Issuu

FRIDAY 22th JUNE, 2018

Deliver the goods No.105313

… Min Jordan says gov’t will make resources available … urges sector heads to redouble efforts on budget implementation 03 PAGE

Boyer replaced as PSC 11 chairman PAGE

PAHO begins mercury 02 investigation at GGMC complex CDC to visit flood-affected areas in South Rupununi 10 PAGE

AA eyes November take-off

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…four flights per week, daily from next June

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Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, Lt. Col. (ret’d) Egbert Field is flanked by top officials of the American Airlines

Man kills wife, attempts suicide PAGE

Tovonnie Simmons and Imran Lyte in happier times

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

PAHO begins mercury investigation at GGMC complex

A TEAM from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) has started assessment of the mercury clean-up efforts at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Brickdam complex.

The team, which is comprised of two industrial hygienists, two physicians and a mining engineer, is conducting tests to determine if any traces of mercury remain at the complex. The team arrived on

Wednesday and met with Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, and Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence and Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott. PAHO/WHO Country

Ministers of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman, Public Health Volda Lawrence and junior Social Protection Minister Keith Scott during their meeting with the PAHO team “This has been a wakeup proceed,” Minister Trotman call for us. It is a matter that told the team. has been ongoing for perhaps Industrial hygienist and decades. We cannot postpone head of the team, Catherine any longer or pretend that it Beecham, explained that is not an issue in Guyana. they will be familiarising So, your presence here is to themselves with the entire look at the compound and its process of retrieving and environs and provide some burning the gold. They will guidance to the government also be meeting with the staff and its agents as to how to to know the history of what

Industrial hygienist and head of the team Catherine Beecham Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow was also present. Minister Trotman explained that the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Department within the Ministry of Social Protection had cleaned and certified the area as mercury-free. However, a third-party opinion is needed to approve the certification and provide guidance on the way forward, Minister Trotman explained.

Members of the joint team in the compound of GGMC (DPI photos) the complaint is about and what has been done. The majority of the team’s focus will be done on June 21 and 22. A drone mercury vapour analyser will be used to see if there See page 3

Deliver the goods

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

… Min Jordan says gov’t will make resources available

… urges sector heads to redouble efforts on budget implementation FINANCE Minister, Winston Jordan on Thursday opened a sensitisation training programme for Budget 2019, telling heads of agencies that spending money calls for diligence even as he urged them to redouble their efforts to deliver goods and services of a sufficient quantity, quality and timeliness. The training programme is being held at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre. Jordan told the participants that the start of the National Budget Cycle is an important milestone in the financial calendar of the country, noting that Budget 2019 represents the fifth and penultimate budget of the coalition administration’s first term in office and the third consecutive year that it will be presented to the National Assembly ahead of the start of the financial year. “It is therefore an opportune time for us to take stock of the results that we have achieved or not achieved and to redouble our efforts to deliver goods and services of a sufficient quantity, quality and timeliness,” Jordan stressed. Previous budgets had been bogged down by slow implementation. Jordan reminded the participants that many of them have been at the helm of their sectors for several years and, therefore, are in a good position to critically and searchingly examine “from whence you came, where you are, and where you are going.” “As you pause to reflect, let me remind everyone that a national budget is the single most important planning tool in the armoury of

the Government. It is a living and dynamic document that gives life to the national and sectoral visions and policies. Most importantly, it is the vehicle through which we implement programmes and achieve national results.” He said when the resource envelope of any national budget is allocated in an environment of stable macroeconomic fundamentals and sound public financial management and, is supported by: robust institutional structures; effective management systems; functional monitoring and evaluations systems and diligent, committed and competent leadership, then the chances of successful budget implementation are quite high. “However, when any one of, or a combination of, those elements breaks down or goes missing, success becomes evasive, even though expenditure may have occurred. As heads of budget agencies, you must pay keen attention to ensuring that these elements are all in place in your respective sectors, regions and agencies,” Jordan asserted. MAKING RESOURCES AVAILABLE The finance minister assured the sector heads that government will make resources available, subject to the fiscal space, for them to pursue workable solutions. “Please bear in mind, that expenditure pressures such as those demanded by, for example, our commitment to improving wages and salaries and national security; bridging the divide between the hinterland and

the coastland; and narrowing the infrastructure gap, on one hand, and revenue pressures to lower taxes and tariffs will continue to impose premiums on planning, programming and pro-active performance.” Jordan outlined that since 2015, government has proven that it is up to the task and that it is prepared to implement measures that will benefit a broad cross section of our population. “In this regard, we have consistently improved wages and salaries; undertaken sweeping tax reforms to improve tax administration and bring greater equity to the tax system. We have delivered early National Budgets for 2017 and 2018, to ensure that heads of budget agencies had the entire financial year to implement work programmes–a stark departure from what was obtained previously, when budgets were presented as late as end-March and approved in mid-April, thereby implying a 2-month turnaround before the next budget cycle began in early July.” PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP Minister Jordan added that procurement of public goods and services has undergone changes: thresholds have been increased; several training courses in monitoring and evaluation, and supply procurement have been executed -all with the aim of ensuring an environment that contributes to improved performance in the public service. He noted that recently the administration de-

It is worth the time and effort–please ensure you secure the skills to understand the problems in your

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan veloped a public-private partnership framework to enable more creative financing approaches, to overcome loss of concessional financing occasioned by our elevated status of upper middle income country, as classified by the World Bank. SPENDING MONEY Touching on the issues of expenditure, Jordan told those gathered that spending money is easy, but spending it wisely and prudently to effect results takes skill and effort. He said it means understanding the problem and finding the solution that gives you the result, then designing a plan and costing it in a way that delivers value for money, then spending the money. “Many times, we do the process the other wayaround: we spend money without understanding what the problem to be addressed is. The predictable result is the wastage of public resources that we are entrusted to spend.

PAHO begins mercury investigation ...

From page 2

are any more detectable levels of mercury at the facility. “We are not here specifically to say it is safe to return, what we can say is what the current levels are based on our best measurements and we can make recommendations to reduce exposures if they are occurring and how to prevent exposure. We are hoping to go to the site where persons are working,” Beecham emphasised, The Guyana Gold Board (GGB) ceased the burning of gold at the GGMC complex in April following health and

safety concerns. The GGB is currently sourcing alternative facilities. Others issues to be looked at are SoPs and standards regarding mining and the use of mercury. Another PAHO team is expected to work with the government in this regard following the conclusion of Beecham’s investigations. Guyana has committed to the eventual removal of mercury and will replace its usage with alternative methods that increase recovery of gold. (DPI)

sector, devise solutions, plan for and cost of the implementation of these solutions.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22 , 2018

‘Nasty Man’ found guilty of ‘Warlock’ murder

Convict Delon Henry

AFTER many hours of deliberation, a 12-member jury on Thursday found

Delon Henry called “Nasty Man” guilty of the September 29, 2015 murder of Dexter Griffith at ‘Warlock,’ East Ruimveldt. This was after the jury returned to the courtroom for further directions and returned hours later with the unanimous guilty verdict. After the announcement, defence attorney, Adrian Thompson, who was not in court but was represented by attorney John Linder, requested that a probation report be prepared for the accused who was remanded to prison. The probation report followed by sentencing would take place on July 5, 2018 at 3 p.m. before Justice Sandil

Kissoon. In a packed courtroom on Thursday afternoon there were smiles of joy as well as tears as relatives of both Henry and the deceased were present for the verdict. When asked if he had anything to say, Henry said that he was locked up for the alleged murder he did not commit and the police placed evidence against him stating that his picture was leaked by cops and the ‘system’ was so designed to pin the murder on him. He told the court that the star witness, brother of the deceased Keshawn Griffith doesn’t know him and common sense would prevail since he did not know the

area ‘Warlock’ having being in prison from age 14 to 23 years old, he doesn’t know town. Henry said, “I gon wear all ova white and go and shoot somebody. I spent nine months in jail and I did not shoot anybody.” A post mortem report presented by Dr. Nehaul Singh said Griffith died from shock and haemorrhage due to multiple gunshot wounds. Griffith was shot six times to the body and was left for dead in a gutter he fell into after receiving injuries. Henry was on trial for the September 29, 2015 murder of Dexter Griffith at ‘Warlock,’ East Ruimveldt. The accused pleaded not

Delon Henry called “Nasty Man” in tears after a 12-member jury found him guilty of murder

guilty and is being represented by defence attorney Adrian Thompson while the state is led by Lisa Cave and Orinthia Schmidt. In presenting the state’s

case, Lisa Cave told the court that on the day in question the accused shot and murdered the deceased Dexter Griffith at ‘Warlock’ area.

‘Positive Discipline’ campaign to be rolled out soon A ‘POSITIVE Discipline’ campaign will soon be rolled out by the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with the Education Ministry to enhance the ways in which parents and teachers discipline and communicate

with children. UNICEF’s Country Representative Sylvie Fouet made the disclosure on Thursday during a ‘Press Café’, the first of its kind for the UN agency here. In fielding questions from Guyana Chronicle, Fouet ex-

plained that the campaign is being birthed from a series of consultations that took place with stakeholders approximately one year ago. “That consultation took place about a year ago and we also involved children themselves. It was important because the way of teaching has to change,” Fouet explained. Weighing in on the matter, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, Michael Gillis, said the organisation started the collection of data in 2014. That data gave an indication of the kind of discipline being practised. A situation analysis was also done on women and children that indicated what was happening and why it was happening. It was found too that there were key issues in hinterland communities. “We then followed the lead of the data and then

parent would like. “Give the child the chance to understand the severity of the action or behaviour by sitting and talking with the child,” he recommended. At the same time, he said children need to understand that while they have rights, UNICEF Communication Specialist, Frank Robinson; UNICEF they also have responsibilCountry Representative, Sylvie Fouet; and Monitoring and ities. Evaluation Specialist Michael Gillis at the press briefing “So, it’s more of an emThursday (Delano Williams photo) powerment-type methodology in terms of disciplining collected the information form of corporal punishment children and so far, … with about indigenous women and for different reasons. children. There is a whole “The positive discipline parents and schools that praclot of evidence which moved campaign will bring addition- tise positive disciplining, we beyond what is happening in al tools and ways of disciplin- have seen positive changes,” Robinson said. school, what is being prac- ing,” he said. UNICEF has already tised in society. The positive Communication Specialdiscipline campaign was re- ist Frank Robinson relayed produced a video showally evidence-informed,” he some recommendations that casing the perspective of said. could be adhered to by par- children on the subject. A The analysis found that ents to aid in their discipline second video is currently corporal punishment was technique. He said, instead of being produced that will being practised at a very high hitting the child, parents can give the perspective and level with over 70 per cent of explain why the behaviour is views of the parents on posparents administering some not in keeping with what the itive discipline.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday June 22, 2018

Lindo Creek victims get emotional send-off By Svetlana Marshall IT was an emotional scene at the Le Repentir Cemetery as relatives of the Lindo Creek massacre victims broke down in tears upon viewing the final resting place of their beloved – some for the very first time. The Lindo Creek massacre victims – Cedric Arokium, Dax Arokium, Compton Speirs, Horace Drakes, Nigel Torres, Bonny Harry, Clifton Wong and Lancelot Lee – were laid to rest on September 11, 2012, in the absence of their relatives with the exception of Nigel Torres. The burial took place on the instructions of the Guyana Police Force; some four years after their charred remains were discovered at Lindo Creek in the Upper Berbice River, Region 10 on June 21, 2008. Thursday, June 21, 2018 marked 10 years since that gruesome discovery at Lindo Creek, and it was evident that the wounds were still fresh. Amid cries for justice, relatives expressed bitterness over the State’s decision to lump the remains of six of the miners into one casket. The situation was further compounded when relatives, at the 11th hour, were told that the three tombs, in which the remains were placed, were not all placed next to each other. In tears, Dax Arokium’s mother – Jacklyn Arokium explained that for the past three years, she was maintaining two tombs, just to be told days ago, that the remains of her son; her brother-in-Law, Cedric Arokium; and four other miners, were placed into another tomb about four rows away from where Nigel Torres and Bon-

ny Harry were laid to rest. In search of answers, Mrs Arokium with the help of a journalist, and directions from the Georgetown Mayor and City Council back in 2015 had located the two tombs in the Le Repentir Cemetery, in which ‘all eight miners’ were said to be placed. “Since 2015, I have been maintaining that place. Every year I come, I do something. I would go there and cry my heart out … only to be told that is not where my son was placed,” Mrs Arokium said as she broke down in tears. Wayne Lee, brother of Lancelot Lee, explained that they were only told of the third tomb, just days ago. “Two days before we came to check on the tombs, then we realised that the two that Mrs Arokium was maintaining, did not have the remains of all the miners, and that there was a third tomb. This third tomb, according to them, consists of the six miners that were not identified by DNA,” Lee explained. He noted that only the remains of Bonny Harry and Nigel Torres were placed in separate caskets and tombs. The third tomb had no name or date written on it but just a lot number. But this news did not sit well with the relatives of the six miners whose remains were “dumped” into one casket on the basis that their remains were not identified when the DNA tests were conducted. “They bury them like dogs, like dogs. Like dogs that you does just pick up and bury,” one relative screamed as she wailed uncontrollably.

