on May 13, at 14:00h; the Top Model segment which is being held on the Marriott Beach front on May 19 at 19:00h; and the Beauty with a Purpose Fair on Main Street on May 23.

The Grand Coronation on May 25, at the Pegasus International Hotel,

he Bollywood Masala Super Concert which was billed for May 5 at the Guyana National Stadium has been cancelled due to lack of adequate sponsorship. This was confirmed by organiser of the event, Paul Bonar, popularly known as “DJ Stress”.

The event was expected to commemorate the 180th anniversary of East Indian arrival to Guyana. The show would have featured the Angels Caribbean Band out of New York and the Caribbean Hotshots Band out of Guyana.

“We the promoters and The Angels

will showcase the culmination of beauty, with the delegates exuding the “Super Gs” as they display qualities such as “Generosity, Genial, Good, Gregarious, Golden, Global, Gifted, Graceful and Guyanese”, and highlight the organisation’s commitment to promoting Guyanese talent to the world with performances by local artistes.

Limited tickets are available at all Guyana Carnival ticket locations.

Caribbean Band are as equally disappointed as the fans”, the organiser related in a Facebook post.

He further stated that his team will work hard on promoting the business and as such, the cancellation was disappointing. Those who have bought tickets are asked to return to the location where it was purchased and a full refund will be facilitated.

Meanwhile, the teams sincerely apologise for the cancellation.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, MAY 4, 2018

T

his year’s Mother and Daughter Pageant is being held under the theme “Love’s Kaleidoscope” and has brought together 44 contestants in the three categories in mother and daughter pairs.

The pageant is organised by

Supa Stylistics Promotions, which is headed by Dr Sulan FungBrowne and her mother, Ingrid Fung.

From its inception, the pageant has guided the light on the bond between mothers and their daughters and that is one of the

reasons behind its success over the past two and half decades.

This year’s programme will be packed with lots of entertainment by some of our best artistes and of course the audience will be dazzled by the creativity of the mothers and daughters as they com-

Cyntina Bharat-Bacchus & Maya

Danielle Deveira & Tzeitel

Marika Dawson & Onecia

Mia Ritchie & Breann

Charlene Hamilton & Chrislene

Norma Hughes & Shanika

Hollis David & Amaya

Marcy Cameron & Chelsia

Ronda Daymon & Rebecca

Shonette Vyphuis & Saniayah

pete in the junior, middle and senior categories of the pageant.

The pageant will also focus on the scourge of domestic violence in Guyana. A special tribute will be paid to Reona Payne who was murdered by her partner in April.

Her reputed husband is before the

courts for her death.

Reona is a past contestant of the Mother and Daughter Pageant, so the tragedy of her demise has left the organisers heartbroken, but strong to continue to raise awareness of the social ill.

Linden Kenicia Lewis & Aariel

Marica Abrams & Nomarra

Theana McDonald & Joanna

Michelle Drepaul & Rawlanna

Felicia Geness & Katusha

Juliet Herod & Andrea

Germaine Jacques & Kia

Linda Clementson & Althea

Nathalie Adams & Latonya

Nanette Baird & Latifah

Hollis David & Omelcio

friDAY, may 4, 2018

19

"Race for PACE" supporting students through go-karting T

he Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement (PACE) arm of the University of Guyana (UG) has found an exciting avenue to engage persons in an interesting activity whilst raising funds to support fellow students of the University.

The Student Support Fund (SSF) is designed to provide financial or materi-

al support to students of the University who do not have access to necessary resources, and require immediate short-term aid during their course of study. Through an application process, students are provided with equipment, books, accommodation, hardship, emergency or travel grants.

The Race for PACE event is in its second year, and

as usual, was held at the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) facilities at Thomas and Albert Streets, Thomas Lands, Georgetown.

Seeing a massive boost from last year’s installment, a total of 86 drivers showed up to contribute what they could to the charitable venture. The novelty races included Students vs Faculty;

Ladies vs Gentlemen; Alumni, Friends and Sponsors; Out of City Campuses vs Turkeyen; and a grand ‘Masters Race’, which saw the winners of the other categories competing against each other.

Daniel Williams emerged the champion racer after dominating four of the racing

categories.

Kezia Bridgewater was adjudged the best female racer, while best male staff went to Randy Chandra and best female staff went to Devya Hemraj.

