Guyanatimes 8 september 2017

Guyana to provide assistance to hurricanehit territories P5 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Friday, September 8, 2017

Issue No. 3326

PRICE

IDB flags Audit Office capacity ahead of oil money

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

President to respect court ruling on GECOM matter – Harmon P7

Page 3

... says transparency, accountability required now more than ever

Jagdeo exposes Govt’s dishonesty on oil contract Page 5

...says petroleum laws do not prevent disclosures

‘Bandit’ turns self in after robbing, shooting miner

Govt distances self from single-mom night shift P9 policy Guyana to P9 improve management of solid waste from ships

Page 8

– at ECD bus park

Man perishes in earlymorning fire Page 15

Corentyne man killed by speeding car

Page 15

Guyana will continue to P10 offer malaria treatment to Venezuelans

Father of 6 gets $300,000 bail

– for causing death by dangerous P8 driving

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BRIDGE OPENINGS

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, September 8 – 05:00h-06:30h and Saturday, September 9 – 05:30h-07:00h.

... says transparency, accountability required now more than ever

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, September 8 – 05:35h-07:05h and Saturday, September 9 – 06:10h-07:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Heavy rain showers with sunny intervals can be expected throughout the day, with clear to partly cloudy skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 25 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly South-easterly to Easterly and East North-easterly to between 1.78 metres and 3.12 metres.

High Tide: 05:43h and 18:01h reaching maximum heights of 2.82 metres and 2.81 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 11:36h and 23:55h reaching minimum heights of 0.42 metre and 0.38 metre respectively.

WEDNESDAY, september 6, 2017

LOTTERY NUMBERS A

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12 Bonus Ball

FREE TICKET

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2017

DAILY MILLIONS 4 13 18 25 26

LUCKY 3 0 6 9 Afternoon Draw

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Evening Draw

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IDB flags Audit Office capacity ahead of oil money

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

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he independence and capacity of the Auditor General’s Office is one of the priority areas to be addressed by Guyana, in order to ensure there is transparency and accountability with regards the oversight of the nation’s revenue and expenditure of public resources, especially in light of the imminent influx of monies into the economy as a result of oil and gas production.

This was disclosed by Resident Representative of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Sophie Makonnen, as she brought the curtains down on a multiyear capacity building programme funded primarily by the International Financial Institution (IFI) and held at the Georgetown Marriott Hotel.

Echoing Makonnen’s sentiments was President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Deodat Indar, who went a step further in calling for the strengthening of the internal audit mechanisms at the Finance Minister’s Accountant General’s office.

Oil revenues The IDB representative, in her remarks to the participants, was adamant that “institutional capacity in the Public Sector is one of the priorities that will ensure growth in social and economic development of Guyana; this is really important in the current situation in which Guyana finds itself and I refer to oil revenues which you are expecting in the next few years.”

Makonnen told those in attendance, inclusive of internal and external auditors along with Finance Ministry staffers, that transparency and accountability are required now more than ever with the advent of the oil revenues.

She explained that the US$2 million that the IDB

At head table, from left: Accountant General Jennifer Chapman; GCCI President Deodat Indar; Auditor General, Deodat Sharma; IDB’s Resident Representative, Sophie Makonnen at Thursday’s event

GCCI President Deodat Indar interacts with Auditor General Deodat Sharma

plugged in the capacity building programme for the Audit Office is a component of the wider assistance provided to Guyana with regards capacity building for the Public Sector.

Makonnen used the opportunity to stress the importance of “control functions” in the Public Sector, adding that this “cannot be over emphasised as importance in the decade to come.”

GCCI President Indar, in his unrestrained keynote address to those gathered, sought to remind that the Office of the Auditor General of Guyana stands as a vanguard against threats to its democracy and also called on that body to strengthen its internal deficiencies.

“The Audit Office is a vanguard in any thriving democracy; its office audits the use of taxpayers’ dollars and report the same to the Parliament of the people led by the Speaker...

We would be comfortable at any moment in time in the history of Guyana when the collective wisdom of Guyana’s decision makers sees the value of this Audit Office and the benefits it dispenses.”

Speaking to the need for greater controls with regard the internal auditing mechanism of the Ministry of Finance, Indar sought to underscore the need for the Auditor General’s Office to be able to rely on the accuracy of the information provided especially in light of its own resource and personnel constraints.

As such, he used the opportunity to welcome the support of the IDB to the Auditor General’s Office, in order to “strengthen this major constitutional body so that it becomes competent as much as it could be, independent in the true sense of the word.”

Quality assurance Speaking to the relationship between the Finance Ministry’s Accountant General’s Office and that of the Auditor General, the GCCI President reiterated, “the Ministry of Finance has a corps of internal auditors which is the central corps of internal auditors and they are mandated to work with the Audit Office to make sure that their programmes align, work is not duplicated, the external auditors can use the work of the internal auditors providing that that work is proper... and there is quality assurance in the work of the internal auditor so the external auditor can rely on that work.”

He was at the time addressing specifically, the Accountant General (ag) Jennifer Chapman and appealed for that officer to ensure that resources are channelled in order to be able to better use cross functional resources, in order to reduce the work load on the staff of the internal auditors. According to Indar, “in a national environment where they have rife, where they have strife, where they have back and forth, the Audit Office will come under fire.” He called on the Auditor General Deodat Sharma, to remain strong in the task at hand, namely the efficient audits of the national spending

by Government in the Public Sector. turn to page 14

CAL cancels Florida flights as Irma approaches

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aribbean Airlines, according to an article in the Trinidad Express, advised that due to

to Montego Bay, BW039 from Montego Bay to Fort Lauderdale, BW036 from Fort Lauderdale to Kingston,

Waves crash against the seawall as Hurricane Irma slammed across islands in the northern Caribbean on Wednesday, in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, September 6 (Reuters/Alvin Baez)

Hurricane Irma, the following flights for September 10 have been cancelled: BW414 from Kingston to Nassau, BW415 from Nassau to Kingston, BW031 from Kingston to Fort Lauderdale, BW030 from Fort Lauderdale

BW484 from Port of Spain to Miami, BW483 from Miami to Port of Spain, BW480 from Port of Spain to Fort Lauderdale, BW481 from Fort Lauderdale to Port of Spain, BW482 from Port of Spain to Orlando and BW485 from

Orlando to Port of Spain.

Passengers are advised to contact the airline’s reservation offices for rebooking on the next available service.

According to the Trinidad Express article, affected customers travelling on September 10, 2017, will be permitted to change or cancel their reservations without penalty subject to the following conditions: * Passengers must have a confirmed ticket issued before September 10, 2017. * Passengers that choose

to have their tickets refunded, must do so by September 17, 2017. * Passengers that choose to change their reservations, must complete their travel by September 17, 2017, unless travel on the ORIGINAL booking was after this date. Travel must be in the same cabin as the original. * Caribbean Airlines WILL NOT be responsible for arrangements or transportation to/from an alternate airport or hotel/overnight expenses incurred by affected passengers.

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Hot and Cold 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, sales@guyanatimesgy.com

Infringement on gender equality

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ver the past week, much debate arose over the decision to bar single mothers employed with private security firms from working night

shifts.

However, as the debate erupts, what is unfortunate is the fact that despite the calls by gender equality activists for the decision to be reviewed with the need for a more comprehensive approach, Minister Keith Scott is moving ahead with his “noble idea.”

The United Nations, in its report on attainment of the Millennium Development Goals, more particularly Goal 3: Promote Gender Equality and Empower Women - has informed that Guyana has made good progress in the area of gender equality, and has achieved gender parity.

The issues of gender equality has attracted worldwide debate over the years. The World Economic Forum’s annual gender gap event reported last year that, in several countries, women's participation in the labour force has declined, and the number of women in senior positions is shrinking.

The annual report looks at progress towards equality between men and women in four key areas: educational attainment, health and survival, economic opportunity, and political empowerment.

Sadly, that report highlighted that progress towards economic equality has slowed globally, with the economic participation and opportunity dipping.

Locally, President David Granger, in his “Power to the women” speech on International Women’s Day 2017, committed to ending gender inequality in Guyana. As a matter of fact, the President is quoted as saying, “We can, we must, and we will achieve greater gender equality, to empower our women and girls. The struggle for equality and parity continues…

Gender equality cannot be achieved in the absence of a more equal society.” He also said that Guyana’s approach is to make gender equality a parallel policy of his government.

That being said, it begs the question: why does one of his ministers now take a backward step on this issue? Are there no consultations over decisions on national importance within the Cabinet? Such issues will not only have social backlashes, but, importantly, can lead to economic hardships for women, and moreso single mothers. If such a position is taken, women’s chances of employment with security firms will ultimately be marginal. This decision is no less than an infringement on gender equality, and can be used as a tool for demoralising women. Women in Guyana have made enormous advancements over the years, but this decision from Government shows that the administration still has some longstanding views of women as the lesser sex and their place being in the home.

It can be agreed that while the minister’s heart may have been in the right place following some conversation with few private security firms, he should instead have met with women before making any decisions. Ironically, the very private security firms with whom the minister met have, in a public missive, called his actions a “cruel and arbitrary attack”.

At this point, what is needed is dialogue between Government and women, moreso single mothers who work the night shifts as security personnel. This discussion should look at promoting and facilitating opportunities for women as they balance paid work and family responsibilities.

The women of Cabinet should not sit by idly and watch their male colleagues trample on the rights of Guyanese women.

Out of the Kīlauea Volcano on the island of Hawaii, a fountain of lava streams into the ocean. When the hot lava hits the cool waters, an explosive reaction sends rocks and debris flying (Photograph by Jared Goodwin, National Geographic Your Shot)

Gains, challenges of our Amerindian community Dear Editor, Without doubt, the twenty-three years that the PPP/C was in office saw our Amerindian and hinterland communities making very great strides. The achievements are impressive, and in many ways they set a standard for other similar communities around the world to aspire.

Just quickly to point out, when the PPP/C took office in 1992, our Amerindian population was on the decline.

This was caused by many factors, including migration to Brazil and Venezuela, and a high death rate caused by malaria in particular.

Poverty was all pervasive. All the communities lacked facilities, including schools and health facilities.

Drinking water was in many areas contaminated by mining and other such activities.

Today, the Amerindian population is the fastest growing in our country, and their progress in every area is impressive. We now have secondary schools, primary schools and kindergarten all over the interior. They have developed so rapidly that the authorities are now considering naming many as township.

The Amerindian peoples are now in every area of life: doctors, engineers, teachers and other professionals.

At the political level, they have made great gains, with an Amerindian Act that protects and promotes their in-

terest. Their organisations, such as the Toshaos Council, have been strengthened.

Their land issues have been worked on energetically by the PPP/C Administration, and much was resolved.

This Amerindian Heritage Month is taking place two years into the APNU/AFC regime. Progress has since slowed greatly, and is grinding to a halt. Much of the gains are being threatened and reversed. The signal on the land issue is most troubling. This regime seems to be of the opinion that the Amerindian people should not have the lands they occupied for centuries. They have already changed the nature of the approach from being specifically for Amerindians to something more general.

In fact, the use of the word ‘indigenous’ by this regime would give them room to manoeuvre, and can eventually deny the people their lands once more.

For those who are surprised at their actions, the doubting Thomases, I say they should not be. If there was one good thing that came out of the one seat majority that the opposition had in Parliament during 2012 to 2015, it was the fact that it clearly showed the anti-developmental and even racist orientation of the APNU regime.

This was particularly pronounced at the budget time. At every budget: 2012, 2013 and 2014,

the APNU and AFC tried to stifle Amerindian development. In 2014, for instance, Capital Budget for Amerindian Development, Programme number 161, which included money for the Amerindian Hostel in Region 4, the Amerindian Development Fund, Water and Land Transportation and the Furnishing of offices were all voted down. That amounted to more than one billion dollars to enhance the people’s welfare.

They voted down the almost $200M that were supposed to go towards building, repairing and enhancing airstrips in the hinterland.

They voted down almost $1B that were going to the Amerindian Development Fund, and funds for land titling. They voted against the following projects: 1. The Amerindian Youth Apprenticeship Programme 2. The Secure Livelihood Programme 3. The Subvention to Bina Hill Institute 4.

The Amerindian Language Revival Programme 5. The Eco-Tourism and Cultural projects in villages 6. The Cultural Expo (North PakaraimasPatamona) 7. The distribution of tractors and supplies to villages 8. The distribution of sports gear and musical equipment 9. The construction of vil-

lage offices and multi-purpose buildings 10. The solar panel distribution project 11. The land demarcation for Amerindian communities 12. The construction of airstrips in the hinterland.

These are just a small sample of the projects that they tried to stop, and sometimes actually succeeded in so doing.

Now in power, we see them disrespecting the Amerindian leaders. Just recall the outbursts by Ministers Scott and Allicock.

Recall, too, how they tried hard to prevent the toshaos and councillors from meeting with the Opposition Leader. Finally, remember that they were sending Ministers to meet those leaders in the night, while they had the whole day to do so.

This is demonstrably disrespectful and partisan.

Clearly, this regime is not moved by developmental objectives, but by vindictiveness, spite and great prejudice.

However, they should know that the Amerindian peoples would fight to defend their gains. They would struggle, alongside all democratic and peaceful forces, to halt the decline and ensure the gains made with the PPP/C Administration would be protected and advanced.

Donald Ramotar Former President

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Jagdeo exposes Govt’s dishonesty on oil contract ...says petroleum laws do not prevent disclosures

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he coalition A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) Government has in recent weeks been deliberately and dishonestly setting out to suppress the disclosure of the contractual arrangement signed onto with US oil giant ExxonMobil.

These were the views espoused by former President now Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo when he met Thursday with members of the local media corps for a press engagement.

According to the Opposition Leader, the national security issues raised by spokespersons of the Government as a reason for withholding the contractual arrangements are nothing but a ‘red herring’ since the delineation of the exploration bloc and other such information are already public knowledge and do not conflict with any of the border issues currently engaging the attention of the Administration.

He denounced too as blatant dishonesty the resort of those in Government to seek to hide be-

hind the petroleum legislation which was in fact signed into law by then President Hugh Desmond Hoyte, of the People’s National Congress (PNC).