Nigel Torres’ mother Yonette Torres crying for justice. Her son was only 17 years old when he was murdered in 2008

Dax Arokium’s mother, Jacklyn Arokium, laying a wreath on the third tomb, in which it is said the remains of her son and five other miners had been placed.

“This is hard, this is really hard; imagine you can’t even identify the tomb. This is hard, man, this is just heartless,” another relative added. But while the persons in charge of the cemetery from the City Council are maintaining that the third tomb

was placed a short distance away, Mrs. Torres has a different recollection. Torres, who was present for the burial in September 2012, is maintaining that all three tombs were placed next to on another. “I saw three tombs, I could remember three

REALLY HARD Thursday, June 22, 2018 – 12:30 hrs

tombs, and the guys that were preparing them, they asked for names, and I give them Nigel’s name,” she maintained. Nonetheless, wreaths were laid on the three tombs. The relatives of the slain miners had gathered at the Le Repentir Cemetery following a Memorial Walk from Square of the Revolution to the final resting place. Thursday’s heavy showers did not deter their spirit, and so through the rain they walked to the cemetery as the sound of gospel music filled the air.

Chairman of the Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (COI), Justice (Ret’d) Donald Trotman, though he did not participate in the walk, visited the burial ground on Thursday, and addressed the grieving relatives. Informing those present that his visit was a formal one, Justice Trotman said, “This occasion is an important and integral part of our inquiry, just as our visit to the camp site at Lindo Creek was. We were there to confirm the fact of what happened there, and we are here today to confirm the fact of what happened here.” He added: “A religious service and burial are the proper ways of saying farewell to our fellow human beings and of ensuring that in a civilised society, the dead are entitled to be treated with the same dignity and respect as the living are.” Justice Trotman said the visit to the cemetery is in keeping with the commission’s commitment to find the truth so that justice, closure and reconciliation could result for the benefit of the inquiry and the surviving families of the murdered miners. Before leaving the cemetery, the relatives released yellow helium balloons into the air.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22 , 2018

Keep the ocean healthy MUCH of modern scientific work focuses on the environment in its many facets. For this month’s focus, one of the most important facets was ‘World Oceans Day’. Guyana, from the time of its settlement has always had a close symbiotic relationship with the ocean. The ocean has always been both a friend and an adversary, but within the last two years, despite the threat of floods and the economic loss and social discomfiture which such floods would cause, the ocean has suddenly been transformed into a very generous friend with the discovery of large oil deposits. One of the most valuable of the offerings of the ocean is its contribution to the country’s nutritious food supply. The food products of the sea such as fish, shrimps, prawns and various edible vegetation such as sea moss, provide healthier diets for the population. These food products are also exported and earn foreign exchange. The ocean is also an important source of employment and many thousands are em-

ployed in sein fishing along the coast, manning trawlers or preparing the fish and other marine products for the market. A high proportion of the workers in the marine food industry are women and this helps to bring about gender equality. The ocean plays a great part in the breakdown and removal of waste and pollution and in this sense makes the earth more livable. This function of the ocean is of great importance. The ocean also provides recreation. Beaches like Number 63 in Berbice, allow for swimming, boating and general relaxation and during the Easter season thousands of kite-fliers choose the sea coast to fly their kites. The festival of Easter Kite-flying is one of the unique joys the ocean offers Guyanese, and in particular the children. Another joy which the ocean offers is the sunsets, moon-rises and dawns with their colours and cloud formations which will never repeat themselves. The ocean itself is home to a stunning variety of beautiful creatures which an increasing number of people are learning to appreci-

ate and enjoy. The oil and gas which the ocean offers will revolutionise Guyanese life and Guyana will take its place among the richer countries and its people would not need to emigrate. Indeed, part of its diaspora will return and there will be settlers from other countries and with these new infusions, a richer culture could evolve. But, despite these bounteous offerings of the ocean, human beings have ungratefully dumped all kinds of dangerous debris into it, harming the fish and other creatures of the ocean and destroyed or reduced fish stocks. In the past, foreign companies were given licence to fish in Guyanese waters which once teemed with fish and other marine products. Now fish stocks are smaller and certain types of fish, such as snapper are becoming rare. Part of the depletion of the country’s fish stocks has been attributed to poaching in Guyanese waters by mostly Asian fishing fleets. The government departments which are charged with protecting the fish stocks and ensuring their renewal are

doing their best within their limitations, but they need more boats and equipment to protect against poaching, and enforcing bans on catching certain types of fish and other marine creatures during breeding and maturing seasons. All citizens could participate in cleansing and respecting the ocean by their method of disposing of waste, especially plastic waste, and ultimately cease producing such plastic waste. When one throws plastic waste in a drain, canal or creek it will ultimately reach the ocean since all waterways are connected. Plastic waste is a killer and torturer of the fish, birds and mammals which live by the ocean. Sometimes these creatures swallow plastic waste accidentally or because it resembles their prey. Turtles, for instance, eat plastic bags mistaking them for jellyfish, and Guyana’s famed leatherback turtles have been decimated by such waste. When the fish, bird or mammal ingests the plastic waste and fills the stomach, it would lead to starvation or malnutrition. Such plastic debris may also block the an-

imal’s air passage and cause death by suffocation. Birds of prey and other carnivorous animals have been found with large concentrations of plastics in their stomachs, after preying on smaller birds which had eaten fish with plastics in them. Most fishing nets are made of plastics and not biodegradable fibres as formerly. Sometimes nets are accidentally or deliberately discarded and they keep drifting for a very long time and continue to catch fish. Fish caught in these “ghost nets” attract other fish, mammals and sea-birds searching for food and they too become entangled causing

a vicious circle of death. Such waste can affect human livelihoods. Tourists do not visit countries with polluted beaches or coastlines. Drifting nets may entangle propellers and anchors damaging boats and since the nets continue to catch fish, they leave fishermen with smaller catches. The ocean plays an essential part in ensuring a healthy and prosperous human life and it could only remain so and even extend that role if we respect its birds, fish and mammals, cleanse it and cease allowing plastic and toxic waste to be thrown into it.

Oil revenues should be directed towards improving population health in Guyana Dear Editor IN 2016, Guyana made the transition from a lower middle-income economy to an upper middle-income economy according to the World Bank. With this transition, Guyana has joined a new peer group of upper middle-income countries including Brazil, China, Turkey, and South Africa to benchmark against and compare itself. Guyana’s performance on several key global health

indicators, illustrates the continued challenges the country faces in improving population health as it makes the transition to an upper middle-income economy. Although Guyana has made significant strides in improving its performance on these measures over the past decade, the country lags behind its new peer group of upper middle-income countries on global health indicators, such as Life Expectancy and Under-5 Mortality. Although there are some relative bright

spots in recent years, (most notably, the decline in HIV incidence over the past decade) Guyana’s performance on these global health indicators, is representative of its previous classification as a lower middle-income country than that of its new peer group. Furthermore, Guyana faces an urgent challenge in addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in its increasingly ageing population. Over half of Guyanese adults are

overweight, and Guyana has a higher than average prevalence of diabetes in its adult population in comparison to its upper middle-income peer group (11.2% vs. 9.9% in 2015). The increasing burden of these non-communicable diseases has placed additional strains on Guyana’s public health infrastructure, and has contributed to the dramatic rise in healthcare expenditures per capita (increasing nearly four-fold over the past decade). At the same time, out

of pocket healthcare expenditures have more than doubled, indicating that the growing financial burden of healthcare costs related to these diseases are increasingly shouldered by ordinary Guyanese citizens. With the recent discovery of oil off the coast of Guyana, the Guyanese government has a unique opportunity to direct greater resources towards efforts to improve its performance on these global health indicators, and close the gap in health outcomes with

its new peer group of upper-middle income countries. To eliminate health disparities and achieve health equity for all Guyanese citizens, the Guyanese government should allocate funds from the expected oil revenues to strengthen the country’s public health infrastructure; invest in health outreach, promotion, and education; and expand disease prevention efforts. Regards Rishi Jaggernauth

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Private sector cannot operate in vacuum – GRA commissioner general

By Svetlana Marshall COMMISSIONER General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Godfrey Statia said while the private sector is critical to the growth and development of a country, it cannot operate in a vacuum, as he underscored the importance of government creating an enabling environment. Statia, an Attorney-at-Law and an Accountant, delivered the key note address during the Private Section Commission (PSC) 26th Annual General Meeting at the Guyana Marriott on Thursday. In his address to high ranking members of the private sector, members of the diplomatic corps, and officials from the University of Guyana, the Commissioner General said Government must put supporting mechanisms in place that would allow the private sector to thrive and ultimately fulfill its role in the nation building process. “It needs to provide good policy, strong institutions and efficient public goods and services to ensure the private sector can thrive and the benefits of growth reach all citizens. Governments must also commit to develop and sustain the institutions that implement, oversee and regulate those policies,” he said. It was noted that many

of the constraints to growth identified by the private sector are directly linked to Government decisions and action. Statia, while applauding Finance Minister, Winston Jordan for capitalising on Public Private Partnerships (PPP) in the design, construction and maintenance of the country’s infrastructure, said additional joint ventures with the private sector could extend services into poorer communities, provide safer work places, promote adoption of non-discriminatory employment policies, help the poor access credit, boost investment in low-cost housing and provide assistance to the poorest families through the provision of micro-finance. Private sector participation, the Commissioner General said, is also key to nurturing Local Economic Development (LED) strategies that create a mix of local skills, resources and ideas that would stimulate the economy. “Our country’s economy and finance has gained considerable trust among international financial institutions and international partners. Achieving national development calls for bolder action from diverse actors across our society, whose collective efforts far outweigh what they could deliver individually, and the private sector is the first among these actors,”

he told those present. GOOD ENVIRONMENT However, the Commissioner General said that the public sector must pave the way to allow the private sector to engage in planning, public policy and development objectives. He also added that the public sector must consider incentives that encourage private sector participation, in addition to arrangements beyond PPPs to meet its financial needs. “Our policy makers must continue to engage with the private sector and adopt a proactive approach to the business/development dialog. The private sector needs a seat at the ‘development table’ to highlight the benefits the private sector can bring, while at the same time better understanding the needs of its clients,” Statia argued. It was on this note that he applauded the decision of the Finance Minister and the Private Sector Commission to meet quarterly to discuss matters of mutual interest. Meanwhile, outgoing Chairman of the PSC, Edward Boyer, in his address, said the PSC during the year continued its quest to promote prosperity and economic stability within the country while championing the private sector as a significant element of growth.

