Guuyana chronicle e paper 03 22 2018 by Guyana Chronicle

WPA better 10 in coalition, says Dr Roopnaraine PAGE

‘Don't tear it up’ No. 105221

THURSDAY, MARCH 22, 2018

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...economist warns of damning consequences if Exxon contract is scrapped ...predicts better second deal, encourages new players 03 PAGE

‘It is now the South’s turn’ 09 PAGE

…President upbeat about South America’s tourism potential

NBS officials charged with wrongful 19 confinement PAGE

Man, 53, to stand trial for raping 14 toddler PAGE

Oil must benefit all

PAGE

– President Granger lays out vision for oil and gas sector President David Granger engages two top oil and gas experts, from left, Professor Sir Paul Collier and Professor Matt Andrews during a ministerial caucus on natural resource management at State House on Wednesday (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

Oil must benefit all 2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

– President Granger lays out vision for oil and gas sector GUYANA has to “walk on two legs”, said President David Granger, as he drove home the point for preservation of the Green State and ensuring that oil production benefits current and future generations. He expressed these sentiments at the opening of a special high-level Cabinet caucus on oil at State House on Tuesday. “We need to educate ourselves as a Cabinet, as

a government and as a population as a whole, to take a sober approach to the exploitation of this valuable resource. We need to create the organisation, the structure that will manage this resource,” the President said. He added: “This is going to be the single largest industry in Guyana…. We need to ensure that our resources are mobilised, so that every Guyanese understands the importance of petroleum… We have to

fellow of St Antony’s College, Oxford. The Oxford University Economics professor commended President Granger for his vision for the impending oil-and-gas sector, specifically the plan for establishment of the Sovereign Wealth Fund. Trusteeship and prudent management, Sir Paul noted, are indicators that the gov-

and failed. Guyana can learn from the experiences of these countries, Sir Paul emphasised, noting that good decision-making rests on a foundation of rules, institutions, a critical mass of informed citizens and an authorising environment. He added that education is a priority area for building the sector and listed skilled people, electricity and good connectivity as practical suggestions to ensure the sector’s viability.

to speak a new language, a lingua franca, so to speak and all together at the same time and to be able to communicate that effectively,” he said. The event is facilitated by Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs, through its New Producers Group. Speakers at the high-level forum are Sir Paul Collier; Sir Shridath Ramphal, Caribbean statesman and International Advisor; Eric

Sir Paul Collier, Professor of Economics, Oxford University making his presentation at the caucus

understand that this industry from the start is Guyanese.” Also critical, the President said, is investment in education, development of administration and legislation to protect Guyanese from the adverse aspects of exploitation of the oil resource. The high-level forum was also addressed by Sir Paul Collier, professor of Economics and Public Policy in the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford. He is also a director of the International Growth Centre, the director of the Centre for the Study of African Economies, and a

From right - H.E. David Granger, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Hon. Carl Greenidge, Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sir Shridath Ramphal, Caribbean Statesman and Advisor and Hon. Raphael Trotman, Minister of Natural Resources

ernment has begun on the ‘right foot’ in relation to its preparatory measures. He also advised the government that the oil-and-gas sector revenues be transformed into assets for future economic development. STRONG FOUNDATION According to Sir Paul, transforming oil, gas and mineral wealth into sustainable development requires a complete chain of economic decisions and strong foundations of good governance. In the local context, the expert said, these decisions span a number of ministries, each having a role to play in the process. Guyana, he noted, has a unique opportunity of ‘getting it right’ by employing a simple strategy of how the money accrued will be utilised for creating jobs and other opportunities for its people. He cited the example of Norway and Britain, with Norway investing in assets and having a successful industry, while Britain did not

Volatility, obsolescence and depletion are key areas for consideration, Sir Paul said. Due to price volatility, he is advising that the country invest in liquid assets that are not correlated with the commodity or the economy, since their value will depreciate over time. Communicating with citizens is a key component in the process and Collier urged that the government build consensus and harness a common sense of purpose to ensure success of the new industry. In all of this, he said, fostering an atmosphere of transparency is also critical. ROAD MAP Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman explained that the sessions seek to develop a roadmap for the government, in preparation for oil production in 2020. “We need a synthesis of ideas that form themselves into a practical and attainable plan of action. We need as well the ability

Parrado, former Manager of the Sovereign Wealth Fund of Chile; Ambassador Patrick Duddy, Lecturer, Duke University; Dr Valerie Marcel, Chatham House Fellow; Professor Matthew Andrews, Harvard, Kennedy School of Government; Professor Peter Harrington, Harvard, Kennedy School of Government; Patrick Heller, Advisor, Natural Resource Governance Institute; and Dr Paloma Mohamed, University of Guyana. The caucus is expected to lead to further similar engagements in a scheduled and programmatic way in the months ahead. The government’s objective is to move preparations to a deeper level of engagement on issues such as prioritising spending on infrastructure, agriculture and social programmes, inter-generational savings, geo-political considerations, legal and institutional strengthening, benefit-sharing and engagement and involvement of the people of Guyana, to name a few.

Dont tear it up 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

...economist warns of damning consequences if Exxon contract is scrapped ...predicts better second deal, encourages new players

PROFESSOR Sir Paul Collier has warned against tearing up the ExxonMobil contract, saying that such a move would spell disaster for the country’s burgeoning oil-and-gas industry. Speaking yesterday at an information session for journalists at the Pegasus Hotel, Collier, an economist, said that even though the contract might have issues, it is still a reasonable contract. Accompanying Sir Paul was distinguished Guyanese diplomat Sir Shridath Ramphal. Both men were among a panel of international experts who participated in a Cabinet Caucus earlier in the day on Guyana’s oil-and gas-future. “As far as I could see, you got a reasonable deal,” said Collier, who made it clear that he does not have all of the information possible for him to make a qualified judgment on the merits of the contract. “This is the first licence…there will be other licences,” he said. Collier noted that now is the time

Sir Paul Collier (left) and Sir Shridath Ramphal

to get other operators in and said that subsequent contracts will be better. “I think that as far as I could see you got a reasonable deal,” he said. “The next deal you get will be better than the first, the third deal will be better than the second. I suggest you use this as an opportunity to do some more licences. I think that should be the game plan,” he said. “What would be absolutely disastrous is tearing this contract up. If you tear this contract up, nobody else will come,” he said. Collier

said that governments have to establish credibility over the contracts they sign. “And if the first contract you sign you tear up in a couple of years, you’re dead,” he said. He believes that the cost-recovery structure, though criticised by some, actually works to Guyana’s advantage as it means the country will reap a greater share of the production in a few short years after costs have been recovered. The contract with ExxonMobil has a cost-recovery percentage of 75 per cent. “So the first four years or so you

don’t get so much money and then you get quite a lot more. You still have to work Sir Collier said that despite the “snakeoil” messages being peddled by some persons, people will still have to earn their living by working, even with the country becoming an oil producer. “Will you still have to work? Yes. Is this big enough to make a decisive difference for your children? If you use it well, yes. This is the biggest historic opportunity that this society has ever faced. I suspect that it

is the biggest opportunity that you will face in any of your lifetimes. So getting it right is really important,” said Collier. Unequally matched Collier believes indeed that Guyana is unequally matched against the likes of ExxonMobil in terms of resources and technical and legal expertise. However, he noted that this is not unique to Guyana, adding that while a government may have a few lawyers at their service, a company such as ExxonMobil may have a battery of about 700. “I don’t pretend that it is an even struggle. What you have got to do is build capacity to scrutinise what they pay in tax. Don’t assume that you can just trust them to pay the right amount,” he warned. “Build a specialist team in monitoring,” he said, citing the example of Norway which has a team of 40 tax revenue collection professionals. “You don’t need as many as 40, you need some, who can learn gradually the intrica-

cies of the industry,” he said. ‘You have a duty to defend your institutions’ Collier said that stakeholders such as journalists must defend the institutions which periodically come under attack. “You need to build a critical mass of citizens in the country who understand why oil-rich countries need distinctive institutions which manage that money, and defend those institutions,” he urged. Sir Paul is Professor of Economics and Public Policy at the Blavatnik School of Government and a Professorial Fellow of St Antony’s College. Sir Paul has written for the New York Times, the Financial Times, the Wall Street Journal, and the Washington Post. He has researched the causes and consequences of civil war; the effects of aid and the problems of democracy in low-income and natural-resources-rich societies, among others. He is an expert thinker on the “resource curse.”

Linden mother died of kidney failure – LHC internal probe finds By Vanessa Braithwaite THE Linden Hospital Complex has completed its internal investigation into the maternal death of 41-yearold Jennifer Gill which took place on Monday evening and it is affirmed that she died of kidney failure as a result of haemorrhaging. The haemorrhaging was caused by a blood disorder called blood dyscrasia which is a condition of the blood not clotting fast enough. At a press conference on Wednesday, Public Relations Officer, Toshanna Allicock, said that Gill started haemorrhaging after giving birth on Saturday evening and after efforts to stop the bleeding proved futile, a decision was made to perform a hysterectomy. It was during surgery that she experienced a hypovolemic shock. This is a condition that results when you lose more than 20 percent of your body’s blood or fluid supply.

This severe fluid loss makes it impossible for the heart to pump a sufficient amount of blood to your body and this can lead to organ failure. After the surgery, the hospital explained that the woman was placed in the Intensive Care Unit where she subsequently went into a cardo respiratory arrest and resuscitation was attempted, but proved futile. She died at 20:30 hrs on Monday. “Ms Gill was treated by expert doctors from the time she entered into our care to the very end. The immediate family was updated on her condition throughout her time with us. I hold firm that our institution is equipped with competent and compassionate doctors who aim to deliver the best quality care to our community,” Allicock said. Explaining further was Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Mohammed Riyasat, who said that Gill was never prepared for a C-section as asserted by family members

CEO of LHC Dr. Mohammed Riyasat and PRO, Ms Toshanna Allicock

who claimed that a C-section was not done because of the absence of doctors. “When the patient arrived the doctor was on site. The doctor did evaluate the patient and that doctor initiated the call for the consultant who arrived at 9:40 and by the time she was here, she did another evaluation and the patient was fully dilated which means that she was ready to deliver. This patient delivered with no problem; bouncing baby and that was okay, but half of an hour after then the nurse noticed that she started getting a little bleeding and then it started again and the doctor said something is wrong with this patient and there the doctor

made a decision to take out the uterus. The patient was normal and talking and everything,” Riyasat explained. While this was done, all the necessary medication was given during this post-delivery situation. It was in the theatre that the complications arose because of a blood disorder called blood dyscrasia. “She was bleeding faster than the blood was clotting. What you found is that the blood got thinner and when the kidneys sensed that there was not much oxygen flowing through in the blood, it starts shutting down. When she came out and was sent to the ICU, she wasn’t passing any urine. Until the next day

she wasn’t passing any urine and, as a result of the kidney failing and the loss of blood, she died.” During this 48-hour period, the team of doctors including specialists, consultants and surgeons, remained with her and was updating the family members on her progress and they were also allowed to see her, the CEO said. Medical Superintendent Remeeza McDonald said that it was only on her way to the theatre that the patient related that she had a blood disorder and experienced haemorrhaging during her delivery 20 years ago. The normal clotting and bleeding tests that were done, Riyasat explained, could not have picked up her disorder. “If a C-section was done, the patient would have died before. In this case there were no criteria for a caesarean. If a patient has a blood disorder with a clotting problem and you go and put knife on her, she would not have lasted as long as she lasted,” the CEO said.

Jennifer Gill

A post-mortem examination was scheduled to be conducted on Wednesday but was postponed as family members are pressing for an independent person to witness the post-mortem from overseas. Riyasat said that the hospital will now put stricter systems in place to make sure that patients’ medical history are known before hand while having closer collaboration with the medical staff at the health centres and the medical staff at the hospital. It has been nine years since LHC recorded a maternal death.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday March 22, 2018

Friends, family recount life of Compton Speirs -- during Lindo Creek CoI outreach at Meten-Meer-Zorg

By Svetlana Marshall CHAIRMAN of the Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (CoI) Justice (ret’d) Donald Trotman has assured the people of MetenMeer-zorg that they will not be left out in the dark when the commission completes its work. The CoI was established by President David Granger to investigate the circumstances surrounding the killing of Cecil Arokium, Dax

Massacre at the end of the inquiry. With a sense of frustration, Khan pointed out to those present that the findings of the Walter Rodney Commission are yet to be made public. Reference was also made to the Bartica Massacre and the Lusignan Massacre. “You take it from me, you will hear something about this, the Lindo Creek

FOUGHT BACK TEARS “He was more than an uncle, he was a father, a brother and an uncle,” Fileen said, as she fought back the tears. Though it is almost 10 years since her uncle was killed, along with seven other miners, Fileen said it remains Justice Donald Trotman encouraging persons with information on the Lindo Creek Massacre to come forward (Adrian Narine photo)

Oswald Grey

Arokium, Horace Drakes, Bonny Harry, Lancelot Lee, Compton Speirs, Nigel Torres and Clifton Berry Wong, whose charred remains were discovered at Lindo Creek in the Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice Region on June 21, 2008. On Wednesday, the commission hosted its second public outreach at MetenMeer-Zorg -- the home village of Compton Speirs. Scores of relatives and friends turned out at the West Community Ground as they search for answers and reflect on the life of Speirs. Sadeek ‘Shad’ Khan, a friend of the deceased, while applauding the work of the Trotman-led commission, questioned what action would be taken against those found responsible for the Lindo Creek

ton Speirs, who stepped in as father to her and her sister.