ExxonMobil, for its part, has publicly adopted the position that it would abide by the laws of the country and according to Jagdeo, nothing in the Petroleum Act prevents the disclosure of the contract.

He was questioned on what appeared to be his changing position on the matter, but reminded that it was normal for such information, considered proprietary at the time of negotiations, to be withheld.

According to the Opposition Leader, now that the negotiations have been completed and a contract inked, there is nothing preventing the release of the contractual agreements and obligations to the wider public.

Looking to expose the fallacies being peddled by the Administration, Jagdeo pointed to public reports primarily in the Kaieteur News.

He pointed to a report attributed to Minister Raphael Trotman that an amendment

to the Petroleum Laws by Jagdeo has in fact prevented the disclosure.

Jagdeo used the opportunity to remind that in 1997 he was not President and was further not in charge of that sector which fell under the purview of then President Samuel Hinds.

There were two amendments to the Principal Act of 1986, one in 1992 and one in 1997.

He pointed too to reports attributed to the AFC component of the coalition, saying that these also represented dishonesty on the part of the Administration.

According to the Opposition Leader, the Government has

been arguing that it was the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) that amended the laws, ‘and because they have to respect the sanctity of contracts and that’s the law, they cannot release the contract, that it is the PPP to be blamed for us to be in this situation’.

He drew reference, too, to what the AFC officials have called strict non-disclosure clauses in the laws which were signed into effect by the PPP/C. According to Jagdeo, there were two amendments inked by the PPP/C, neither of which had anything to do with disclosure of information.

The Opposition Leader was adamant that the disclosure clauses embedded in the petroleum laws do not speak to the contract but rather the release of proprietary information – clauses that were brought into force

by Hoyte even before the PPP/C had been voted into office.

Among the amendments promulgated successfully were one by Hoyte which dealt with the assignment of responsibilities and another by Samuel Hinds which spoke to increased penalties for breaches of the laws.

“It has nothing to do with non-disclosure clause,” Jagdeo insisted.

He told media operatives that the AFC arm of the coalition, inclusive of substantive Minister Raphael Trotman, “have fooled this country, have been dishonest with the country to say that the PPP put in place a non-disclosure clause and as a result of that they can’t release this contract... that has been their mantra, they said it publicly....they are lying.”

He suggested that if those officials were that incompetent

so as to not read the Petroleum Act or to act in such a partisan fashion, “then how can they competently negotiate with ExxonMobil, one wonders why all of these excuses”.

The Opposition Leader was adamant that based on his Party’s interpretation of the existing laws, they did not speak to the non-disclosure of the contract. Jagdeo suggested that the laws did, in fact, provide for the release of information.

“Our interpretation is that this Act only protects proprietary information and that is normal because you cannot allow people to be at the competitive disadvantage.”

Jagdeo suggested this as the reason the PPP/C was demanding the release of all oil-related contracts inked and not just the agreement with ExxonMobil.

“For months they have thrived on two lies: that the PPP put in place a non-disclosure agreement that prohibits them from making the contract available to the public and secondly, that for some national security reason, they cannot release the contract.”

Hurricane Irma

Guyana to provide assistance to hurricane-hit territories A s Hurricane Irma continues to make its way through several Caribbean territories, Government announced on Thursday that it is prepared to assist those countries hit by the devastating hurricane.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon said President David Granger has made that commitment following reports of severe destruction and at least 10 deaths across the Region.

“The Government of Guyana stands in solidarity with the people of the hurricane-ravaged territories of the Caribbean and President Granger expresses condolences to his colleague Heads of Government and residents of affected states and to the relatives of those who lost their lives as a result of this storm.”

Harmon, who has responsibility for the disaster relief agency – the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) – informed that Guyana stands ready to lend technical and other forms of support.

He disclosed that the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) has already sent out Situation Reports (SITREPS) to all its member states but thus far, there has been no direct request for assistance as needs assessments are being completed.

Harmon said too that Government is mindful that thousands of Guyanese reside and work in many of the affected areas and it is therefore ready to establish a line of communication to inquire after the wellbeing of citizens and those in the affected areas.

“I would like to, on behalf of his Excellency President David Granger, the Government and people of Guyana, express our deepest sympathy to the Government and people of all the countries and territories that have suf-

An aerial view of the destruction caused by Hurricane Irma in Saint Martin

fered the loss of life and property in the path of hurricane Irma,” he stated.

While Guyana did not experience the storm, the Minister said several communities in the hinterland region experienced heavy winds and rainfall over the past few days. As such, several damages were recorded but no deaths were reported. The CDC’s National Emergency Monitoring System will continue to monitor the situation and advise Government of the appropriate response.

Meanwhile, local telephone company GTT said it is continuing to monitor fibre connection to United States as Hurricane Irma wreaks havoc in the Caribbean. However, GTT has maintained international connectivity despite the disruption to the Eastern Caribbean fibre system caused

by Hurricane Irma. GTT uses the Eastern Caribbean fibre system to transport service to the USA. In a statement issued on Thursday, the company said the segment of the circuit between Saint Maarten and Tortola, British Virgin Islands was disrupted at 08:35h and restored at 14:05h on September 6, but GTT’s customers did not experience any outage due to the redun-

dant undersea capacity. GTT promised to continue to monitor the situation and will keep the public informed about further disruptions.

International response

As the northern Caribbean region continues to grapple with the effects of Hurricane Irma, Prime Minister of Grenada and Chairman of the Caribbean Community (Caricom), Dr Keith Mitchell, has been in constant communication with the Caricom Secretary General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, and the Executive Director of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), Mr Ronald Jackson, as they work together to ensure that the needs of the Islands in the Hurricane Irma’s path are addressed in a timely, efficient and safe man-

ner.

Stemming from several discussions among the three officials in the last few days, a number of immediate steps have been taken so far by Caricom through its regional inter-governmental agency for disaster management, CDEMA, to address the needs of the affected Islands.

Rapid Needs Assessment Teams have been organised for ready deployment to Antigua, Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands. The teams include water and sanitation specialists, communications personnel, health specialists and fisheries and agriculture specialists, while the CDEMA has at the same time, mobilised personnel and resources to The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands.

A number of islands in The Bahamas grouping are being evacuated through a number of flights, while CDEMA has a support team stationed in Jamaica in order to immediately support the needs of The Bahamas, Turks and Caicos and Haiti, should those Islands be hit by Irma. The Agency has mobilised military personnel for deployment to affected islands and is in communication with Barbados, Guyana and Trinidad for additional military support and deployment, as necessary, to affected Islands.

On the other hand, the European Union (EU) said it is also mobilising its emer-

gency response instruments to assist countries affected or threatened by Hurricane Irma.

International Medical Corps remains on standby to deploy disaster response experts to hard hit areas to provide life-saving assistance.

International Medical Corps deployed experts to respond in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew in Haiti last year, including operating mobile medical units and setting up and managing cholera treatment facilities.

With category five winds and rain, Irma is one of the

most powerful hurricanes every recorded over the Atlantic Ocean. It has completely devastated Barbuda and also affected jurisdictions such as St Maarten, St Barts, St Kitts and Nevis, Montserrat, Anguilla, Turks and Caicos and the British Virgin Islands.

The United States National Hurricane Centre predicted that Irma is likely to remain at category four or five for the next day or two while it passes to the North of The Dominican Republic and Haiti as it heads in the direction of The Bahamas and Florida in the United States.

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ooks make great gifts for children, but it's important to find reading material that fits a child's interests, maturity, and reading level. Before you set off to the bookstore or library, here are some guidelines.

Babies and toddlers Until children are about two years old, think tactile and short. Thick board books with bright colours, bold yet simple pictures, and few words are ideal. These books may include interactive elements, such as parts that move, items that invite touching, and mirrors.

Books with different textures, fold-out books, or vinyl or cloth books also are appropriate for babies and toddlers. Books that can be propped up or wiped clean are excellent choices. Look for books about bedtime, baths, or mealtime or about saying hello or goodbye, especially if they're illustrated with photos of children. And if peek-a-boo is your little one's favourite game, books with flaps are a perfect choice.

Many older toddlers (two- and threeyear-olds) start to understand how reading works and will love repetitive or rhyming books that let them finish sentences or "read" to themselves. From colours to numbers to how to get dressed, older toddlers love books that reinforce what they are learning every day. And if you have a budding ballerina or animal enthusiast on your hands, look for books about these (or other) passions.

Preschoolers Around the time children are three or four, they start to enjoy books that tell

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stories. Their increasing attention spans and ability to understand more words make picture books with more complicated plots a good choice. Stories with an element of fantasy, from talking animals to fairies, will spark their imagination, as will books about distant times and places. Try nonfiction books about a single topic of interest that the child likes. Since many children this age are learning the alphabet and numbers, books with letters and counting are ideal. Those dealing with emotions, manners, or going to school can help children navigate some of the tricky transitions t h a t

happen during this time.

Electronic books (e-books) are becoming more common these days. There isn't enough research yet to know their full impact on reading development and comprehension. But whether your child is reading a traditional book or an e-book, it's important to stay close. There is no substitute for your presence and for quality parent–child conversation.

School-age children

For children entering school and starting to read, look for easy-to-read books with vocabularies they know so that they can read them independently. Many book publishers indicate the reading level of books on the cover and may include a key to help you understand those different levels. You can also choose books that are above a child's reading level to read aloud.

Look for books that relate to children' interests but also encourage exploration of new interests through reading about unfamiliar subjects. For example, if a child is interested in cowboys, look for books that talk about the days of the Wild West, what cowboys are like today, or historical fiction set in the 19th century.

Children this age might like reading with an e-reader, and choosing e-books is really no different from picking a traditional book. Consider the child's interests and reading level. When young children use e-readers, parents should still be nearby to talk about the book and help extend the child's thinking about what was read.

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his is a general outline of the milestones on the road to reading success. Keep in mind that kids develop at different paces and spend varying amounts of time at each stage. If you have concerns, talk to your child's doctor, teacher, or the reading specialist at school. Early intervention is key in helping kids who are struggling to read.

Parents and teachers can find appropriate resources for children as early as pre-kindergarten. Quality childcare centres, pre-kindergarten programmes, and homes full of language and book reading can build an environment for reading milestones to happen.

Infancy (Up to age 1) Kids usually begin to: imitate sounds they hear in language respond when spoken to look at pictures reach for books and turn the pages with help respond to stories and pictures by vocalising and patting the pictures Toddlers (ages 1–3) Kids usually begin to: answer questions about and identify objects in books — such as "Where's the cow?" or "What does the cow say?" name familiar pictures use pointing to identify named objects

Children of all ages All children love to giggle, so books of silly poems, jokes, or songs are sure to be a hit. Collections of fairy tales, children's stories, poetry, or nursery rhymes offer a wide variety within a single book.

Wordless books with imaginative illustrations can be fun even for children who know how to read. Looking at pictures and creating a story develops imagination and broad thinking.

And don't forget the books and stories you loved as a child. Chances are, you had good reasons to love them — and your children will, too. (Kidshealth.org)

pretend to read books finish sentences in books they know well scribble on paper know names of books and identify them by the picture on the cover turn pages of board books have a favourite book and request it to be read often Early Preschool (age 3) Kids usually begin to: explore books independently listen to longer books that are read aloud retell a familiar story recite the alphabet begin to sing the alphabet song with prompting and cues make continuous symbols that resemble writing imitate the action of reading a book aloud Late Preschool (age 4) Kids usually begin to: recognise familiar signs and labels, especially on signs and containers make up rhymes or silly phrases recognise and write some of the letters of the alphabet (a good goal to strive for is 12-15 letters) read and write their names name beginning letters or sounds of words match some letters to their sounds use familiar letters to try writing words understand that print is read from left to right, top to bot tom retell stories that have been read to them (Excerpt from kid shealth)

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friDay, September 8, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

President to respect court ruling on GECOM matter – Harmon M

inister of State, Joseph Harmon, has said President David Granger will respect the ruling of the High Court in regard to the stipulations governing selection of a Chairman for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), and will not step outside the boundaries established by acting Chief Justice Roxanne George-Wiltshire.

Accordingly, a decision on the issue of the GECOM Chair will take into account that ruling.

Addressing a post-cabinet press conference on Thursday, The Minister of State said President Granger is convinced that the position of Chairman of GECOM is very important, and will thus in time make a determination in regard to filling that important position, following deliberation with members of Cabinet.

“The President respects the ruling of the court in this matter, and has no intention of stepping outside of the boundaries that (have been) established there. He respects that ruling, and wants to make that very clear,” Harmon said, while assuring the media that the President is anxious to have the matter brought to a conclusion, and is actively taking all the necessary steps in that direction.

Following the court ruling on July 19, the President had said the Chief Justice

President David Granger

had given an interpretation based on her perception of the law, and he would continue to act in accordance with his perception of the Constitution, and would appoint only someone who is fit and proper.

The High Court ruling has clarified that a nominee to the position of GECOM Chair need not necessarily be a former judge, a current judge, or a person possessing the qualifications to be a judge. In fact, in the Chief Justice’s ruling, the President would have to offer reasons for his rejection of names on the list, in keeping with good governance best practices.

Last week, President Granger confirmed receiving the third list of nominees for the post of GECOM Chair submitted by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo. He has said the selection can-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

not be a hurried process, but would be done at an appropriate time, following proper consultation.

On submitting the third list, on August 25, the Opposition Leader expressed hope that the President would take into consideration the ruling of the acting Chief Justice (CJ) in regard to the constitutional stipulation governing the appointment of a Chairman for GECOM. This third list of nominees for the GECOM chairmanship comprises Major General (retired) Joseph Singh, Attorneys-at-law Teni Housty and Sanjeev Datadin, Businesswoman and Conservationist Annette Arjoon-Martins, Pastor Onesi LaFleur, and former Magistrate Krishnadatt Persaud.

Jagdeo’s letter to

President Granger accompanying this list detailed that arriving at the six names was not an easy task. He explained that after considering antecedents in relation to the matter, and having had a subsequent meeting with the President at State House back in June, he had continued elaborate and protracted consultations with various stakeholders in an exercise that lasted for several weeks.

During that process, Jagdeo said, he had solicited stakeholders’ views and sought nominations in efforts to ensure that what was presented to the President were six names that satis-

fy the requirements contemplated by Article 161(2) of the Constitution.