“Much of the focus this year was to become prepared for the mammoth opportunities open to Guyanese businesses, as our country heralds the influx of oil and gas,” he said, while noting that the commission made deliberate efforts to bring its members up to date with the opportunities that exist within the budding sector. “With the advent of oil and gas, Guyana has already started to attract investors and the industrialisation of the nation has begun. The potential influx of capital and growth in GDP has already resulted in foreign and local companies becoming interested in expanding through partnerships and investments and we see the need to be prepared,” Boyer added. WORK WITH GOVERNMENT The outgoing PSC chairman also reiterated the private sector’s commitment to working with the Government on all levels to improve prevailing conditions. “I take this opportunity, to complement our Government on a number of its accomplishments, including local government elections, establishment of the Procure-

ment Commission, reduction of Corporate and Personal taxes, increase of the personal threshold and lowering of the VAT percentage. I applaud our Government for their determination, to address the Public - Private Partnerships in Guyana, and their recognition of the need for co-existence and collaboration,” Boyer said. However, he noted that more can be done to simplify the means of doing business. Former chairman and executive member of the PSC, Major General (Retired) Normal McLean also underscored the important relationship the Government and Private Sector share, stating that while the PSC is integrally involved in the formalisation of the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS), more needs to be done to address the energy issues facing the private sector. Noting that the key to the country’s future rest with energy and electricity, Major General McLean opined that generation of electricity from solar and wind power will not electrify and industrialise Guyana. He further added that the emphasis on small hydro power plants at places such

Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Godfrey Statia

as Moco Moco and Tumatumari could only electrify communities within which they fall. He made a case for the development of large hydropower plants, and the use of natural gas. Meanwhile, when the elections were held for new executives, Desmond Sears was elected chairman of the PSC while current president of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Deodat Indar was elected vice chairman. Komal Singh was elected secretary and Zulfikar Ali, treasurer.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

AA eyes November take-off … eyes four flights per week, daily from next June

AMERICAN Airlines is hoping to start operations here with four flights per week and announced plans to operate daily in June 2019. This was disclosed when the airline officials met with Guyanese authorities earlier this month. Members of American Airlines team met with the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on June 12, 2018 at the Authority’s head office in Kingston. The meeting was convened by the Director General, Lt. Col. (ret’d) Egbert Field, who outlined to the representatives of American Airlines, the requirements they must fulfill before commencing operations in Guyana. American Airlines is interested in providing scheduled flights on the Miami-Georgetown route from November 15, 2018. According to a GCAA release, Field expressed his pleasure at such a well-established airline showing an interest in Guyana’s market. He noted that the GCAA is committed to doing its part in facilitating the application process of American Airlines, while assuring the airline officials of the GCAA’s robust oversight capabilities. The GCAA said that American Airlines has already commenced the process for approval to conduct scheduled operations on the Miami -Georgetown route. The airline is coming to Guyana at a time when the country, for the first time in its aviation history, will be hosting the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Air Transport Meeting scheduled for November 21 to 23, 2018. The meeting will attract delegates from many of the

ICAO 192 member states. Leading the team from American Airlines was Mr. John Williams, who indicated that American Airlines is enthusiastic about commencing operations in Guyana at the time of the ICAO Air Transport Meeting. Back in March when it announced plans to fly the Guyana route it was said that the timing of the take-off in November seems to coincide with the completion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) which is scheduled to be completed by December 2018. When completed, the US$150M expansion project is expected to yield two passenger boarding bridges for arrival and departures; a 450-seat departure area, escalators and elevators in addition to its extended runway catering for larger categories of aircraft. In its initial release the airline had said that it has a rich and robust history of serving Mexico, the Caribbean and Latin America (MCLA). “And American is continuing to grow its presence in the region with the addition of four new destinations. Next winter, customers looking for history, culture and warm climate will have access to three new cities in South America: Georgetown, Guyana (GEO); Pereira, Colombia (PEI) and Cordoba, Argentina (COR); and one new city in Mexico: Oaxaca (OAX).” According to the release, American Airlines is also introducing a service to Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE), from its West Coast hub at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), making American Airlines the first and only airline to offer

GCAA Director General (ret’d) Egbert Field and other GCAA staff in discussion with representatives of American Airlines nonstop service between these two major cities. “We’re creating a world-class customer experience and as the largest U.S. carrier in Mexico and South America, we are committed to offering more choices with the best schedules for our customers in the region,” said Vasu Raja, vice president, Network and Schedule Planning. “As we look to strengthen our network, we’re excited to add more nonstop flights to places like Buenos Aires, maximizing connections across our network.” Reacting to the news, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson had said, “I am delighted that American Airlines will commence flying to Guyana in December. This will coincide with the launch of the newly expanded Cheddi Jagan International Airport and demonstrates a confidence in destination Guyana not only as a desirable tourist destina-

tion but as an emerging oil economy as well. The government has been working at various levels to provide more options to travellers to and from Guyana, to North America, with increased airlift, and American Airlines’ commitment to destination Guyana is recognition of government’s work since coming into office in 2015.” American Airlines and American Eagle offer an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to nearly 350 destinations in more than 50 countries. American Airlines has hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries.

Murder, attempted suicide rock Berbice A 28-YEAR-OLD mother of four was brutally murdered on Thursday by her reputed husband who had visited her to settle a matter involving him and her brother. Dead is Tovonnie Alexce Simmons called “Vanie”, of Second Street, Limlair, East Berbice,

Corentyne who was attacked off guard by her reputed husband Imran Lyte, 30. She was stabbed her several times before her throat was slashed. According to reports, at approximately 20:30 hrs on Wednesday evening, the duo were seen talking when the woman

Jacqueline Collins with her grand children

suddenly jumped from the table and began screaming. Her mother Jacqueline Collins, 55, said she was sitting a short distance away while the two were talking when her daughter got up and jumped on her. “I panicked so I push her off and saw blood. I see she run and jumped over the verandah and he hurry behind she so I jump up and try to hold he back but he fire the knife at we and run through the door after her,” Collins related. In an attempt to escape her assailant, the young mother jumped from the verandah, ran out the yard and managed to run three houses away before she was cornered and attacked. Lyte reportedly grabbed her from behind, slit her throat and stabbed her 12 times in the region of her breasts, arm, back, hip, chin and chest. Collins told reporters that she stood on the verandah because she could not run while yelling to her daughter to “Run for her life”. The family believes the murder was premeditated since Lyte came prepared with a knife con-

cealed on him. “ We didn’t see the knife but everything seemed fine because they were talking good so we didn’t suspect he would have hurt her but when he pull out knife, we said this man like he plan this thing,” the grieving mother said. She did manage to reach to her daughter just before she collapsed. Simmons was picked up and taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival. Collins related that a report was made at the Whim Police Station on Sunday after the accused stabbed her son and threatened her daughter. She said that had the police taken stringent action and arrested the suspect, her daughter may have been alive today. “The police had instructed a member of the force who live close by to check the matter but he come to look for Imran but didn’t see him but he (Imran) was right at a neighbour house, so the police just left,” the mother said. Simmons’ brother, Er-

Tovonnie Simmons and Imran Lyte in happier times rol Simmons told the Guyana Chronicle that Lyte told him “Long now I get you all on meh mind”, noting that he was surprised by the statement since he never had any issues with him. After committing the act, the farmer reportedly ran towards the backlands and ingested a poisonous substance. He was later found and taken to the

Port Mourant Hospital where he remains a patient in a stable condition. Police have since launched an investigation into the incident. The young mother was described as an industrious woman. She sold vegetables in the community. She leaves to mourn four children aged eight, six and a three-year-old twin.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Eco’s seismic survey of Orinduik Block almost complete

ECO Atlantic Oil & Gas Limited has announced that the interpretation and processing of Eco’s 3D seismic survey on the Orinduik Block is nearing completion. The oil and gas exploration company with licences in highly prospective regions in South America and Africa had announced that they received the Pre-Stack Depth Migration (‘PSDM’) data and will receive the conditioned PSDM stacks from Tullow next week. According to a press statement from the company, all the data that was received so far has already been delivered to Total and, Eco anticipates that the final batch of data will be delivered to Total E&P Activitiés Pétrolières for analysis in the coming weeks, with the final report expected to be delivered in August. “The company is extremely pleased with the processing product and the definition of the leads earlier established now beginning to define potential targets. The block has a clearly established set of cretaceous channel and fan systems that have clearly been proved prolific through the basin. The work on understanding these systems is being led by the Tullow team, who have extensive proven experience in Ghana

and other similar plays on the Atlantic Margin,” the company said. Eco’s partners on the Orinduik Block have also approved the commencement of the drilling engineering and environmental permitting process required for drilling the Orinduik Block. Under the terms of the Total option agreement announced on September 26, 2017, Total will have a period of 120 days to exercise its option to acquire a 25 per cent working interest in the Orinduik Block from Eco Guyana upon final delivery of the final 3D seismic survey data report. Chief Operating Officer of Eco Atlantic Colin Kinley had said that Eco’s location along the slope is defining leads now in similar sands and within the same age formation as ExxonMobil’s Longtail and Liza, which are in 70 to 300 metres of water. U.S oil giant ExxonMobil Corporation made its eighth discovery offshore Guyana at the Longtail-1 well, much to the satisfaction of the government and people of Guyana. In making the announcement on Wednesday, ExxonMobil disclosed that plans are in the pipeline to bring a third drillship to operate in Guyana’s waters – a move that has received the agreement of

the Guyana Government. In a statement on Wednesday, ExxonMobil said it encountered approximately 256 feet (78 metres) of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoir at the Longtail-1 well. “The well was safely drilled to 18,057 feet (5,504 metres) depth in 6,365 feet (1,940 metres) of water. The Stena Carron drillship commenced drilling on May 25, 2018,” the US oil company explained, while noting that the discovery is within close proximity to the Turbot discovery southeast of the Liza field. The combined estimated recoverable resources of Turbot and Longtail will exceed 500 million barrels of oil equivalent, and will contribute to the evaluation of development options in this eastern portion

of the block. “Exxon’s Longtail-1 discovery in the Stabroek Block, further inboard of the Liza field, further demonstrates the world class significance of this region of the Guyana/ Suriname Basin. “The acceleration of potential within the Guyana/Suriname Basin has been extraordinary and with each discovery well we are learning more. The pay thickness alone in Longtail that nears Liza, and its location along the slope just east of Orinduik, are both quite meaningful in our interpretation,” said Kinley. The company anticipates defining drill targets in September of this year with the partners and hopes to see engineering completion and environmental permission accelerated for 2019 drilling.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

CDC to visit flood-affected areas in South Rupununi

THE Civil Defence Commission (CDC) will be visiting and assessing flood-affected areas in South Rupununi. Director of the CDC, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig said the commission and the Region’s Democratic Council is monitoring the Takatu and Ireng rivers and the roadways. Craig told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the main aim of the visit is to locate deficiencies in the region’s preparedness and response capability and to work towards enhancing them. “We’ll be looking at the shelter capacity, or the status of the location identified for shelter, supplies for relief, health facilities to see if there are adequate drugs in the result of an outbreak and we will also look at the response coordination system in the region to see how we can strengthen and give them support,” Craig explained. The CDC Director encouraged residents to stock up on food supplies and water, medical supplies and other household items since most of the roadway is cut off. For the past four days, heavy rains caused flooding in Deep South which resulted in the Wardpao Bridge across the Rupununi River to be inaccessible to residents and vehicles. The road between communities of Katoonarib to Karaudarnauwa has been identified as the alternative route but it needs some work so

that residents and vehicles can safely travel to their destinations. Meanwhile, on Wednesday when this newspaper spoke with the Mayor of Lethem Kerry Jarvis, he shared with us that the improvements done on the drainage system in Lethem should be applauded. “There is construction of a four lane road being done in the Commercial Zone and the contractors erected a drainage system underneath which takes the built up water out into the Takatu River and Tabachinga Creek,” the Mayor said. He said the past days of heavy rainfall did not result in the usual outcome. Within a few hours, “all the water is gone.” Except for two house lots in Culvert City who are being affected because there isn’t sufficient drainage. “The house lots weren’t officially handed over to the council, but they are still our concern. So we are working diligently to improve the drainage in the scheme in Culvert City so that they wouldn’t be affected by flood,” said Mr. Jarvis. The Council is continuing to make improvements in their systems in the internal areas and across the region so the living conditions of people will be better during the rainy season. Last July, Rupununi was lashed with severe flooding due to heavy rainfall, causing destruction of roads, bridges, crops and homes.