Omdatt Singh, Compton Speirs’ neighbour

Inquiry… My immediate concern is the Lindo Creek Inquiry and you will definitely be hearing something about it, at the end of it,” Justice Trotman told Khan in response to his concerns. Omdatt Singh, Compton Speirs’ neighbour, said he too needs answers. “I know him since he was a young person. We had a really good relationship and I am very much disturbed about the things

I have heard that happened at Lindo Creek… I feel hurt because how could someone like my good neighbour Compton Speirs be killed in such a brutal and barbaric manner…I would certainly like to know what took place there [at Lindo Creek], why were these people killed,” Singh stated. Justice Trotman again gave the assurance that the public will be informed of the outcome of the inquiry when it is completed. Rhonda Fileen was among relatives that described Speirs as a loving and selfless individual. Fileen told the commission when her parents and grandmother died, it was her uncle, Comp-

Sadeek ‘Shad’ Khan

fresh in the hearts of his family. “That morning was very hard; when I mean hard only God knows… when that man came and said your uncle dead… it was very hard and still is hard for our family, onto today,” she said. Fileen said the pain is even greater knowing that they were not given the opportunity to bid final goodbye to their uncle. “Even if we had gotten at least one piece of bone and say this was your uncle, we

would have been satisfied to know we have something to go and say this is what we have,” she lamented. Speirs’ 80-year-old sister Carmen Gittens, questioned the reason behind the killing as she broke down in tears, saying that her brother was a good and decent citizen. GOD IS IN CONTROL “When I got the news of my brother’s death, I said God, what, I prefer if he had [got] sick and died, but to get such a cruel death like this, but God is in control and God is in control of every situation.” Merlyn Sullivan said her son was only nine years when he lost his father. Though it has been a struggle, Sullivan has remained strong for her son. Oswald Grey, who shared a good friendship with Speirs before his demise, cried for justice. “This country is one of the most peaceful countries around the world but justice, justice…. Something happened… and we want justice,” he demanded. Grey said though it may appear that “lies have overshadowed truth”, the truth must prevail. Meanwhile, Justice Trotman, in his opening remarks encouraged persons with information surrounding the Lindo Creek Massacre to come forward and/or submit statements. He noted that in-camera hearings are conducted with persons who express an unwillingness to be heard publicly. He also noted that the commission will raise awareness of its work. Region Three Information Officer Ganesh Mahipaul rejected claims that Wednesday’s outreach had not been widely publicised in and around Meten-MeerZorg. Mahipaul said though the CoI should be embraced by all regardless of political affiliation, there were forces telling persons not to attend the outreach or participate in public hearings. Mahipaul and Justice Trotman called on all persons to reject such negativity, and urged that full support be given to the commission.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday March 22, 2018

GPF gets 98 recruits

Assistant Commissioner of Police Nigel Hoppie (second from left) inspects the recruits (Adrian Narine photo)

THE human resource capacity of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) has been

boosted with 98 recruits who officially became members of the force after

Guyana recommits to protecting its forest Today Guyana joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Day of Forests and President David Granger says this global celebration provides a platform to raise awareness on the importance of all types of woodlands and trees and celebrate the ways in which they sustain and protect us. In a message President Granger says Guyana embraces this year’s theme ‘Forests and Sustainable Cities.’ “Forests and trees store carbon, which helps to mitigate the effects of climate change in and around urban areas. Guyana is the largest State in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Its forests cover more than 85 percent of its landmass. Guyana is a net carbon sink. More than 80 percent of our country is covered by forests, which are the habitat of some of world’s rarest and most unique flora and fauna.” According to Mr Granger

Guyana, through its ‘green’ development agenda will spare no effort to protect its natural patrimony and contribute to both a sustainable future and to an effective global response to climate change. Guyana with the world’s second highest percentage of tropical rainforest cover, is part of the Guiana Shield, an area spread over 2.7 million square kilometres. The ‘Shield’, described as the “lungs of the Earth” and the “greenhouse of the world” is a global resource because of the environmental services it provides. He said Guyana remains committed to protecting its forests and to working with its neighbours to ensure the sustainable management of the natural resources of the Shield and is prepared to sustainably manage, conserve and protect our diverse eco-system and place our ecological resources at the service of humanity.

a passing-out parade at the Tactical Services Unit Square on Thursday. They were immediately informed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Nigel Hoppie of their duty to serve and the high public expectations of them. “You are expected to always display professionalism and dedication that are necessary for the execution

of your duties and remember the oath that you took, to serve and protect the citizens of the country,” he said. Assistant Commissioner Hoppie believes the recruits are more than capable of executing their duties, because they were able to successfully complete the challenging four-month period of training. He urged them to be pro-

Thurday, March 22, 2018 - 5:00hrs

active in their work. “It is becoming more evident that [the] traditional reactive style of policing does not effectively contain criminals in a society that is changing rapidly… the qualities you achieved will prove to be invaluable to your work, but you however require continuous training to improve and strengthen your diverse abilities,” said

Hoppie, as he urged the recruits to resist temptation and remain honest. During the training, the recruits were instructed in a number of areas, including communication skills, anger management and self-defence. The outstanding ranks of the programme were recognised for their efforts.

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday March 22, 2018

UN Day against racism ANOTHER United Nations Day against Racial Discrimination has just been observed, with its theme, “Promoting tolerance, inclusion, unity and respect for diversity in the context of combating racial discrimination.’’ There would have been many statements and resolutions, from many organisations, both governmental and non-governmental, acknowledging the reality of this peril, as well as pledging further action for change to a system that continues to plague the existence of mankind. One would have thought that the example of Nazi Germany’s Hitlerite racist ideology that resulted in the systematic mass genocide of six million Jews during the World War; the deliberate, brutal mass elimination of a reported mostly 800,000 Tutsis by a Hutu majority government in 1994; or the iniquitous system of Apartheid in South Africa, enforced by the then racist minority white government against the majority African population, would have served as a grim reminder to the world of the evils of racism. One can add also the Srebrenica Massacre that accounted for the execution of 8,000 mostly Muslim men and boys in 1995, during the Bosnian civil war; and even as recent as 2017, when over 600,000 Rohingya Muslims were brutally forced to flee their Myanmar homeland, from a two-pronged attack by government troops and Buddhist monks. These have been just a few unadulterated, graphical examples, recorded and well known to mankind throughout history, and recently, of man-on-man brutal behaviour, driven by the blindness of racism. It is most unbelievable that given those chilling instances of murderous brutality, nurtured and led by now categorised some of history’s infamous leaders, that racism and racial discrimination has continued unabated, so much so that it is perhaps second to climate change as a threat to international peace and stability. Racism is a man-made social construct that theorises superior and inferior attributes of people, based on their race

and colour of skin. It had long been propagated by social scientists, beginning in the 19th century. However, it has since been disproven and discredited, while unsupported by any valid scientific evidence. Yet, it has continued to be used and employed as a powerful weapon that fosters hatred of others. Racism has become so entrenched in many regions of the world, that it is now a serious threat to minorities, their human rights, and to public order. But there are some factors which ought to be known about an ideology that does not add to advancement of the universality of man, the better understanding and well-being of each other, while in the end becoming inherently destructive wherever it resides. First, the practice of racism and racial discrimination is undemocratic, since its deceptive precepts take away the rights of others, thus threatening the culture of the society in which it exists. Second, because of its well-planned strategy of deliberate marginalisation, which is a denial of equal opportunities, racism removes the means for working together, and being able to make a collective contribution to the national good, where all can benefit. Third, because of the oppressive nature of racism and its practice, it is a form of imposition, diminishing and even denying the human rights of the group(s) targeted. This can only lead to deep-seated resentment, and an environment that is not conducive to co-existence. Guyana, for all of its modern political history, has been bogged by the racial challenge that has led to the inability of realising its true potential. It has been a coveted goal that has eluded us as a people and nation and is indispensable for its future advancement. This, no doubt, would have greatly influenced President David Granger in establishing the cabinet office of the Ministry of Social Cohesion, thereby taking the responsibility as national leader in sounding the clarion call for a united people and country. This concept is one that allows for, among other things,

national conversations, recognising that although there is cultural diversity, there are similarities that bind us as a people. It is instructive to note, that the Ethnic Relations commission (ERC) has been re-constituted, after an absence of three years. As a constitutional body, enacted by way of Constitutional Amendment Act, 2000, it has the task of fostering better relations among Guyanese, among other seminal functions. Its role will be very critical, particularly given the background of the sad experience of the last two decades, as well as taking into consideration the fact that Guyana is now poised on the frontier of an oil-and-gas future, with Guyanese finally in a position to reap the benefits of one of its untapped sources of wealth. All nations, and their peoples that are afflicted by the scourge of racism and wicked arm of intolerance, must pay heed to Articles 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which unambiguously state that all humans are born free and equal in dignity and rights, and 2, that everyone is entitled to rights and freedoms, irrespective of race. Racism and racial discrimination in any form are a blight and a burden on any nation in which it is perpetrated. It must consistently be condemned, particularly by political leaders who must understand their role in joining together to defeat a beast that some continue to nurture, as a means of fostering fear among their constituents for political support, and other narrow, selfish ends. Any leader who fails in giving such support stands condemned.

Realistic and workable solutions are needed Dear Editor , REGIONAL Executive Officer of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Ms Kim Stephens, is reported in the March 19, 2018 edition of Stabroek News, during her remarks at the ceremony to honour the Rose Hall Martyrs on March 13, 2018, as saying “… that severed sugar workers are ‘timid and afraid’ of diversification”. Ms Stephens went on, according to the Stabroek News, to say “We were told of diversification that

we can have because of the fertile land, not to mention our human resources that we have, capable, skilled human resources.” The GAWU finds Ms Stephens’ remarks unfortunate. Nevertheless, maybe she could spell out the diversification opportunities to which she referred. As recent history has shown that at Wales the planned and heavily promoted diversification activities, such as in the previous attempt by GuySuCo, turned out to be a miserable and utter failure. We recall the Guyana

Times recently reporting that the canefields converted for seed paddy cultivation, at high costs, were being slowly overtaken by bushes, seeming to indicate that those plans have been abandoned. In fact, as far as we are aware, nothing is going on at Wales and we read recently that the houses that were used by managerial personnel are up for sale. Bearing those factors in mind, one can understand workers’ apprehension. As they say once bitten, twice shy. It is always easy to say something, but bringing it

to reality is a completely different matter. The Wales experience is an excellent case in point. To move in the direction as being advocated by Ms Stephens is a substantial undertaking, which has several and many important factors that must be addressed. Simply to tell workers to take up lands and plant as they see fit cannot be deemed, in anyway, as a realistic solution. The Stabroek News article also referred to remarks made by Minister of Social Cohesion, George Norton, during the activity. Minis-

ter Norton is quoted by the Stabroek News to have said “[a]s Guyanese, we need to stand firmly to guard against injustices…”. Indeed they are inspiring words by the minister, but also most ironic at the same time. While the minister speaks about guarding against injustices, he must be reminded that the government of which he is a part has committed probably the gravest injustice against the people of Canje when they decided to shut down Rose Hall Estate and affected the well-being of thousands of ordinary

Guyanese. As the sad situation in the communities of Skeldon, Rose Hall, East Demerara and Wales grows dire by the day, the hollow rhetoric brings little relief and reprieve to the suffering that has gripped the people. Today, realistic and workable solutions are needed and moving in the reverse gear is the best remedy. Regards Seepaul Narine General-Secretary GAWU

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday March 22, 2018

Bring back ‘hard labour’ jail sentences

Dear Editor,

I BELIEVE it is fair comment to say that, in recent times, Guyana has been affected by crime and the situation is getting worse every day. As I see it, this is because present-day prison sentences are no longer a deterrent to criminals. Instead, jails seem to be universities of crime, where criminals go in and come out as better criminals. Therefore, I think it is time to think about reintroducing old-fashioned jail time with ‘hard labour’ and make going to jail the punitive measure it is supposed to be. There was a time in Guyana when the courts used to sentence persons convicted of violent crimes to jail with “hard labour” and, sometimes, such convicts would also be sentenced to get a specified amount of “strokes”, meaning lashes with a ‘cat o’nine tails’ whip. If one compares the level of crime in those days to what is happening now, it is easy to see that Guyana was a much more lawful society then than it is today. So we need to stop doing what does not work and go back to what worked. Guyana got into the current crime situation because it was quietly pressured by powerful international lobbyists to adopt the values of the developed western world and rid its justice system of what liberals call ‘cruel and unusual punishments’. So Guyana stopped sentencing serious criminals to jail with hard labour, stopped giving them strokes and stopped executing them. Gradually, sentencing criminals became more about rehabilitating them than punishing them. And look at what has happened! It is clear to me that differ-

ent nations need to do different things to control crime, because each country’s crime situation is unique. There is no “one-size-fitsall” policy; the measures any nation takes to fight crime must be based on its unique crime situation, the resources available to fight crime, plus multiple social, economic, cultural and religious variables that are peculiar to that country and no other. Therefore, Guyana has to look for crime-fighting policies that fit Guyana. This nation is going through tough times with crime -- tough times require tough solutions. What we need to do is re-examine the old punishments for crime that worked for us in the past to see how we can modify them and bring them back in a way that takes into account reasonable concerns about prisoners’ rights. The University of Guyana is churning out Sociology and psychology graduates; get them involved in this process and let’s find ways to reintroduce, at least, hard labour as a punitive measure against crime. I believe the spate of breakouts from our jails and other problems caused by slackness in dealing with prisoners can be dealt with more effectively by giving hardened criminals sentences with hard labour to teach prisoners the value of hard work. There are too many idle prisoners in our jails getting up to mischief. Are we focusing too much on rehabilitation and not enough on punishment? I believe they should be put to do hard work as punishment and to deter others from committing crimes. It is expensive to feed the prisoners, clothe them, provide them with medical care, train them and secure them, all for nothing in return.

Don’t get me wrong; I believe in rehabilitation. But counselling, boxing, weight-lifting and sleeping are not enough for effective rehabilitation and certainly do not contribute to their upkeep, which is being completely financed by the state. I was once involved in monthly motivational seminars for prisoners and I would witness the prisoners running away when it was time for boxing classes. It is important and ultimately beneficial for prisoners to channel their energies positively, while simultaneously contributing to their upkeep. Guyana has a lot of public works that could benefit from properly organised, easily available prison labour. If you do the research, you will see that prison labour makes an enormous contribution to the economies of nations such as America. Of course, there are penal labour laws that prevent cruel or unusual punishment and ensure safety and health standards. In fact, prisoners are paid for their labour and contribute to their maintenance in jail, child support and restitution to the victims of crime. I believe that putting prisoners to do hard labour will not only provide a human resource pool for public works that other labourers are unwilling or unable to do. Psychiatric treatment and counselling alone are not enough; hard work and forced discipline would help restore order to persons with dysfunctional or anti-social personalities. Besides this, hard labour can provide inmates with useful work skills if it is properly administered by prison authorities. We can do it in a way that makes criminals have a better chance to be employed on their release from prison. Many advocates of prison labour

point out that hard labour can be incredibly useful for rehabilitation, because it promotes general health and physical fitness, it relieves the boredom of prison routines, it leaves less time for wrongdoing and idle pursuits, and that it helps to instil in criminals’ minds the pride and self-reliance necessary to life outside prison. I do not in any way mean to suggest that Guyana should simply go back to the system of hard labour that was in place decades ago; that would be foolish. We live in a much more advanced society and we have more data at our fingertips. We need to research hard-labour programmes in the outside world that were successful, in which prisoners were reformed, got useful work skills and were reintegrated successfully into society. Then we can use this data to craft a system that suits our capacity and needs. Anyone who does research on hard labour in prisons will find a heap of information about how it was done in cruel and inhumane ways in different nations throughout history. I am certain people could even dig up horror stories about hard labour or flogging in Guyana’s history. That is why a lot of people think it is draconian and want to do away with it. My point is: since we know what the issues and challenges were in the past, can’t we use this data to create a better hard- labour system that works for us? Some argue that hard labour in prisons is not voluntary and therefore it is like slave labour. I do not agree. By being convicted of serious crimes, persons are punished by losing their right to freedom, their right to vote and a whole set of personal rights. What is wrong with them being punished by being compelled to do hard work and by

them losing the right to refuse to do it? I strongly believe that persons who do the crime must do the time, as society sees fit. I do believe Guyana should adopt a sensible approach and make sure prison labour is not used in a way that provides unfair competition to legitimate employers or drives down the pay of certain workers in the economy. These are valid concerns, but it is well within the capacity of this nation’s leaders and people to design and activate a prison ‘hard-labour’ system that punishes serious criminals appropriately, serves as a deterrent to others and has caveats against abuse and other negatives. Given all the external influences on Guyana at this time, it might be hard to reintroduce flogging in prisons or hang murderers. But it would be much easier to reintroduce prison sentences with hard labour, albeit with appropriate checks and balances in place. At the very least, this is the time to start thinking about it. I expect much critique on the above and that is understandable; but desperate times call for serious but wise thought and actions. I hope to create a respectable debate out of which will come out great ideas to help our prisoners who hurt and kill and repeatedly steal. We need them to learn to respect life and to value others as they value themselves. They need to learn to feed themselves and appreciate the value of hard work. We are engulfed by crime; we have to find effective ways to deter crime, even if we have to resort to “an old time something come back again”. Regards Roshan Khan