Azaad H a s s a n (GUYOIL), Surujbali Persaud (GUYOIL), Roy Barrett (ExxonMobil), UG Registrar Dr. Nigel Gravesande and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, PACE, Professor Paloma Mohamed all showed their team spirit by competing at the event.

Langer hails series Surrey sign India Captain for at least win in India as 6 matches in June ‘ultimate goal’

I

t is a tough road ahead for the new Australia cricket team head coach Justin Langer. With the team still reeling from the after-effects of the ball-tampering scandal that shook the world of cricket, Langer faces a daunting task of restoring the pride of the baggy green cap.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Langer said that the team needs to earn back the respect from the fans and a Test series win on Indian soil in 2021 will certainly be the ‘ultimate’ goal for the Australian cricket team.

“We’ve got a World Cup, a T20 World Cup, a couple of Ashes (in 2019 and 2021-22) I get nervous when I start thinking about it,” Langer was quoted as saying by cricket. com.au.

“There are some big tournaments coming up. But ultimately, if I fast forward it, the Indian Test tour in about three or four years-time, to me that’s the ultimate. We will judge ourselves on whether we’re a great cricket team if we beat India in India,” he added.

A Test series win in India is not something that many Australian cricket teams have achieved over the years. After three back-to-back series wins between 1956 and 1969, there was a 35-year period where India dominated proceedings at home.

In 2001, the team came to India at the back of a 15-match unbeaten run and it looked like the curse might finally come to an end. But, the Steve Waugh-led side were unable to conquer the ‘final frontier’ as they were beaten comprehensively in Kolkata and Chennai.

The curse was finally broken under Ricky Ponting in 2004 as the visitors clinched the four-match series 2-1.

Langer, who scored two half centuries while opening the batting, still fondly refers

to the series victory as the ‘Mount Everest’ of his career.

“I look back on my career; the Mount Everest moment was 2004 when we finally beat India in India.”

“We’ve got to get better at playing overseas, we become a great team if we win overseas and at home so that will be something for us to aspire to,” he said.

Since that victory, they have travelled to India four times and the hosts have emerged victorious on all occasions. In 2016, they started well with a huge win in Pune but the Steve Smith-led side was unable to continue their momentum as they were defeated 2-1.

Thus, a win in India will be a huge achievement for both the Australian cricket team and their new coach Justin Langer.

However, there is a more immediate challenge for Langer and his team as they take on India in a four-match Test series at home starting December 6.

India have never won a Test series at Australia but without the services of Steve Smith and David Warner, the hosts are extremely vulnerable this time and Langer’s first assignment will be to safeguard the perfect home record against the Virat Kohli-led Indian cricket team.

Australia’s new Coach Justin Langer

I

ndia captain Virat Kohli has agreed a deal to play for Surrey in June.

The 29-year-old batsman will feature in three County Championship matches and at least three One-Day Cup games.

Kohli, who averages more than 50 in all formats for his country, will lead India in a five-match Test series in England starting on 1 August.

"It's long been an ambition of mine to play county cricket and I'm thankful to Alec Stewart and Surrey for allowing me the opportunity," he said.

Kohli will miss India's inaugural Test match with Afghanistan in June while playing county cricket.

He is available to make his Surrey debut against Kent at Beckenham in the One-Day Cup on 1 June, before rounding off his stint in a four-day fixture at Scarborough against Yorkshire.

If Surrey qualify from the group stage of the OneDay Cup, Kohli could play in the quarter-finals and potentially semi-finals in mid-June.

The final of the competition is on 30 June, although Surrey have only confirmed he will play up to the Championship match against the Tykes.

Kohli's Surrey fixtures for June "We're thrilled to have signed the biggest name in world cricket for the month of June," said Surrey director of cricket Stewart.

"Playing and training alongside Virat will be a massive benefit for our players, who will have the opportunity to learn so much from him."

Virat Kohli: Kapil Dev says India captain should play in England's County Championship India's Test series against England starts at Edgbaston, with two T20 internationals and three ODIs before that in July.

Four players eligible to be part of the tourists' Test squad will have had stints in county cricket by July.

Top-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is currently playing for Yorkshire, while pace bowlers Ishant Sharma and Varun Aaron are in action for Sussex and Leicestershire respectively.