Flood-affected areas in South Rupununi to be visited by the CDC

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday June 22, 2018

Boyer replaced as PSC chairman

EXECUTIVE Director of Delmur Company, Desmond Sears has been elected Chairman of the Private Sector Commission, replacing Eddie Boyer when that body held its elections and Annual General Meeting on Thursday. Sears, the former Vice President of the PSC and an executive of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association was previously Executive Director of Omai Transportation and Equipment Services and Forestry and Technical Consulting

Services. He served in the bauxite industry for close to 20 years. The PSC also elected Deodat Indar as its Vice-Chairman. Indar is currently President of the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Komal Singh has been elected Secretary and Treasurer, Mr. Zulfikar Ali. On Wednesday Chairman of Giftland Group, Roy Beepat launched a scathing attack on Boyer in a letter to the press saying that he had politicized the PSC. “The main reason that the

New Chairman of the PSC, Desmond Sears

Giftland Group keeps its distance from the Private

Sector Commission (PSC) cocktail circles and other such organisations is due to the heavy politicisation of these agencies to follow narrow political objectives and not for the broader good of its members,” Beepat said in his letter. He said the PSC under Boyer had shown its colours royally. He alluded to the position taken by Boyer and the PSC on the Movie Towne issue, noting that the commission standing up for Movie Towne is understandable up to the point

where commissioner of GRA spoke highlighting that fraud and breaches to the laws of Guyana had transpired. “At that time it needed solid, thoughtful, independent, non-partisan and intelligent leadership; Boyer failed miserably on properly analysing the situation and making responsible decisions and actions,” Beepat charged. He said instead of attacking him and defending Movie Towne, Boyer should have hit the pause button, listen and digest what the commissioner was

Jury could not arrive at verdict

AN unsmiling and expressionless

two counts of rape of a child under

Leslie Castello walked out of the

age 16.

Jo-Ann Barlow.

saying, then come out and state categorically to let the forensic audit and investigations proceed. “Boyer has failed to understand that he represents a greater cross-section of the business society who are no longer cowed and intimidated and who will not be forced to go along narrow political ends.” Beepat had also alluded to Thursday’s elections saying he was waiting to see if Boyer had the backing of his membership with his reckless assault on the Giftland Group.

child under the age of 16 years’ old.

According to the indictment it is

The State was represented by

Georgetown High Court, on Thurs-

Castello is on bail and the case

alleged that between November 1 and

Tiffini Lyken, Abigail Gibbs and

day afternoon after a 12-member

ended in a hung jury in the proportion

30, 2012 in the county of Demerara, he

Narissa Leander while the defence

jury could not arrive at a verdict for

of 8-4 on both counts before Justice

engaged in sexual penetration of a girl

attorney is Folio Richards.

Leslie Castello at the Georgetown High Court on Thursday.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22 , 2018

Squatting contributes to flooding in Albouystown … says assistant city engineer

HEAVY rainfall on Wednesday resulted in the closure of Hunter Street, Albouystown, a main road used by motorists leading to the East Bank Demerara. The street and surrounding area were severely flooded out, causing authorities to erect a sign at Hunter and Sussex Streets, re-directing traffic. Although all four pumps in Georgetown are operable at the moment, Assistant City Engineer Rasheed Kellman told this publication that squatting impedes the work of the Mayor and City Coun-

cil (M&CC) when it comes to getting certain drains and canals cleaned. For instance, the squatters on Front Road, West Ruimveldt, pose a challenge to the M&CC in getting the canal behind them cleaned. This, in turn, contributes to flooding in the catchment area, he said. “We don’t get to clean it the way we want to because of the heavy build-up of vegetation and squatting on the reserves,” he said during an interview at City Hall. Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Val-

erie Patterson, had promised to bring squatting on government reserves to an end. She noted that the coalition government has embarked on a journey towards “the good life,” inclusive of providing accessible and affordable housing in sanitary and safe communities, with the necessities for wholesome and dignified living for citizens in need. Squatting, however, was touted as one of the issues that affect such progress, since some people squat out of desperation. Others, though, do it as a means of

Assistant City Engineer Rasheed Kellman

economic gain. According to the minister, those who do it for economic gain, occupy a parcel of land; erect a structure and

then rent it, in some instances, for as much as $30,000 per month. “Obviously these ‘landlords’ must have other living options that they occupy. Another vexing dimension to this situation is that some of the squatters are in receipt of house lots,” lamented Patterson. “As a caring and responsible government, we have to and will fix it,” said Patterson, adding that in an effort to combat the issue of squatting, they have decided on a number of measures which were recommended by community leaders. The Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&-

PA), over which the minister has oversight, is expected to continuously work with the relevant agencies to complete the process of home-ownership. Persons from the hinterland have also been beneficiaries of housing through the sustainable housing for the Hinterland Programme, funded by a loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). In addition, the CH&PA distributed over 69 housing areas within Georgetown, Linden, Bartica Union-Naarstigheid, Blairmont-Gelderland, Woodley Park-Bath and Tuschen-Uitvlugt.

Yarrowkabra sandpit issued cease-work order MINISTER within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes has promised greater enforcement by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to curb unsafe sand mining practices. On Wednesday, Minister Broomes and a team from GGMC inspected four sandpits along the Soesdyke/ Linden Highway. Infractions were observed from all of the sites visited. However, a cease-work order was immediately issued to operator Fazir Mohamed. His sandpit in Yarrowkabra had the most glaring infractions. Mining operations were encroaching on

the highway, the flooring was dirty, the overburden was not properly cleared and workers were not attired in proper safety gear. Mohamed contended that he was not aware that those were infractions but GGMC officers indicated that the sandpit was cited and issued cease-work orders on previous occasions. Minister Broomes said the time has come for the GGMC to take greater action to enforce compliance. “At the level of the commission, they have the power to get correction,” she said. The minister explained that anyone found in breach of the cease-work orders

should be charged and, if needs be, equipment ceased. “It is not to say that there is no law to allow for the level of lawlessness to take place. The commissioner has the power to make some strong decisions in this regard.” Minister Broomes is leading efforts to ensure greater compliance in the quarrying sector. The minister is also seeking to have outstanding royalties, which are owed to GGMC, paid. She explained that operators have to pay only G$15 for every tonne of sand extracted. “And every year, although these people are doing exporting and all of that,

Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, and GGMC staff in discussion with a sandpit operator from Dora Park

everybody is doing a rollover and some persons have a payment plan. An end will come to that. That is exploitation,” Minister Broomes said. The minister is also ex-

pected to meet with the operators of the pits visited in a subsequent meeting. The inspections of sand and loam pits are to gather a “comprehensive overlook”

of the sector as part of efforts towards ensuring the GGMC is better equipped to monitor, enforce and recover costs in the quarrying sector. (DPI)

Small scale miners gather to 44 enlisted for training in discuss environmental management People’s Militia

The soldiers who will receive training

THE Guyana People’s Militia commenced training recently for its new soldiers aimed at refining them in a number of areas including marksmanship and drills. The 44 soldiers are receiving their training on the Standard Infantryman Course 2018-01. Officer Commanding of the 241 Company, second

Infantry Battalion of the Guyana People’s Militia, Major Marvin Chichester in remarks to the students, welcomed them to the Militia and urged them to make good use of their training which puts them in a better position to contribute to the unit. He also reinforced the Values and Standards of the

Force and noted that their adherence contributes directly to the operational competence and military sub-culture of the Guyana Defence Force. He also emphasised the importance of teamwork in satisfying unit goals. Training began on Monday, June 18 and will continue for another 3 weeks.

UNDER the theme “Towards a Green Development Strategy, Ensuring Decent Work Environments for Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners,” stakeholders in the mining sector on Thursday commenced a two-day training to focus on good practices and progressive steps for successful health and environmental management in Guyana. The workshop is a collaborative effort among the Australian High Commission, Australian Aid, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, the Guyana Mining School and Training Center along with the Ministry of Natural Resources. The workshop is being held at Cara Lodge, Quamina Street Georgetown. In giving an overview of the programme, Dr. Muza Gondwe of the International Mining for Development Centre (IM4DC) said the workshop will provide min-

ers with the capacity, tools, skills and knowledge to efficiently find gold and in doing such will reduce the damage to the environment. She said stakeholders will learn improve methods of prospecting; reduce mercury methods, financing business models and the prospecting capacity in Guyana. Dr. Gondwe said in day two miners will be introduced to a collection of presentations from around the world which will deal with the mining community and environmental impacts. “I will also be giving a presentation looking at gender and gender policy and actual practice and experiences of artisanal miners on the ground, health, safety and the environment and we will end the day with a panel discussion with the aim of tying all the threads together with all the discussions in the workshop,” she said. Professor Peter Williams

of the Center for Exploration Targeting, University of Western Australia explained that the session will explore approaches to enable miners to access, understand and apply geological data to locate economically viable deposits in order to reduce trial and error mining. He noted that Guyana signed the Minamata Convention to eliminate the use of mercury in 2013 and the use of mercury in gold mining puts the health of miners and their communities at risk while damaging the environment. Adding that technological alternatives and environmentally friendly practices exist and must be applicable to Guyana’s context of geology and culture as well as being cost effective and increase the amount of gold recovered. These, he said could include the use of borax, sluices and other gravity methods.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Covent Garden makes light work of Bladen Hall Multilateral –– wins Region Four leg of JOF Haynes Debating Competition

COVENT Garden Secondary School made it two in a row when they won the 2018 Region Four JOF Haynes Debating Competition against Bladen Hall Multilateral. Covent Garden Secondary, the national defending champions, were ecstatic to have retained their Region Four title, while declaring that they are prepared to defend the national title that they won last year. At the regional finals held in the RDC Region Four boardroom, Covent Garden chalked up 246 points to defeat Bladen Hall Multilateral, who could muster only 205 points. The moot in the finals was, “The current level of taxation among the working class in Guyana is stifling individual financial independence,” which was proposed by Bladen Hall Multilateral and opposed by Covent

competition on April 25 with both Covent Garden and Bladen Hall reaching the finals. Regional Education Officer (ag) Tiffany Favourite-Harvey, in her remarks, told the students that a perfect platform to develop their ability in speaking effectively and efficiently is through debate. “I would like to congratulate you all as today one of the two finalists will represent us in the national finals. However, let me remind you all that you represented us very well in the regional competition,” REDO Harvey told the competitors. She reminded them that sharpening their public-speaking skills is important in bringing about holistic development among their peers. She reminded them that being able to effectively speak will certainly boost their

Runners Up! Teacher Voonita Motilall, Mala Persaud, Angelina Khanai, Abosede Osunbiji and teacher Termati Ramcharitar-Manohar of Bladen Hall Multilateral Garden Secondary. Second speaker in Jessica Jagdeo of Covent Garden Secondary copped the Best Speaker award. It is the first time in a number of years that a school within Region Four was able to successfully defend its title. The competition, which is an initiative of the Ministry of Education, saw some 16 schools within Region Four starting off the

self-confidence while enhancing their opportunities. “Being good public speakers is critically important towards your holistic success and through competitions like these. You are enhancing and further promoting your participation, which will certainly boost your self-confidence.”