Berbice cricket is rising

Dear Editor

cricket clubs are being formed in villages that had abandoned the game because of frustration. Over the last few years, very few cricket tournaments were played at the inter-club levels and the two that were held were poorly organised with no proper fixtures, no rules and to make matters worse, the Berbice Cricket Board was unable to attract any sponsor. What a difference, a month only and the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) is now preparing to host inter-club tournaments at the Under-15, Under-17, Under-19, Under-21, Female Second Division 20/20 and 40-overs, intermediate and first-division levels. Each of these tournaments has been sponsored, while the board has also announced sponsorship for a Berbice-wide coaching programme. Additionally,

funding has also been secured for cricket tournaments in the Upper Corentyne and Berbice River subzones. Sponsorship for school cricket has also been secured. The BCB has also honoured the winning Berbice Under-15 team and went out of its way to make sure that Shemron Hetmyer, Veerasammy Permaul, Anthony Bramble and Romario Shepherd felt like heroes for making Berbice proud. I am very confident that by the middle of 2018, Berbice cricket would once again be the envy of the Caribbean and that every Berbician would be proud to be associated with it. One of the most striking features of the new board is its willingness to listen to clubs by organising facethe-public meetings and hosting callin television programmes. The new president has promised to administer

Berbice Cricket in a fair, transparent and accountable way. Instructions have been given to the treasurer to make the financial records of the BCB available for clubs. I would like to urge all Guyanese, especially Berbicians, to support this board. Corporate Guyana has already showed its support with finances/cash and it is now up to us to reject the efforts of a disgruntled few to stop the train of progress. Berbice cricket belongs to all of us and we must not allow a few to use it as their personal property with the sole objective of allowing their allies to remain in power. The truth is that they couldn’t find funds to arrange inter-club tournaments, developmental programmes or honour our heroes, but found finances to hire highly paid lawyers and to rent a Five Star Hotel to host an election. Berbice cricket

got so low, that the BCB in 2017 was asking cricket clubs to host inter-zone matches, trial games and was also begging clubs for trophies, cricket balls and meals, among other things. Never in the history of Berbice cricket had things gotten so low while there are no records of any major achievement (not one). I had the privilege of working with most of the newly elected executives and I have full confidence that they will lead by example, while taking Berbice cricket to the highest summit where it belongs. For the sake of this and future generations of youth, let us grasp this once- in-a-lifetime opportunity of unmatched progress and development. Regards Name Provided

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

‘It is now the South’s turn’ By Lisa Hamilton

TOURISM heavyweights from across the Americas are meeting here to discuss regional connectivity, business alliances and resilient strategies for sustainable tourism at the 24th Inter-American Congress of Ministers and High-level Authorities of Tourism. The two-day conference kicked off at the Marriott Hotel on Wednesday under the theme, ‘Connecting the Americas through Sustainable Tourism’ and delegates heard remarks from President David Granger and other heads of government. The conference is a joint collaboration between the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Department of Tourism in the Ministry of Business. Delivering the feature address, President David Granger said that the Americas, despite past wars of independence and civil wars, have managed to maintain a hemisphere of relative peace, permitting collaboration between member states for the perusal of sustainable tourism initiatives. However, he acknowledged that even with these opportunities, transnational threats such as the trafficking of drugs, people and guns, as well as cybercrime must be completely eradicated in order for these societies to remain safe and welcoming for both citizens and visitors. He then established that the protection of the Americas’ national capital; the promotion of increased connectivity and easier access to capital for investments are some of the ways through which member states of the OAS can harness the many benefits of tourism. “Tourism connects countries, markets, peoples and services of the hemisphere. Tourism can contribute to the economic development of the Americas and to the well-being of future generations by becoming more sustainable. This congress is therefore urged to seek solutions to ensure that the Americas can catalyse their tourism potential by increasing annual tourist arrivals,” President Granger said. The Guyanese leader took the opportunity in the presence of the OAS delegates, to introduce Guyana as a ‘gateway’ to South America for the travel of goods, services and peoples to destinations in the Carib-

bean, Central America and North America. Within the region, he called for travel expenses to be not only cheaper but easier and faster, and suggested that destinations require increased connectivity and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) strategies to boost the region’s competitiveness.

CLIMATE CHANGE Moving to the topic of climate change, the President said that it continues to pose harmful threats to tourism in the region, particularly to small islands and low-lying states and recommended climate-resilient tourism as a means to combatting these issues. “Rising sea levels are eroding beaches, destroying coral reefs and disrupting marine life…extreme weather patterns are precipitating droughts and floods, which diminish food supplies and customer services needed by the tourism sector. Climate-resilient tourism will help the hemisphere to recover from natural hazards… the 21st century must become the ‘Century of the South.’ The North and East have had their day. It is now the South’s turn. A sustainable tourism sector can make this century an occasion for rediscovering the ‘New’ world,” President Granger declared. GREATER COOPERATION Speaking, too, was Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin who welcomed the OAS delegates and all attendees from within the region, while expressing his pride, on behalf of the country, to be the host of the high-level conference. He said that the conference would provide for fruitful discussions and greater cooperation in tourism between Guyana and other member states at both the public and private sector levels. “Guyana certainly looks forward [to] improving and increasing partnerships for the promotion and expansion of tourism. It is my hope that we can build relations based on a mutual interest in providing new and exciting multi-destination packages. I hope, also, that our country can benefit from more and better air connections. Additionally, we’d like to expand and enhance the range of hinterland community-based tourism projects currently existing in our country,” Minister Gaskin said.

…President upbeat about South America’s tourism potential …says climate-resilient tourism will help hemisphere recover from natural hazards

President David Granger (6th from left) poses with tourism delegates from the Caribbean, Central America and North America during a meeting in Guyana to discuss resilience-building in the tourism sector of the Americas (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

The business minister added that Guyana, as a “late comer” to the tourism industry, continues to pay close attention to the examples of other countries and will work towards achieving sustainable tourism as part of its strategic economic and development goals. In closing, he stressed that the future of tourism in the country is largely connected to the future of tourism in the Americas, and, with this in mind, Guyana will continue to demonstrate its support of the objectives of the OAS. ECO-TOURISM DESTINATION Meanwhile, applauding Guyana for its show of leadership in hosting the conference was Executive Secretary of Integral Development at the OAS, Kim Osborne, who said that the activity would also serve to highlight the country as an eco-tourism destination. She went on to affirm that tourism is indeed expanding in the Americas, as its total contribution to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was 8.5 percent in 2016 while, for emerging destinations such as Guyana, the total contribution stood at 7.3 percent. As the region moves ahead, Osborne acknowledged that it is time for OAS member states to forge new business alliances, create well-defined policies, assess threats and possible threats, expand the regional dialogue and strengthen partnerships. During the conference the OAS will launch a publication compiled in collaboration with the United Nations World Trade Organization (UN-WTO), which will highlight the good practices of tourism and sustainable development. Today, the 24th Inter-American Congress of Ministers and

High-level Authorities of Tourism continues at the

Marriott hotel, as more of the challenges and oppor-

tunities native to the region are expected to be discussed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

State closes case in Dover ‘Nations’ to host Caribbean confab on wounding trial educational leadership A CARIBBEAN conference on Educational Leadership is planned for April 5 and 6 at the School of the Nations, New Market Street, Georgetown. The conference, which is being organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the British High Commission, will see a number of international speakers participating, the Nations University said in a release. Among those confirmed are Professor Roy McConkey from the University of Ulster, Aziz Roya of Afghanistan, Yassin Saar, Dr Soma Stout and Gordon Naylor. McConkey has visited Guyana on more than 12 occasions over the past 15 years to help with programmes developed by School of the Nations, while Roya has received a series of international awards for championing the education of girls in Afghanistan. Saar has pioneered work with rural women in The Gambia, while Dr Farzin Rahmani has developed entrepreneurship programmes

in Zambia, The Gambia, and South Africa. Dr Soma Stout is the Head of the 100 Million Healthier Lives programme at Harvard University and she will be sharing the work of her NGO in more than 25 countries, including Guyana. Meanwhile, Naylor will talk about the role of the performing arts in transforming education. The conference will also launch the Cambridge University Certificate in Educational Leadership programme that Nations University has been approved to offer in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. According to a statement from the School of the Nations, a 200-page book written by Dr Brian O’Toole, Director of School of the Nations and titled ‘Educational Leadership: a Guyanese Experience’, will be launched. The book outlines 40 years of experience working on developmental projects in Guyana. That aside, a series of workshops have been planned for each afternoon

of the conference. The workshops will speak to the experience of the NGO Epic in working with youth and children who have fallen foul of the law, the Baha’i model of education, the role of the performing arts in education, the Cambridge Certificate in Educational Leadership, the work of the 100 Million Healthier Lives programme, the work of LRTT in introducing a new model of teacher training in Nepal, Kenya and Guyana, programmes of entrepneurship in Africa and their relevance to Guyana. Registration for the two-day conference at School of the Nations costs $5,000 and includes all conference materials along with lunch and snacks. Additionally, on April 9, an Education Fair will be held at School of the Nations. Universities and Colleges from the USA, Canada, UK and the Caribbean will be participating. The universities and colleges will also introduce their programmes. The fair starts at 09:00hrs and will conclude at 16:00hrs.

AFTER the state closed its case in the George Dover trial on Wednesday in the Georgetown High Court before Justice Navindra Singh and a 12-member jury, the accused led his defence. George Dover opted to remain in the prisoner’s box, where he gave an unsworn statement. He said, “Kester Yamster asked me wah game I playing and draw something from he waist and I rush to he and hold onto he. We had a scuffle, he ease off me and I run straight to Providence Police Station.” Before the accused gave his statement, three witnesses testified, including Dr Esan Reid of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, who told the court that he was the attending physician when the virtual complainant (VC) was rushed to the Emergency Unit. He added that the patient was in respiratory distress, he looked pale and his injuries were life- threatening. Dr Reid testified that

although the patient had three injuries to the body, he had documented only two, explaining that there was limited space on the medical certificate. Detective Constable Zameen Zakir also took the stand. He was the leading investigator in the matter and he put the allegation to the accused, who said nothing after which he instituted charges. Relative of the VC, Alicia Payne, testified as the person who took the injured Yamster to the GPHC. The defence and the state on Wednesday afternoon made closing submissions. The judge will sum up the case on Thursday morning (today) at 09:00hrs, after which the jury will retire to deliberate before they arrive at a verdict. Dover has pleaded not guilty to the charges for which he stands indicted and is being represented by attorney George Thomas, in association with Gary Best and Nekeisha Persaud. The accused is indicted

for the first count – Attempt to commit murder; and the second count – Wounding with intent (alternative counts), which state that on April 10, 2015, in the county of Demerara, he attempted to murder and wound with intent (to cause bodily harm, to maim or disfigure) the virtual complainant Kester Yamster. The state is being led by Abigail Gibbs, in association with Shawnette Austin and Tiffini Lyken. In her opening statement, state prosecutor Lyken told the court that the accused George Dover and Yamster were known to each other, since they lived in the same community, but they were not friends. She stated that on April 10, 2015, the VC left his home and went to buy plantain chips at a stand where he met a friend. He was confronted by the accused, who injured him before escaping. Lyken noted that the VC was taken to the GPHC, where he received medical attention and was hospitalised.

WPA better in coalition, says Gaston Browne set to win Dr Roopnaraine

landslide at Antigua polls

…UPP leader loses as party heads towards massive defeat THE leader of the main opposition United Progressive Party (UPP), Harold Lovell was defeated in the general elections in Antigua on Wednesday as his party appears heading towards a massive overall defeat. Lovell, a former finance minister, who was leading the UPP into a general election for the first time, was seeking to regain the St. John’s City East seat, which he lost in 2014 to the incumbent Melford Nicholas of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP). Nicholas polled 769 votes as against 616 for Lovell and 16 votes for Bruce Goodwin of the Nemocratic National Alliance (DNA). Lovell has not yet conceded defeat in the general election, but the ABLP is leading in all of the 17 seats, except Barbuda, where Trevor Walker of the Barbuda People’s Movement (BPM) easily defeated the in-

Gaston Browne

cumbent Arthur Nibbs of the ABLP by 568 to 429 votes. “This is a historic time for the people of Barbuda,” Walker said, noting that this is the first time that a candidate has won the seat by more than 100 seats. “I am very happy tonight. I have made history in so many ways. I have won all the boxes and that has never happened and the people have said to the administration that they are

fed up,” he added. Walker had gone to the High Court unsuccessfully challenging the decision of the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) to have voters on the island cast their ballots in Antigua. ABEC had taken the decision indicating that the damage done to the island by Hurricane Irma last September had made it impossible for the voters there to cast their ballots. Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who had predicted a clean sweep of the polls by his ABLP, is comfortably leading in the St. John City West constituency which he has represented since 1999, while his wife, Maria Browne, is heading for a successful entry into politics leading in the St. John Rural seat that had been held previously by former prime minister and family member, Sir Lester Bird. (CMC)

ALTHOUGH some executive members of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) believe that the party should sever ties with the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), Executive Member, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine believes the coalition is their “best bet”. “A single individual party cannot accomplish the tasks ahead of us; I think our best bet as a party is to work more harmoniously with the coalition,” said Roopnaraine in an invited comment on Wednesday. Some members of the party, particularly executive member, Tacuma Ogunseye, are of the view that “coalition politics” in Guyana has failed to live up to expectations. According to a Guyana Times report, Ogunseye said the leaders of the party owe it to their members to put their continued involvement

in APNU on the agenda for serious discussion. He noted that there are concerns that the party’s time in the coalition has not done the party, and the country as a whole, any good. Responding to Ogunseye’s comments, Dr Roopnaraine, who is also a minister of government, said: “We would need to engage thoroughly on the matter, but they will have a hard time convincing me that it is a good idea; the coalition is the way forward for us.” Although he admitted that the coalition did not see eye-to-eye on some issues, Dr Roopnaraine noted that state and various other matters did not permit them to have a meeting among the executive members of APNU to discuss the grievances. The veteran WPA member was hopeful that a meeting would be convened soon, so that the problems could be