Regarding the nominees, Jagdeo explained, one is a former Chairman of GECOM, while two are attorneys with over 10 years of “good standing” at the Guyana Bar, and both are qualified to be appointed as judges of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in Guyana.

Following rejection of the second list he had submitted, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had held consultation with Minister of State Joseph Harmon and Natural Resources Minister

Raphael Trotman to find an amicable solution to the issue.

He was accompanied by former Attorney General Anil Nandlall and PPP/C Parliamentarian Irfaan Ali. It was agreed at that consultation that in the event the third list was rejected by the President, there would be established a high-level team representing the President and the Opposition Leader, and that team would be tasked with working on exploring modalities to bring a resolution to the matter of selecting a Chair for GECOM. (Samuel Sukhnandan)

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friday, September 8, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Father of 6 gets $300,000 bail

– for causing death by dangerous driving

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velaw Anderson, 46, of Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara (WBD), appeared at the Wales Magistrate’s Court on Thursday on allegations that he caused the death of 29-year-old motorcyclist and father of one, Corwin Anderson, on April 23, 2017.

Corwin, a former resident of Bagotville, WBD, was killed when Ivelaw’s motorcar allegedly collided with him, sending his body flying several feet away from the point of impact.

At Thursday’s court appearance, Ivelaw Anderson, in a barely audible tone, entered a not guilty plea when the facts were read which stated that on the day in

Deceased: Corwin Anderson

question, at the Nismes Public Road, WBD, he drove motorcar PTT 6297 in a manner dangerous to the pub-

lic thereby causing Corwin Anderson’s death. The father of six who is a trained mechanic, now works as a taxi driver.

Representing the accused was defence counsel, Pamela De Santos, who observed that her client has been presenting himself to the Police. She appealed for bail to be granted at a reasonable amount, contending that her client has never had a passport and would not be a flight risk.

As the prosecution had no objections to the pre-trial liberty being granted, presiding Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool released Anderson on $300,000 bail and adjourned the matter to

October 12 for report and fixtures.

The deceased father had been killed just before 06:00h when he was riding motorcycle CG 4337 in a northerly direction and collided with motorcar PTT 6297, which had been travelling in the opposite direction.

He bled profusely before he was rushed to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries back in April.

The driver of the motorcar, Ivelaw had also sustained minor injuries. The late Corwin Anderson was described by relatives as the “street live wire” and a very jovial person. (Shemuel Fanfair)

‘Bandit’ turns self in after robbing, shooting miner – at ECD bus park

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he prime suspect in an armed robbery committed on a miner on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) minibus park in downtown Georgetown, has turned himself into Police custody.

The 33-year-old South Cummings Lodge, ECD, suspect has since admitted to the commission of the crime and also to ownership of the unlicensed firearm and five live rounds which were recovered along with some of the stolen jewellery in a motor car, in close proximity of the crime scene.

The robbery took place last Saturday, sometime around 15:00h.

According to Police reports, the 44-year-old victim, who is a miner and resides at Middle Walk, Buxton, ECD, was a passenger in a minibus along with other passengers at the East Coast bus park when he was attacked by two suspects.

One of the suspects was armed with a handgun as

These items were recovered by detectives from the car

they pounced on the miner and relieved him of his gold and diamond chain valued some $950,000 and fled in the direction of the Stabroek

Market.

The victim gave chase after the armed suspect which resulted in a confrontation in front the Stabroek

Market. The suspect then withdrew his firearm and discharged several rounds, hitting the victim on his left hand and buttocks. The gunman then quickly proceeded to a parked motor car, where he concealed something and escaped, leaving the vehicle locked.

The car was towed to the Brickdam Police Station and later searched in the presence of its owner, who provided a key to gain access.

The owner claimed to have rented the car to a Kitty resident since July.

Meanwhile, the victim was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was treated and later discharged.

The Police said that diligent investigative works into the armed robbery resulted in the prime suspect turning himself into Police at the Brickdam Police Station, accompanied by his attorney.

Nevertheless, efforts are being made to have the other suspect arrested.

Castello Housing Scheme resident jailed for armed robbery

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hirty-two-year-old Quinton Bourne of Castello Housing Scheme, Georgetown was on Thursday arraigned before Georgetown Magistrate Judy Latchman on two counts of armed robbery, allegedly committed on Shawn Anthony and Leon Bentam at Sherriff Street, Campbellville Georgetown on August 22, 2017.

Represented by Attorney-at-law Dexter Todd, Bourne pleaded

not guilty to the charges, which allege that, while in the company of others, and armed with a gun, he robbed Anthony of one Samsung smartphone and relieved Bentam of a cellular phone and some $2 million in cash before escaping in a waiting motorcar.

In making submissions for reasonable bail for his client, Attorney-at-law Todd attested that his client is a father of two, has no previous or pending mat-

ters before the courts, was never fingered in an identification (ID) parade in regard to these matters, and at no point in time had submitted any oral or written statements under caution. Todd thus concluded that the Police have no case against the accused. But the Prosecutor strongly opposed the defendant being placed on bail. Citing the seriousness and prevalence of the offence, and mentioning the penalty attached to

such a felony, the prosecutor informed the court that the defendant had refused to participate in an ID parade. He also disclosed that the motor vehicle allegedly used in commission of the crime was found abandoned on Middle Road, West La Penitence, Georgetown. The defendant was refused bail, and has to return to court on Friday, when his cases would come up before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for assignment.

Alleged goat thief released on $20,000 bail

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hen 38-year-old Tameshwar Balram of Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown was arraigned on Thursday before Wales Magistrate Roshelle Liverpool, the allegation he faced was that on August

30, at Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara, he stole a goat from one of his relatives, Trevor Balram.

Unrepresented by legal counsel, Tameshwar pleaded not guilty to larceny of the animal, worth $30,000; but

he admitted to the court that he had served a three-year prison sentence on a separate matter in 2008.

And as the prosecutor did not object to the defendant being granted bail, Tameshwar was placed on $20,000 bail, a

condition of which stipulates that he has to report to the La Grange Police Station every week until his case has been determined in court.

He will make his next court appearance on October 12.

Local…

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…content in oil industry

atural Resource Minister Raphael Trotman got his buckta in a knot over locals’ challenging his stance on Local Content Policies (LCPs). He claimed suddenly, everybody and their uncle’s an “expert”!

Well, your Eyewitness doesn’t know what the hissy fit’s all about: if HE and four of his other Cabinet colleagues can suddenly develop the expertise to beard the lions of Exxon in their headquarters, to be briefed on all sorts of technical oil (oily?) matters, why can’t ordinary citizens also become experts on LCPs? For one: this LCP business didn’t just leap full blown from Trotman’s (expansive!) brow!! Countries producing oil and gas have for decades wised up to the opportunities opened up with the launch of oil-and-gas production.

And as is their wont, the World Bank has extensively analysed and summarised these policies for our benefit.

For instance, your Eyewitness has before him, as he writes this article, a copy of “Local content in the oil and gas sector” (WB 2013) open in another window.

And they confirm Trotman’s just blowing hot air through various orifices? Your Eyewitness thinks we could do worse than quote the World Bank’s report: “Intuitively, limited or primitive economies would face considerable challenges with LCPs that hinge on quickly establishing a domestic supply service capability, and would very likely struggle with the creation of more complex forward links.”

So, let’s start with the fact that we’re underdeveloped in general; we are even more so in particular when it comes to extracting oil and gas. Well, back in the 1980s, so were both Norway and Britain, which discovered massive quantities of petroleum under the North Sea, and each recognised they had to craft LCPs for their respective benefit.

Norway, accepting it was comparatively underdeveloped industrially, chose to stretch out its extraction rates so that it could develop both forward and backward linkages with the rest of its economy, which could lead to growth and also be self-sustaining. Britain decided the opposite, because of its wider established base in the pertinent areas, like valves, pipe fittings, etc.

So far, Trotman hasn’t even raised this point in his wild rush to get his government’s hands on that “oil revenue” ASAP! To heck with a phased development and those necessary linkages! Let that oil flow, boy!!

Another not-so-mundane question is whether Trotman has inserted into law the need for the oil companies to submit annual Local Content percentages?

And if so, whether Guyana will be using such performance as a criterion for awarding future exploration and production contracts?

If, for instance, Kazakhstan can insist on both requirements, what can’t Guyana, with the self-born oil maven Trotman at the helm?

…natural disasters

Back in the day, when congratulated on our good fortune by fellow West Indians -- that we didn’t have natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes like them, Guyanese would counter indignantly, “We got Burnham!!” That used to shut them up!! Well, the northern West Indies is being pounded by Hurricane Irma, but, from the television coverage, that’s just an afterthought to what really matters -- the possible effects if it hits Florida.

So what’s different - some were always more equal than others, no? But what about our local disasters?

Well, the PNC (APNU isn’t even a fig leaf - ask the AFC and WPA!!!) have promised us time and again that they plan to finish what Burnham started. And what’s going on (down?) it’s clear these fellas mean business. Burnham tried to intimidate the Courts. Well what’s this claim that, “my perception is as good as yours?” to the Chief Justice.

Then what if the economy’s heading south? Spending on the constituency’s heading north!

…boys doin’ good in cricket

Bleary eyes, yes! But quite chuffed, thank you! The Warriors won convincingly on Wednesday night; and so they will tonight.

Like your Eyewitness said before, this year, our boys peaked at just the right time!! Go Warriors!! Go all the way!!

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

News

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friDAY, september 8, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana to improve Govt distances self from single-mom night shift policy management of solid … there’s no ban on women working at night – Harmon

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mid mounting criticisms about the proposed single-mother night shift policy for security guards, Government has come out distancing itself from comments made by Minister Keith Scott who has responsibility for labour relations, and who has stated publicly that the policy will be implemented.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon said in a statement on Thursday that there is no policy position approved by Cabinet where there is to be a ban on any female working in security services at night.

“As far as the Government is concerned, we have had no debate on the matter,” he explained.

Harmon said the senior Social Protection Minister, Amna Ally, would have to take a paper to Cabinet for deliberation. Until such time, the situation with regards to the issue remains as it is and that means woman will continue to work either day or night and there is no restriction on them.

The Minister indicated that Government, instead, is calling on security companies to acknowledge and recognise that there are special conditions under which women should work and therefore those facilities for women should also be acknowledged and recognised by security firms.

“There is no restriction on their right to work, what we will ask and we will insist is that the employers who em-

Minister within the Social Protection Ministry, Keith Scott

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

ploy women must ensure the conditions under which they work that they provide for the special arrangements which have to do with women in the workforce,” he posited.

Harmon further added that Government is always opened to advice as he stressed that the rights of workers must always be protected in the actual payment which they receive for the work that they do. He noted that these people’s national insurance contributions must also be paid.

The desire to bar single mothers from night work was first expressed by Minister Scott during a seminar hosted on August 24, 2017.

Minister Scott had noted that his Ministry was concerned over the work arrangement for female security personnel in the field and the effect it has on single mothers.

According to the Department of Public Information, the Minister had called for the development and implementation of policies to completely prevent women from working the night shift.

But in the days after this pronouncement, a number of persons, particularly on social media, had expressed concern over the Minister’s statement, saying it was an infringement on gender equality.

Following the negative reviews, the Ministry said in a subsequent statement that it is confident that feminist organisations would find favour with the proposed policy that would go a far way in repairing the moral fabric of society which is seriously and negatively affected.

But several women rights activists, including head of

Red Thread Karen DeSouza have come out to criticise the move stating that it is misguided and does not represent the true meaning of protection of women rights. The award-winning activist told this newspaper on Wednesday that this move could be viewed as Government attempting to abdicate its responsibility to private companies.

The Guyana Association of Private Security Organisations (GAPSO) has also come out to condemn the proposed policy and stated that Minister Scott’s choice to selectively dismantle and target single mothers within the private security sector was a “cruel and arbitrary attack” on the sector.

GAPSO said it feels that it is a high-handed and unilateral approach being adopted by the Government and definitely lacks insight or thinking outside the box. The organisation said it remains unclear why only the private security sector was selected while other professions are excluded.

The GAPSO therefore called for an independent review of this proposal, widespread consultations with stakeholders and a functioning welfare system that provides benefits according to different situations.

waste from ships

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he Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) on Thursday hosted a meeting with stakeholders to address challenges of waste disposal in the maritime sector.

The one-day meeting is the start of a feasibility study being considered as part of a regional plan to tackle the proper disposal of solid waste, both internally and externally.

Keith Donohue, a Consultant from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), said that under the United National Environment Centre Programme, small-island developing states -- of which

Director of Maritime Safety, MARAD, Captain John Flores

Keith Donohue, Consultant from the International Maritime Organisation (IMO)

Guyana is a part -- face challenges in regard to handling waste domestically and from ships coming into ports.

“The feasibility is to see if we should do a regional plan for the Caribbean. If there is a reason to do a regional plan, then we submit that (plan) to the International Maritime Organisation, and if it is approved, eventually it will lead to regional arrangements; and (there) can be different types of options. Maybe some locations of the Caribbean can be central locations, or hubs, or logistics hubs, to receive more waste from ships,” Donohue explained.

TURN TO PAGE 15

10 news

friday, September 8, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana will continue to offer malaria treatment to Venezuelans

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inister of State Joseph Harmon said Venezuelans will be allowed into Guyana through the borders at Region One (BarimaWaini). The Minister made this disclosure at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday at the Ministry of the Presidency.

The main reason for Venezuelans crossing the border is to gain medical attention for malar-

ia. Harmon explained that there is a protocol in place at this border which would grant Venezuelans access to the country. The Public Health Ministry has been advised by Cabinet to ensure that all persons seeking medical attention at all health facilities, whether Guyanese or not, be catered to.

“There is a protocol which is established at those points and this pro-

tocol requires that the persons identify themselves and identify the reason why they have come and they are given a short period of time within which they can seek the medical intervention and to return,” Minister Harmon said.

Harmon pointed out that Guyanese living in Venezuela are not subjected to these checks. This, he said, is part of the Guyana

conforming to humanitarian treaties which it has signed on to. “We have ex-

tended the humanitarian hand because they are human beings and therefore

the fact that we are a part of international conventions and treaties which require us to deal with persons who are affected in that way at our borders in a humane way.”