The champions! Anzale Gonsalves, Jessica Jagdeo and Kenasha Dey after being declared winners of the 2018 Region Four JOF Haynes Debating Competition COMMITTED She said that like the regional title, they She reminded the students that the have put a system in place aimed at ensuring Department of Education, Region Four, that they can have a successful defence. stands committed and dedicated to ensur“We are very confident of regaining the ing that an avenue is created for students to national title and I am excited that we won enhance and further develop their speaking the regional title, so as to defend the national ability. title,” she said. “This competition has helped in creating She added: “For a second year, Covent opportunities for several students to develop Garden is seeking to win the national JOF their public-speaking ability and with the Haynes Debating title. We are confident and response that I have seen thus far to the com- as the head teacher of the school, I can assure petition, I remain confident that like the other the schools, teachers and officers from RDC students who have benefited, you here are Region Four that our students will represent going to continue benefiting,” Harvey said. the region very well.” Meanwhile, Primary Education Officer Teacher at Bladen Hall Multilateral Stembisco Grant, also offered words of en- Termati Ramcharitar-Manohar, congratcouragement to the winning school, while ulated Covent Garden and said that while urging the students to set their eyes on re- she is disappointed that her school did not turning to the region with the conveted title. win, she is confident that the region has an Covent Garden won the national title last excellent representative in Covent Garden year and has declared that they are out to re- Secondary. gain it for a second year. The school through Bladen Hall Multilateral was representits headmistress Jean Skeete, who witnessed ed by Abosede Osunbiji, Angelina Khanai the regional final, said that she and the stu- and Mala Persaud, while Covent Garden dents are happy that they will be defending was represented by Anzale Gonsalves, their national title. Jessica Jagdeo and Kenasha Dey.

ERC finalising work programme THE Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is in the process of finalising its work programme having made progress in restoring vital staff complement. According to the commission, since it was reconstituted on April 26, 2018, it has dedicated a significant among of time to familiarisation and implementing procedures to restore vital staff complement which was depleted over the past seven years due to the absence of a commission. “A work programme has been derived and is in the process of being finalised. It reflects education for the promotion of

national harmony as an utmost priority with an expected launch within the very near future,” the commission said in a statement on Wednesday. In that statement, the ERC also disclosed its intention to meet shortly with the concerned parties in the Mae’s Culture Day fiasco. The ERC said it is pleased that the recent Mae’s Schools incident has been resolved. The mother of a nine-year-old boy with the backing of the Indigenous community had picketed the school after he was reportedly evicted for wearing a traditional indigenous wear for the school’s Culture Day. The

school has since issued an apology to the child and his parents. The commission noted that the resolution has brought much relief to the parties concerned and, by extension, the nation. “While the ERC would have played no part in the process that led to the much desired resolution of this extremely sensitive issue, it would like to commend all those involved for being able to move beyond differences, hurt sentiments and the ensuing tension that arose. This, through the maturity that was demonstrated, must be recognised and augurs well for future

conflict resolutions if the need arises,” the commission said. It, however, used the opportunity to bring attention to the valuable lessons the incident would have afforded. “It once again unambiguously illustrated that our society, despite differences, can find common grounds to unite and represent an issue that impacts our people, in this case a child and what he exemplified. Further, it revealed the urgent need for related education holistically to inculcate a better understanding and appreciation to prevent a recurrence,” the ERC stated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Inquiry into Lindo Creek Massacre nears completion –– report should be ready in three weeks, says Justice Trotman

By Svetlana Marshall A REPORT on the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the 2008 Lindo Creek Massacre is expected to be completed within three weeks, Justice (ret’d) Donald Trotman told Guyana Chronicle in an exclusive

interview. Over the last five months, Justice Trotman has been spearheading an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of eight miners: Cedric Arokium, Dax Arokium, Horace Drakes, Bonny Harry, Lancelot Lee, Compton Speirs, Nigel Tor-

res and Clifton Berry Wong at Lindo Creek in the Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice Region on, or, about June 21, 2008. The charred remains of the eight diamond miners were discovered at a mining camp at Lindo Creek by the camp owner, Leonard Arok-

The eight diamond miners that were murdered at a camp in Lindo Creek in the Upper Berbice River Region 10, 10 years ago

ium. It is suspected that the miners were shot, hammered and then burnt to death. Their murders have gone unsolved for a decade but it is hoped that the “truth” would be made known at the end of the CoI. On the sideline of a memorial service for the massacred victims on Wednesday, Justice Trotman told Guyana Chronicle that he is wrapping up his investigation, and will soon submit his report with recommendations to President David Granger. “We are pretty well on target but we have to put things into a presentable shape, so I would think in another two weeks we should have the report ready,” he told this newspaper. The extended deadline is June 30, 2018. In his acceptance speech, upon being sworn-in to head the Commission, Justice Trotman while referencing a biblical term, said the nation cannot be really free unless it knows the truth. Today, his position remains the same. “Well, we set out to do that, and I am still working towards that, and hoping and praying that is what will happen,” he said. “We hope that neither his Excellency nor the families, nor the nation will be disappointed,” he added. At the moment, Commissioner Trotman and his team, which includes Legal Counsel Patrice Henry, are compiling the information gathered during public hearings, in-camera hearings, interviews and based

Chairman of the Lindo Creek CoI, Justice (ret’d) Donald Trotman on documents submitted. SATISFIED Questioned whether he is satisfied at this point with the pool of testimonies secured during the close to five months investigation, the chairman of the Commission said, “We could have had, I wouldn’t say more, but we could have had a more focused kind and quality of testimony to help us. We still feel that there is more out there that hasn’t come forward even though we have continually made appeals,” he told this newspaper. Nonetheless, he said the information gathered would be utilised to its fullest. “What we have is workable. We have to make it workable,” he posited. As anticipated, Justice Trotman said there were challenges. “There were many challenges, they were expected of course, we didn’t expect particular challenges but we expected that there would

have been challenges in any exercise of this kind, and there have been challenges some were internal, some were external,” he explained. Among the challenges include persons failing to appear before the commission though formal requests were made. Notably, the transcripts from the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF’s) investigation, which was conducted in 2008, are still to be submitted although numerous requests were made by Justice Trotman and Legal Counsel Henry. Former Chief of Staff Rear Admiral (ret’d) Gary Best, when he took the stand, had said that the transcripts were handed over to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), contending that the GDF had not retained copies of the documents. NOT FORTHCOMING The GPF was contacted See page 15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Retrial for prison escapee Alexander … one juror was below the age of 18

A 12-MEMBER jury was empanelled before Justice Sandil Kissoon in the Georgetown High Court on Wednesday to hear the re-trial of recaptured 2017 prison escapee Stafrei Alexander for attempting to commit murder on Curtis Thom at Laing Avenue on March 22, 2015. The matter will commence on June 25, 2018 at 09:00hrs. The state is represented by Lisa Cave and Orinthia Schmidt while the defence is led by Stanley Moore and Maxwell McKay. The state is expected to call several witnesses. During Alexander’s last court appearance in the High Court before Justice Brassington Reynolds, a jury of his peers found him guilty for the offence for which he was indicted.

Prior to deliberations in October 30, 2017, it was discovered that one of the jurors was below the age of 18. That juror was duly discharged and the remaining 11 deliberated and found A lexander guilty by a 9-2 proportion for the March 2015 attempted murder. However, Justice Reynolds conceded that he had “erroneously” formed the opinion that a verdict of such proportion could be accepted by the court. His new contention was guided by his review of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Act, Chapter 10:01, Laws of Guyana. It was observed that a 10-1 verdict would have been acceptable. After the revelations, Alexander’s attorney Stanley Moore, SC, stated that the jury should be dis-

Inquiry into Lindo Creek ...

From page 14 for the scripts but they have not been forthcoming. “We requested from both agencies and up to now we have not received them… They are critical but they would not preclude the commission from reasonable conclusions,” Justice Trotman said while reiterating that the commission had expected that the documents would have been handed over. The statements were taken from at least 24 Joint Services ranks, who operated in the Upper Berbice River area in Region 10, during June 2008 after it was alleged by Leonard Arokium and other miners familiar with the area, that it was the Joint Services that was responsible for the massacre. The Joint Services had refuted the allegation. Based on the investigation conducted by the GDF, the miners may have been victims of a deadly robbery or may have been killed by the Rondell “Fineman” Rawlins Gang because they were suspected to be informants of the Joint Services. The army said it was possible for the gang members to be mistaken as soldiers and/ or Joint Services ranks on the basis that they may have been using military weapons and camouflage clothing while on the run. Over at the Guyana Police Force, a two-week probe was conducted by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) into the allegations of police involvement in the Lindo Creek Massacre but no report was ever compiled. The verbal report on the investigation given at the time was inconclusive. Additionally, after an investigation in the massacre was completed by the police investigators, a report was sent to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), and it was advised that the case into the murdered men be closed. Publicly expressing his dissatisfaction in the manner in which investigations into the massacre were conducted, Justice Trotman has repeatedly assured grieving relatives that the truth would prevail.

charged, and Prosecutor Tiffini Lyken concurred, further observing that the State shared the opinion that the verdict was improper and/or invalid. Justice Reynolds thereafter discharged the 11 remaining jury members and ruled that Alexander’s case ended in a hung jury, as the court

Stafrei Alexander at the Georgetown High Court.

could not properly receive a 9-2 verdict. However, presiding judge Justice Brassington Reynolds announced that the accused would have to undergo another trial. Alexander, an inmate who had fled lawful custody multiple times, was accused of the attempted murder of fellow Laing Avenue, Georgetown resident Curtis Thom by way of discharging a loaded

firearm in his direction on the night of his daughter’s christening. This came weeks after he had escaped from the Camp Street Prison during a fire around the same time when several prisoners, including death row inmate Mark Royden “Smallie” Williams and now dead former policeman and prisoner Uree Varswyck escaped.