WPA Executive, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine

addressed. “Despite all the difficulties, the coalition is the way forward for us,” he said, adding that there are other issues that need to be addressed aside from internal problems. Dr Roopnaraine said the WPA needs to reinvigorate the party by working with communities to recruit new members. He believes that the real task ahead is to resuscitate the WPA groups in villages and communities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday March 22, 2018

‘Model Green School’ Project launched at Yarrowkabra

A Ministry of Communities official teaching the students of Yarrowkabra Primary School how to use the bins. (Ministry of Education photo)

THE Ministry of Communities under its Green Generation Guyana (#3G) Sanitation Programme on Wednesday launched its ‘Model Green School’ Project (GSP) at the Yar-

rowkabra Primary School, Soesdyke-Linden Highway. The project is aimed at creating a model of greening at the newly constructed school, that can be replicat-

ed at other primary schools across the country. According to a statement from the Ministry of Education, a number of items including waste disposal bins, garden tools,

Students educated on standards, consumerism STUDENTS of several secondary schools in the Georgetown and the lower East Coast of Demerara areas have benefitted from training in standardisation and consumerism in an ongoing lecture series by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS). In a release, the GNBS said it collaborated with the Consumer Affairs Division of the Ministry of Business to share information through planned lectures at these schools so that students and teachers could have a better knowledge and appreciation for the roles and functions of consumer protection bodies in Guyana. During the first quarter of this year, lectures were provided to Grade 10 students of the Bygeval Secondary, President’s College, Annandale Secondary, Bladen Hall Secondary, Apex Academy, St. Joseph High

and North Ruimveldt Multilateral. More than 1000 students and teachers benefitted from these lectures. Specifically, the lectures covered the services of the GNBS, including Metrology (weights and measures), Standards Development, Standards Compliance, Certification of Products and Laboratories, Metrication, Consumer Rights and Responsibilities, Warranties, Hire purchase and Career Guidance. Generally, the lectures were very interactive as many students questioned the presenters and sought clarifications on areas of interest. Meanwhile, students had the opportunity to win novelties as presenters, at the end of their presentations, tested the amount of information the students retained from the lectures. Educating the student population, particularly at

the Secondary level on standards and consumer issues is very important, as these youths are the future of tomorrow and they must understand how standards play a critical role in every aspect of their lives. This includes the products they consume, measurements they undertake, the services they solicit, and the systems they have to follow in the work environment. The acquisition of knowledge on their rights and responsibilities as consumers will also help them to guide their parents during purchases and from a young age equip them to make good buying decisions. With the approval of the Ministry of Education, the GNBS and the Consumer Affairs Division will continue to collaborate and offer more of these lectures to secondary schools in the new school term.

wall posters, composters, life-size posters and soap dispensers were gifted to the school. The disposal bins are of two types, one to accommodate organic waste and the other that accepts inorganic waste, the ministry stated. The items were handed over to the school on Wednesday, in the presence of students, parents, teachers, officials of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Communities, the Regional Democratic Council and the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF). It is expected that the organic waste can be transformed into compost material, which can be used to provide additional nutrients to garden plants in the school’s compound and trees are to be planted following a tree-planting exercise. This will serve to

reduce the amount of waste that is disposed of, which can be otherwise utilised. Meanwhile, Regional Education Officer (ag), Tiffany Favourite-Harvey, said that although the Green School Project will be piloted at the Yarrowkabra Primary School, efforts will be made to have other schools be part of the project. She said in the long run, it is important to have all the schools on board, since the message of ‘Going Green’ can be taught to the 33,198 learners within Region Four. Project Manager of the BNTF, Dikedemma Utoh, said that the Yarrowkabra Primary School was completed in February 2017 and noted that during construction of the school, a number of ‘green’ interventions were used, such as translucent sheets to bring in nat-

ural light, thereby reducing the use of electricity. In addition, a small system was installed on the school’s roof to power security lights at night. Utoh said that the school was built in the BNTF’s Seventh Cycle and since the BNTF is entering its ninth cycle, plans are afoot to return to the school to install an even larger solar component, so that in the day, the school can opt to use solar electricity or that which is being supplied by the national grid. After the brief handing-over ceremony, the students were shown live demonstrations as to how they should use the new tools and the benefits of each item. The demonstrations addressed waste separation, composting, tree-planting and hand-washing.

Great disparity 12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

– self-employed women earn 50 per cent less than men, study finds By Navendra Seoraj A RECENT study has found that self-employed women earn up to 50 per cent less than their male counterparts, and there is a marked difference in favour of salaried workers.

The first-ever local continuous quarterly Labour Force Survey (LFS) which was launched recently, indicated that in terms of labour-related income, the most striking feature is the ‘substantial’ gender gap. Last October, it was re-

ported in the international media that a United Nations report had found that women earn 23 per cent less than men around the world. “In other words, a woman earns 77 per cent of what a man does, and it will take more than 70 years before

Deputy Chief Statistician Ian Manifold, left, receives the labour force survey from Finance Secretary Hector Butts (Adrian Narine photo)

the gap is closed,” stated the report. The United Nations Population Fund report, called The State of World Population 2017, found that no country was left untouched by sexism and discrimination when it comes to women in the workplace. “Once in the paid labour force, women everywhere find themselves earning less than men for the same types of work; engaging more frequently in unskilled, lowwage labour; or spending less time in income-generating work and more time in unpaid, caregiving work at home,” the report said. Although there has been no official report of such instances locally, the new

labour force survey does highlight areas that need to be addressed in order to create a fair and equal society for all. The first continuous quarterly survey hinted that the majority of self-employed persons are engaged in survivalist types of activities. According to the study, the activities were confirmed by the limited number of employers compared to employees. The report indicated that employers are indeed defined as self-employed persons who employ salaried workers, so there could be a reasonable presumption that their incomes are higher than that of other self-employed workers. Aside from income, the

report also zeroed in on the urban unemployed population which accounts for 69.3 per cent of the total unemployed population. The unemployment rate for women appeared to be substantially higher than that for men, with a ratio of 15.6 per cent for women and 9.9 per cent for men. Although there were shortfalls, the reports revealed that women slightly outnumbered men within the working-age population, 15 years old and above, with a ratio of 281,966 women against 268,864 men. President David Granger in 2016 had announced a five-point plan to promote equal and modern opportunities for women, as he recommitted his administration towards empowering women to meet the challenges that lie ahead in the changing domestic and global environment. The announcement of the plan came on the heels of a UNDP report, which stated that, over the past few years, Guyana has made very good progress towards promoting gender equality and women empowerment. The President had made it clear that a fundamental pillar of his government is equal opportunities for the whole population, with empowerment and protection of women and the eradication of poverty being priorities.

Three in custody for stealing boat THREE persons who allegedly stole a wooden boat and a 75 HP Yamaha Outboard engine valued at $1.5 million from Grant Friendship, Lower Pomeroon River resident, Yerivin Cameron were arrested on Monday. Following the theft, Cameron reported the matter to ranks at the Charity Police Station who then promptly contacted the Coast Guard in the Pomeroon River, who then relayed the information to ranks at the Mabaruma Police Station. Around 18:00 hours on Monday, police at the Mabaruma station arrested the suspects, all of whom admitted to the theft. The men led police to the area in Moruca where the boat and the engine were kept, following which the farmer

was contacted and positively identified the boat and engine as his. The three suspects are in police custody. They are expected to be transported from the Mabaruma Police Station to the Charity Police Station where charges will be laid against them. Information revealed that Fitzroy Calvan, 24, a labourer of Grant Pre Versaul, Lower Pomeroon; Glender Gonsalves, 23, of Tuccita, Venezuela; and Carlos Scott, 17, of Suddie, Essequibo Coast allegedly stole the boat and engine from Cameron on March 19. They used the boat to flee the area and from indications, the trio had intention to head to neighbouring Venezuela with the boat. Investigations into the matter is ongoing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

GGMC orders medication for staff …samples of 50 employees exposed to mercury sent overseas for tests By Zena Henry MEDICATION necessary to treat mercury poisoning is expected to be in the country in a matter of days, Commissioner of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Newell Dennison has stated. The commissioner told the Guyana Chronicle that the important medicine is being rushed from the United States and should be here in some 10 days, given the update provided by the agency’s designated health care provider. After tests were conducted, authorities within the gold and mines commission found that dozens of staffers had elevated levels of mercury poisoning within their blood systems. The commissioner said that additional testing of staff was then ordered to ensure all persons, especially those who may have had greater exposure to the chemical, were tested and treated. “We have broadened our testing and have done so with a systematic approach,” the commissioner explained to this newspaper. He confirmed that so far, samples of some 50 employees have already been sent to labs overseas. The Guyana Chronicle has learnt however that the commission will order dozens of other staff who have not yet been tested to do so to ascertain their possible levels of contamination. The Guyana Chronicle was told that the systematic approach being taken by the agency will deal with those staffers considered to have been at greater risk. Those persons who might have faced serious exposure or whose cases are deemed most serious, will be tended to first as a “structured and organised” method is being used. In some cases, staffers who were not directly involved with the use of mercury, were found with traces and high levels of contamination. It was noted that consideration is being given to relocating the current testing lab to a separate area, since mercury vapours would remain in office spaces and air conditioning units. While regular testing on various matters is said to be a norm of the mining commission, it was noted that the unusually high levels of mercury

cury-management activities at the Brickdam complex, so that there are no emissions of mercury during daily operations,” the statement said. This, the two entities said, is in addition to the existing measures and part of the operational routines which had included regular testing of workers. More-

Commissioner of the GGMC, Newell Dennison

poisoning is a first. “We do testing on a regular [basis], and collect samples from staffers for different things, but never have we had a situation like this.” Commissioner Dennison has indicated however that the commission will stand the costs of testing additional staffers and will also pay for their medical treatment, through the medicine that will arrive from the United States. A few weeks ago, agents of the mining commission had complained bitterly about feeling unwell and this prompted an investigation into the matter. It was then that authorities found “high and elevated” levels of mercury poisoning. The effects of mercury poisoning include insomnia, mood swings, headaches, seizures and irritability, among others. The chemical is used to extract gold from ore and gold is among the country’s leading export earners. The resource had brought in almost $1B in revenue last year and sustains thousands of workers in that industry. Authorities have been encouraging the use of alternative methods of recovering the precious metal from contaminants. On Tuesday, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman announced that government will be taking urgent steps to remedy the situation, which could include temporary closure of the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) laboratory housed in the bottom flat of the GGMC compound. The laboratory is used to burn amalgam to rid the gold of mercury. Mercury is mixed with gold, forming a mercury-gold amalgam, which is then heated, thereby vaporising the mercury to obtain the gold. This process can be very dangerous and leads to significant mercury

exposure and health risks. Trotman told the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday that the situation is a serious one and steps will be taken to ensure that all workers operate in a safe environment. “I will be taking some urgent steps, including perhaps closing down the laboratory temporarily. I know that there have been some external reviews, so I am confident and comfortable that those are okay,” he told the Guyana Chronicle. The minister said though he does not believe the situation is a life-threatening one, it must be treated seriously. “At my end, I am treating it very seriously and I do believe that it is indeed not life-threatening, but the fact that any employee could be in a position of jeopardy is of great concern to me,” said Trotman, who noted that “If there is anyone that needs treatment outside of Guyana, we are going to arrange that.” “We don’t want to play around with the livelihood or lives of anyone,” he told the Guyana Chronicle. Concerns were initially raised by the GGMC staff who have been tested for high levels of mercury in their bodies. The results of the tests according to reports, indicate that the levels of mercury were high in some workers as opposed to others. In a joint statement on Monday, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the GGB acknowledged that there was a problem with mercury emissions, but denied that the matter is at a crisis stage and that many of its staff are in danger. In fact, the joint statement said, the matter “is under control” as many measures have been taken to address the situation. “The GGMC and the GGB have collaborated in the past several weeks to enhance mer-

over, the GGMC said there has been a comprehensive inspection of the entire emissions control system; timely refurbishing of all areas and aspects of related systems; physical extension of emissions chimneys; satisfactory testing of work and resulting emissions. There have also been ar-

rangements for written assurances (warranties) as to work performed; the continuation of an aggressive maintenance schedule; the recruitment of external monitoring parties for safety certification purposes; and continuous monitoring to detect any suspicious levels of mercury emissions.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

Murder accused walks free

…after caution statement disappears from police station POLICE ranks at the Kamarang Police Station, Mazaruni, Region 7, are expected to give statements into a matter in which the caution statement of a murder accused mysteriously disappeared from that police station. The development came to light on Wednesday when the accused returned to court in the area and the statement could not be presented to the court as was previously ordered. Magistrate Allan Wilson dismissed the matter against Percy Abrams and allowed him to walk away a free man after the prosecu-

tion informed the court that the caution statement which was lodged at the station, could not be located. This is even as the records at the station confirmed that the critical evidence in the ongoing case was taken there by a police detective from the Criminal Investigation Department in Georgetown sometime back. Abrams is accused of murdering Dexter Edwards, a gold miner back in 2016. The two reportedly had a misunderstanding and it was during the standoff that Edwards was murdered. When the police picked

up Abrams for the crime and questioned him, he reportedly confessed to the murder. However, at one of the court proceedings, the police presented a photocopy of the caution statement which they received from Abrams and the court rejected it after the lawyer for the accused protested. The prosecution was ordered to present to the court the original statement. Efforts were made to have that statement reach the district well ahead of the court date and that was done when a rank from the city took it to the Kamarang Police Station where it was lodged.

However, when a call was made for it on Wednesday at the hearing, the police informed the court that the statement was present at the station prior, but when efforts were made to secure it for Wednesday’s hearing,

it could not be located. That prompted the lawyer for the accused to put forward arguments which found favour with the court. The charge against the man was dismissed for want of prosecution. The father of the victim is now calling on the relevant authorities to look into the matter and bring the

persons who are responsible for the disappearance of the caution statement to justice. He alleged that persons might have been induced to destroy the evidence. A report has since been lodged with the Criminal Investigation Department Headquarters in Georgetown.

Man, 53, to stand trial for raping toddler PRINCIPAL Magistrate Judy Latchman on Wednesday committed a 53-year-old security guard to stand trial at the High Court for allegedly raping a three-year-old girl. Deon Aaron, of Craig, East Bank Demerara, after appearing before the magistrate who effected a paper committal after finding that a prima facie case was made out against him for the matter to be heard at the High Court. The matter was held in camera and members of the public and the media were asked to leave the courtroom. The magistrate then released Aaron on $200,000 bail pending trial in the High

Court. The accused, an ex-member of the Guyana Police Force, was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleged that on March 14, 2016 at Friendship Squatting Area, East Bank Demerara, he engaged in sexual penetration with a child under the age of 16. According to information, the child was left in Aaron’s care by her mother and when she returned home, the girl complained that she was not feeling well. The mother upon checking the three-year-old observed that she might have been sexually assaulted. The matter was report-

Deon Aaron

ed and an investigation was carried out. Consequently,the accused was arrested and charged for the offence.