Virat Kohli has scored 21 Test centuries and 35 ODI hundreds for India

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friDAY, may 4, 2018

Indian Premier League 2018...

Gill and Karthik power KKR past sloppy CSK O

ne of Kolkata Knight Riders' most valued assets is their bowling strength, particularly their spinners. Sunil Narine's mystery spin is still effective. Wristspinners Piyush Chawla and Kuldeep Yadav are widely respected. Together, they conceded 89 runs in 12 overs and took

on the back of Shubman Gill's maiden IPL fifty and rapid cameos from Dinesh Karthik and Narine. The result meant Sunrisers Hyderabad displaced CSK at the top of the points table.

While batting first on a small ground, deciding on a target to set can be a tough decision. At the Eden

and the possibility of dew impacting spinners in the second innings, CSK may have felt compelled to aim at a similar score. That's how openers Faf du Plesssis and Shane Watson approached their innings.

Du Plessis hit four fours and a six in his 15-ball 27, often chipping lofted shots

more circumspect, picking his deliveries to attack.

He struck 36 off 24 balls before mis-timing a pull to deep midwicket. Together, they played 40 balls - one third of the innings - to score 63 runs, putting CSK on course

Shubman Gill

ets and a risk of leaving the death overs bare of batting resources forced Dhoni to retract from attacking from the outset.

He scored five runs from his first nine balls. He hit 30 off his next 11 balls, includ-

Chennai Super Kings celebrate after picking up a wicket

all five wickets to fall to turn the game around by limiting Chennai Super Kings to 177.

In favourable chasing conditions, KKR cruised home with 14 balls to spare,

Gardens before this game, a target was successfully defended only once in four games - KKR scored 200 to beat Delhi Daredevils by 71 runs. With short boundaries

over the infield to capitalise on a fast outfield. He was bowled by Piyush Chawla, slogging across the line in an attempt to further increase the scoring rate. Watson was

for a 200-plus score.

Prior to this game, Dhoni found his fluency and form, having scored three unbeaten fifties in eight games this season. Three quick wick-

Guyana’s motor racing icon Pat Holder passes on

T

he sporting fraternity has regrettably lost a founding member of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC).

A true icon of motor sport in Guyana, GMR&SC life member Pat Holder passed away on Wednesday at a city hospital at the age of 84.

Holder both actively participated in, and provided his services to, motorsport in Guyana for 43 successive years, from 1955 to 1998.

His career in racing started at the young age of 14, and with bicycles, when he was the "A-Class" champion and was selected to represent British Guiana, as Guyana was then named, in Suriname. Unfortunately or fortunately for motor sports, Pat's cycling career hit a road block when he suffered a near fatal motorcycle road accident in 1953. Upon his recovery, he turned to motorcycle racing with his brothers Billy and Clive. Pat raced in the 50cc class early on, and then eventually moved up to the 250cc and 350cc classes as the years went by, riding Victoria, Ducati and Yamaha bikes.

After much success in bike

i n g four sixes.

CSK scored 56 runs from the last five overs. Dhoni scored 39 of those.

With 177 to defend, CSK needed early wickets to stall KKR's momentum. Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine are often tasked with generating that momentum. Lynn was caught at slip, via the inside edge, in the first over.

CSK then had two chances to dismiss Narine.

Ravindra Jadeja, one of CSK's best fielders, dropped both chances at mid-off, off consecutive deliveries.

In the second over, Narine flat-batted a length ball to Jadeja. He pouched the

ball near his midriff, but the ball burst out.

Off the next ball, Jadeja dropped an overhead catch. Narine went on to score a 20-ball 32, before he was eventually caught off the bowling of Jadeja.

KKR were in control of their chase right from the outset. When Rinku Singh was bowled in the 12th over, KKR needed 81 runs off 50 balls. Gill and Karthik stayed aggressive, punching drives on the up and pulling elegantly into the stands over square leg.

The intent was clear: not to leave the chase to the last over with several variables involved. Karthik's 18-ball 45 and Gill's 36-ball 57 ensured the penultimate over wasn't required either.

SCOREBOARD racing, Pat turned his attention to power boat racing in 1960, starting off with a 40hp engine. At his first race event, having very little knowledge of power boat racing, Pat lost all of the races of the day, with the exception of the final race.

Motorcycle racing and powerboat racing weren’t enough for him, Pat also competed in rally racing in Barbados, Trinidad and Suriname several times. Additionally, he participated in endurance racing, dexterity events, and even horse riding.