The Minister confirmed that Venezuelan citizens are receiving medical attention in this area. According to the Department of Public Information, health authorities in the BarimaWaini region have recorded 368 persons receiving treatment for malaria, thus far. He added that health facilities in the region will continue to essentially provide medical attention to the Venezuelan nationals.

Meanwhile, the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) has alerted the Public Health Ministry of an outbreak of Measles in Bolivar, Venezuela.

PAHO/WHO has informed all member states of the risk the outbreak poses in neighbouring countries.

“It alerted member states of the risk of the outbreak occurring (from the outbreak from imported measles cases) and advised that Guyana ensures a high level of surveillance and adopt adequate vaccination measures to prevent the spread of the virus,” Harmon added.

news

S RAIGHT What are the plans to reverse decline in milk production?

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n the 1980s and early 1990s, the local dairy industry was virtually wiped out under the PNC regime. Trade policies facilitated the importation of cheap milk powder from developed countries, and many farmers - large and small were forced out of business. The industry has since never returned to its heydays.

The dairy industry suffered from a damaged reputation among both dairy producers and consumers as a result of previous failed cooperative and processing ventures, which struggled under a system that depended on expensive and unreliable electricity. During the PNC days, LIDCO failed after some 20 years of operation, and then the Mahaica/ Mahaicony Dairy Cooperative and Milk Plant at Dantzig failed. Then the great floods of 2005 came and buried the industry once and for all.

The latest statistics I have seen from 2014 reveals that local production of milk products in Guyana was a mere 5% of the annual demand, worth about US$45 million. This figure is a far cry from the late 1970s and early 1980s, when the Liliendaal and Versailles diary initiatives were in full force along with a national milk plant in Kingston, fulfilling almost all of the local needs, which were then worth about US$15 million.

Funny enough, the current Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Holder, was the General Manager of the Milk Plant, and a former Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Persaud, was a cattle farmer, but yet no strategy on expanding the production of milk-related merchandises flourished under their tenure.

Upon close reflection, what is essentially needed is a set of public policies in the sector that will do the following: increase the income of the milk farmers; create the local market by using the law to squeeze the importation of milk powder and building our milk powder plant (since GPL-HELL will spoil all the liquid milk). To support such a milk powder plant, more technology will have to be imported from places like India, and inserted into the industry to catapult these farmers from subsistence farmers to milking engineers, backed by a production process that is carefully designed to meet the needs of the milk powder plant. That requires training and more training for the milk farmers and the consumers, more land for the milk farmers, enhanced promotion of the cooperative movement in the industry; and, most importantly, the injection of Government cash and other financial services’ support to kick start the regeneration process.

Some farmers told me last week that, from their understanding, milk production has dwindled even further since 2014. The Minister, in his 2017 Budget speech, did confirm their comments when he said that milk production in 2016 did decline by “19 per cent”. He attributed this decline in local production to “reduced demand”. That can mean two things: people in Guyana are consuming less milk per person, or it could mean the demand for imported powdered milk is expanding. I am told the importation of powdered milk has been flat since 2015.

This translates to more people using less milk-related products since 2015. Is it that they are finding it more challenging to buy milk and are treating such a food item as a luxury now? If that is the case, then this is a clear correlation that there is an increase in poverty for those living in the bottom half of the nation over the last 2 years.

What is critically needed is a “drink more milk” campaign in all the schools, but if you do not have enough pasteurization plants locally, how can this milk be produced? Unless, of course, you are importing the product, which defeats the entire purpose of the initiative. Thus the strategy to build a new milk plant and milk-powder plant.

Rather than spend billions of dollars on pageantry projects like the Durban Park Ponzi Scheme, that money can be better spent empowering the local farmer to feed the children of Guyana the complete meal - MILK. It is absolutely ludicrous for a nation to import milk powder all the way from New Zealand when we have so much land, both on the coast and the Intermediate Savannahs, to fulfill the entire meat and milk products’ needs of the entire Caribbean.

But can you vision Minister Holder leading off on such an agenda? Certainly not! He clearly does not have the ability to make sense around the core developmental issues, and even relating to the needs of the market and the producers.

Therefore, you should not expect any better from Granger and Holder. And Guyana withers under the PNC even more today.

Please share your thoughts at sasesin1@yahoo.com.

11

friDAY, september 8, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Govt roasted over ‘incompetence’ against errant land developers

...“you hold the reins of government now; you have to do that”, Jagdeo declares

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ormer President Bharrat Jagdeo, speaking at a media engagement with members of the local press corps at his Church Street Office yesterday, added his voice to the growing public debate regarding private developers who have inked agreements with the State’s Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) and are now in breach of their obligations.

He has said action should be taken against them, since the agreements and obligations entered into under such agreements are enforceable by the State.

Swaths of land had been sold to private developers during the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C’s) tenure in office, but developers have now found themselves embroiled in court and other public battles over perceived wrong-doings.

Jagdeo, now Opposition Leader, told reporters the impression is being conveyed that the deals the PPP/C has entered with private developers were corrupt transactions, and this Administration is helpless to enforce those contracts. He said another impression being conveyed is that the developers owe the state millions of dollars; and furthermore, some of them might have profiteered by selling off their lands to other parties for higher prices.

Jagdeo steadfastly maintained that any arrangement entered into between the PPP/C Administration and private developers had came out of a public process wherein Government had sought private capital and assistance in accelerating its housing programme.

Referring to a 2010 advertisement which called for Expressions of Interest for housing development along the lower East Bank Demerara Corridor (Eccles to Mocha), the Opposition Leader said that public plea had outlined all of the conditions that were expected of the private developers, and that engagement was a public process.

He said proposals were submitted, and the developers acquired lands that were bound by a contract and sold at a particular price in exchange for commitments to invest in the projects, and to develop them so that the housing programme could develop even faster.

According to Jagdeo, “Each of these developers would have a contract with conditions that they have to meet to get, and develop, the land. If they breach any of these conditions, then the Government has the authority, the power, to enforce these contracts.”

Referring to lands that had been transferred in 2014, Jagdeo remind that al-

though the reports implicate him as President at the time, he had already demitted office since 2011.

“I know that once is Kaieteur News (reporting), everything they going to say is (going to implicate) Jagdeo,” he said.

Referring to recent reports repeatedly being carried by that daily implicating an employee of Dr Ranjisinghi ‘Bobby’ Ramroop as having profiteered, the former president said he inquired of the then Housing Minister, Irfaan Ali, as to whether that transac-

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

“If it was an underhand deal, none of these people would have had the contracts with obligations... if it was underhand, they would have had just an outright sale of the land to them at a low price, and that’s the end of it; but there is a contract that they have” tion was subject to a public process, and had received an affirmative response.

According to Jagdeo, he was told that the contract was a standard one that had gone through the public process.

Ali had, a day earlier, in a public missive, also debunked assertions being peddled by the Kaieteur News regarding the lands issued to private developers, and had highlighted the deliberate misrepresentation of the transactions.

“The same company that was written about in the Kaieteur News in a spectacular fashion has a contract like every other company, with obligations,” Jagdeo stated.

Jagdeo had this to say: “It is our contention that if people have contracts with the

State, governments change, but the obligation remains the same; the obligations to the State, if you have (a) contract with the State, would not change.”

He also questioned the motives of the Government in speaking to the details of the lands contracts while wanting to protect the contract it inked for oil production. “I am aware there are several developers who are in breach of their contracts with the Government,” Jagdeo said.

The Opposition Leader was firm in his conviction that it is the responsibility of the government of the day to enforce the law in regard to any breach of contract with the Government of Guyana, and he said the current ruling Administration would

have the full support of the Opposition should it pursue such a course of action.

“If they (private developers) did not do what they promise to do, then there must be a penalty...you hold the reins of Government now; you have to do that (initiate action),” Jagdeo declared.

He reiterated that should any developer be found in breach of a contract which was secured through a public process, “then they must be held accountable. This is our position on these matters.”

The Opposition Leader said it is simple: if laws were broken or contractual arrangements breached through profiteering or other such violations, then it is the government of the day that must act. “We will support the enforcement action of the State,” the former president assured.

Speaking to the transparent nature of the contracts inked under the PPP/C, Jagdeo suggested: “If it was an underhand deal, none of these people would have had the contracts with obligations...If it was underhand, they would have had just an outright sale of the land to them at a low price, and that’s the end of it; but there is a contract that they have.”

Jagdeo said he was merely looking to defend the public nature of the process. He insisted that the current coalition Administration would do well to take action, rather than making excuses in order to protect the state.

“But they are so incompetent they can’t even do that; they complain and run over to the Kaieteur News and say, ‘Look, the PPP left a bad deal here’,” he stated.

12

friday, september 8, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

The cast of “Watch de Ride” receiving the award for Best Production at the National Drama Festival 2013 Playwright Ronald Hollingsworth

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ollowing the successful staging of the final production in the “Watch De Ride” trilogy earlier this year, the local theatrical spectacular is set to return to the National Cultural Centre (NCC) for a special Education Month edition, billed for Friday, September 15.

This is as the Education

Ministry launched its annual month of activities celebrating the accomplishments of the sector while promoting growth.

The third edition of “Watch De Ride” – subtitled “Snapchat Blues” – is set to take the NCC by storm once again, but this time in a special matinee show for an audience of secondary school students in an attempt to enlighten the young minds on a number of pressing social issues, while promising

an entertainment-packed presentation.

The dramatic comedy seeks to shed light on the Guyanese “minibus culture”, which was brought into the home of an unsuspecting family. This situation unfolds as while the parents were at work, their school-age children use their absence as an opportunity to partake in a series of experiments, implicating them both physically and emotionally.

On that note, the play opens with a burst of thrilling events which lead to a series of intense complications and ultimately conflicts, with the highlighted themes pitting the children against their parents as well as neighbour against neighbour.

Adding to that, the production also explores the cultural expectations of societies, particularly those enshrined in traditional gender roles versus the changing mores of the youth.

The “Watch De Ride” series was written by Guyanese playwright Ronald Hollingsworth, with Part Three “Snapchat Blues”, being staged under the directorship of veteran theatre maven Sheron Cadogan-Taylor.

Cadogan-Taylor in explaining the dynamics of the play noted, “Many times over, young adults in our lives make choices that

weigh heavily on parents and society in general. The play brings the complexities of secrets, impulsive decisions, lies and trade-offs out from under the carpet and thrust them before the audience.”

The renowned local director further pointed out, “The audience may ponder on ‘what ifs’ and what may happen next in the drama; the chances taken by the young adults in the drama creates some unimaginable problems for their families.”

“Watch De Ride 3” could be considered a classic based on the subject matter and its philosophical underpinnings as it puts a timely question to parents and guardians of today’s youth.

Bringing the intricate plot to life is a cast of dynamic local performers that include Nelan Benjamin, Kimberly Fernandes, Mark Luke-Edwards, Sean

Director Sheron Cadogan-Taylor

Thompson, Nicola Moonsammy, Nathaya Whaul, Leon Cummings, Simone Dowding, Sophera Waldron, and Paul Budnah.

The cast and crew have announced that they are working assiduously, pushing to set the Cultural Centre stage ablaze as they return with the one-day spectacular.

“Watch De Ride 3” Education Month edition provides the perfect opportunity for those who missed the first staging of the production or others who simply want to catch it all over again.

Students wishing to cash in on the educational entertainment that is “Snapchat Blues” can do so by purchasing a ticket at the reduced cost of $500. The show is set to commence at 13:00h.

Guyanese wins Digicel’s trip to CPL finals producer, songwriter, musician

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onnick Lugard Adolph is a 25-year-old Linden-born Guyanese, now residing on the East Coast of Guyana who loves music and art. He is a young Christian producer, songwriter, singer and lead keyboardist for the well-known Samuel Medas, who has been behind the scenes for years in the Guyana gospel music industry.

Adolph’s music is his signature, and with direction from the Holy Spirit, he expresses himself in the Reggae Gospel, Worship, Dancehall Gospel and Pop genres. He recently released his second single ‘’You & Me”, produced by Jeremy Vantul at the Paradigm Studio from his upcoming EP project ‘’To the Author’’ that is set to be released in October.

Songs like ‘’Meh Best Friend’’, “The Praise Song” from the Reveal Album and “He Saved me” are among the tracks Adolph has recorded and can be found on his YouTube page, SoundCloud and ReverbNation.

… local customer jets off to T&T with 3 friends

J

ust days before it goes down to the wire on CPL 2017, Digicel on Thursday announced that one lucky customer scored big by winning a trip to the finals, as part of the company’s latest Quick Pick/ Smart Bundles CPL promotion.

The winner is Guyanese Judy Rampersaud of Essequibo Coast, who was left in a state of complete disbelief upon receiving the great news.

In fact, Rampersaud’s exact reaction was “Really? What?

No, man you lying; is this for real?” The young woman, along with three lucky persons of her choice, will be flying to Trinidad and Tobago, compliments of Digicel, to be part of the much-anticipated Hero CPLT20 Finals. The all-inclusive package

includes roundtrip airfares, hotel accommodation and ground t ra n s p o r t a t i o n to and from the game as well as a stipend.

In addition to that, the crew of four will get to rub shoulders Lucky winner Judy Rampersaud posing with with the Soca King her crew set for the CPL finals in Trinidad himself, Machel Montano, who Rampersaud won herself will be performing live during this once-in-a-lifetime Digicel’s Postgame Live concert experience by participating in on Saturday. the Quick Pick/Smart Bundles What is even more exciting is CPL promotion, in which that the four, who are scheduled customers were encouraged to to travel from September 9-11, activate a Digicel Smart bundle will have full VIP access and get from August 11-31 for their to meet with Mr Fete himself. chance to win.

guyanatimesgy.com

W

ith this year’s Heritage Month activities well underway, all roads lead to St Cuthbert’s Mission this weekend for the ultimate cultural experience of the Indigenous way of life here in Guyana.

It was just weeks ago that the Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Ministry made the announcement that St Cuthbert’s Mission, also called Pakuri, on the Mahaica River (Region Four),was dubbed Heritage Village 2017.

The community opens its doors to the Guyanese public, and even those visiting from abroad, for a grand Heritage

friday, september 9, 2017

Day on Saturday, September 9.

The day will kick off with an official ceremony starting at 11:00h, which will feature a series of Indigenous cultural displays, taking those in attendance back in time to the coming of the first peoples.