‘Nations’ to host Caribbean confab on educational leadership A CARIBBEAN conference on Educational Leadership is planned for April 5 and 6 at the School of the Nations, New Market Street, Georgetown. The conference, which is being organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the British High Commission, will see a number of international speakers participating, the Nations University said in a release. Among those confirmed are Professor Roy McConkey from the University of Ulster, Aziz Roya of Afghanistan, Yassin Saar, Dr Soma Stout and Gordon Naylor. McConkey has visited Guyana on more than 12 occasions over the past 15 years to help with programmes developed by School of the Nations, while Roya has received a series of international awards for championing the education of girls in Afghanistan. Saar has pioneered work with rural women in The Gambia, while Dr Farzin Rahmani has developed entrepreneurship programmes

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday March 22, 2018

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Guyana joined the rest of the world in observing United Nations Day for The Elimination of Racial Discrimination on Wednesday. This observance has its origin in the infamous March, 21 1960 incident at Sharpeville, South Africa when white police, indiscriminately fired into a crowd of black demonstrators killing 69 people who were protesting against the repressive ‘’Pass Laws”. This well documented incident drew international condemnation. Many of the dead were located days after in the surrounding bush, because of the vultures that circled overhead, as some of the wounded fled there, seeking refuge. In 1966, as a means of calling the International Community’s attention to the scourge of racism, as well as increasing its efforts towards the elimination of racial discrimination, March 21 has since been proclaimed a United Nations Day of observance. This important signpost

was further advanced in 1983, when all states and organisations were encouraged to be part of initiatives to combat racism and racial discrimination. Further impetus was given in 2001, when a World Conference against Racism and Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance was convened.

BACKGROUND OF DANGEROUS POPULISM It is no mere co-incidence, that this year’s observance being held under the theme “Promoting tolerance, inclusion, unity and respect for diversity in the context of combatting racial discrimination’’, seeks to promote the universality of man, and his oneness, despite the differences in diversity. And this call is taking place against the background of a world, where the portents of racism and racial discord have become a dangerous appendage to the rise of populism. Article 2, of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

states everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth in the Declaration, without distinction of race or any other kind. Yet racism, xenophobia and intolerance are problems prevalent in all societies, and discriminatory practices are widespread, particularly targeting migrants and refugees as well as people of African descent.

EXAMPLES OF EXTREME RACISM AND GENOCIDE There is no doubt that the resultant mass slaughter in Rwanda that resulted in the genocide of 800,000 Hutus, sought to remind the international community of the extremes of intolerance. More significant, also, was the fact that the brutal system of Apartheid, the worst example of institutionalized racism, known in the 20th century, would have held lessons of the inhumane treatment of fellow humans, and their condemnation to a daily existence, outside of the pale of human decency. How could the evils of the Hitlerite racist ideology of a superior German race, that slaughtered a recorded six million Jews, be forgotten? It is sad that none of these examples of visceral hatred because of race have resulted in any realization of the evils and perils of racism.

RISE OF FAR-RIGHT LEADERS In fact, there are many examples of the rise of farright leaders, using this ideology effectively to whip up sentiment and support for an anti-immigration agenda from among supporters; but one that is definite and unmistakably inclusive, in promoting racism against minorities, xenophobia, and an anti-Muslim agenda. Examples of these, have seen the rise of Donald Trump of the United States, his executive orders that have targeted Muslims, and the plan to build a wall along the United States–Mexican border; Marine Le Pen, of the far right Front National Party in France that made it into the second round of the last French presidential elections; the rise of the Alternative for Germany Party, that have gained a few seats in the German Bundestag; Geert Wilders who is anti-immigrant, and anti-Muslim in the Netherlands, and the new government in Austria, which is comprised of far right and pro-Europe political parties. Global racism and proliferation of hate groups In fact, there is evidence that racism exists in other regions of the world, including the Middle East, Australia, Asia, Africa, North America,

South America, and the Caribbean. There is even the rise of Neo Nazism, in Germany and Austria, and the United States of America as explicitly portrayed in the shocking protest at Charlottesville, Virginia in 2017. Concomitant with the proliferation of racism and racial discrimination, have been the rise of hate groups, which according to the authoritative Southern Poverty Law Centre, has increased by four percent to 954, between 2016 to 2017 in the United States. There are similar groups throughout Europe.

GUYANA’S CHALLENGE In Guyana, despite the relative tranquility and peace there are challenges with both racism and racial discrimination, that have bedeviled the national social-economic-political landscape, particularly from the early 1960s. Our modern history has evidenced periodic episodes of national ethnic tension, but without the communal clashes, that had marked the earlier period, 1962-1964. Social cohesion, the ERC In Guyana, there is a constitutional body, the Ethnic Relations Commission(ERC), comprising of members from the components of civil, religious, and cultural groups, that came into being by way

Compton Speirs’ relatives who participated in the outreach on Wednesday at the Meten-Meer-Zorg West Community Centre Ground (Adrian Narine photo)

of Constitutional Amendment Act, 2000. As the name implies, this key body, is mandated with 24 functions that are designed to promote racial understanding and harmony among Guyana’s diverse cultural and ethnic groups. After a hiatus of three years, this important constitutional organization was resuscitated for the seminal mandate of furthering unity among Guyana’s peoples. Additionally, there is also a Ministry of Social Cohesion which is tasked with encouraging and promoting a cohesive society. This is accepted as an urgent necessity if Guyana is to fulfill its true socio-economic potential, with the ethnic groups being able to participate and share equally in the country’s economic wealth, while living in peace, and without fear of each other. RACISM DISCREDITED It must be recognized that racism, which promotes the belief that characteristics and abilities are attributed on the basis of race, with some racial groups being perceived as superior to others, is a social construct that has long been proven false and totally discredited. Yet, it is unfortunate that many leaders would resort to its dangerous use as a weapon to encourage fear, or hatred of others in times of conflict, elections, war and during economic downturn. EDUCATION AS A TOOL FOR COMBATTING RACISM, AND SUPPORTIVE LAWS Perhaps a most effective tool in beginning to combat this great threat to international peace and stability is that of education that should begin from the young; for it is easy to influence the young mind, which is more amenable to be receptive to new ideas. But the battle must also be supported, and advanced, by law, since the latter reflects societal values, while at the same time setting the standards for acceptable behaviour. Any society that disavows racism, ought to have laws that support such intent, since every person is entitled to human rights without discrimination. The rights to equality and non-discrimination are cornerstones of human rights law.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday March 22, 2018

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Compton Speirs’ relatives who participated in the outreach on Wednesday at the Meten-Meer-Zorg West Community Centre Ground (Adrian Narine photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday March 22, 2018

Severe dry weather hits Wakapao

By Indrawattie Natram

THE livelihoods of residents in the Amerindian community of Wakapoa, Lower Pomeroon River, have been severely affected by dry weather. The current dry spell has resulted in a shortage of water

in the area, and according to Toshoa Errol Williams, the situation is worrying. He told the Guyana Chronicle that families are forced to drink water from the pond and some residents are suspected to have contracted typhoid as a result of the consumption. Williams said the com-

munity does not have many options, since the three wells in the community are currently inoperable. He said schoolchildren are mostly affected, since they have to walk long distances to get to school and have to drink the water from the pond. “The situation is really

worrying, the children are falling sick. The water is very contaminated, but we don’t have much option since the wells are down. Hundreds of children throughout the islands are depending, they are walking since many of them cannot paddle,” the toshao explained. He is calling on the Region

Two administration to help the village, especially the schools, by providing the children and residents with fresh drinking water. Williams said there is not much to do in terms of the water level, but at least fresh, potable water should be provided to the children.

Due to the dry weather, residents have been forced to travel long distances to other communities to access fresh water. The sudden drop in the water level has triggered major problems for boat operators, housewives, farmers and miners.

Wedding Expo opens on Friday THE stage is set for the 10th anniversary of Guyana’s Wedding Expo which opens on Friday at the Duke Lodge, Duke Street, Kingston, organisers have said. The event opens at 17:00hrs and this year’s entry to the expo is free of cost to the public who will be afforded the opportunity to view the exhibits of more than 40 companies and artisans. The expo will ‘kick off’ with a formal opening ceremony which will feature remarks by key personalities as well as a display of Guyanese culture, including a parade of wedding fashion representing Guyana’s six ethnic groups, tassa drumming, steel pan music and more.

Resident Representative of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in Guyana, Ms. Sophie Makonnen will be the keynote speaker. Her address is expected to highlight the importance of wedding destination tourism and its positive impact on a nation’s economy, especially through the provision of relevant services provided by artisans and small businesses, many of which are owned and operated by women. Also listed to speak at the opening are Mr. Eddy Boyer, Chairman of the Private Sector Commission of Guyana; Mr. Donald Sinclair, Guyana’s Director General of Tourism; and Capt. Gerry Gouveia, Chief Executive Officer of the Roraima Group, organizers of the

event. Expo 2018, billed for March 23-25, will showcase products and services offered for weddings by Guyanese businesses, especially artisans such as dressmakers, jewellers, cake makers, and tailors as well as other service providers such as musicians, photographers, make-up artists and limousine services. This year will see the participation of over 40 exhibitors in addition to the wedding ceremony of, and reception for, the winning couple of the ‘Race to the Altar’ competition. The wedding ceremony and reception will be on Saturday afternoon. “It is with a proud feeling of achievement that we at the Roraima Group of Compa-

3 NBS officials charged with wrongful confinement …directors say marshals came in like ‘thieves in the night’ THREE officials from the New Building Society (NBS) were on Wednesday charged with wrongful confinement proceedings beyond certain circumlocutory limits (that is to say out of the building). Deka Tularam, Anil Kishun and Anil Beharry appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore before whom the charges were read to them for confining eight persons from leaving the bank on January 23, 2008. All three of the accused denied the allegations. Members of the public were not allowed inside the courtroom while the matter was being presided over. Those allegedly held against their will were: Shawn Kalicharan, Alex Green, Goodish Singh, Patrick Higgins, Martin Brown, Jire Arjune, Ganesh Herah and Joseph Allen. Given the obvious fear and the absence of a court order, the bank’s management said it took a decision to safeguard their money

while allowing customers an opportunity to leave the bank through one of its entrances. “The NBS at no time prevented persons from leaving the office and in an effort to ensure the safety of cash, there was some inconvenience,” the statement said. However, some persons who were locked in told reporters that they were prevented from leaving the bank’s premises for about two hours by officials of the institution. The bank contends that due to the lack of a court order, “the management took the right decision to protect the interest of the Society, its staff and customers.” The board of directors stated that the marshals and others came in unidentified like ‘thieves in the night’” and in an unprofessional manner that resulted in panic, chaos and misunderstanding. This notwithstanding, the bank said should it be “properly served with any instrument or order of the court” it would readily com-

ply with the said instructions. On Jan 4, 2018, the NBS as well as the other appellants, including Trust Company (Guyana) Limited received a court order directing that the sum of $59,033,281be paid over to Maurice Arjoon. That sum represented the former NBS CEO’s pension benefits. “This benefit should have been paid from the Pension Scheme funds held by the Trust Company (Guyana) Limited, assuming it was the final award,” NBS stated. The decision of the High Court was appealed on January 9, 2018 and a request was made for the Court of Appeal to set aside the order. Deliberations are yet to begin at the Court of Appeal on the matter. The three NBS officials pleaded not guilty to the eight charges and were released on self-bail. The matter was transferred to Magistrate Dylon Bess for March 26. 2018.

nies welcome our exhibitors, sponsors and the general public to this milestone 10th anniversary Wedding Expo. I am particularly elated by the success stories that have emerged over the past 10 years for small artisans and

entrepreneurs as a result of their participation in Wedding Expo. There are new young artisans now springing up all over Guyana who deserve the opportunities which were afforded those who came before them. We

must not fail these emerging entrepreneurs,” Gouveia stressed. The expo will be open to the general public from 5 pm on Friday, March 23 and from 2pm to 11 pm on Saturday, March 24th and Sunday, March 25th.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

Port Mourant uncle, nephew chop each other severely A ‘name-calling’ incident at Kitten Dam, Portuguese Quarters, Port Mourant, Berbice has left two men critically injured. Rajindra Balkaran called ‘Gomes’, 38, and his uncle, Vishnu Gopaul called ‘Strokeman’ and ‘Balbala’--a

pork vendor of the Port Mourant market, chopped each other severely during a brawl. According to information, at approximately 14:00 hrs on Monday, Balkaran, who was in an intoxicated state, went to the home of Gopaul who was also intoxicated,

and called out to him using expletives while accusing him of being a “cochore” among other names. As he continued his tirade, he reportedly pushed his uncle’s donkey cart into the trench. This angered the older relative who later emerged from

his home with a cutlass. As the argument intensified, the men attacked each other. Gopaul reportedly brandished his cutlass and chopped his nephew several times to his body. Despite his injuries, Balkaran managed to subdue Gopaul and relieved him of the weapon and in turn fired several chops to him. According to Gopaul’s wife, she was inside the house cooking and heard the commotion but did not take the matter seriously, since the duo usually gets into fights. “Is when I heard the screaming getting louder, me run out and see my husband in the trench, barely

breathing and Gomes by the side with blood pouring out,” the woman recalled. She got confused and could not move. She just looked on as both men were picked up and taken to hospital. Gopaul is nursing chop wounds to his face, neck, chest and hands, while Balkaran sustained chop wounds to his hand and neck. The police arrived promptly at the scene and assisted in taking one of the injured men to the Port Mourant Hospital. Both men were subsequently taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital. The men are said to be critically injured.