In the ensuing years, Pat became more involved in the

organizational aspects of motor sports, and served as the President of the GMRC/ GMR&SC from 1983 to 1987.

During those years, Pat played an essential role in having the headquarters of the GMR&SC established at the COSMOS ground, where it stands to date.

As the years went by, he continued to serve as the chief starter for circuit events at the South Dakota Circuit, up until 1998, when he passed the position on to his nephew and apprentice, Suren "Froggy" Singh.

From there he retired to

the club house, attending almost every circuit race event.

In honor of his contributions to motor sport in Guyana and to the GMR&SC, the club house at South Dakota Circuit was renamed after him a few years ago.

Pat Holder's contributions to motorsport in Guyana and to the GMR&SC will never be forgotten, and his legacy will continue to live forever in the hearts and minds of those he had touched in his 84 years. And, of course, the motor sport community that he helped to build from the start will never forget him.

Chennai Super Kings Innings (20 overs maximum) SR Watson c Shivam Mavi b Narine 36 F du Plessis b Chawla 27 SK Raina c Johnson b Kuldeep Yadav 31 AT Rayudu b Narine 21 MS Dhoni (c) † not out 43 RA Jadeja c †Karthik b Chawla 12 KV Sharma not out 0 Extras 7 (b 4, w 3) TOTAL 177-5 (20 Overs, RR: 8.85) Did not bat: DJ Bravo, Harbhajan Singh, KM Asif, L Ngidi Fall of wickets: 1-48 (F du Plessis, 5.1 ov), 2-91 (SR Watson, 10.2 ov), 3-101 (SK Raina, 11.4 ov), 4-119 (AT Rayudu, 14.4 ov), 5-173 (RA Jadeja, 19.5 ov) BOWLING: MG Johnson (4-0-510), PP Chawla (4-0-35-2), Shivam Mavi (3-0-21-0), SP Narine (40-20-2), AD Russell (1-0-12-0), Kuldeep Yadav (4-0-34-1)

Kolkata Knight Riders Innings (target: 178 runs from 20 overs) CA Lynn c Watson b Ngidi 12 SP Narine c Bravo b Jadeja 32 RV Uthappa c Bravo b Asif 6 Shubman Gill not out 57 RK Singh b Harbhajan Singh 16 KD Karthik (c) † not out 45 Extras 12 (lb 1, w 11) TOTAL 180-4 (17.4 Overs, RR: 10.18) Yet to bat: AD Russell, Shivam Mavi, PP Chawla, MG Johnson, Kuldeep Yadav Fall of wickets: 1-12 (CA Lynn, 0.6 ov), 2-40 (RV Uthappa, 4.2 ov), 3-64 (SP Narine, 6.4 ov), 4-97 (RK Singh, 11.4 ov) BOWLING: L Ngidi (3-0-361), KM Asif (3-0-32-1), SR Watson (2-0-19-0), RA Jadeja (4-0-39-1), Harbhajan Singh (3-0-20-1), DJ Bravo (1.4-022-0), KV Sharma (1-0-11-0)

Lady Jags

CLASSIFIED ADS

friDAY, may 4, 2018 | www. guyanatimesgy.com

ACCOMMODATIONS COSMETOLOGY – FULL COURSE $100,000. TECHNICIAN $40,000.

Aracari Salon & Spa, WBD 2643312, 600-3927 Conferences & Retreats – Full Service: Hotel, Catering & Facilities.

Aracari Resort WBD – 264-2946 Alex Wayne Weddings & Anniversaries: Rental or Full Service: Banquet Hall & Catering. Aracari Resort WBD – 264-2946 Alex Wayne Aracari Hotel, WBD (Near Harbor Bridge) – All Modern Amenities – Rates from $25. Phone 264-2946-8

EDUCATION Electronic Course Beginning 1st June. Practical’s. Learn to repair all major electronic appliances including flat screen TVs. Earn extra cash in our spare time. Boost your income. Abdul Electronics. Tel: 2250391/226-6551

FOR SALE Husky puppies for sale at West Bank Demkerara. Call: 611-2378 for enquires.

LAND for sale COMMERCIAL LAND FOR SALE. 17,990 SQ FT. NO 7 BELAIR, WOODLAND VILLAGE DISTRICT, BERBICE. $35 MILLION. CONTACT# 592 639-4644.