The ceremony will see the participation of a number of energetic youths from within the Mission, setting the stage for the revival of the historical way of life and acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of the Indigenous peoples in the country.

Also on showcase will be a wide variety of local delicacies and beverages, introduced to us by the first peoples

who came. Attendees will be treated to a long list of fingerlicking Amerindian dishes including savoury pepperpot, the famous tocoma, and cassava bread. Adding to that, there will be native beverages up for sampling such as piwari and fly as well as locally brewed wines.

The curtains will then be drawn on the official display, making way for a number of other activities and competitions, of which canoeing and swimming are said to be the highlights.

During this time, St Cuthbert’s will be transformed into an entertainment central, with native music and dances flooding the village from every corner.

This event also provides the perfect opportunity for local craftsmen and entrepreneurs of indigenous art and products to not

A

T

h e National Cultural Centre is set to come alive on Saturday, September 16 as the Nachgana Academy of Dance stages its second grand production, “The Royal Rebels” – an evening rich with dance and drama.

The event will feature a series of cultural performances, during which the dance troupe will utilise the art forms of music, dance and drama, to highlight the deep-rooted history and wealth of traditions present in the Guyanese society.

The colourful showcases will project a fusion of different styles, linking Indian traditional dances with that of other genres from across the world. Adding to that, each presentation will address pressing social issues plaguing the country, of which suicide and teenage pregnancy will take the

only showcase their work but also market their creations to the hundreds of patrons set to flock Pakuri.

Meanwhile, as if a day packed with fun and adventure is not enough, visitors are invited to extend their stay as the 2017 Heritage Village is set to host a “Wash Down” at the riverside, the following day.

forefront.

T h e event promises to be a night of entertainment from which viewers can walk away being educated, after experiencing a taste of royalty.

Established in 2013, the Nachgana Academy is a renowned local dance group comprising 25 well-versed dancers of dynamic personalities and styles.

Led by Miss Guyana Sari Queen 2008 Devi Ramcharitar Lim, the troupe’s main focus is preserving the Indian art of dancing in Guyana while engaging young minds in positive contributions to their society as well.

As such, not only are the members involved in the

performing arts, but the academy strongly believes in giving back to the community through charitable work such as blood drives, providing m e a l s for the homeless and less fortunate, assisting the elderly and disabled, particularly at Christmas time.

Nachgana has also made its mark in the entertainment industry in Guyana, performing at a number of prestigious events throughout the length and breadth of country.

In its first year, the Academy managed to pull off a whopping 50 performances and even delivered its own production “Dancing Enchanters”. Having

accomplished that, the dance troupe in celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, brings to the public its second production.

Proceeds from this event will be directed towards the Academy’s signature social ventures.

The Nachgana Academy of Dance invites you to join in its celebration, with entry to the event carrying a cost of $1000 while stage front seats will cost $2000. Tickets are available at Alex Puri Shop, Grove Public Road; Candra Fashion, Harbour Bridge Mall; Indian Styles, Giftland Mall; Amanda Bridal, Vreed-en-Hoop and the National Cultural Centre.

The show is expected to kick off at 19:00h, with the curtains set to be drawn at 22:00h.

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The Indigenous Heritage Village Day is one in a series of activities tabled for the celebration of Heritage Month 2017. The event in St Cuthbert’s Mission comes just days after the culmination of the grand annual Cultural Extravaganza, hosted at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, Georgetown. All are invited to join the Indigenous communities from across the country as they journey to Pakuri to continue this year’s commemoration of the coming and contributions of the first peoples of Guyana. This is as Heritage Month 2017 is being observed under the theme: “Guyana’s First Peoples: Sustaining a Rich Cultural Environment”.

s the curtains are drawn on this year’s “Biggest Party in Sport” come Saturday, Guyana is set to celebrate the ultimate match of the 2017 Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Tournament being played in Trinidad in grand style, with a series of events.

The 704 Sports Bar and Club will open its doors to cricket enthusiasts for the Official CPL Finals Party this year. The event, titled Howszzdat! will set the pace for the action while ensuring that fans do not miss a ball.

On this special occasion, 704 will be offering eye-catching deals to their customers, with the “Buy one, get one half price” deal being among the lead attractions.

This, therefore, means that fans can not only enjoy the final in the most fitting environment but will be treated to drinks at a reduced cost as well.

Tower Suites promises a similar experience as they go live on big screens for the 2017 Finals.

The Poolside Bar is set to come alive with a CPL rave, as two powerhouses battle to be crowned the Caribbean Cricket Champions of 2017.

Once again, fans can take full advantage of the amazing bargains on beverages as Tower boasts special deals on all brands of beers.

Why stay at home when you can join in the excitement as Guyana wrap up the “Biggest Party in Sports”, the right way?!

14 news

friDAY, september 8, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

Water reservoir at Nappi completed T

he Ministry of Natural Resources is collaborating with Conservation International Guyana and regional administrators to ensure the water reservoir completed in the Rupununi is sustainably managed.

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman on Wednesday visited the pilot project, located on Nappi lands and intended to address water shortage in the Rupununi, particularly during the dry season, when the reservoir will bring relief to the Nappi community and surrounding villages.

“We have invited Conservation International (CI) to give us guidance as to how we could have good management of this resource,” Minister Trotman was quoted as saying by the Department of Public Information (DPI).

CI-Guyana will be working with the village and regional administration to ensure sustainability of the reservoir.

“CI’s interest is very much related to the work we’re doing at the regional (level); and, indeed, the work we’re doing with local communities over the years in building the kinds of benefit-sharing management mechanisms (and) governance mechanisms by which common pool resources -- in this case water -- is managed,” Vice President of CI, Dr David Singh, said.

CI-Guyana, which has been actively working in the Rupununi for several years, recently collaborated with the Region Nine Administration on its plan of action for regional development.

“It’s so important for people on the ground, who share common pool resources, to be really involved in the governance, the management, even

Vice President of Conservation International Guyana, Dr David Singh

Toshao of Nappi, Walter Henrico, had previously indicated that the village would like to explore aquaculture at the reservoir. Minister Trotman pointed out that he also heard of plans to turn the site into a tourist attraction.

“We’ve read recently where villages are speaking about (their) tourism potential; and indeed, whilst we may have started the project with the intention of providing water for irrigation and for usage (as) potable water, we now see another potential which was never anticipated,”

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman examines a structure that is part of the reservoir

A part of the reservoir which has already accumulated water

as they use those resources. If the management systems are well structured, then in fact it leads to a large level of sustainability and long-term value to the communities,” Dr Singh noted.

Minister Trotman said.

Trotman is seeking to finalise the management of the reservoir before it is officially handed over. The reservoir is buttressed by a 450M dam, and can hold 4.5 million cubic

metres of water at its maximum.

According to the DPI, the public-private partnership is the first of its kind, and Minister Trotman said it will be used as an indicator as the

Natural Resources Ministry explores water harvesting as a resource. A similar reservoir is planned for South Rupununi.

“Having established (the reservoir), of course there is the other aspect of its man-

agement; and this is where Conservation International is going to assist us and the region in ensuring there is a proper governance and management structure,” Trotman explained.

IDB flags Audit Office capacity...

Accountant General, Jennifer Chapman, speaking on behalf of the Finance Ministry, also used the occasion to underscore the importance of the Audit Office.

She said it was Government’s responsibility to provide quality public service to its citizenry since it is the custodian of public finances and properties.

Conceding that governments are constantly under pressure to improve the services provided while reducing the cost to the taxpayer, Chapman told the closing ceremony, “based on this premise and in keeping with the statutory mandate the Ministry of Finance and the Audit Office have an inter-agency coordination and cooperation.”

This, she said, is aimed at improving public management controls and accurate oversight of the public accounts. “Strong public financial management are essential to improved public service delivery, speed-up poverty reduction and to achieve sustainable development goals,” she said.

Effective public financial management systems have also strengthened transparency and accountability and financial efficiency, according to Chapman, who concluded that this provides an important element of truth in public finances.

“Consequently, transparency and accountability are pillars of good governance and it is at this juncture that the fundamental function of the Auditor General is the protection of public interest.”

The multiyear capacity building programme commences in March 2004 and was financed through four tranches of disbursements from the IDB to the tune of US$2 million with the support of Government to the tune of US$145,000.

During the three years, in addition to the training afforded to members of the Audit Office, a sizeable amount of the money was utilised in the digitising of the Office.

The primary objective of the agreement which led to the multiyear programme was identified as the continued support of the process of modernising and strengthening of the Audit Office of Guyana to stabilise the transition into an independent and more effective national audit office, as mandated by the 2001 Constitutional Amendment to improve public accountability.

Objectives The specific objectives of the programme centred on enhancing the efficiency of its auditing processes; institutionalising best practices, knowledge and skills for sustainable operations; and rais-

from page 3

ing the institution’s visibility to ensure collaboration with stakeholders.

With regards the push towards a more digitised method of conduction audits, it was reported that close to two thirds of the final tranche of monies disbursed was spent in this area alone.

Participants were told that the Audit Office has since installed and have begun using the TeamMate Audit management Software which provides for the standardisation of working papers, in keeping with international standards and practices.

It was explained too that the software ensures quality work is produced on a consistent basis and that the timeliness of the report can be guaranteed providing the software is used as intended.

Funding from the project was also utilised on capacity building through report writing workshops, performance and procurement auditing in addition to forensic accounting and fraud investigations.

According to Auditor General Deodat Sharma, moving forward, the office intends to fully implement the TeamMate Audit Management Software while reducing the time taken to produce its annual report on the public accounts of Guyana to Parliament.

news

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FRIDAY, september 8, 2017 | guyanatimesgy.com

At Golden Grove

Man perishes in early-morning fire

T

he charred remains of a 37-year-old Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara (ECD) man was pulled from his burnt home after it caught fire in the wee hours of Thursday and was almost completely destroyed.

Undertakers came and removed the body of Sean Prince who lost his life in the early-morning blaze.

Arson is suspected in the fire that reportedly started at around 01:30h at the two-storey concrete house, located at Golden Grove Sideline Dam. According to reports, neighbours were alerted to the blaze by crashing sounds

emanating from the now dead man’s home.

When checks were made, it was observed that the house was already engulfed in flames.

As such, the fire-fighters were summoned, but by the time they arrived on the scene, nothing could have been done to save Prince’s life.

He lived alone in the upper flat of the building, while his cousin occupied the bottom flat.

Guyana Times spoke to Carol (only name given), a neighbour of the now deceased man who related what transpired.

She detailed that she was

What remains of the house where the dead man lived

awakened by what sounded like a stone being hurled on her roof and as such, she woke her husband up to investigate.

The woman added that

a loud crashing sound was subsequently heard coming from the dead man’s home and when she opened the window, she saw the house engulfed in flames.

Guyana to improve management...

fROM PAGE 9

Particpants engaged in the stakeholders meeting on Thursday at MARAD

According to the Department of Public Information, Donohue said that as part of this project, the IMO is seeking recommendations and solutions to improve methods of dealing with waste coming from ships.

“This will improve their capability reasons. For business reasons they will have more opportunities to recycle waste by aggregating at certain locations, but what exactly that may be,

and if that is a possibility, we are not going to determine it until we move forward,” he said.

Donohue explained that key areas with adequate port reception facilities are an obligation for contracting parties under the international convention to prevent pollution from ships.

He added that under the National and Port Plans, Development, there “is a process in place so that when waste comes in, we

know that it gets dealt with properly and get disposed of properly, but also to make sure that there are incentives for proper disposal in businesses.”

Director of Maritime Safety, MARAD, Captain John Flores, said the meeting will aid the preparation for an audit in February of 2018. “We are preparing for an audit next year February, and at the same time we are preparing for oil and gas. We are put-

ting a lot of the regulations in place, a lot of the structures, best practices under IMO and some of the other countries are putting in place.”

Captain Flores added that Guyana is a part of the Caribbean Maritime Understanding (MCU/ MOU), and our standards have been prepared in keeping with other Caribbean countries and IMO. “If next year audit finds us lacking in any area, I am sure that they will be (making) some recommendations.”

The participants from Government, the shipping industry and waste disposal companies all shared their views, understanding and positions on the plan.

“I hear a sound like if a brick pelt on me window and I get up and same time I hear a next sound like that again and the third time what I heard was a big explosive and that was when I go and peep at my window and when I look over, I see this big fire and I start to yell for “help! help!”…and that is when people start to run out and come and so on,” Carol recounted.

She said when other neighbours became alerted, they started to make enquiries of the whereabouts of the now dead man.

She explained: “People coming and ask where is the man upstairs, wam to Sean but nobody ain’t see he. But some people saw his bicycle in the yard and they say he got to be in the house.”

Prince’s body was found some 20 feet away from the door of his home where he was trapped.

This publication has learnt that Devon Prince, the cousin of the dead man who occupied the bottom flat of the house, is currently in Police custody assisting with investigations.

A neighbour has also been taken into custody.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but investigators are strongly considering arson as a factor.

Prince, who had been occupying the house owned by his overseas-based father for some four years, was described as a very friendly and easy-going person.

The investigation into the fire is continuing. (Kizzy Coleman)

Corentyne man killed by speeding car

S

ixty-six-year-old Latchman Sukhu, a Rural Constable attached to the Mibicuri Police Station and late resident of Lot 86 Mibicuri North, Black Bush Polder, Corentyne Berbice, was struck from the bicycle he was riding by an allegedly speeding car on the village public road on Thursday at about 09:40h, and was pronounced dead on arrival at the Mibicuri Public Hospital, where he was rushed after the incident.

According to reports, motor car HB 8230, being driven by a 35-year-old male of Belvedere, Corentyne, was proceeding south along the eastern carriageway of the public road allegedly at a fast rate when it collided with the cyclist, who reportedly rode out from a street in the area.

A breathalyzer test conducted on the driver found no trace of alcohol in his blood. He, however, remains in custody assisting with the investigation.

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guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, september 8, 2017

Regional

Hurricane Irma bears down on Haiti, Turks and Caicos

H

aiti and the Turks and Caicos islands have been preparing for the arrival of Hurricane Irma, which has left a trail of destruction across the Caribbean.

Poverty-stricken Haiti is seen as particularly vulnerable as its infrastructure has yet to recover from a devastating earthquake in 2010.