One of the injured men, Vishnu Gopaul

A relative of Gopaul noted that the man was in an unconscious state. The relative related that he was bleeding profusely and his wounds were very deep.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

GPHC says did all it could to save Herstelling mother, baby THE Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) said it did all it could to save the lives of a woman and her newborn last week, but the infant died. In an effort to set the record straight regarding the case of Jennifer Jadgeo, Head of the Obstetrics and Gynaecology (OBGYN) Department at the GPHC Dr Lucio Pedro, told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the 36-year-old Jagdeo had visited the GPHC from a private doctor without a referral after being advised by her doctor to go to the public health institution, because he was “busy”. It was her first pregnancy. Pedro further explained that Jagdeo had arrived at the administration at 12:37hrs last week Monday and was admitted at 13:14hrs, noting

that, “she gave a history of a ruptured membrane, that her water bag burst three months ago. So, she was taken to the delivery [room] and the doctors examined her and found out she was only 30 weeks, a premature baby, and she was breached. We prepared her immediately”. According to the head of the OBGYN, though there was a delay due to another patient being operated on in the theatre, the Caesarean section (C-section) was performed on Jadgeo as quickly as possible. Dr. Pedro said that once the baby was delivered at 13:45hrs, it was handed over to the senior paediatrician. He stated that the staff observed that the baby was blue, its limbs could not extend and the lungs were not fully developed as a result of the premature birth. According to the head of

the OBGYN, these complications were the result of inadequate fluid around the baby, which decreased its developmental stage. Recognising that not much else could be done for the baby, Dr Pedro then recounted the newborn who was taken to its parents. Half of an hour later, the baby died. Dr Pedro added that a referral from her doctor would have been helpful to the doctors on call in providing the necessary medical attention Jagdeo needed. The GPHC Chief Executive Officer (CEO), retired Brigadier George Lewis, expressed his condolences to the family, noting that the reported issues of mistreatment will be investigated. “The issue of the treatment by the nurses highlighted by her, we will investigate to ensure that it does not happen again to

other patients -- if it did happen,” Lewis said. He said the hospital has a number of dedicated and hard-working staff providing a proper delivery of healthcare services and the administration will not condone such be-

haviour from any of its staff. The CEO reminded that the administration’s complaints department is open to all. Lewis also stressed that the media must seek both sides of a matter, before publishing a story, to ensure all infor-

mation provided is correct. On March 18, the Guyana Times published an article that recounted the firsttime mother’s claims of mistreatment during and after her child’s birth at the GPHC’s Maternity Ward.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

from back page Rain helps send ... Continued play an hour later, breaking Scotland’s hearts but providing a flood of relief for the Windies. I’m extremely pleased to get through to the World Cup. We’ve been through a lot in the last two years,” captain Jason Holder said afterwards. “We had to play to expectation. There was pressure in every game and the guys really put their hands up. I’m really pleased to get over the line but my thoughts go out to Scotland for how they’ve played in this tournament.” Sent in, West Indies had the worst possible start when talismanic opener Chris Gayle edged a peach of an away-swinger from Sharif, to perish to a catch at the wicket off the very first ball of the encounter. And the Caribbean side were in deeper trouble when Shai Hope wafted at a widish one from Sharif in the third over and also nicked a catch behind, with two runs on the board. However, Lewis and Samuels – both of whom starred with half-centuries against Zimbabwe three days ago – combined in a 121run third-wicket partnership which stabilised the innings and laid the ideal platform for a later assault. The left-handed Lewis faced 87 deliveries and struck seven fours and a pair of sixes while Samuels counted four fours in a 98ball stay at the crease. Wheal’s return accounted for Lewis, lbw, missing a heave to leg-side in the 31st over and 19 balls later, Samuels holed out in the deep attempting to clear long off with off-spinner Michael Leask (2-36), as West Indies slipped to 135 for four. Wi t h o u t a r u n a d d ed, Shimron Hetmyer (4) edged an uncertain prod at Leask and was caught be-

hind. Holder (12) tried to revive the innings in a 23run fifth-wicket stand with Rovman Powell (15) but fell to a catch at short mid-wicket in the 40th over, tugging a short one from pacer Alasdair Evans. Carlos Brathwaite struck a single six in scoring 24 from 26 balls but was one of the last four wickets which went down meekly for 22 runs. West Indies then hit back early, when seamer Kemar Roach (2-20) had captain and key batsman Kyle Coetzer, caught at point by Lewis for two with six on the board in the third over. Holder claimed Matthew Cross playing on for four in the fourth over before Roach struck again, having Michael Jones caught by Powell at deep backward square for 14. With Scotland tottering, Berrington came to his side’s rescue, adding a crucial 42 for the fourth wicket with Calum MacLeod (21) and a further 38 for the fifth wicket with Munsey. But West Indies dried up the scoring before off-spinner Ashley Nurse (2-35) removed MacLeod to a fine low return catch in the 22nd over. Berrington counted four fours off 68 deliveries while the left-handed Munsey, twice dropped behind off Nurse, notched five fours in a 52-ball knock. With rain around, Nurse then earned a fortuitous lbw decision against the entrenched Berrington, after the right-hander played back and missed one which would have clearly slid past leg stump. The dismissal put DLS in the Windies favour and even though Scotland tried to up their scoring, the rains arrived before they could improve their mathematics.

SCORECARD WEST INDIES innings C. Gayle c wkp. Cross b Sharif 0 E. Lewis lbw b Wheal 66 S. Hope c wkp. Cross b Sharif 0 M. Samuels c Sole b Leask 51 S. Hetmyer c wkp. Cross b Leask 4 J. Holder c MacLeod b Evans 12 R. Powell b Sharif 15 C. Brathwaite c Munsey b Wheal 24 A. Nurse c Wheal b Berrington 5 K. Paul b Wheal 5 K. Roach not out 0 Extras: (lb-3, w-13) 16 Total: (all out, 48.4 overs) 198 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-2, 3-123, 4-135, 5-135, 6-158, 7-176, 8-184, 9-198. Bowling: Safyaan Sharif 9-1-27-3, Wheal 9.4-0-34-3, Evans 10-0-58-1, Sole 7-0-28-0, Leask 10-0-36-2, Berrington 3-0-12-1. SCOTLAND innings M. Cross b Holder 4 K. Coetzer c Lewis b Roach 2 M. Jones c Powell b Roach 14 C. MacLeod c & b Nurse 21 R. Berrington lbw b Nurse 33 G. Munsey not out 32 M. Leask not out 14 Extras: (w-5) 5 Total: (5 wkts, 35.2 overs) 125 Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-12, 3-25, 4-67, 5-105. Bowling: Roach 7-2-20-2, Holder 7-0-31-1, Paul 5-0-12-0, Brathwaite 7-2-27-0, Nurse 9.2-0-35-2. POINTS: WEST INDIES 2, SCOTLAND 0.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

84 days to go …

Spain team undergoing DNA shift from Barcelona to Real Madrid under Julen Lopetegui

FLASHBACK! Spain celebrating after winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup A STRONG but subtle shift in influence within the Spain squad from Barcelona to Real Madrid is evident from the players picked by national coach Julen Lopetegui for preWorld Cup friendlies against Germany and Argentina. It was not a coincidence that Spain’s glory years between 2008 and 2012 coincided with Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona side dominating both La Liga and the Champions League. The possession-based style of football developed by Guardiola at the Camp Nou was hugely influential at the international level too. A high point of the connection was the Euro 2012 final when seven Barca players appeared on the pitch together during a 4-0 hammering of Italy. However, the last few years have seen Real Madrid win three of the last four Champions League trophies, as well as last season’s La Liga title. So it should not really be surprising that over his 18 months in charge, Lopetegui has been moving the balance of his squad more towards the Bernabeu. Spain’s emergence from the wilderness by winning Euro 2008 has often been attributed (rightly or wrongly) to then coach Luis Aragones ditching long-serving national captain and Blancos legend Raul Gonzalez, and instead placing his faith in a new generation symbolised by Barca’s Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta. Madrid contributed just two players to Aragones’ 23-

man squad in 2008 -- the same number as Real Mallorca and one less than Villarreal. Iker Casillas was goalkeeper and captain, with Sergio Ramos at right-back. Barca did not exactly dominate -- they had just three in Xavi, Iniesta and Carles Puyol, although key squad member Cesc Fabregas also had the famous Blaugrana DNA. By the 2010 World Cup, manager Vicente Del Bosque incorporated Guardiola protégés Gerard Pique, Sergio Busquets and Pedro Rodriguez as important team members and Victor Valdes was named as a reserve keeper. La Liga’s top Spanish scorer David Villa was soon to move to the Camp Nou from Valencia, while Iniesta of course hit the winner in the final in extra time against the Netherlands. Madrid still had five important squad members though -- Xabi Alonso had moved to the Bernabeu from Liverpool and joined Ramos and Casillas in the starting XI. Alvaro Arbeloa and Raul Albiol were backup defenders. Former Madrid B player Juan Mata, who came through at Valencia, also got just 20 minutes in the tournament. Del Bosque was not one for changing a winning formula. With Fabregas having returned from Arsenal, by Euro 2012 Barca’s contribution was at its peak. Six of these started the final, with left-back Jordi Alba scoring the second goal, and Pedro entering as a sub to make it seven on the pitch at the same time.

But Madrid also had four starters in that game, with Del Bosque having skilfully handled the attempts by then Bernabeu boss Jose Mourinho to sow discord in the national camp. Mata also came off the bench in the final and scored, while the squad also included ex-Castilla youth teamers Alvaro Negredo (then at Sevilla) and Juanfran Torres (Atletico Madrid).

just two current players -- Ramos and winger Lucas Vazquez. Bernabeu brought up Alvaro Morata then at Juventus and the departed Casillas (Porto), were also involved. Two years later the pendulum has firmly swung towards Madrid. Isco and Asensio have emerged as key members of Lopetegui’s revitalised side. Bernabeu youth product Dani

Sergio Ramos, Isco and Marco Asensio are part of the Real Madrid revival with the Spanish national team. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Del Bosque’s resistance to change hit Spain badly at the 2014 World Cup: Barca had the same seven players, while Madrid were down to three. Faith in old servants such as Casillas and Xavi was misplaced, as the holders exited dramatically in the group stages. By Euro 2016, Barca’s contingent had dropped to five, with Marc Bartra in as a squad centre-back. But then Chelsea players Fabregas and Pedro, along with Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich), Hector Bellerin (Arsenal) and Nolito (Celta Vigo), kept the Blaugrana DNA quotient very high. Madrid had

Carvajal is a starter at rightback, versatile defender Nacho Fernandez an important squad member and Vazquez remains very much in the picture. Madrid skipper Ramos is now national captain too. The latest squad for March’s friendlies with Germany and Argentina brought call-ups for three more players at Madrid as kids -- Valencia’s Rodrigo Moreno and Dani Parejo, and Chelsea’s Marcos Alonso. There is also a decent chance that by the time the tournament begins this summer long-time Florentino Perez target David De Gea will have finally completed a move from Manchester United.

An injury to Busquets and Under-20s he helped bring means there are only three through many of today’s senior Blaugrana players in the lat- stars, plus others who have est 23 -- along with long-gone fallen away recently including Thiago and Pepe Reina. Ex- current Stoke City forward Jese La Masia Bellerin has been Rodriguez and Watford winger passed out at right-back by Gerard Deulofeu. Real Sociedad’s Alvaro OdriIt now seems certain that ozola, another reported Ma- for the first tournament in over drid target for the summer. a decade Madrid will provide Sergi Roberto is perhaps the more Spain players than Barca only Barca player who can or any other club - as many as really feel aggrieved at recent 10 of the final 23 could well selections. have a Bernabeu background. Lopetegui has handled the Coaching changes have had changeover in influence very an influence -- with Blancos deftly, as befits a man who helmer Zinedine Zidane more knows both sides of the Clasi- of a football purist than current co divide very well without be- Barca boss Ernesto Valverde. It ing closely identified with either. is also true that the Camp Nou The Basque came through board has recently spent more the youth ranks at the Ber- on big international stars, while nabeu, but played only one Perez has been snapping up the senior game for Real. After best young local talent. then representing Las Palmas Whether all this is a posiand Logrones, he joined Bar- tive or a negative for Spain is celona, playing just five La a moot point, as the national Liga games in three seasons at coach’s job is just to get the Camp Nou. best players out on the pitch, On retireregardless of their origins. But ment, Lopetegui it still marks quite a change. coached Madrid’s Castilla youth team in 20080 9 , when Marcos Alonso a n d Nacho were both just 18. In subsequent years Julen Lopetegui, Spain’s in charge of Spain’s Under-19s head coach

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

Bikes to be dismantled in fight against technological fraud - UCI GENEVA, Switzerland (Reuters) - The International Cycling Union (UCI) will use X-ray technology and randomly select bikes to be dismantled following a race in an increased effort to fight technological fraud, the governing body said yesterday. UCI president David Lappartient, who won a landslide election victory over Brian Cookson last September, had promised the detection of potential mini-engines in bikes would be one of his top priorities. The Frenchman announced a series of new measures in Geneva yesterday, including the use of X-ray equipped trucks,

David Lappartient, president of the International Cycling Union (UCI) poses next to the X-ray machine after a news conference on the fight against technological fraud in Geneva, Switzerland, Wednesday. (REUTERS/Denis Balibouse)

as revealed by Reuters on Tuesday. Other measures include the dismantling of suspicious bikes and the continued use of tablet devices to scan bikes, a technique that was widely criticised by riders and some team staff for being ineffective. In the last two editions of the Tour de France, thermal imaging cameras were also used to detect the potential use of motors in bikes. Riders caught using mini-engines face a minimum six-month suspension as well as a fine up to 200 000 Swiss francs ($210 000), while the team could face a fine of up to one million Swiss francs.

THE

What a difference a month can make! … Berbice cricket on the rise again

FOR the first time in close to five years, cricket clubs and cricketers in the county of Berbice are smiling. Just two months ago, Berbicians were complaining about the slow death of the game; but since the elections on the February 18, 2018 and Hilbert Foster and his executives, there has been a welcoming relief to everyone. The talk of the county is that Berbice cricket has risen and is back from the brink and that cricket would be played as never before. In a little over a month since the Court ordered elections, clubs are busy getting themselves in order to play the game. Young cricketers South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:30 hrs Diamonds Forever 09:05 hrs Moss Gas 09:40 hrs Querari Viking 10:20 hrs Waity Katie 10:55 hrs Pachuco 11:30 hrs Left Hook American Racing Tips Gulfstream Park Race 1 Sly Beauty Race 2 Blame It On Dixie Race 3 Monetary Marianne Race 4 Mcilroy Race 5 Sweet Magic Race 6 Inmyfathersimage Race 7 Starship Reina Race 8 Mahvelous Kitten Race 9 Special Event Race10 Big Rock Irish Racing Tips Cork 10:00 hrs Edna 11:05 hrs Shantelle 11:40 hrs Antey

are turning out to practise with the knowledge that cricket tournaments would be played and new cricket clubs are being formed in villages that had abandoned the game due to frustration. Over the last few years, very few cricket tournaments were held at the Inter-club level and the two that were played were poorly organised, with no proper fixtures, no rules and to make matters worse the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) was unable to attract any sponsor. What a difference! A month only and the (BCB is now preparing to host Inter-club tournaments at the Under-15, Under-17, Un12:15 hrs Danse Away 12:50 hrs Mary Frances 13:20 hrs Late Again English Racing Tips Wolverhampton 10:10 hrs Fuel Injection 11:15 hrs Barnaby Brook 11:50 hrs Jermey’s Jet 12:25 hrs Dragonite 12:55 hrs Picture Painter 13:25 hrs Wazin 14:00 hrs Shamlan Chepstow 10:20 hrs Mr Lando 10:50 hrs Kupatana 12:00 hrs Paddy The Oscar 12:35 hrs Fly Du Charmil 13:05 hrs Vasco Du Mee 13:35 hrs Cavok Ludlow 10:30 hrs Michael’s Mount 11:35 hrs Silver Kayf 12:10 hrs Just Cameron 12:45 hrs Opening Batsman 13:15 hrs Flashing Glance 13:50 hrs Herecomestheboom

der-19, Under-21, Female Second Division 20/20 and 40-Overs, Intermediate and First Division levels. Each of these tournaments has been sponsored while the Board has also announced sponsorship for a Berbice-wide coaching programme. Additionally, funding has also been secured for cricket tournaments in the Upper Corentyne and Berbice River sub-zones. Sponsorship for schools cricket has also been secured. The BCB has also honoured the winning Berbice Under-15 team and went out of its way to make sure that Shimron Hetmyer, Veerasammy Permaul, Anthony Bramble and Romario Shepherd felt like heroes for making Berbice proud. I am very confident that by the middle of 2018, Berbice Cricket would once again be the envy of the Caribbean and that every Berbician would be proud to be associated with it. One of the most striking features of the new Board is its willingness to listen to clubs by organising face-the-public meetings and hosting calls on television programmes. The new president has promised to administer Berbice cricket in a fair, transparent and accountable way. Instructions have been given to the treasurer to make the financial records of the BCB available to clubs. I would like to urge all Guyanese especially Berbicians to support this Board. Corporate Guyana has

already shown their support with finances/cash and it is now up to us to reject the efforts of a disgruntled few to stop the train of progress. Berbice cricket belongs to all of us and we must not allow a few to use it as their personal property with the sole objective of allowing their allies to remain in power. The truth is that they couldn’t find funds to arrange Inter-club tournaments, developmental programmes or honour our heroes but found finances to hire highly-paid lawyers and to rent a Five Star Hotel to host an election. Berbice cricket got so low, that the BCB in 2017 was asking cricket clubs to host Inter-zone matches, trial games and begging clubs for trophies, cricket balls and meals among other things. Never in the history of Berbice cricket had things gotten so low while there are no records of any major achievement (not one). I had the privilege of working with most of the newly elected executives and I have full confidence that they would lead by example while taking Berbice cricket to the highest summit where it belongs. For the sake of this and future generation of youths, let us grasp this once-ina-lifetime opportunity of unmatched progress and development. Former BCB executive member