One transport land for sale 100x50ft at Hope Town village West Coast Berbice Price 1.2M Contact # 680-1009

property for sale Lot 15 Public Road, #2 Village, West Coast Berbice. 49ft x 10,314ft Length. $18M Non Neg. Contact: 648-7109 or 686-4818 2-flat bedroom wodden building situated at 154 “B” Shell Road Kitty.

2 Lots east of Kitty Market. Tel: 6979418/6702653/2269548

services Shalom Enterprise. Lot 2 Croal Street, Stabroek. Obtain an international driving permit covering 131 countries. Tel: 227-3835, 644-2052.

Join us on Facebook

spirituality & ASTROLOGY Spiritual healing: remove blockages, voodoo, excurse, black magic, spell, business, upliftment, pregnancy, love & marriage problems, clearance, etc. Contact: 694-9569 or 683-5228 Sri Guru Raghavendra Astrology.

Master: VEERA BHADRA. Specialized in: PALM, FACE, PATRA READING & HOROSCOPE BOOK OPENING. An expert in clearing negativity in life by using ancient prayer methods.

Gives complete solution to your problems like: love, children, finance, job, marriage, finance and education. Meet him once to get guidance. All religions are welcome.

Private and confidential. Tel: 6959805 & 652-6427.

taxi services GR Taxi, 24 hours. Phone: 225-7878, 219-5000 or 227-2100

TO LET RGUST Apartments. Single or double occupants. Ideal for students/couples. 1st St., UG Road, Turkeyen, ECD. Call Tele: 222-6075, 222-6076

tRAINING Private Customs Brokerage Training Course From 7th May 2018 Register now Space limited Call 694-8322/ 690-4225

VACANCIES Vacancy exists within the Enmore/ Hope NDC for an OVERSEER. Send application to the above N.D.C. on or before 3rd May, 2018. Requirements: FIVE(5) CXC SUBJECTS, INCLUDING MATHEMATICS AND ENGLISH LANGUAGE, MUST BE COMPUTER LITERATE. AGE: TWENTY-FIVE (25) YEARS AND ABOVE. Application can be sent to: CHAIRMAN, ENMORE/ HOPE NDC, Beezie, Enmore, East Coast Demerara.

sports

21

made progress, says Head Coach A

– looking forward to CONCACAF Qualifiers

s Guyana prepares for the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) Women’s Qualifiers in the latter half of May, Dr. Ivan Joseph, Head Coach of the National Senior Women’s Football Team, the Lady Jags, said the team’s objectives of the recently-concluded CFU Women’s Challenge Series have been achieved.

This revelation was made in an interview following the Lady Jags’ final match of the CFU Women’s Challenge Series against Trinidad and Tobago in Trinidad and Tobago.

“As you would have noticed, (in) each and every game, we had a more cohesive, more together unit going forward on the field,” said Dr. Joseph in response to whether the objectives of the team had been achieved.

“We used the week to build grit, build resilience, teach life skills, and transform the lives of the people who were part of it. Those were some of the things we have done all week -- getting people to stand up and talk about themselves, and reinforce the best attributes about themselves and teammates; getting

people to recognize and learn how different we are, and yet how similar we are.”

In summing up the tournament, Dr. Joseph said the players executed the game plan for respective matches, and this sets a firm foundation of a solid team. “When you look at those three games, you can say there was progress made. We continue to create our own chances and play the system that we were trying. Each game we played, we started a different shape and formation, and asked our players to do different things; and each and every time they responded appropriately, and we were able to execute the game plan. That’s a very firm foundation of a solid team that is coachable and will be able to execute,” Dr Joseph declared.

Commenting on the way forward, Dr. Joseph said the team is exploring the possibility of adding some new players to the squad for the CONCACAF Qualifiers. “May is one step in our long-term plan. We will be looking to bring in some new bodies. We had no true defensive centre-mid, and no true defensive centre-back in the CFU Women’s

Challenge Series.

We are still looking for a right combination and fit in those three spots.

People were able to perform them admirably, but it’s still not our best players in those spots, and that’s where the future will look for.”

Guyana will Lady Jags Head Coach, Dr Ivan Joseph host Group E of the CONCACAF National Track and Field Centre, Qualifiers, and will play Bermuda Leonora. on May 23, Suriname on May 25, All matches are scheduled for and Barbados on May 27 at the 19:30hrs.