Low-lying Turks and Caicos is said to be at risk of a storm surge, with the possibility of destructive waves up to six metres higher than usual.

Irma is a category five hurricane.

This is the highest possible level for a hurricane, and its winds are travelling at up to 290 kilometres per hour (185mph).

At least 10 people have already died in the Region.

The small island of Barbuda is said to be “barely habitable”.

Officials warn that St Martin

Before and after: Stills and footage show St Martin then and now

the head of the US emergency agency predicting a “truly devastating” impact.

An estimated 1.2 million people have been affected by Irma and that could rise sharp-

Aerial footage from the Dutch Defence Ministry revealed the extent of the devastation in Sint-Maarten

is almost destroyed, and the death toll is likely to rise.

Irma has passed the Dominican Republic and is now brushing Haiti. It is expected to hit the Turks and Caicos on Thursday evening.

It is predicted to reach Cuba next, before hitting the US state of Florida at the weekend, with

ly to 26 million, the Red Cross says.

“Our worst fears have played out in Barbuda and elsewhere,” Walter Cotte, Americas director for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, said in a statement.

There are concerns that disease could spread rapidly in areas where drinking water and sanitation services have broken down.

The storm caused some damage to building and flooding as it approached Haiti, with rain and wind lashing the northern port city of CapHaitien.

“We’re asking all those living in areas at risk to leave their homes. If you don’t, you’ll be evacuated by force,” President Jovenel Moise said.

“When you go to shelters you’ll find food, you’ll have something to sleep on.”

Preparations for the arrival of Irma are carrying on in the Turks and Caicos, which has a population of about 35,000. Its highest point is only 50 metres.

Governor John Freeman said: “We have decided to evacuate certain islands which were particularly low-lying and at threat. We have started to fill our shelters because a number of people who live in very low-lying areas are very vulnerable. “We’ve also engaged in terms of getting people off the island who are here, North

American tourists and others.”

Virginia Clerveaux, director of the Turks and Caicos Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies, told the BBC that even inland areas could be inundated by the storm surge.

“We are now trying to remind them [the people of the islands] that this is a category five, and in the history of the Turks and Caicos islands this is the largest storm we have ever been impacted or threatened by.

“So there is a need to ensure that we have maximum preparations in place... We have been saying to persons to ensure that they are prepared, ensure they can shelter safely, they have sufficient food and drinking water for two to three days.”

Britain, France, and the Netherlands have sent ships, rescue teams and emergency supplies to their territories that have been hit by Hurricane Irma. Aid efforts are being hampered by damage to local airports and harbours.

Hurricane Irma first struck the dual-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda. At

least one death, of a child, was reported on Barbuda, where Prime Minister Gaston Browne said about 95 per cent of the buildings had suffered some damage.

“It’s absolute devastation,” he said after flying over the island, home to some 1600 people. “The island is literally under water. In fact, I’m of the view that, as it stands now, Barbuda is barely habitable.”

He told the BBC that 50 per cent of the Barbuda population were now homeless and that it would cost US$100 million to rebuild the island.

However, Antigua, with a population of 80,000, escaped major damage, with no loss of life.

were injured. Dutch authorities reported one death and many injuries.

French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe said 60 per cent of homes had been made uninhabitable.

Sint-Maarten’s airport, the third largest in the Caribbean, has been seriously damaged.

At least three people had died in Puerto Rico, the governor’s office said.

The US territory’s capital, San Juan, saw waves of up to 30 feet. More than 6000 residents are in shelters, and many more are without power.

British overseas territories Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands were also caught in the extreme weather.

“It is an enormous disaster, 95 per cent of the island is destroyed.

I am in shock,” Saint-Martin official Daniel Gibbs said in a radio interview

St Martin, an island that comprises the French territory of Saint-Martin and the Dutch section Sint-Maarten, suffered terrible damage.

French officials have confirmed at least four deaths in Saint-Martin, down from an earlier reported death toll of eight. More than 50 people

At least one death has been reported on Anguilla, a local official confirmed.

One Anguilla resident told the BBC the island looked as if it had been struck by a nuclear bomb, with roofs torn off many of the main buildings, including the hospital. (Excerpt from BBC News)

friDAY, september 8, 2017

guyanatimesgy.com

17

Around the World

China agrees UN action, and talk, Suu Kyi says Myanmar trying to needed to end North Korea crisis protect all citizens in strife-torn state

C

hina agreed on Thursday that the United Nations should take more action against North Korea after its latest nuclear test, while also pushing for dialogue to help resolve the standoff.

North Korea, which is pursuing its nuclear and missile programmes in defiance of international condemnation, said it would respond to any new UN sanctions and US pressure with “powerful counter measures”, accusing the United States of aiming for war.

The US wants the UN Security Council to impose an oil embargo on North Korea, ban its exports of textiles and the hiring of North Korean labourers abroad, and to subject leader Kim Jong Un to an asset freeze and travel ban, according to a draft resolution seen by Reuters on Wednesday.

Pressure from Washington has ratcheted up since North Korea conducted its sixth and largest nuclear test on Sunday.

M

Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) interceptors are seen as they arrive at Seongju, South Korea, September 7, 2017

That test, along with a series of missile launches, showed it was close to achieving its goal of developing a powerful nuclear weapon that could reach the US. “Given the new developments on the Korean peninsula, China agrees that the UN Security Council should make a further response and take necessary measures,” Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told reporters.

“Any new actions taken by the international community against the DPRK should serve the purpose of

curbing the DPRK’s nuclear and missile programmes, while at the same time be conducive to restarting dialogue and consultation,” he said, referring to North Korea by the initials of its official name, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

China is by far North Korea’s biggest trading partner, accounting for 92 per cent of two-way trade last year. It also provides hundreds of thousands of tonnes of oil and fuel to the impoverished regime. (Excerpt from Reuters)

yanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi said on Thursday her Government was doing its best to protect everyone in the strife-torn state of Rakhine, as the estimated number of Rohingya Muslims who have fled to Bangladesh leapt by 18,000 in one day, to 164,000.

Suu Kyi did not refer specifically to the exodus of the minority Rohingya, which was sparked by insurgent attacks on August 25 and an army counter-offensive, but said her Administration was trying its best to take care of all citizens.

Western critics have accused Suu Kyi of not speaking out for the Rohingya, some 1.1 million people who have long complained of persecution and are seen by many in Buddhist-majority Myanmar as illegal migrants from Bangladesh.

Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi talks during a news conference with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, September 6, 2017

Some have called for the Nobel Peace Prize she won in 1991 as a champion of democracy to be revoked.

“We have to take care of our citizens, we have to take care of everybody who is in our country, whether or not they are our citizens,” Suu Kyi said in comments to Reuters Television’s Indian partner, Asian News

International.

“Of course, our resources are not as complete and adequate as we would like them to be, but, still, we try our best and we want to make sure that everyone is entitled to the protection of the law,” she said during a visit by Indian Prime Narendra Modi to Yangon. (Excerpt from

Reuters)

Spain blocks Catalan independence vote, threatens charges Philippine President Duterte's S son denies drugs role

O

ne of the sons of Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has denied involvement in a drug smuggling operation.

Paolo Duterte told a senate inquiry that claims he helped ship drugs from China to the Philippines were "baseless".

The President's son-inlaw also denied involvement, calling the allegations "rumours and gossip".

President Duterte launched a violent campaign

against drug crime shortly after he came to power last year.

Duterte, whose crackdown has left thousands of people dead, has promised to resign if any family members are involved in the trade.

Paolo Duterte and Manases Carpio, who is married to Duterte's daughter, Sara, are facing allegations that they helped facilitate a shipment of crystal methamphetamine worth US$125.4 million into the country from

China.

The claims centre around the testimony of a customs broker who says he heard their names mentioned in connection with the consignment. He has since issued a statement saying they were not involved.

An opposition senator who is a staunch critic of the government told the panel that Paolo Duterte had a tattoo on his back that proved he was a member of a drug gang. (Excerpt

from BBC News)

pain’s central authorities moved on Thursday to crush plans by the north-eastern region of Catalonia to hold an independence referendum and took steps to prosecute regional lawmakers backing the ballot.

A long-running campaign for independence by a group of Catalan politicians, who hold a majority in the regional parliament, came to a head on Wednesday when they ap-

proved a law to allow a vote on secession from Spain scheduled for October 1.

The country’s Constitutional Court, Spain’s highest legal authority on such matters, suspended the referendum law late on Thursday to allow Judges time to consider whether the vote breaches the country’s Constitution.

Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy said earlier on Thursday he had appealed to the court to

declare the referendum illegal.

The Constitution states Spain is indivisible.

“This referendum will not go ahead,” he said.

In a separate move on Thursday, Spain’s state prosecutor’s office said it would present criminal charges against leading members of the Catalan parliament for allowing Wednesday’s parliamentary vote to go ahead. (Excerpt from

Reuters)

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guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, september 8, 2017

ARCHIE

ARIES

If you want change, make

(March 21- it happen. Don’t wait around April 19) for someone else to make the

first move. Personal gains can be made if you follow through with your plans.

An offer will appear to be TAURUS much better than it actually (April 20- is. Before you take a risk, conMay 20) sider the consequences. When things are uncertain, consider alternatives. Aim to stabilize your life.

dilbert

Look at personal agreeGEMINI (May 21- ments and make improveJune 20) ments. Fixing up your living space to accommodate your current needs will pay off.

Romance is on the rise and a promise can be made.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

Don’t feel the need to follow what others do if you aren’t ready. Making an impulsive move will leave you in an uncertain position.

Concentrate on personal growth.

A brief vacation or a hobby you can do with your family or a loved one is featured.

Personal improvements will lead to compliments. Express your feelings and implement positive life changes.

Walk away from situaVIRGO tions that are risky or unpre(Aug. 23dictable.

Concentrate on your Sept. 22) personal assets, health and home improvements. Work alone if it results in less stress and greater productivity.

Partnerships can be deLIBRA (Sept. 23- veloped and cooperation and Oct. 23) progress made if you are open to suggestions and willing to put in the time required to make things happen.

Romance is highlighted.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

Invest in your health, apSAGITTARIUS pearance and surroundings.

(Nov. 23- A lifestyle change will boost Dec. 21) your morale and bring you greater emotional and financial stability. Stick close to home.

TODAY’S WORD — ELUSORY (ELUSORY: ih-LOO-suh-ree: Cleverly or skillfully evasive.)

Average mark 25 words Time limit 40 minutes Can you find 39 or more words in ELUSORY? The list will be published tomorrow.

YESTERDAY’S WORD — FOOTNOTES festoon font foot footstone often onset onto

tent test tone toot tote nest noes

noose nose note sent snoot soft soften

sone soon soot steno stent stet stone

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” is not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed. To contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe, write to Word Game, Kathleen Saxe, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

Work-related suggestions SCORPIO will be met with opposition.

(Oct. 24Listen and absorb what’s goNov. 22) ing on around you, and take a moment to summarize your options before you engage in battle.

solution for Last Published Puzzle

Don’t push, or someone CAPRICORN will push back. Err on the (Dec. 22- side of caution and check Jan. 19) facts, even the ones that seem solid. A simple blunder can lead to an unfortunate mistake.

A positive change can be AQUARIUS made to the way you earn or (Jan. 20- handle money. Greater staFeb. 19) bility will result if you get involved in a partnership or joint venture.

Be careful not to divulge PISCES (Feb. 20- secret information. You will March 20) be blamed or challenged by someone in a position to make you look bad. Don’t meddle in other people’s affairs.

friDAY, september 8, 2017

19

Irrepressible Lyon takes 13 as Australia earn series draw in Bangladesh

N

athan Lyon hit new heights with a record-breaking performance as Australia secured a series draw against Bangladesh courtesy of a seven-wicket triumph in the second Test.

Off-spinner Lyon claimed nine wickets in a losing cause in Mirpur, but comfortably bettered that tally on Thursday by taking his number of victims in Chittagong to 13 - the best haul recorded by an Australian in Asia.

Lyon's second-innings return of 6-60 from 33 overs helped limit Bangladesh to 157, leaving a modest victory target of 86 for Australia, who had earlier failed to add to their overnight score of 377-9 Steve Smith's side duly claimed victory with a day to spare, knocking off the runs they required inside 16 overs.

In taking career-best match figures of 13-154, Lyon became the leading wicket-taker in Tests this year with 46, moving ahead of India's Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja (both 44).

Lyon was dismissed for a duck

by Mustafizur Rahman (4-84) in the second over of the day, limiting Australia's first-innings advantage to 72.

Yet the tourists were soon in command as Bangladesh slumped to 43-5 through some irresponsible shot selection.

Pat Cummins removed Soumya Sarkar cheaply, before Lyon had Tamim Iqbal stumped, Imrul Kayes caught at extra cover and Shakib Al Hasan held at slip to bring up his 10-wicket haul.

Bangladesh were in deep trouble when Nasir Hossain fell to Steven O'Keefe, but Sabbir Rahman (24) survived a num-

Nathan Lyon claimed the best figures of his career - a match haul of 13 for 154 - as Australia beat Bangladesh by seven wickets

ber of scares - including reviews from successive balls - to lead a recovery of sorts alongside skipper

Mushfiqur Rahim (31).

Sabbir failed to cash in on his good fortune as he was stumped

off Lyon after lunch, while the impressive Cummins returned to have Mushfiqur caught behind.

Mominul Haque was the only other batsman to make any impression, reaching 29 before becoming one of two further victims to Lyon either side of tea.

Australia lost David Warner for eight in the fifth over of their chase, the first-innings centurion holing out to deep midwicket off Mustafizur.

When skipper Smith (16) and Matt Renshaw (22) were caught behind in successive overs off Taijul Islam and Shakib respectively, Australia were wobbling at 48-3, still needing 38 to win.

However, Bangladesh's slim hopes of an unlikely victory were swiftly dashed as Glenn Maxwell (25 not out off 17 balls) and Peter Handscomb (16 off 14 deliveries) knocked off the remaining runs.

(SportsMax)

LeBron James is better MayweatherMcGregor than Kevin Durant ticket sales fall – Charles Barkley short of record

N

BA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley is widely known for his brash opinions on basketball and other topics. On Wednesday, Barkley revealed his list of the best players of all-time, which included superstar LeBron James among others.