BCB president holds productive meeting with Upper Corentyne clubs

NEWLY-elected president of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) Hilbert Foster, last Saturday hosted a highly successful ‘Face the Clubs’ meeting in the Upper Corentyne area at the Riverton Suite, Corriverton. The meeting was part of a countywide consultation programme to inform all Berbice clubs of the Board’s plans for 2018 and most importantly to listen to recommendations from the grassroots levels. The first meeting was held in the Lower Corentyne district and would be taken to New Amsterdam/Canje, Berbice River and West Berbice. A total of 20 teams attended the meeting. The BCB president, in a comprehensive onehour report on his Board’s plans for 2018, urged the clubs to work as a collective unit and to prepare for the busiest calendar in the history of cricket in the Upper Corentyne. He noted that the Ramnaresh Sarwan 40-over tournament has started with 24 teams in the area, while the Magic Moments 20/20 tournament would bowl off on Saturday at venues across Upper Corentyne. Among other tournaments coming up are a double-wicket tournament, Berbice-wide 40-over Second Division and another 20/20. Upper Corentyne would also be involved in the Berbice-wide coaching programme with 50 young cricketers between ages 12 and 18 being coached by five highly qualified coaches. The Upper Corentyne would also be hosting its own cricket academy for the first time, while outstanding cricketers would be recognised and honoured at an upcoming Awards Ceremony that would be held in early May, 2018. Trophies and medals for the Awards Ceremony would be donated by the 10 cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club. The BCB president also announced to the delighted club officials that the Board in 2018 would be hosting Under-15, Under-17, Under-19, Under-21, Female, Inter-Secondary School, Second Division and First Division tournaments in each of the five zones - Upper Corentyne, Lower Corentyne, New Amsterdam/Canje, West Berbice and Berbice River. Other plans unveiled included educational cricket posters, Berbice Cricket Academy, Elite Training Programme, Berbice Awards Ceremony, Cricket Review Magazine and Tribute to Heroes among others. Foster also disclosed that BCB is in discussion with an overseas supplier to obtain cheap balls and equipment for clubs. The BCB urged the executives of the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association to always listen to advice from clubs, to meet regularly with them and to be accountable. He pledged to meet with the clubs during the year on a regular basis and to work along with them to get them properly organised. Foster also pledged to run the BCB in a transparent, open and accountable way and invited clubs to visit the Board Office as often as possible, to follow the BCB on its facebook page and to tune in to its monthly television programmes.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

German football needs major reforms Rising Sun cart off George to remain competitive Bierhoff Alphonso T10 memorial trophy THE sun shone brilliantly last Sunday to set the stage for Rising Sun to rise to the occasion and sparkle, as they captured the annual George Alphonso Sr T10 Memorial one-day competition. The four-team tournament was played at the Charity Community Centre ground in front of a large and vociferous crowd. The first match saw Pomeroon Oil Mill Challengers prove too strong for Teneze Ferme ‘B’. Winning the toss and batting, Pomeroon Oil Mill Challengers posted 92-4 from their 10 overs with Eric Gomes stroking 32 (2x4, 2x6). They returned to restrict Teneze Ferme to 63-7 when their overs expired, to win comfortably by 29 runs. In the other encounter, Rising Sun humbled Super Kings by five wickets. Batting first, after being sent in, Super Kings reached 81-2 mainly due to an unbeaten half-century from Ronald Kanhai (6x4, 2x6). The Kings then could not prevent the Sun from shining, as they achieved the target reaching 83-5 from 9.2 overs to win by 5 wickets. Captain Sanjeev Ramdeen led with an

DUSSELDORF, Germany (Reuters) - German football will need to undertake major steps to remain competitive globally, the world champions’ team manager Oliver Bierhoff said yesterday, ahead of their friendly against Spain this week.

Team manager Oliver Bierhoff

T10 champions Rising Sun of Pomeroon enjoying the moment

aggressive 42, laced with three fours and three sixes. In the final, Pomeroon Oil Mill took first strike. Their top order struggled and it was left to Eric Gomes’ brisk 25 which took his side to 85-7 in their 10 overs. Sanjeev Ramdeen claimed 3-6 from his 2 overs through his controlled medium pace bowling. In reply, captain Sanjeev Ramdeen capped off a

brilliant all-round performance with a match-winning innings of 38 (6x4) to lead his team to 91-4 and win the competition by six wickets. At the presentation, Mrs Kerenza Fernandes, daughter of the late George Alphonso Sr, presented the prizes. Sanjeev Ramdeen received trophies for claiming the most wickets and scoring the most runs. The winning team then received

their trophy and $60 000 while the runners-up collected a trophy and $40 000. Friendship Super Kings settled for third place after defeating Teneze Ferme ‘B’ and received $30 000. The competition is played annually in memory of the late George Alphonso Sr, who was a popular cricketer representing the Pomeroon. (Elroy Stephney)

Star Party Rentals 11-race cycle programme set for Saturday THE country’s best junior and senior cyclists will be on show at the inner circuit of the National Park on Saturday (March 25) as National cycling coach Hassan Mohamed teams up with Star Party Rentals to organise an 11-race youth cycle programme. The event, which will pedal off at 09:00hrs, is expected to attract all up-and-coming stars from the local cycling clubs as well as young riders from the nation’s schools. The main event will see the top juniors and senior riders go head-to-head in the Schoolboys and Invitational 35-lap race. Other categories scheduled to be keenly contested are the 12-14 year-old Boys and Girls (3 laps), Veterans Under-50 (5 laps), Veterans Over-50 (5 laps), Veterans Over-60 (5 laps), Juveniles (10 laps), Upright cyclists (5 laps), BMX Boys open (3 laps), BMX Boys 12-14 (3 laps), BMX Boys 9-12 (3 laps) and BMX Boys 6-9 (3 laps). Andre ‘Padlock’ Greene is the defending champion of the feature event and manager of Star Party Rentals, Lennox Cush, is scheduled to distribute the prizes to the top performers.

Along with the World Cup they won in 2014, the Germans were also successful at last year’s Confederations Cup and are Under-21 European champions. However, Bierhoff said changes were needed to remain at the top. “I am convinced good work is being done in German football. We are Confederations Cup winners, Under-21 European champions but we cannot only look at this generation,” former Germany striker Bierhoff told reporters. “We have to look at the development. You don’t have to be an expert to see that we need to take the next big step. We need to take a big step united.

“We must be able to react quicker to things. We must give the coaches information, guidelines and pointers to react to certain things.” Bierhoff’s comments came after Germany coach Joachim Loew said Bundesliga clubs were teaching players to play against the ball too much and not what to do when they have possession. He warned that could affect the country’s future prospects as other nations had caught up. Germany, four-time World Cup winners, overhauled the youth training system after disappointing results at the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. Around 80 million euros per year flowed into new and obligatory youth training centres of Bundesliga clubs as an exciting generation of players was forged. The result has been Germany reaching the final or semi-final stage in the last six consecutive tournaments. “There is a lot of working against the ball, a lot of systems, everyone knows them by heart but maybe we neglect the individual aspects a bit,” Bierhoff said. “It is important to invest in football and not just in transfers.” The Germans, who play Brazil four days after tomorrow’s match with Spain, have been drawn in Group F at the World Cup in Russia starting in June, along with Mexico, South Korea and Sweden.

Hamilton, Vettel kick off race for fifth title at Australian Grand Prix

Andre ‘Padlock’ Greene is the defending champion of the Star Party Rentals’ feature Schoolboys and Invitational 35-lap race.

Italian prosecutors investigating sale of AC Milan - source MILAN, Italy (Reuters) Italian prosecutors have opened an investigation into last year’s sale of AC Milan soccer club by Silvio Berlusconi’s holding company to a Chinese group, a judicial source said yesterday. Prosecutors have opened a preliminary investigation without citing any specific crime or suspect, the source said Parties involved in the sale were not available to

Silvio Berlusconi served four times as Italy’s prime minister

comment. Berlusconi, who served four times as prime minister, sold the club in April 2017 for 740 million euros (£645.6 million) and stepped down from his role as president which he had held from more than 30 years. In January a report by Italy’s finance police pointed to potentially suspicious element in the transaction, sources said.

Lewis Hamilton will try to lay down a marker in this week’s season-opening Australian Grand Prix as he sets his sights on beating fierce rival Sebastian Vettel to a fifth F1 world title. (AFP )

By Ian Ransom MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - The first instalment of what Formula One fans hope will be a genuine season-long tussle kicks off on Sunday as four-time champions Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel lock horns at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. This year marks the first that two quadruple champions are competing in the same season and their battle to see who joins Argentine legend Juan Manuel Fangio in second place on the all-time list with five titles

promises to light up the series. Michael Schumacher leads the way on seven world titles. Hamilton emerged well on top for Mercedes at the end of 2017 after Ferrari’s Vettel made the early running, but their rivalry added plenty of spice, the pair banging wheels on the track in Azerbaijan and exchanging threats off it. Hopes are high for very tense duelling to spark interest in a championship that has generally proved a procession for the Silver Arrows, who have swept the drivers’ and constructors’ championships in each of the past four years.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

Toucan Distributors Junior skill level tournament

Wiltshire dominates Carpenter in opening match THE second night of the Toucan Distributors Skill Level Tournament at the Georgetown Club saw the first Category A matches on Tuesday evening. The small category only has four players this year and held no surprise in the match between top seed Shomari Wiltshire and Gianni Carpenter, as Wiltshire made light work of her opponent, dominating by sets of 11-1, 11-1, 11-1. The match between Samuel Ince-Carvalhal and Michael Alphonso was more evenly matched as both players displayed breathtaking shot selection in some outstanding rallies. Ince-Carvalhal held off the younger dynamo Alphonso in three games, securing an 11-9, 11-7, 11-9 hard-fought victory. Category B also had some closely contested games with Abosaide Cadogan showing striking form to move into the leading position of her category with her second win of the tournament against Demetrius DeAbreu 11-7, 11-6, 11-7.

DeAbreu redeemed himself later in the evening battling to a win against a clever, technical opponent in Madison Fernandes, who showed admirable anticipation but was unable to overcome DeAbreu, who prevailed 11-13, 11-6, 11-3, 11-5. Demetrius’ brother, Chad DeAbreu, however, stormed home to victory, and is unbeaten in this tournament, safeguarding a certain win in his category. In the lower categories, emotions ran high and careers were formed as the younger players experienced the ups and downs of stiff competition. The youngsters showed great improvement in their serves and managed some creative rallies. The competition continues through this week and final matches will be played on Saturday in a full day of squash. RESULTS FOR TUESDAY: » Category A S h o m a r i Wi l t s h i r e trounced Gianni Carpenter

11-1, 11-1, 11-1. Samuel Ince-Carvalhal beat Michael Alphonso 11-9, 11-7, 11-9. » Category B

Kirsten Gomes thrashed James Mekdeci 11-4, 11-/2, 11-4. Demetrius DeAbreu overcame Madison Fernandes 11-

13, 11-6, 11-3, 11-5. Ethan Jonas got the better of Lucas Jonas 9-11, 11-8, 7-11, 11-4, 11-5. Abosaide Cadogan defeat-

Pulsating action at the Georgetown Club courts on Tuesday evening. (Delano Williams photo)

ed Demetrius DeAbreu 11-7, 11-6, 11-7. » Category C Zachary Persaud beat Louis DaSilva 11-8, 12-10, 11-8. Jason Gomes bettered Kamir Khan 11-6, 11-9, 12-10. » Category D Chad DeAbreu thrashed Teija Edwards 11-4, 11-1, 11-4. Chad DeAbreu whipped Joshua Verwey 11-6, 11-7, 11-5 » Category E Lajuan Munroe defeated Javed Saul 4-11, 11-3, 11-8. » Category F Manisha Persaud defeated Malia Maikoo 5-11, 11-6, 11- 4. Christiana Fernandes beat Kaden Pynaendy 7-11, 11-7, 11-3. Keenen Naraine got past Noah Rahaman 11-3, 1210. Grant Fernandes spanked Demetri Lowe 11-7, 11-5. » Category H Mya Dean overcame Solomon Ince-Cavalhal 5-11, 11-2, 11-9. Matthew Daby beat Jane Singh 11-9, 8-11, 11-5.