GCB/DMLAS/NSC/NSSCL

Mohamed, Christian heroes in Salem’s come-from-behind win

T

he 2017/2018 National Secondary School Cricket League, sponsored by the Guyana Cricket Board/ Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited/National Sports Commission (GCB/DMLAS/NSC/ NSSCL) continued with competitive action in the Essequibo Zone of the league.

Parika Salem defeated Leguan Secondary by 10 runs in a nail-biting thriller last Friday, thanks to the supreme skills of stars from the previous game -- all-rounders Wazim Mohamed and Travis Christian -who stole the show with the ball.

Winning

the toss and electing to bat first, Parika Salem found scoring against the Leguan Secondary bowlers a difficult task, and eventually folded for a meagre 46. The Leguan Secondary bowling was led

by Kamal Shaw (5-23) and Javal Sahoye (4-22), who kept Salem at bay.

With Leguan Secondary needing just 47 runs for victory, Parika Salem’s bowlers Mohamed and Christian set out to defy the odds by making early inroads into the Leguan batting line-up.

They were well supported by their fielders, who orchestrated three run-outs.

Parika Salem eventually snatched victory from the jaws of deteat when Leguan

Wazim Mohamed

Secondary were disappointingly flattened for a paltry 36. Opening batsman Naresh Ragabeer with 11 was the only batsman to score double figures, as Mohamed grabbed 4 wickets, Christian 2, and Sandave Singh a wicket.

Bartica Secondary will visit Wakenaam Island to compete with Essequibo Islands Secondary

Travis Christian

School at the Good Success ground from 10:00 hours in the Inter Zone Phase of the Tournament on Friday, May 4.

The winner of this match will face Parika Salem on Wednesday, 9 May, 2018 at the Good Success Community Centre ground in Wakenaam, commencing at 10:00 hours.

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friDAY, may 4, 2018

Minister Norton impressed by Archery Clinic M

inister of Social Cohesion, with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton, accompanied by Director of Sport Christopher Jones, on Thursday paid a courtesy call at the inaugural Archery Clinic which is being held at the National Racquet Center.

He was particularly pleased with the dynamics of the programme, and thanked the World Archery Association for letting Guyana participate in such a programme.

The Level One course is being facilitated by International Archery Coach Phillip Graves, who has a solid list of credentials. He has prepared a packed curriculum, consisting of preparing a shooter, biomechanics of shooting, recreational shooting, devel-

opmental shooting, and competitive shooting.

Speaking on the impressive developmental plan that Guyana has formulated in order to benefit from the Archery Course, Coach Graves expressed optimism that the country can produce top notch shooters for the international stage.

“Out in the hinterlands.

You may have an athlete out there that’s going to become a national champion for Guyana, they may be the next Guyanese Olympian,” Graves stated.

Dr. Norton expressed similar sentiments to Coach Graves’s, stating that the Archery Guyana organization has the potential to produce an Olympian.

“Somebody was saying in the sporting world that our first Olympic gold would come from a novelty event.

Maybe this is that event.

Participants of the course pose for a photo with Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr George Norton and Director of Sport Christopher, Jones

The possibility exists, and we have to explore the possibility,” the minister stated.

He charged the participants to make the most of the course. “All you partici-

pants, I hope you will grasp every bit of Mr. Graves’s lessons, and exploit every opportunity to seek clarification. So that when you return to your community,

you will be able to impart your knowledge in others.”

Minister Norton later took the opportunity to try out the sport. The Government officials min-

gled with the students and learnt a few new things about the sport. At conclusion of the course, the participants will become certified Level One archers.

GSCL Inc/Ink Plus, Crown Mining Enterprise, Elegance Jewellery Softball Tournament…

Fishermen beat Wellman by 1 run T

Basil Persaud

he rain played a major part in washing out two highly anticipated matches in the Ink Plus, Crown Mining Enterprise and Elegance Jewellery-sponsored Softball Tournament scheduled for the Jai Hind cricket ground, Albion last Sunday.

The home team, Albion Masters, was down to play Regal Masters and Success Masters, but persistent rainfall made those fixtures impossible. However, the matches scheduled for the Malteenoes Sports Club ground went on as planned.