Start conversation on gas marketing plan

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

–– University of Trinidad and Tobago petroleum expert UNIVERSITY of Guyana (UG) Faculty of Technology students along with other stakeholders including lecturers of the university on

Wednesday participated in a two hour professional engagement seminar titled “an overview of the Liza Field Development Phase 1” facilitated by

petroleum expert Lugard Layne. The discourse which was held in the boardroom of the Faculty of Technology saw Layne, a senior

Senior instructor on Petroleum Engineering at the University of Trinidad and Tobago Lugard Layne makes a point to students and other stakeholders at the University of Guyana Wednesday (Adrian Narine) instructor on petroleum engineering at the University of Trinidad and Tobago, examining Phase 1 of the Liza Field development. In his presentation, the Guyanese lecturer who now resides in Trinidad said the government of Guyana needs to start its discourse on gas market utilisation now. He stressed the need for a gas market utilisation plan while adding that the natural gas industry can have significant benefits to Guyana. “Right now it is not in ExxonMobil’s interest to discuss gas utilisation but as a country we should be planning for when that day arises. I am saying that in terms of developing a gas market, the government of Guyana ought to be planning, not tomorrow, not next year; but those set of plans should be going right now. That is one of my concerns; I am not hearing a discourse on the gas market,” he said. In terms of the development of the gas market, Layne said it is not wise to reinvent the wheel. As such, he suggested a partnership which would al-

low the government to get initial counts on, aid in the marketing of the gas, how to negotiate the contracts and how to set up the infrastructure. “Don’t wait until ExxonMobil comes to tell you what they want to do with the gas and then you now trying to come up with a plan. You need to be strategising before they come to you; not after they come to you.” It should be noted that Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson has repeatedly made it clear that his government will not be rushed into any arrangement with respect to natural gas. The government had contracted Energy Narrative to conduct a study on the utilisation of natural gas for electricity generation. Guyana Chronicle understands that other companies are also exploring the prospect of utilising natural gas to meet the country’s energy needs. Wednesday’s discourse is part of a series of talks being facilitated by Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Griffith.

Housewife, maid busted; held with $16M at Ogle airport A HOUSEWIFE and her maid were busted with $16M in cash at the Ogle Airport, East Coast Demerara on Wednesday when they arrived from Kamarang in Cuyuni -Mazaruni Region Seven. The money was allegedly found stacked in thousand dollars bills in a large travelling bag and it was seized and taken to the Guyana Revenue Authority. The woman and her maid were later bailed by a lawyer as investigations continue. Reports indicate that the woman’s husband is a large scale gold dealer and businessman.

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Get to know VAR

he use of Video Assistant Referees (VAR) is one of the most polarizing issues in modern football. The technology has been rolled out in Italy, Spain and the USA, among other countries, each to varying degrees of success, but now it will be used on the biggest stage of

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

How does video assistant referee (VAR) work?

all: the World Cup. When is VAR used? Three main incidents (plus one administrative) have been identified as game-changing.

STEP 1

Incident occurs

THE referee informs the VAR, or the VAR recommends to the referee that a decision/ incident should be reviewed.

GOALS

THE role of the VAR is to assist the referee to determine whether there was an infringement that means a goal should not be awarded. As the ball has crossed the line, play is interrupted so there is no direct impact on the game.

PENALTY DECISIONS

THE role of the VAR is to ensure that no clearly wrong decisions are made in conjunction with the award or non-award of a penalty kick.

DIRECT RED CARD INCIDENTS

THE role of the VAR is to ensure that no clearly wrong decisions are made in conjunction with sending off or not sending off a player.

STEP 2 Review and advice by the VAR

THE video footage is reviewed by the VAR, who advises the referee via headset what the video shows.

MISTAKEN IDENTITY

The referee cautions or sends off the wrong player, or is unsure which player should be sanctioned. The VAR will inform the referee so that the correct player can be disciplined.

STEP 3

Decision or action is taken THE referee decides to review the video footage on the side of the field of play before

taking the appropriate action/decision, or the referee accepts the information from the VAR and takes the appropriate action/decision.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

The Dynamic DJ From beating on school desks to playing at international shows By Vanessa Braithwaite

the desk and singing and I remember one time, I had the whole class entertained, everybody was like singing along, rocking AKELO Elliott known as ‘DJ Akelo’ or the ‘Teddy Bear and persons were like ‘Yo! Akelo, I feel like I am in a party! DJ’ can describe his success story the very same way And that is when I realised I had DJ potential.” Canadian Rapper Drake did: he started from the bottom At that time, he imitated veteran DJ Bevon and even went and now is here! Here, for Akelo is his rising from just a as far as hosting school concerts during the lunch breaks. He simple Linden school boy loving music and entertaining then started playing at small parties in Linden, but for him, his classmates by beating on the school desks, to being it was just about making a lot of noise over the one of the most popular microphone and he gradually perfected the art of Deejaying. high demand The popular DJ is in Now, Akelo is one of the most s ea both locally and overs preferred DJs in the local entertainment industry, especially for females. DJ Akelo said that he never regretted not pursuing an office career since Deejaying is lively, fun, creative and gives him an opportunity to

fully to what is broadcast over the mic at parties. “First, I just use to go out and make a set a noise, but now I have grown; now I watch what I say; I’m careful with what I say because we have an impact in people’s life. I remember when I was in school, I use to imitate Bevon. I’d say things that he said so that made me realise what I say now, the youths are listening. If I say in a party, ‘weed is life, bun a spliff,’ that can allow the youths to turn to drugs,” he reasoned. RELIEF Persons, he said, go to parties to basically relieve themselves from the stresses and anxieties of the mundane things of life and it is his job to shake the stress off their shoulders. “When you come out to party, is to party, you must be shaking and wining and gyrating all the time; you must leave the party soak. I am more into Soca and R&B and I think that is why the females prefer me,” he said. With all the positives, Akelo said that as a DJ, the job comes with its share of challenges. One Akelo Elliott aka ‘DJ

DJs in the local entertainment industry as well as in the diaspora. Akelo is also the spokesperson and entertainer for several top notch companies and organisations, such as GTT and Courts, and even has partnerships with government ministries such as the Ministry of Social Protection. Not many persons get to make their hobby into their career locally, but for Akelo, he has not worked one day in his life, since his job is basically manifesting his love for music and entertaining persons in a positive way. Akelo said that he realised he had the talent for entertaining while attending the New Silver City Secondary School, but never knew it would become his career. “I always had a thing for music, in high school I use to like be beating on

put smiles on persons’ faces, as well as put forth a positive message through music. “It’s a fun job, it’s not stressful; you go to work you make people happy, you talk on the mic, you make people happy and you get money, is just having fun while you work. It gives you a chance to put over positive message over people, I recognise that DJ-ing has a really huge command over people and it gives me a chance to spread a positive message,” the ‘Teddy Bear DJ’ said. He also gets a chance to travel a lot both internationally and locally, meeting a wide array of persons from various backgrounds and cultures. One of the things he takes very seriously as a DJ is being a positive role model, especially to the youths who listen care-

Akelo’

of his major challenges is being underpaid and with the image a DJ has to upkeep, it poses a greater problem because you have to invest to upkeep your image and the money a DJ earns in Guyana, does not adequately allow for that. “There is an image you have to upkeep; you have to smell good, people always want to hug you, people always want a picture, you have to look good.” Another challenge is that people group DJs into a category of being immoral and negative, and he is therefore discriminated against especially by females in this regard. Despite these, the ‘Teddy Bear DJ’ does not plan any time soon on switching careers because as he said, “Music is all I know and music is my life.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

‘Till ah find a place’ for NCC next weekend

Sends core message that ‘Promiscuity never ends well’ ANOTHER show of ‘Till ah find a place’ held for the first time ever some 27 years ago, will be on at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) next month, with a strong message about the consequences of promiscuity. H & T Theatre Arts Group will be staging the show under the theme “Childmother Childfathers” on June 30 and July 1, 2018. The play features the infidelity of a husband whose secrets and lies come back to haunt him in ways he could

than to face them,” she expressed. “So the show is sending the message: ‘Know what you want and stick with the programme.’ Promiscuity never ends well,” Cadogan-Taylor added. H & T Theatre Arts Group does productions annually and the latest version of ‘Till ah find a place’ started last March. One of the main challenges, Cadogan-Taylor explained, is being able to find the right actors to fit the roles. Fortunately, the team has managed to pick the right people for the show. The cast this time around includes Mark Luke-Edwards, Sonia Yarde, Le Tisha Da Silva, Michael Ignatius, Sean Thompson, Clemencio Goddette, Paul Budnah, Jennifer Langevine, Nicola Moonsammy, Frederick Minty, and young Latiefa Agard in an introductory performance. “This

Sonia Yarde

gan-Taylor said the message of the show is that if someone wants to be promiscuous, then they should be aware that there will be repercussions. “There are always repercussions and you have to be prepared to deal with them. Sometimes these consequences are more than you can deal with but you have no other choice

Co-producer/Co-director, Sheron Cadogan-Taylor

Michael Ignatius Clemencio Goddette

not imagine. It also sheds light on the bond between mother and child, and whether that bond can be broken even after several years of being apart. The previous show, about a married man who had an affair, ended with both women dumping him after finding out about each other. The new show will pick up from there, showing how the women have returned and both wants to reclaim him. What is more, both of them are pregnant. While he tends to gravitate to his wife, the ‘sweet woman’, who genuinely loves him, is left out in the cold, so to speak, and is bitter, because now she is known only as the ‘child mother.’ Written and directed by Ronald Hollingsworth - one of Guyana’s most celebrated playwrights – the show will be co-produced and co-directed by accomplished dramatist/director/producer Sheron Cadogan-Taylor. In an interview with the Buzz on Thursday, Cado-

dynamic cast is working assiduously and is hoping to set the Cultural Centre stage ablaze on those nights. In other words, it is a must see production.” Cadogan-Taylor said a lot of preparation and work goes into pulling off a show of this kind. “But if you want a perfect show, then I guess you’ll put in the work.” Although there are no long-term rewards in terms of finances in the arts field, Cadogan-Taylor said she sticks with it because of her love for it. “At this point, I get to mentor young people, to instill discipline and help to make them better human beings,” she said. Tickets for the show cost $1,500 and $2,000 and can be uplifted at the NCC, Gizmos and Gadgets or from any member of the cast. “It’s full of laughs even though it carries such a strong message. You’re going to enjoy it,” Cadogan-Taylor said about the show.

Fête de la Musique is on this weekend The Alliance Française in Guyana, a non-profit organisation, will tomorrow celebrate Fête de la Musique (Make Music Day or World Music Day) at the Promenade Gardens from 17:00hrs. Fête de la Musique originated in Paris, France in 1982 and is celebrated in France and around the world, in 121 countries, on June 21. This event was first held in Guyana on June 17 last year and was hosted at the Umana Yana. The idea for such an event around this

time is to give amateur and professional musicians a platform to come out and give of their time and talents freely and to encourage anyone with musical instruments and talents to participate in providing free entertainment to the public. This year’s event will see performances by the West Demerara Steel Pan Orchestra, Diego Gonsalves, Devonna Bess, Antoine Gonsalves, Mark Hall, Diana Persaud, Rajesh Dubraj and Gavin Mendonca. Entry to this event

is free. All are invited to come out to an evening of celebrating music with talented musicians and to share in this new experience! The Alliance Française in Guyana is one of many placed around the world to promote the French language and culture. While the organisation endeavours to promote things French, they also aim to build networks with organisations of mutual interest to be integrated and share in new experiences.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Against the machismo and loose regard in raising sons THE inherited primordial burden of the male-child predisposes him to become monster, hero or victim, or ‘jus deh’. Expectations are imposed on him from early childhood: his toys differ; he’s the little man of the house;, his aunts declare that he’s going to be a hit with the girls; and if by a certain age there’s no girlfriend, there are family meetings to discuss seriously what is wrong with him. “Ah hope he ent like duh” or, “I think he just sly like he uncle” or “Well if he deh suh, it ent from we side”. Growing up the male constitutes far more challenges and complications than are anticipated. Nature does not discriminate by gender in its values and vices. There’s a social tendency to create from the individual experience the loud but irrational cause and crusade; a workable facade that can take on a life of its own to the detriment of the truth. Precedents from live history, especially recent history erases doubt, and if seriously considered outside of our emotions, can positively influence how we think. In December 2014, a court incident captured my interest; it occurred before Magistrate Ann Mc Lennan. A young man was brought before the court for