"LeBron James is better than Kevin Durant and neither one of them is as good as Michael,” Barkley suggested during an appearance on NBCaffiliated sports show "CSN Philly."

The TNT sportscaster ranked James at No. 7 on his all-time greats list. He claimed that James is a better player than Durant but added that Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, who he ranked at No. 1, was still ahead of James and Durant. Barkley ranked himself as No. 20 on his list and added that other lists had him ranked higher.

This wasn’t the first time Barkley had James behind the greats who played in the 90s. During an "Inside the NBA" media event last year, Barkley claimed that James was below former Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant and former San Antonio Spurs star Tim Duncan.

"LeBron's right there," Barkley said during the media event. "I don't understand why ya'll are in such a hurry to move him past Tim Duncan and Kobe (Bryant). Now if he wins a couple more championships, I might move him past Kobe and Tim Duncan.

"You guys are always talking about

championships - Kobe and Tim got five, LeBron's got three. But all of a sudden, because those guys are retired, ya'll want to change the narrative. Ya'll the ones talking about rings."

Barkley echoed his feelings during an appearance last year on 94WIP's "Morning Show" with Howard Eskin on Aug. 26 when asked about James' aspiration to surpass Jordan.

"The only problem I have with it, I don't know how he just passes Kobe Bryant and Tim Duncan," Barkley told Eskin.

In a Sports Illustrated feature last year, James said he admired Jordan as a basketball player. He mentioned that he challenged himself to catch up to Jordan’s accomplishments.

"My motivation is this ghost I’m chasing. The ghost played in Chicago," James told the publication.

James added that his career is different compared to Jordan’s. The Cleveland Cavaliers star played on two different teams (Miami Heat from 2010-2014) and has won three championships so far — two with the Cavaliers and one with the Heat. Jordan also played on two teams, (Washington Wizards from 2001-2003) but won six NBA championships with the Bulls.

"My career is totally differ-

ent than Michael Jordan’s," he told Sports Illustrated. "What I’ve gone through is totally different than what he went through. What he did was unbelievable, and I watched it unfold. I looked up to him so much. I think it’s cool to put myself in position to be one of those great players, but if I can ever put myself in position to be the greatest player, that would be something extraordinary." (Yahoo Sports)

T

LeBron James

icket sales from Floyd Mayweather's superfight with Irishman Conor McGregor failed to top the record set by the American's 2015 bout with Manny Pacquiao, according to figures released by the Nevada Athletic Commission on Wednesday.

The Aug. 26 bout at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, billed as having the potential to break both the gate and pay-per-view revenue records, sold 13,094 tickets with another 137 complimentary tickets given out for a gate of $55.4 million.

The figures are well below the $72.2 million generated by the Mayweather-Pacquiao fight at the MGM Garden Arena in Las Vegas, which sold 16,219 tickets.

Mayweather beat McGregor, a mixed martial arts champion who was making his professional boxing debut, by way of technical knockout in the 10th round to surpass heavyweight great Rocky Marciano's 49-0 record for most wins without a loss or draw.

PPV numbers for last month's fight have yet to be released. (Reuters)

20

T&T will focus Argentina held by Venezuela at home on the future

Dennis Lawrence

T

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friDAY, september 8, 2017

rinidad and Tobago coach Dennis Lawrence claims the team will already start looking to the future following a 3-0 loss to Panama, which eliminated the team from World Cup qualification.

Heading into the encounter needing a win to have a realistic chance of staying in the competition, goals from Gabriel Torres (38th), Carlyle Mitchell (58th) and Abdiel Arroyo (85th) swiftly put an end to those notions as the twin island republic crashed to its seventh loss of the campaign on Tuesday.

With two games remaining in the CONCACAF Hexagonal round, T&T, which secured its only win of the campaign against Panama in Trinidad, occupy the bottom rung of the six-team competition, six points behind fifth place Honduras and the United States who hold the final qualification playoff spot.

The coach, however, insists that the team will compete at maximum capacity for the

– Lawrence says team will focus on rebuilding following World Cup elimination

remaining games, despite keeping a keen eye on the future. With an average age of the Trinidad and Tobago team at 27-yearsold and 20 players over the age of 25, the twin island republic is looking at an extensive rebuilding program ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. “We’ve got a responsibility because there is still a lot to play for, for other teams.

Obviously, we are not in contention anymore, but what we are going to do is put together a squad with a view of the future,” Lawrence said following the encounter.

“We are also going to put together a squad that is going to compete and make sure that we don’t let the Hexagonal teams down because obviously, we understand we have a responsibility to compete and get results.”

Trinidad and Tobago will play away to Mexico and host the United States in the final two World Cup qualifiers. (SportsMax)

A

rgentina came from behind to draw 1-1 with Venezuela on Tuesday but their inability to take what should have been an easy three points means the 2014 losing finalists are still a long way from guaranteeing their place in Russia next year.

The home side had won all six of their previous home qualifiers against Venezuela

Jhon Murillo

and were expected to do the same against the team that is bottom of the South American group and without a win in 10 games.

Argentina's failure to take all three points left them fifth in the standings with two matches remaining, out of the top four spots which bring with them direct qualification for the finals.

"Venezuela started to grow when they realised we couldn't finish them off," Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli said after the match.

"We let a great opportunity escape us.

That's football and it can happen.

"The important thing is we all push so Argentina can be at the 2018 World Cup." Venezuela were already well out of the running for Russia but they got the opening goal just four minutes into the second half.

Jhon Murillo ran onto an incisive through ball and expertly chipped the advancing goalkeeper to give the visitors a surprise lead. The advantage, though, lasted just four minutes and when Argentina equalized it came from the same left flank where all of their most dangerous attacks originated.

Marcos Acuna, who had replaced the injured Angel Di Maria after 25 minutes, fought off his marker and the cross was knocked into his own goal by Rolf Feltscher.

Mauro Icardi had a good shout for a penalty waved away after an hour but Argentina, with Lionel Messi not at his commanding best, looked lacklustre throughout and were unable to stamp their authority on the match.

Neither they nor Venezuela created many clear-cut chances and the home side trooped off to the boos of their disgruntled fans.

Brazil top the 10-team group and are the only South America side to have so far qualified for Russia 2018.

Uruguay, who won 2-1 away at Paraguay, are in second-place with 27 points, followed

by Colombia on 26.

Peru, who have not played in the World Cup Finals since 1982, beat Ecuador 2-1 earlier in the evening to move into fourth place with 24 points, ahead of Argentina on goal difference.

The fifth-placed side go into an intercontinental playoff against New Zealand. (Reuters)

16th Annual DeSinco Trading 11race cycling set for this weekend N

Michael Anthony will be looking to defend his title on Saturday

ational cycling coach Hassan Mohamed will conduct the 16th Annual DeSinco Trading 11race cycle programme under the company’s Degree brand on Saturday around the inner circuit of the National Park commencing at 09:00hrs.

The feature event 35-lap race is open to Schoolboys, Novices and Invitational cyclists.

Michael Anthony will have his hands full as he seeks to go all out to make a successful defence of the title he won last year in a time of one hour 18 minutes 22.77

seconds.

Anthony, will this time around have to stave off the challenges of a fit local bunch such as Raul Leal, Orville Hinds, Jamual John and Paul Denobrega, who are all in good nick with the latter and the former having dominant cycling seasons thus far.

Apart from the above mentioned riders, Anthony will also have to be wary of competition from Alanzo Ambrose, Andrew Hicks and Warren McKay among others.

Junior Niles will be defending the veterans’

Under-50 five-lap title which he also won last year in a time of 12 minutes 45.48 seconds, but will once again face stiff challenges from the likes of Warren McKay and the Fernandes boys.

Curtis 'Chappy' Dey (Trojan CC), Nigel Duguid (Team Evolution), Christopher Cornelius (Team Evolution), Adealie Hodge, Jason Cameron (Trojan PSL) and Marcus Keiler (Roriama) will fight for the top accolade in the Juniors 10 laps race.

There will also be races for Ladies, BMX and Mountain Bikes.

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sports

Resurgent Del Potro faces ultimate challenge in Nadal

J

uan Martin Del Potro has been enjoying the sweetest renaissance at the U.S. Open, but the Argentine is well aware that Rafael Nadal, his semi-final opponent on Friday, is the ultimate challenge, especially for a player whose main weapon is the forehand.

The 24th seed swept Roger Federer aside in four sets in the quarter-finals on Wednesday after coming from the brink to beat Austrian sixth seed Dominic Thiem in the previous round, his big serve and mighty forehand proving too hot for his rivals to handle.

World number one Nadal, however, is left-handed and that means the Spaniard will find it easier to avoid Del Potro’s forehand -- possibly the best on tour.

“He’s a lefty guy, so he has chance to find easily my backhand. So I don’t know what’s gonna be my strategy for that match,” said Del Potro, whose career has been hampered by injuries and surgeries.

“But for sure I will try to make winners with my forehands and don’t run too much, because my legs are tired.”

Del Potro, however, has sweet memories

against Nadal, having beaten him 6-2 6-2 6-2 in the final in Flushing Meadows in 2009.

Although he has a 5-8 win-loss record against the Spanish juggernaut, he has won their last two matches, at the Rio Olympics last year and at the Shanghai Masters in 2013.

But Nadal is an all different player, having won his 10th French Open title this year. In New York, he has been barely troubled to advance into the last four, crushing Russian teenager Andrey Rublev in the quarter-finals. “It is gonna be a different match than in the past,” said Del Potro.

“He’s the No. 1 player of the world, and he’s playing so confident this tournament.”

And Del Potro, who was on the brink of retirement in the fourth round after falling ill, believes he is not in the best possible shape.

“Physically I‘m not in the perfect conditions, but when you play semi-finals on the Grand Slam, everything can happen,” he said.

“So you must be ready for the chance and playing against Rafa in my favorite tournament, I will try to enjoy the atmosphere, the game, and I know if I play my best tennis, I could be a danger for him.” (Reuters)

ExxonMobil the flagship sponsor of Pan Am Indoor Hockey tournament

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Guyana will be hosting the International Pan American Indoor Hockey Tournament from October 14-22 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall

T

he Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) has scored an important partnership in the signing of oil giant ExxonMobil as the main sponsor of the upcoming Indoor Pan American Cup, scheduled for 14 – 22 October at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Ina release to the media, the GHB

to host a Pan American level event for hockey. The 2017 Indoor Pan American Cups (IPAC) features competitions for both men and women and serves as the Pan American Continental Qualifier for FIH Indoor Hockey World Cups scheduled for February 2018 in Berlin, Germany.

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ExxonMobil Lead Country Manager, Rod Henson shaking hands with GHB President Philip Fernandes

revealed that they expect the event to contribute significantly to Guyana’s efforts of becoming a priority destination for sports tourism.

At the announcement of the sponsorship agreement, ExxonMobil Lead Country Manager Rod Henson noted; “We are excited to support youth sports and the Guyana Hockey Board”.

“Sport is a great way to reach across generations and cultures to demonstrate our commitment to local development.” Henson added.

This is the first time ExxonMobil has partnered with the Guyana Hockey Board and the first time Guyana has been selected

This year will be one of the largest in the tournaments’ history and the Americas are well represented. Seven women’s teams and six men’s teams from Guyana, Argentina, Barbados, Canada, Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago, USA and Uruguay will participate with the top team earning a coveted spot in the World Cup. This mix fully represents the diversity of the Americas; from the northern reaches of Canada to the southern tip of Argentina.

“The Guyana Hockey Board is honoured to welcome ExxonMobil on board and expects this partnership to extend Guyana’s beauty, warmth and hospitality with the world,” the release stated..

Rafael Nadal

Juan Martin Del Potro

Corona Invitational Football

French Rugby Western Tigers the team Federation to beat – Coach Allen issues World H Cup apology

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Ext 50

DAILY & SUNDAY COPIES

21

he French Rugby Federation (FFR) has apologised for posting a tweet that suggested it was the frontrunner to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup. France is in a threeway battle with Ireland and South Africa to host the tournament, with the final decision set to be announced on November 15.

The FFR, however, has been forced into an embarrassing backtrack after publishing a tweet that suggested it was in pole position after the evaluation phase of the process.

A message on the FFR's official Twitter account read: "The FFR apologise for an inaccurate and misleading tweet it published on 5 September regarding the evaluation phase of the host selection process.

"It was incorrect to state that as the result of technical study

by World Rugby, the FFR is the leading candidate to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup. "The FFR respects that the host selection and evaluation process is not complete and we reiterate our full support for a fair and robust process operated

by World Rugby and its independent advisors."

(SportsMax)

ead coach of Western Tigers Calvin ‘Flu’ Allen has boldly stated his unit will be the team to beat as the business end of the inaugural Corona Invitational Football Tournament quickly approaches.

Come Sunday, the top-rated Georgetown team will match forces with arch rival Guyana Police Force FC in the semi-finals at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC), Bourda. The other match pits the home side against Northern Rangers.

When Guyana Times

we focused on changing and I think it has been changing since the results of hard work are showing”, Allen explained.

He added, “They play with guts and you can see we came from dire situations sometimes. The guys are gelling nicely and hopefully the elite league play-off starts soon and we can continue to play more football”.

Critically assessing what is needed to stifle the lawmen’s exuberance, Allen contended that his team must not get overwhelmed with the occasion.

Coach Calvin Allen (yellow top) overlooks his troops during a drill on Thursday

Sport spoke to the coach on Thursday afternoon as they had conducted sessions on the Roxanne Burnham Gardens ball field, Allen noted the history between the sides meant they would have to play their best once again.

“Football is played on the day, whichever team wants it more gets it. Police is a determined squad and they will have a point to prove since Western Tigers is definitely the team to beat. We know what to expect and we expect a tough battle since we know they will come hard”, the coach declared.

Since the Tigers fell to the lawmen in the Mayor’s Cup final in September 2016, they have played unbeaten and determined to be the new powerhouses in Georgetown football.

“From last June when I took over, the work ethics were one of the first things

“We are prepared to attack as a unit and defend well; we will play our style of football and not let the hype of the match get to us”.

However, the coach is concerned about his front line given that six forwards are currently unfit and they have been conceding close to a goal per match due to their defensive blunders.