Sammy helps put Zalmi back in final Bulls face Raiders, Royals clash LAHORE, Pakistan (CMC) – Captain Darren Sammy played a small role to help Peshawar Zalmi trounce Karachi Kings by 13 runs and secure the

chance to defend

their Pakistan Super League title

BCB to host Annual Awards ceremony after three years

OUTSTANDING Berbice cricketers for the year 2017 will be honoured by the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) for their excellent performances on Saturday, April 21, at State House in New Amsterdam, where a total of 15 awards would be shared out. Newly-elected president Hilbert Foster stated that the awards ceremony is a very important event as it would allow the heroes of Berbice cricket to be honoured in a fitting way. Foster stated that under his leadership the awards ceremony would become an annual event. The awards ceremony was introduced under the presidency of Keith Foster (2008-2014) and became one of the major activities in the BCB calendar but was absent since 2014. Meanwhile, the board has established a working committee under the leadership of secretary Robby Saywack while Foster is responsible for the marketing of the event. The final list of awardees will be selected by a special panel of experienced cricket administrators and journalists before being approved by the BCB executive committee. The BCB would also use the ceremony to unveil its educational posters for junior cricketers. The posters would have informative tips on batting, bowling, wicket-keeping and fielding. They would be distributed free of cost to young cricketers, cricket clubs, schools and NGOs. The cricketers expected to be honoured are Shimron Hetmyer, Veerasammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo, Kevlon Anderson, Shemaine Campbelle and Romario Shepherd.

against Islamabad United in Sunday’s final. Asked to bat first in the second eliminator at the Gaddafi Stadium,

knock, to give the innings impetus. In reply, Englishman Joe D e n l y

Zalmi rattled up 170 for seven in a contest reduced to 16 overs per side. Opener Kamran Akmal extended his extopcellent form with 77 off scored 27 balls while West with an Indies batsman Anunbeatdre Fletcher struck en 79 off 34 and Sammy a 46 balls quick-fire 23. w h i l e A k m a l B a b a r p l u n d e re d f i v e A z a m fours and eight sixstroked 63, Darren Sammy es as he and Fletchbut Kings er posted a whirlwind came up short 107 off 55 deliveries for of their target. the first wicket. Mukhtar Ahmed fell When Fletcher depart- cheaply in the second over ed in the 10th over after for one with 13 on the lashing three fours and two board, leaving Denly and sixes, Zalmi’s batting fell Azam to stage a valiant away before Sammy ar- 117-run, second-wicket rived to belt a four and a partnership which proved pair of sixes in a 12-ball in vain.

with Jets in LABA Malta Supreme ‘March Madness’ semis

THE Linden Amateur Basketball Association’s (LABA) Malta Supreme ‘March Madness’ semi-finals are on tonight at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court where two great matchups are anticipated. In the first semi-final, unbeaten Half Mile Bulls face Retrieve Raiders. The second is between Victory Valley Royals, the team who have not lost so far, and Amelia’s Ward Jets. The second-ranked Bulls will take on Raiders from 18:30hrs.They will be led by sharp-shooting Terron Welch along with Travin Dryden, Kevin Easton, Jamar Bethune and Immanuel La Rose. Their opponents, Raiders, the number four seed, should field a side that should include Dauwin Lovell, Coel Winter, Devon Montrose, Sheldron Noel and Shamar Chapman. The other match brings together the number one-ranked club Royals with Harold Adams, their most reliable scorer at the helm, the experienced Marlon Pollydore, emerging Yannick Tappin, Daniel lee, Linnel Warden, Kobe Tappin and Dwight Cooper. Their opponents are the Jets who came into this tournament ranked at three and they will field a squad of players featuring the likes of Donnel Benjamin, Akini Wilson, Joel Webster, Jamal Gilkes, Orin Rose and Orin Rose. The final is set for Saturday at the same venue. CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday March 22, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) NZ 3, WI 0 (2) 34 games Today’s Quiz: (1) Which three teams the WI played in the Super Sixes in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers 2018? (2) Which one of the teams defeated the WI in the Super Sixes? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

Guyana’s hockey gets boost in coaching and umpiring THE Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) stands to benefit greatly in the areas of coaching and umpiring, through the exposure of two of its national coaches to a world-level indoor hockey coaching course and the elevation of its most experienced umpire to the world body’s promising list. Long-standing Women’s National coach and Guyana Hockey Board president, Philip Fernandes, along with Men’s National coach Robert Fernandes, attended an Indoor High Performance Coaching Course held in Berlin, Germany from February 5 to 8, during the 2018 Indoor Hockley World Cup. The course was staged by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), in conjunction with the European Hockey Federation (EHF), which boasts most of the top indoor hockey-playing nations of the world. The course was conducted by a team of eight FIH coaching mentors - mainly former top international players who have moved on to the coaching world and some who were coaches of successful international teams in the recent past. Along with the mentors, the participants of the course benefited from lectures given by current top international coaches. Participants were selected through a global process and comprised top coaches in their

respective countries which included Germany, Netherlands, UK, Czechoslovakia, Canada, Jamaica, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Malaysia and Guyana.

Hockey Federation coach received his FIH Level 3 coaching certificate on this occasion and recommendation for the FIH Final Course, placing him

for higher level competition. Guyana has never had an umpire reach the world class level for the sport, and with this promotion, Hooper is like-

National women’s coach Philip Fernandes gives halftime instructions during the CAC qualifiers in Jamaica. Guyana’s Devin Hooper (right) walks onto the court at the Pan American Indoor Hockey Championship, held at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

In addition to the presentations, participants were themselves assigned projects both individually and in groups and which required match analysis, presentations and the management of athletes during practical training sessions. Both Guyanese coaches highly complimented the course and the learning opportunity it provided, in addition to all the global contacts made for the sport. Philip Fernandes who is also a certified Pan American

among elite company of very few in the region. Umpire Devin Hooper who had obtained his FIH badge back in 2008 is one of only two Guyanese to hold this prestigious status. This distinction approves an umpire as suitable to officiate in International competitions. After his officiating assignments in the 2017 Indoor Pan American Championships held here in Georgetownm Guyana, Hooper received the additional recognition of being promoted to the FIH Prom-

CWI congratulates Windies on World Cup qualification PRESIDENT of Cricket West Indies (CWI) Dave Cameron has congratulated the Windies on qualifying for the 2019 ICC World Cup in England and Wales following their victory over Scotland yesterday. West Indies qualified for the global showpiece with a five-run victory under the Duckworth/Lewis/Stern Method, after rain washed out the remainder of play with Scotland 125 for five from 35.2 overs, chasing 199 for victory, in the ICC World Cup Qualifier at the Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe. “Qualification for the World Cup is great news for Windies Cricket, and on behalf of the Directors, Management and Staff of CWI, we want to applaud them for their efforts and thank our fans globally, who continue to stand by us,” said Cameron. “We are grateful to every player that made the sacrifice and committed himself to this task of ensuring qualification

ising list for Indoor Hockey. This means that he is now being sought after by the International Federation as an umpiring talent to be developed

under the leadership of Jason Holder, as well as the team management unit under Stuart Law, and their collective hard work over the last few weeks to ensure that this goal was achieved.” With the mission of qualifying for the World Cup accomplished, Cameron urged the team to finish the job at hand by defeating hosts Zimbabwe in Sunday’s final at the same venue. He sees winning the final as the first step towards the goal of winning the World Cup, something the team last accomplished back in 1979. “We look forward to their continued involvement, as we now set our sights on winning the World Cup,” he said. “Every step we make from this point onwards must be to put the building blocks in place for us to be able to win the World Cup for a third time, next year. “There would be no better place to win the World Cup

than in England. We won the first two editions of the World Cup when they hosted them, and there is a strong and special connection in the game between there and the Caribbean.” Cameron said there was a minimum of 20 One-day Internationals and another edition of the Super50 Cup, as well as other training and playing opportunities available to regional players to make a claim for a place in the World Cup squad. “Right now, I know there are a lot of Windies cricket fans in England and, indeed, the Caribbean keen on making plans to attend the World Cup matches and give the team their full support,” he said. “We want the players to use that knowledge and be inspired to perform to greater heights and use all of the opportunities provided to them over the next year to gear themselves towards a bigger and more rewarding prize – winning the World Cup.”

ly to receive the much-needed attention and support to attain that level. According to the Honorary Secretary of the GHB, for the players to develop and advance in the sport the officiating needs to also be of a high quality. In that way the players are being constantly trained in what is correct and what is not. Such good habits are of paramount importance as these intricacies of the game can mean the difference between success and failure in the international game. The GHB stated that it is proud of these recent achievements and look forward to having its local playing community benefit from the expertise of these individuals.

Relieved Holder says Windies deserve the slice of luck HARARE, Zimbabwe (CMC) – Captain Jason Holder said West Indies had deserved the slice of luck which came their way, though they had been confident of defending their modest total, in yesterday’s do-or-die Super Six match against Scotland. Needing to win in order to qualify for next year’s World Cup in England, West Indies were dismissed for a disappointing 198 in the penultimate over. With the game in the balance, the light rain, which halted play with Scotland 125 for five in the 36th over, then became persistent and heavy, wrecking any remaining hopes of a resumption at Harare Sports Club, and leaving the Scots five runs shy of the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern par score of 130. Afterwards, a relieved Holder said he had no idea when the weather stopped play that it would have ended the contest prematurely. “I was actually shocked to be honest. I knew there was some rain about but I didn’t actually think it would end the game. Then to see the amount of rain that fell, it was actually quite shocking,” the all-rounder said. “But I guess some things have to go our way at certain times. We have endured some really tough times in the last few years and to get some luck at some stage is pretty good.” He added: “At the halfway stage, seeing how the pitch played, I felt we had enough and it was just a matter of having a good new-ball burst. We saw what Scotland did with their new ball and we thought we could have done the same and make things hard for their middle order “Maybe 200 would have looked psychologically a lot better but seeing how the pitch played, and it was a fresh wicket where the ball went through

and there was a little tackiness up front and the ball holding up a little in the pitch, I knew anywhere around 200 would have been enough.” Opener Evin Lewis topscored with 64 and Marlon Samuels weighed in with a valuable 51, putting on 121 for the third wicket to pull West Indies out of trouble at two for two in the third over. However, the innings fell away badly once they were separated, with the last eight wickets tumbling for 75 runs.

Windies captain Jason Holder

The Windies bowlers also started strongly, reducing Scotland to 25 for three in the seventh over and then keeping a lid on the scoring despite a couple of defiant partnerships in the middle. Holder said the Caribbean side were yet to pull the ideal game together and were now hoping to execute for the final. “(There were) one or two boundary balls when we bowled that we could gave probably tightened up on but good shots do play in cricket and we must respect that as well,” Holder

pointed out. “We were half decent in the field. We could’ve held on to one or two half-chances and made things a lot easier for us but all in all, I don’t think we’ve played the perfect cricket game here in this competition so far but still (have) been able to win games. “My message to the guys in the dressing room is to look to play the perfect final.” Despite entering the qualifying tournament as hot favourites, the Windies endured some nervous moments against several of the so-called minnows, en route to finishing the preliminary round unbeaten. They were felled by Afghanistan in their opening Super Six match last week, forced to complete their fifth highest run chase in ODIs to beat Zimbabwe on Monday before overcoming Scotland. Holder said the success had been testament to the attitude and commitment of the side. “I’m definitely relieved. Coming into this tournament, being here for the first time in a World Cup qualifier and knowing what was at stake, I was just really pleased to see how the guys responded,” he explained. “It was one of the better times that we really came together as a squad and everybody put their heads together to try to do what’s best for West Indies cricket and what’s best for ourselves. “I can’t see two or three individuals dominating in every single game – it was a strong collective effort most of the time in every game which we’ve won, and that’s a strong sign of a good side.” Hosts Zimbabwe can join West Indies in Sunday’s final and in next year’s World Cup, once they defeat United Arab Emirates today.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 22, 2018

Guyana’s hockey gets boost in coaching and umpiring

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West Indies captain Jason Holder celebrates with his team in the dressing room following their win over Scotland on Wednesday. (Photo courtesy ICC Media)

Rain helps send Windies through to 2019 World Cup HARARE, Zimbabwe ( C M C ) – We s t I n d i e s sneaked into next year’s World Cup in England but just barely, as heavy rain coupled with a controversial umpiring decision, helped them beat Scotland by five runs under Duck-

worth-Lewis-Stern, and stage a great escape in their final Super Six match of the ICC World Cup Qualifiers here yesterday. Faced with their second must-win match in three days, West Indies were bundled out for a paltry 198 in the penul-

timate over at Harare Sports Club, leaving themselves with a mountain to climb to secure one of the two World Cup places up for grabs. Opener Evin Lewis topscored with 66 and veteran stroke-maker Marlon Samuels struck 51 but the two-time

former World champions collapsed from 123 for two in 31st over and lost their last eight wickets for 75 runs. New-ball bowlers Safyaan Sharif (3-27) and Brad Wheal (3-34) were brilliant, both claiming three wickets apiece to wreck the Windies innings.

In reply, the Scots were reeling at 25 for three in the seventh over before recovering through the efforts of Richie Berrington who struck 33 and George Munsey who gathered an unbeaten 32. The game was still open when the rains arrived with

Top Brandz, Hairoun Beer throw support behind GRFU 7s tournament

TOP Brandz Distributors, under their Hairoun Beer brand, yesterday announced its alliance, for the first time, with the Guyana Rugby Football Union, for Saturday’s Sevens tournament at the National Park. Harvard Rugby Club, Trinidad and Tobago’s leading Sevens team, will match skills with Pepsi Hornets, Yamaha Caribs, Panthers, Police Falcons and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) for the winners’ purse of $200 000, compliments of Top Brandz Distributors. At a press conference hosted at Top Brandz’ Broad Street, Georgetown Headquarters, Second vice-president of the GRFU, Rawle Toney, noted the magnitude of the company’s contribution to the sport, adding, “This is the first lucrative tournament of its kind, in addition to having Trinidad Sevens champions Harvard, featuring our very own Claudius Butts, coming here

to play and we want to thank Hairoun and Top Brandz for this support. “In fact, it’s the perfect way for us to kick-start the season with the quality of players that will be here that will also include Kevin McKenzie from Australia playing for the Hornets. This tournament will give the guys a foundation for the rest of 2018,” Toney noted. Marketing Manager at Top Brandz, Marvin Wray, was pleased to support what he called the ‘gladiators’ of Guyana, telling the Media, “I’ve followed the sport and what rugby has done is nothing short of exceptional and we are happy to support that development. We are looking for ways to continue development and giving back to you our consumers is important to us. “Other organisation might be bigger but we have bigger hearts and we will continue to support these guys because we

Scotland on 125 for five in the 36th over, five runs adrift of the DLS par score of 130. What was believed to be a passing shower, turned into a persistent heavy rain, forcing officials to abandon

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… Harvard Rugby Club to arrive tomorrow

Marvin Wray (second from left) hands over the sponsor’s cheque to GRFU treasurer Ryan Gonsalves. Also in photo (from left) Esan Griffith (PRO), vice-president Rawle Toney, Pepsi Hornets player Blaise Bailey and Teron McCalmon. (Adrian Narine photo) believe in them,” Wray shared. In addition, Toney noted that the rugby females will also be in with a chance to kick-start their season as well as part of

the overall proceedings of the tournament. The tournament is set to start at 11:00hrs on Saturday with the men playing for the top prize of

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$200 000 while second-placers will receive $100 000. The females will also play for a cash prize that is yet to be determined. Nevertheless, both Wray

and Toney urged the fans to support the event that will also provide them with a fantastic atmosphere at the National Park. THURSDAY, MARCH 22, 2018