assaulting his mother over $500. The charge read out was of abusive language against his mother over her being unable to provide him with $500. No reference was made to his actions as a result of narcotics, from persons I had then asked who were around the courts. But there was a bigger problem, a problematic custom very prevalent and completely ignored by social services and communities; that custom of making sons surrogate fathers to the cancelling of their own development. At the time of that incident, the young man was 17 years old. By his admission, he was on his own at 10 years old. To quote him, “From the age of 10 I was on my own and nobody don’t take care of me, but ah does buy things and give everybody and keep the lil wuh lef back fuh me.” This declaration was not contradicted by his mother or any of the “everybody” that the young man was referring to. He further defined the “everybody” as family members. He worked in the bush and his mother admitted that he did give her money for the house. Another charge was read that alleged that the young man had threatened his aunt who had intervened in the matter on behalf of his mother. The magistrate resolved the matter by placing the

young man on a bond before transferring the case. The magistrate then urged him to give his mother extra money for the holidays. Were I sitting in that magistrate’s seat I would have requested a welfare officer to explore whether this 17-year-old was literate. Anything could be possible if he was on his own from 10 years old. Was it possible or even likely that he would be vulnerable to some legal skulduggery in the future, because he took his freehandedness as deserving of loyalty and gratitude? In the world we live in today, what are his options even in the goldfields? Everywhere there is the demand for paperwork, with contracts, working agreements of claims and for financing. A well-meaning signature attached to an unfair constructed document in the presence of a dishonest legal character can result in a life turned upside down. How many family members was this 17-year-old supporting at the time? Was the home they were living in their property and was the aunt also a responsibility of his? I can remember my father instructing me in a related vein, “If is me or yuh mother yuh do business with, got paperwork that file under the court, cause you might be the child that got the bread, but yuh

might not be the favourite one.” This young man’s aggressiveness may be a retaliation from senses warning him that something in his life had gone wrong, and that he was where he shouldn’t be. He was performing in a capacity as a husband, a breadwinner and family patron, while barely a man. The entire situation was reversed. The mother, who should be his guardian, had placed him in the position of the absent male in her life, so where was the balancing advice to come from? This is not an exact stereotype (as none are) but from the evidence revealed there are no grounds to dispute that it is an accepted social anomaly, not featured in the context of popular discourse on male responsibilities. There is also the total opposite of this. I know three brothers who lived with their mother on Thomas Street, Cummingsburg. None of them worked. They borrowed clothes, hung out by the cinemas, courted young and older ladies who could sponsor their existence. The mother died, the landlord kicked them out of his property and everything went downhill. But the attention has to be given to the above case study and the context of his situation, where interception is necessary.

IT’S the weekend and we all want is to have some fun after a long week of work! So here are some events that you can start off the weekend with rather than be cooped up at home. Get out and get your buzz on. TODAY Ten days of deliciousness and warm customer friendships. Join the Guyana Restaurant Week 2018 and enjoy fresh Guyanese flair in your dishes! Visit their Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/guyanarestaurantweek/ for a list of participating restaurants and let the culinary journey begin! TOMORROW PMI Solutions presents “June Fiesta”. The Brazil-Guyana Cultural Centre traditionally organises a great “June Festival” party, which will take place this year on the eve of Saint John’s day. Admission is free and all are welcome!! This will be going down at 308 Church Street, Queenstown. Alliance Francaise of Guyana will be hosting a “Fête De La Musique” in celebration of World Music Day with talented musicians! Items will also be on sale. This event will be taking place at the Promenade Gardens from 17:00hrs. Admission is free! Young Genna Entertainment presents a Barbeque and Dance called “ Rags to Riches”. This is a dance you don’t want to miss! This will be going down at Mahaicony Village. Guyana Premier presents “Miss Earth Guyana 2018” Pageant. Come out and support these young, intelligent and beautiful delegates! It’s all happening at the National Cultural Centre. It’s the Third Annual Mansion Party called “Bang it Again”. This is going to be thrilling, fun and exciting, so ladies you don’t want to miss this! Admission $500 and ladies are free all night. Music by Selector Jones. This will be going down at 10 Dennis Street, Sophia.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Guyanese designers to be recognised at 2018 Caribbean Style & Culture Awards and Fashion Showcase Guyanese designers Quinton Pearson of House of Pearson; and designing duo, Natalya Thomas and BVI-based Nadia Thomas Winter, of Duo Collection, have been nominated for the 2018 Caribbean Style & Culture- Award of Excellence- Fashion Innovation. These artists have been recognised for their contribution to the fashion industry, both in Guyana and within the Region and were selected from among a large number of submissions. In addition to receiving awards, these artists will also participate in the Caribbean Style & Culture Awards and Fashion Showcase which will be held on Saturday, June 30, 2018 at the Silver Spring Civic Centre, Maryland, United States. The recipients are among a group of several other designers and models from countries such as Trinidad & Tobago, St. Lucia, Haiti, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Guadeloupe, Grenada and Jamaica whose work will be honoured at this event. The Caribbean Style and Culture

SUNDAY Vendetta Boss Notnice presents “Vendetta Pool Party”. It’s fun in the sun, ladies come out in your swimsuits and get wet. It’s going down at Post Office Street, Melanie ECD.

Duo Collection’s Designs (Photo courtesy of Duo Collection)

Quinton Pearson’s House of Pearson Designs. (Photo courtesy of House of Pearson)

Awards is a showcase of fashion, music and art, held annually in the month of June to commemorate and celebrate National Caribbean American Heritage Month. The Caribbean Style & Culture Runway Showcase is exciting, dynamic, constantly changing, and full of new styles and colour combinations to amaze the world. It brings the newest collections from the hottest Caribbean fashion designers showcasing the very best from the Caribbean and South American Region. This is the ninth year that the Caribbean Style & Culture Awards and Fashion Showcase is being hosted. Over the years, the event has honoured the work of several renowned designers and models from across the Caribbean. Past recipients of awards from Guyana include Patricia Coates, Michelle Cole, Carol Frasier, Keisha Edwards, Sidney Francois, Andrew Harris, Olympia Small-Sonaram, Frank James, Roger Gary, Natasha Harper, Niketa Barker and many others. As the Caribbean Style & Culture Awards & Fashion Showcase heads into its 10th year, the event will seek to expand its reach to include work from Caribbean photographers and makeup artists as we believe that these stakeholders all play a part of telling the stories of the Caribbean fashion industry to the world. Persons interested in becoming part of our exciting journey can follow our Facebook page www. facebook.com/caribbeanstyleandcultureawards/ for more information.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

GDF opens senior command course

CHIEF of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Patrick West on Wednesday declared open the Senior Command and Staff Course (SCSC) #15. He called on the participating officers to understand their role as the Force continues its journey of transforming for Total National Defence. The SCSC is a capstone course which prepares senior officers of the Force for command and senior staff appointments, GDF said in a release. The thirteen-week course covers several areas including minor staff duties, communication skills, tactics in open and close country warfare, internal security operations, military law, military history, administration and logistics. Successful completion of the SCSC is one of the requirements for an officer to be elevated to the Senior

Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Patrick West and other officers seated, pose with the participants of the course Officer Corps. Brigadier West in his address to the officers, emphasised that in order for them to be successful on the course, they must understand the contemporary military environment. He explained that the current operating environment is changing and necessitates a position of implementing a system for Total National Defence. “[Total Nation-

al Defence] is a concept based on three pillars- Technology, Intelligence and Economy. It will be accomplished through different types of operations which are military operations, civil defence operations and psychological operations… Our doctrine must therefore be shaped to demonstrate the concept of fighting in multi domains as existing threats

and other threats emerge on land, in the air, at sea, in space and in cyberspace,” he explained. Quoting from President and Commander in Chief, President David Granger, Brigadier West said, “The Defence Force, in pursuance of its defence doctrine is being strengthened as a well-organized, well commanded, well trained

and well-equipped Defence Force with the core capabilities to keep our citizens safe and secure. The Force, in order to fulfil its mission must be agile, flexible and fully integrated. It requires the support of the rest of the country, if it is to realise the doctrine of total national defence.” Further, the Chief of Staff told the officers that

it was incumbent for them to be conversant with technology and technological changes. He urged the officers to conceptualise their role in the transformative process, and how they could accelerate and contribute to its effectiveness. The course is currently in its fourth week of training.

Gov’t launches school welfare database THE Ministry of Education Schools Welfare Department has launched a new electronic database system which will improve welfare services to school-aged children affected by social issues. It was launched at National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD) on Wednesday. The Schools Welfare Department offers supportive roles to children for social, psychosocial and other problems which negatively impact their behaviour and performance at school. It also offers services to parents and teachers, helping to form stronger relationships for cooperation towards the ultimate benefit of the child. In the past, the unit was plagued by inaccurate and outdated information as a result of poor record-keeping. However, the new database system will allow for improved record-keeping; better tracking of children and proper management, assessment and updating of information. It will also improve communication between the Schools Welfare Unit, Regional Education Officers and schools while cater-

ing for information-sharing between the departments and other agencies. The database system, created by Intellect Storm, is made only available to the relevant authorities and is fully supported by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). At the launching, brief remarks came from Chief Education Officer (CEO) Marcel Hutson who thanked the team involved in designing and creating the new system which, he added, represents the effective use of technology for the country’s transformation. “As the Ministry of Education, if we’re going to be relevant, if we’re going to be effective, we must use data and therefore I am happy that we have gone this way,” he said, adding: “We have to ensure that our young people, even though they might make some mistakes … that we recognise that it is not the end of the road for them and therefore our role is critical.” At the event, Hutson revealed another initiative of the Education Ministry which will see youths receive mental health attention through the provision of mobile unit which

Chief Education Officer (CEO) Marcel Hutson (left) sits along with several guidance and welfare officers during the launching of the new database system (Samuel Maughn photo)

A preview of the database system which boasts several functions in improving services offered to children (Samuel Maughn photo) will travel throughout communities. “This unit will be driven to different areas and communities based upon their needs. There is already a schedule prepared as to how this unit will be used so that children can be exposed to psychosocial counselling and whatever needs they may have that we need to respond quickly to in terms emergency,” he said. Meanwhile, remarks came, too, from UNICEF Education Specialist Michelle Rodrigues who reminded that the database must be used in the best interest of the children. “Going beyond the launching of a database, it’s how we use the database in the best interest of children and in making certain that we can reach the needs of every child who is affected by some challenge or the other,” she said. She revealed that UNICEF is in the final stage of completing a study on out-of-school children, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, which will help to provide additional data to bridge the gaps in this regard. Rodrigues then advised: “For the guid-

ance and counselling unit, you now have a bigger task in making certain that you upgrade and keep your database system relevant, so that your database will have things like those who may be suicidal, those who may be out of school … unless you know that, you would not know who you should be tracking and why you should be tracking them.” At the event, the media was reminded that while it plays a crucial role in disseminating information, it must remember journalistic and photojournalistic ethics when it comes to interviewing or taking photographs of children. The new database system provides information from all secondary and primary schools across the country, even as efforts are being made to include nursery schools. It shows absentee reports, the number of counselling sessions conducted, incidents occurring in each region, a list of agencies which can assist the welfare unit and several local Acts and policies supporting the rights of children.