In the Open category, it was a matter of making hay while the sun shone for Farm XI, as they beat Success Enforcers and Aditya’s XI in consecutive games.

In their opening game of the day, Farm XI got 65 (8x6; 2x4) from Rawl Reid, and 61 (6x6; 1x4) from Sheldon Adams on their way to 178 for 4 from 15 overs using the small ball.

Bowling for Success, Puran John grabbed 2/20 from his three overs.

In reply, Success fell short by 30 runs after they ran into Ameer Khan

with 4/32 and Adams with 2/26 each from their quota of three overs. Success were restricted to 148-9 from their 15 overs, with Nandsham Boodhoo stroking 24.

In their second match of the day, Farm XI beat Aditya’s XI by 31 runs in their 10-overs a-side contest. Farm had first strike and mustered 118-5 as Rishi Omesh picked up 2-18. Suresh Sham then kept Aditya’s XI in the contest

over Sunday and on Tuesday, May 1. On Sunday, they lost to RR Masters by two wickets with two balls to spare in a close encounter, then on Tuesday they went down to Fishermen Masters by an even closer margin - the smallest margin of one run.

On Sunday, Wellman batted first and reached 129-6 from their 20 overs, using the big white ball.

Left-handed batsman Jagdish

Fishermen are slowly becoming a softball powerhouse

with a brisk 40 (4x6s), but kept losing partners at the other end to eventually surrender at 87-6 from their 10 overs, with Adams 2/10 (2 overs) and Travis Alphonso 3/15 (2 overs) doing the damage.

In the Masters Over-40 category, Wellman Masters experienced torrid times on the field, losing their two games that were spread

Persaud top-scored with 39, and got support from Greg DeFranca with 30 and Lloyd Ruplall with 20. Raymond Harper and Rudolph Johnson claimed 2 for 17 and 2 for 27 respectively from their quota of three overs.

Ejaz Mohamed then scored an attractive, shot-filled 93 (11x6; 2x4), which saw RR Masters fin-

ishing the game on 135-8 from 19.4 overs. Latchman Kallicharran was the pick of the Wellman bowlers with 2/16 from his four overs, but this was not enough to save his team from that close defeat.

On Labour Day and at the same venue, Troy Ramsaywack smacked a quick fire 69, and got support from B. Persaud with 28 and Unis Yusuf 24, as the Fishermen Masters finished on 161 for 7 from their 20 overs. Greg DeFranca (2/14), Wayne Jones (2/20) and Sheldon Perch (1/19) were among the wickets, trying to stem the flow of runs, which gave their side a great chance of victory at the half way stage.

However, when Wellman replied, they got 31 from Jagdish Persaud, 27 from Basil Persaud, and 19 from Nandram Samlall.

Those turned out to be too little, as they finished on 160 for 6 from their 20 overs. Zameer Hassan with 3-26, D. Thomas and Ramo Malone with one wicket each were spot on to claim victory by just a single run.

Organized by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc. (GSCL Inc.), the tournament has attracted the best softball teams in the country playing for $100,000 winning prize in the Masters’ category and $50,000 in the Open category. For the tournament, teams were not required to pay an entrance fee.

The tournament continues this Sunday and fixtures will be released on Saturday.

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, may 4, 2018

23

GCB/Hand-in-Hand U-19 Inter-County 50-Over tourney...

Berbice, U-17s in final clash at Providence today F ollowing two cancellations, the much anticipated Guyana Cricket Board Under-19 Finals between Berbice and the National U-17 XI will finally bowl off at the Providence National Stadium on Friday.

Originally set for the Lusignan Community Centre ground last week, this match was inevitably rescheduled twice because of persistent rainfall which inundated parts of the city and the Demerara East Coast, thus rendering the ground unplayable.

With the venue now switched to the more weather-proof Providence, Berbice and the Under-17 National side will finally lock horns

The Guyana National Stadium at Providence will host today’s GCB/Handin-Hand U-19 Inter-County 50-Over final between Berbice and the U-17 XI

Bolivia Volleyball Invitational called off

in what should be a humdinger of a showdown.

Both sides have been playing well, and Berbice are the favourites to win, after running roughshod over the competition during the three preliminary rounds. As table-leaders, Berbice are in prime touch, and should be taking much momentum into the finals, judging from their performances to date.