While there is a cause of concern, he admitted he has seen some promising signs from new signings Samuel Hunte (mid-fielder) and Omar Jones (goal keeper) who both transferred from Santos FC. The four remaining teams are playing for a first place prize of one million dollars and championship trophy while second to fourth will pocket $400,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively and the corresponding accolade. (Akeem Greene)

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friDAY, september 8, 2017

Suriname, Barbados confirmed for Caribbean Invasion Dragz meet

– close to 60 competitors booked T

he heat is beginning to swell as Suriname and Barbados have confirmed their participation at the Caribbean Invasion Dragz Meet slated for October 1 at the South Dakota Circuit.

Thursday explained that invitations were sent out to Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Suriname and Barbados but only the latter two have confirmed their participation to date.

Flashback! Mohammed’s Enterprise Nissan Nismo took an early lead against GT-R but soon felt the full power of ‘Godzilla’ and was left in the dust (Marceano Narine Photo)

President of the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) Rameez Mohammed while speaking to this publication on

Mohammed also disclosed that 60 participants have already expressed interest to compete and he expects that number to in-

crease as the day for the event approaches.

A major change at the upcoming event will be the usage of the Time Bracket System instead of the Porta Tree Timing device which is aimed at creating a balanced battle ground.

There are attempts to have a launch pad in place for this meet but the certainty of that addition is expected to be confirmed in the coming days.

At the last meet held in March, a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, Mohammed’s Enterprise Nissan GT-R nicknamed ‘Godzilla’ once again stunned its competitors to clock the fastest time.

The blue GT-R came against its Nismo version which is a stock car and though the Nismo held the lead in the early meters, it soon saw the rear lights of ‘Godzilla’ as it speed away in bullet-like speed much to the delight of the sizable crowd in attendance.

Georgetown cricket continues this weekend

G

iven the pristine weather for cricket in city over the last couple of weeks, the Georgetown Cricket Association has managed to restart their respective tournaments which will continue Saturday and Sunday.

In the GISE/Star Party Rental First Division 2-day Competition, Transport Sports Club (TSC) will battle home side Guyana Defence Force (GDF) under the watchful eyes of umpires Andre Hurry and Cyril Garnath.

Over at the Maltenoes Sports Club (MSC), University of Guyana will battle

Ghandi Youth Organisation (GYO) with Ravishwar Latif and Hortence Isaacs doing the on-field duties. Both matches are slated to be played from 09:30 hrs to 17:30 hrs.

In the Noble House Seafood Second Division 2- Days competition, Demerara Cricket Club will host Diplomats and Everest Cricket Club travel to GYO. Umpires Joseph Jeffrey and Flemroy Lambert will officiate at DCC while Abena Parker and Linden Matthews take up the duties at GYO. Playing hours are 10:30 hrs to 17:00 hrs.

The Nismo, which is also owned by Mohammed’s Enterprise had a reaction time of 0.807s as compared to the blue GT-R’s 1.482s. However, the final times told a different tale as ‘Godzilla’ clocked a time of 7.569s to win the unlimited (7-seconds) category ahead of the Nismo’s 8.906s.

The experienced Shawn Persaud with his Toyota Caldina won the 8-second class.

Though the locals had much joy with the performance of the GT-R, Suriname rode off with the bragging rights of the day as their machines produces explosive racing in the high powered classes.

Surinamese Vishal Ramcharan, who was deemed the champion driver, wreaked havoc with his Toyota Mark-X, winning the 9-second, 10-second and 11-second categories

while teammate Raymond John was the victor in the 12-second category with his Toyota Chaser.

Joy for Guyana came via the driving of Imran Khan in the 13-second category, Sunil Singh and his Toyota Levin in the 14-second and Devendra Persaud (15-second).

In the Motor bike category, Surinamese Rajiv Lalbiharie was deemed the champion. (Akeem Greene)

EBFA Ralph Green U-11 League

F

4 matches tomorrow at Grove Playfield

our matches would be contested tomorrow when play in this year’s edition of the Ralph Green/East Bank Football Association Under-11 League continues at the Grove Playfield.

Defending champions Agricola Red Triangle will open their quest to retain their crown when they take on Herstelling Raiders FC from 09:00hrs which would be followed half an hour

later by a clash between the teams from Diamond, United and Upsetters which will be making its debut.

Diamond United sits at the top of Group A following their 2-0 win in the first match of this year’s league last week at the same venue against Mocha Champs.

Ronald Adams and Jarrell George will be hoping to continue their goal scoring form against the new kids on the block.

In Group B play, Grove Hi Tech will aim to make it two out of two when they oppose Friendship from 10:00hrs. Friendship ended last year’s inaugural league in fourth place behind Grove (3rd).

The final match tomorrow will see a clash of the Linden Soesdyke Highway teams when Kuru Kururu Warriors match skills with Highway United.

Group A Teams

P

W

L

D

GF

GA

GD

Points

Diamond United

1

1

0

0

2

0

+2

3

Mocha Champs

1

0

1

0

0

2

-2

0

Agricola Red Triangle

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Herstelling

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Diamond Upsetters

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Group B Grove Hi Tech

1

1

0

0

5

0

+5

3

Samatta Point K/Ville

1

0

1

0

0

5

-5

0

Friendship All Stars

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Kuru Kururu Warriors

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Highway United

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, september 8, 2017

23

Hero Caribbean Premier League 2017

Amazon Warriors eliminated ‒ TKR advance to final with 6-wkt drubbing

By John Ramsingh in Tarouba, Trinidad and Tobago

T

he Guyana Amazon Warriors spirited bid for a fourth Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) final ended when they went down to Trinbago Knight Riders by six wickets at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba in the second eliminator.

The home team got to 160-4 from 18 overs to end the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) unbeaten streak of five to a halt. Man of the Match, Colin Munro rode his luck to finish unbeaten on 57 from 51 balls with seven fours. The TKR opener was dropped twice before carrying his bat and his team to another final.

When on 13 in the second over of the run chase Munro offered a simple catch to Roshon Primus at mid-off after hitting Steven Jacobs for three consecutive boundaries. He was once again given a life on 19 when GAW captain Rayad Emrit spilled one at 28-1.

Despite losing Sunil Narine first ball and Hamza Tariq in his first match this year by the fifth over Munro kept going and found a good partner in Darren Bravo to take the match away from

the Amazon Warriors. The pair of lefthanders added 85 before Bravo holed out to long on in the 14th over at

Denish Ramdin’s cameo ensured there were no late drama.

The GAW bowlers were

Javon Searles (R) of Trinbago Knight Riders celebrates the dismissal of Jason Mohammed (L)

118-3. It was Permaul’s first over of the match and the wicket came too late with just 42 more runs needed for TKR to book their right to play St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots in Saturday’s final.

Captain Dwayne Bravo was stumped shortly after but

not backed up sufficiently by their fielders with Rashid Khan being the most threatening of the six bowlers used.

Earlier, Singh and Primus helped the GAW to a respectable 159-6 after they were reduced to 92-4. They joined forces in the 15th over

when Jason Mohammed was snapped up at extra cover off Searles. The pair then took charge of the GAW innings with some savage hitting and purposeful running.

Singh who started cautiously eventually hit three maximums and a four from his 25 delivers while Primus who batted to the end hit four fours and a six from the 18 balls he faced.

Narine who got the initial breakthrough finished with 2-21 from his quota of four overs while Beaton who dismissed Singh and Assad Fudadin off consecutive deliveries in the final over was expensive for his two scalps.

The match started in beautiful weather in front of a sea of red when the GAW were sent in by DJ Bravo.

The three-time finalist were kept quiet with steady bowling from TKR with nice support from the fielders. Their inform batsmen Chadwick Walton and Luke Ronchi were not allowed to free their arm like they were doing and at the end of the Power Play they were 33-1 with Tanveer in the hut already.

Just before the midpoint of the innings, Ronchi lost his leg stump and the Warriors were 67-2 after 10 overs. The visitors were suddenly in a spot of both-

er when Walton was smartly stumped after clearing the ropes three times and Jason Mohammed pushed a slower ball in the air for Yasir Shah, on debut, to take a dolly.

Thanks to Singh and Primus the Guyana Amazon Warriors rattled up 92 from the second 10 overs in compiling 159-6 which was not enough to silence the crowd and earn the GAW a place in their fourth final in the fiveyear history of CPL.

The Brian Lara stadium will see new champions being crowned after Jamaica Tallawahs were eliminated by the Guyana Amazon Warriors in eliminator one on Wednesday. The St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots who beat TKR in the first qualifier will be looking to captain Chris Gayle who is yet to lose a CPL final to take them to a maiden title while TKR will be hinting their second silverware.

SCOREBOARD

Guyana Amazon Warriors - 159/6(20.0 overs) C Walton st Ramdin b Narine 37 S Tanvir lbw Narine 8 L Ronchi † b Bravo 23 J Mohammed c Shah b Searl es 10 G Singh b Beaton 39 R Primus Not out 35 A Fudadin c Cooper b Beaton 0 R Emrit * Not out Extras: (4 wd,3 lb)7 Total: (6 wickets, 20 overs)159 Did not bat : S Jacobs, V Permaul, R Khan Fall of wickets : 1-18 (S Tanvir,3.1), 2-65 (L Ronchi,9.3), 3-73 (C Walton,10.2), 4-92 (J Mohammed,14.1), 5-157 (G Singh,19.4), 6-157 (A Fudadin,19.5) BOWLING R Beaton30-2 D Christian30-0 K Cooper18-0

S Narine 21-2 D Bravo 26-1 Y Shah 21-0 J Searles 10-1

Trinbago Knight Riders - 160/4(18.0 overs) S Narine lbw Tanvir 0 C Munro Not out 57 H Tariq c Ronchi b Emrit 10 DM Bravo c Walton b Permaul43 DJ Bravo * st Ronchi b Khan 11 D Ramdin † Not out 18 Extras (11 wd,6 lb,4 B,) 21 Total (4 wickets, 18 overs) 160 Yet To Bat : D Christian, Y Shah, J Searles, K Cooper, R Beaton Fall of wickets : 1-0 (S Narine,0.1), 2-33 (H Tariq,4.4), 3-118 (DM Bravo,13.3), 4-133 (DJ Bravo,15.1) BOWLING : S Tanvir 26-1 S Jacobs 42-0 R Khan 23-1 R Emrit 25-1 R Primus 16-0 V Permaul 18-1

England 4 down in response to West Indies’ 123 W

Roston Chase was bowled by an unplayable delivery from Ben Stokes ©Getty Images

est Indies bounced back in style from a poor showing with the bat to rip through England's top order.

England collapsed to 46-4 as Ben Stokes' fine outing with the ball was overshadowed by the failings of the hosts' top order against a resurgent West Indies.

A total of 14 wickets fell on a remarkable opening day of the third Test at Lord's, with Stokes the destroyer-in-chief for England as the tourists were skittled for 123.

The vice-captain returned career-best figures of 6-22 to seemingly put Joe Root's side in command, but the start of their reply was abysmal.

Windies duo Kemar Roach and Jason Holder took two wickets apiece, accounting for Mark Stoneman (1), Alastair Cook (10), Tom Westley (8) and the prized scalp of skipper Root (1).

England were spared further damage by the onset of bad light, leaving the final match of the series finely poised.

An unchanged Windies won the toss and chose to bat first on a green pitch, with Root conceding he was not sure what he would have done given the choice.

James Anderson struck early to account for Kraigg Brathwaite for 10,

a regulation nick through to Jonny Bairstow giving the England seamer his 498th Test wicket.

After a brief rain delay he moved to just one shy of a historic 500, with Bairstow taking an excellent diving catch to dismiss Kyle Hope, who failed to score.

Toby Roland-Jones, in for Chris Woakes, took Shai Hope (29) and Jermaine Blackwood (1) out of the equation, with Stokes having got rid of Windies' top scorer Kieran Powell for 39 in between.

That trio of wickets left the visitors floundering on 87-5 and things only got worse once Stokes hit his stride.

The Durham all-rounder took centre stage by cleaning up the lower order, as Roston Chase (18) and Shane Dowrich fell in the 44th over.

Holder (9) was his next victim, while Roach and Shannon Gabriel fell in consecutive balls without adding to the total.

England's response did not start well, though, Stoneman wafting at one from Roach to get out caught behind.

Cook also fell having ticked over to 10 runs, while there was still time for Westley and Root to be sent back to the pavilion as the hosts somehow closed the day on the back foot. (Sportsmax)

Ben Stokes walks off after his career-best six-wicket haul ©Getty Images

SCOREBOARD

West Indies 1st innings K Brathwaite c Bairstow b Anderson 10 K Powell c&b Stokes 39 K Hope c Bairstow b Anderson 0 S Hope c Cook b Roland-Jones29 R Chase b Stokes 18 J Blackwood b Roland-Jones 1 S Dowrich c Cook b Stokes 1 J Holder b Stokes 9 D Bishoo not out 13 K Roach c Anderson b Stokes 0 S Gabriel b Stokes 0 Extras (lb-1 nb-2)3 Total (all out, 57.3 overs) 123 Fall of wickets: 1-18 K. Brathwaite,2-22 K. Hope,3-78 S. Hope,4-78 K. Powell,5-87 J. Blackwood,6-100 R. Chase,7-101 S. Dowrich,8-119 J. Holder,9-123 K. Roach,10-123 S. Gabriel Bowling : Anderson 16 - 7 - 31 –

2, Broad 12 - 5 - 24 – 0, RolandJones 11 - 4 - 32 – 2, Stokes 14.3 - 6 - 22 - 6(nb-2), Ali 4 - 0 - 13 - 0 England 1st innings A Cook c Dowrich b Roach 10 M Stoneman c Dowrich b Roa ch 1 T Westley lbw b Holder 8 J Root c K. Powell b Holder 1 D Malan not out 13 B Stokes not out 13 Extras 0 Total (for 4 wickets, 19 overs) 46 Fall of wickets: 1-1 M. Stoneman,2-15 A. Cook,319 T. Westley,4-24 J. Root To bat: J. Bairstow, M. Ali, T. Roland-Jones, S. Broad, J. Anderson Bowling: Roach 8 - 3 - 21 – 2, Gabriel 5 - 1 - 7 – 0, Holder 6 - 1 - 18 - 2

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2017

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