The U-17s, on the other hand, have been quite competitive, and have a number of match-winners on their side, some of whom have played a role in the team reaching the finals.

Although young, the Sachin Singh-led U-17s have shown that they can punch well

above their weight class, thus an entertaining match should be on the cards come Friday.

Berbice will rely on the likes of Kevlon Anderson, Alex Algoo, Junior Sinclair, Kelvin Umrao, Kevin Sinclair and others, while the U-17s would want much from Sachin Singh, Nigel Persaud, Mavendra Dindyal, Andre Seepersaud, Seon Glasgow and Marvin Prashad, all of whom have been making starts, and are capable of winning matches for their team.

The official tournament ceremony will follow shortly after the match. First ball is set to bowl off at 9:00h.

Admission is free.

GCF slated to host ‘Clash of Champions’

Two minds at work

G

T

Volley-ballers going through their training

uyana’s quest to represent the Golden Arrowhead at the upcoming Bolivia Invitational Volleyball tour was dealt a blow, following weeks of training and practice, as the trip was recently negated.

The tour, which starts on May 26, features other sports, but Guyana, who have been a volleyball powerhouse over recent years, have been undergoing rigorous sessions in preparation of the tour.

Two senior teams, a male and female, were recently shortlisted following assessments from national selector and head coach Levi Nedd and his selection panel.

It was Nedd who confirmed to Guyana Times Sport on Thursday morning that he was told the trip has been cut due to financial constraints being experienced by the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), who were responsible for the purchasing of tickets.

The coach said the news was conveyed to him by a GOA member who is also a member of the volleyball fraternity: that the GOA was able to facilitate finances for only 10 persons, the large squad selected exceeding 30 members of both the male and female teams, as well as the coaching staff, thus resulting in the cancellation of the trip.

Nedd said he was disappointed by the current situation, but understood there was nothing that could be done from his end. He said the players, some of whom he had talks with, were in high spirits despite the cancellation.

“The players were all hyped for the scenario. The players are disappointed, but the way I spoke to them (caused them to understand) the situation. The Berbice guys I spoke to handled it with professionalism; that’s why I’m looking at an alternative”, Nedd revealed.

Need pointed out that he was in the process of reaching out to the GOA to

have a better picture, while he’s in the midst of preparing a ‘Plan B’ for his players, who were upbeat ahead of the international assignment.

“As I said, I’m currently looking for an alternative, because everyone was overseas- minded ahead of the tour. So I’m looking at an international alternative, because they have worked hard for their selection, and not often do they get to travel and play overseas,” he added.

Speaking in regard to the journey going forward, Nedd believes it is important for the players to remain fit and keep training as if the tour were still on. He said he would be working closely with the players ahead of June/ July’s 2018 Border Games held in Brazil, while keeping one eye trained on October’s Inter-Guiana Games (IGG).

Meanwhile, efforts to reach the GOA via telephone on Thursday proved futile.

he conference room of the National Racquet Center will come alive this weekend when the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) host their Clash of Champions competition.

The competition will be held under the World Chess Federation’s (FIDE’s) rules and regulations, and will be played with a time control of 1 hour 30 minutes and a 30 second increment per move. The action will kick off this Saturday and Sunday (May 4 and 5) and will continue again on May 11 and 12.

The seven round competition will have both male and female categories, allowing for some riveting chess action.

Georgetown Chess Classic winner Anthony Drayton will go head-to-head with the likes of Jaden Taylor and Saeed Ali; while, on the female side, the Johnson sisters Nellisha and Waveney will challenge Female National Champion Maria Varona Thomas.

The recently concluded Female National Championships and Georgetown Chess Classics provided a great platform for young players to exhibit their growing talents, and the Federation has no doubt that ‘Clash of Champions’ will do the same.

The senior players will seek to use this competition as a means of improving their international rankings ahead of the upcoming Sub zonal scheduled for Kingston, Jamaica this June, and the World Chess Championships in Batumi, Georgia this September.

friDAY, may 4, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Pg 22

Minister Norton impressed by Archery Clinic Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr George Norton taking an archery lesson from Coach Phillip Graves

"Race for PACE" Pg 19

supporting students through go-karting

Winners at the "Race for PACE" event

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, News Hotliine: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230,223-7231,231-0544, 225-7761 Sport: sport@guyanatimesgy.com Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 SALES AND MARKETING - lezas@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.