Before court on similar charge

CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Thursday remanded a 24-yearold porter to prison for allegedly stealing over $800,000 in mining equipment from a Port Kaituma businessman. Junior Robertson called ‘Jerry’ denied that between May 15,2018 and May 16,2018 he stole four excavator bucket pins valued $304,000; two pieces of mining equipment valued

$100,000 and other items, all valued $819,000, the property of Neville Rodriquez. Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield told the court that the virtual compliant is a businessman who sells mining equipment. It is alleged that between the days mentioned in the charge, Rodriquez stole the items and sold them to persons in the community. The matter was

reported to the police and when Robertson was arrested some of the items were found in his possession. In his objection for bail, Mansfield told the court that the defendant had served a 24-month jail term in 2015 for a similar offence. The magistrate after hearing the prosecution’s objection remanded Robertson to prison until June 27.

Junior Robertson called ‘Jerry’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Man almost killed over use of toilet CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Thursday committed a 19-year-old Grove, East Bank Demerara resident to stand trial at the High Court for attempted murder. Calvin George was charged with the indictable offence which alleges that he wounded Orwin Peters with intent to commit murder on April 11, 2018 at Kaneville, EBD. The matter was prosecuted by Inspector Neville Jeffers while George was unrepresented. Although being granted bail during trial, George was unable to meet the amount. According to reports there was a heated argument between the two parties over the use of a toilet. It is alleged that George armed himself with a knife and attacked Peters. The victim was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was treated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

$150,000 bail for miner on break-and-enter charge AN 18-year-old miner was on Thursday released on $150,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on a charge of breaking and entering and larceny.

Hubert DeSouza denied that between June 17 and June 18, 2018 at Eclipse Falls, North West District, he allegedly broke and entered the dwelling house of Dianna Daniels and stole

a gold chain valued $460,000, three gold bands valued $30,000 along with $15,000 cash. The Chief Magistrate released the teen on bail after no objection was

raised by Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield. The matter is transferred to the Mathews Ridge Magistrateâ€™s Court for August 7.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

England crush Australia with ease (BBC) - England eased to their highest one-day run chase against Australia to close in on a 5-0 series whitewash. Jason Roy scored a superb century and Jonny Bairstow hit 79 as England surpassed the tourists’ 310-8 to win by six wickets at Chester-le-Street. Shaun Marsh and Aaron Finch had hit hundreds for Australia but the result was never in doubt once England openers Roy and Bairstow put on 174. Jos Buttler smashed 54 from 29 balls to seal victory with 32 balls to spare. England, who now lead the series 4-0, will complete their first one-day international series whitewash over Australia if they win the final game at Old Trafford on Sunday. After smashing 481-6 in the third game of the series on

Guyana dominates... Continued from page 34

Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow made hay again for England, v Australia, 4th ODI, Chester-le-Street, yesterday. (Getty Images)

Tuesday, Australia might have feared the worst when Roy and Bairstow plundered their bowling attack once more in a devastating display of hitting at the top of the order. Chasing 311, they took few risks in scoring at more than seven runs an over in pursuit of their target, which was to become England’s second highest successful run chase in this format. Roy mixed the odd lusty blow with numerous eye-catching drives through the off side - including one sumptuous four off the back foot through point - while Bairstow played the most delightful straight drive as he motored along in Roy’s slipstream. Australia had no answer to an opening partnership which is quickly becoming one of the best the modern game has experienced. Their fifth century-stand to-

dreds in a famous Windies Test win at Headingley last summer, picked up three prizes, including the top Cricketer-of-the-Year award. The wicketkeeper batsman was also declared Best Test and Best Oneday international cricketer.

ment Award – Dawnley Joseph First Class Team-of-theYear – Guyana Regional Under-19 Teamof-the-Year – Guyana First Class Four-Day Cricketer-of-the-Year – Devon Smith First Class 50-Over Cricketer-of-the-Year – Roston

THE FULL LIST OF WINNERS IS: Windies Cricketer-of-theYear – Shai Hope Windies Test Cricketer-ofthe-Year – Shai Hope Windies ODI Cricketer-ofthe-Year – Shai Hope Windies T20 Cricketer-of-

Guyana Jaguars, four-time winners of the PCL Four-day tournament, were voted First-Class Team-of-the-Year.

Taylor, the Windies Women captain and the No.2 all-rounder on the MRF Tyres ICC ODI Rankings, was named Cricketer-of-theYear and ODI Cricketer-ofthe-Year among women. Evin Lewis, who has a strike-rate of 160.36 in Twenty20 Internationals, and Deandra Dottin, who in October became the first woman with two T20I centuries, won the T20I honours.

Canadian Racing Tips Woodbine Race 1 Leo The Rabbit Race 2 Golden Pineapple Race 3 Wave Dancer Race 4 Mc Culley Race 5 Ault Race 6 Broken Meadow Race 7 Sky Marshall

the-Year – Evin Lewis Windies Emerging Cricketer-of-the-Year – Keemo Paul Windies Women’s T20 Cricketer-of-the-Year – Deandra Dottin Windies Women’s ODI Cricketer-of-the-Year – Stafanie Taylor Windies Women Cricketerof-the-Year – Stafanie Taylor CWI Lifetime Achievement Award – Carol Whilby-Maxwell WIPA Lifetime Achieve-

Chase Caribbean T20 Cricketer-of-the-Year – Chadwick Walton Windies Under-19 Cricketer-of-the-Year – Kirstan Kallicharan Atlantic/WIPA in the Community Awardee – Rodney Sieunarine CWI/WIPA Outstanding Foundation Awardee – The Marlon Samuels Foundation Windies Umpire-of-theYear – Joel Wilson.

American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Bronx Bomber Race 2 Major Force Race 3 Restructure Race 4 Free Kitty Race 5 Danebury Race 6 Blissful Breeze

09:50 hrs Breakfast Club 10:30 hrs Red Granite

South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:40 hres State Capture 09:15 hrs The Elmo Street

Irish Racing Tips Down Royal 12:45 hrs Mrs Lovett 13:15 hrs State Of Nirvana 13:50 hrs Flaxen Flare 14:20 hrs Mill Quest 14:55 hrs Beau Et Sublime 15:30 hrs Gone Dancin 16:00 hrs Russian Soldier

England stumbled slightly gether - in only 16 games - surpassed the previous first-wicket when they both fell in quick record for England held by succession, but Alex Hales Marcus Trescothick and Nick played a mature innings to Knight, while they now hold hold the run chase together the highest average at the top before Buttler unfurled a of the order for an opening pair succession of innovative shots batting together more than 15 to the boundary which put Australia out of their misery. times. LABA/YBG/Powerade Linden U-19 Schools Basketball Championship…

LTI face Mackenzie High in today’s final BY Joe Chapman

LINDEN Technical Institute are the favourites against McKenzie High in today’s Linden Amateur Basketball Association/ Youth Basketball Guyana/ Powerade Linden Schools Under 19 championship final. Set for the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court, the LTI side has played unbeaten in the tournament, including their final opponents Mackenzie. Mackenzie booked their place by first winning against New Silvercity Secondary 107-31 with Leon Benjamin (28) points leading the charge. Yannick Tappin and Shemar Henry each netted 20 points and Kareem Roberts chipped in with 19 points. Kobe Tappin was again the best player for New Silvercity Secondary with 13 points. In the other semi-final match on Wednesday top tanked Linden technical Institute brushed aside Wisburg Secondary 82-51. Five players were in double figures including Jamal Gilkes with 22 points, Raynaldo Patoir 18, Stephon Duncan 12, Daniel Lee had 12 and Shamar Chapman added 10. Jonathan Copeland was again the top shoot for Wisburg Secondary with 23 points as Odlyn Baird had and Keyon Davidson each scored eight points in the loss. Today’s final will see Linden Technical Institute staking their unblemished record against the Mackenzie High School who they defeated in the preliminary round 67-51. There were some doubts in the first game as to how Mackenzie

had managed their players but LTI will want to dispel any doubt that they are the best team in the tournament. LTI been led by the brilliance of Jamal Gilkes who has netted 140 points at an average of 28 per game, despite sitting out the team’s final preliminary game. He is joined by Daniel Lee who also has 103 for an average of 17 points per game and Raynaldo Patoir also is among their points with 85 for an average of 14 points per game. Others to look at are Stephon Duncan and Shamar Chapman who have been adding to the team’s success in their recent matches. The Mackenzie High School however, should be able to compete at this level as their only loss was against the LTI side. Leon Benjamin has been their mainstay with 110 points for an average of 22 per game while Yannick Tappin remains among the best players in this stage category having scored 87 points for an average of 17 per game. Kareem Roberts who has been a bit inconsistent must come good in they are to stop this Linden Technical Institute. Roberts has scored 55 points so far and is averaging 11 per game. This final will be preceded by the third place game between Wisburg Secondary and New Silvercity Secondary Schools. Several individual prizes are also on offer including the Most Valuable Player of the Final and the tournament. The first game is at 16.00hrs and the final is at 18.00hrs.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

Friday June 22, 2018)

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & the City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) (1) (2)

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: Devendra Bishoo-8/49 (vs PAK, Dubai, 2016 Michael Holding-14/149 (6/57 & 8/92 vs ENG, The Oval, 1976)

(1) (2)

TODAY’S QUIZ: What are the best bowling figures in an innings by a WI in a home Test? What are the best bowling figures in a match by a WI in a home Test? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

English Racing Tips Ascot 09:30 hrs Fairyland 10:05 hrs Guiseppe Garibaldi 10:40 hrs Equilateral 11:20 hrs Alpha Centauri 12:00 hrs Agrotera 12:35 hrs Dash Of Spice Newmarket 12:50 hrs Pour La Victoire 13:20 hrs Danceteria 13:55 hrs Alnasherat

14:30 hrs Elhafei 15:00 hrs Promising 15:35 hrs Raymond Tusk 16:05 hrs Flying Foxy Ayr 12:55 hrs Duke Of Yorkshire 13:30 hrs Addis Ababa 14:05 hrs Braes Of Lochalsh 14:40 hrs Atkinson Grimshaw 15:10 hrs Summerghand 15:45 hrs Eternalist 16:15 hrs Coviglia

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Australia draw with Denmark

Thomas Delaney of Denmark tracked by Mile Jedinak (L) and Tom Rogic (R) of Australia during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Group C match at Samara Arena yesterday in Samara, Russia. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

(REUTERS) - CAPTAIN Mile Jedinak rode to Australia’s World Cup rescue with a penalty to cancel out Christian Eriksen’s superb opener for Denmark, securing a 1-1 draw yesterday that ensured Group C would go down to the wire. Eriksen’s seventh-minute opener was fully deserved by the fast-starting Danes and the quality of his half-volley finish was excellent in a tournament that has produced some wonderful goals. Jedinak, however, got Australia back into the game with his second penalty in Russia, awarded following the intervention of the VAR, and the draw kept the Socceroos just about alive in the tournament. Denmark moved on to four points and need at least a draw against France in their final game to guarantee a last-16 spot. Australia’s destiny, however, is no longer in their own hands. With one point, they must win their last match against Peru to stand any chance of going through, but results could still conspire to send

them home. “For me it is important just that we have to beat Peru,” Australia coach Bert van Marwijk told reporters. “I have no influence on the rest so I do not think about it. I will not sleep one second less.” After their opening defeat by France, van Marwijk resisted the temptation to draft in attacking reinforcements, leaving veteran forward Tim Cahill on the bench for the second match in a row. It looked a bad decision in the early stages as Australia laboured up front and the Danes tore into their opponents at a furious pace. Aaron Mooy’s poor clearance was immediately returned into the area. Nicolai Jorgensen controlled and cleverly flicked the ball inside to Eriksen, who ghosted into space and lashed a sweet half-volley on the rise which flew high into the net. It was Eriksen’s 13th goal in his last 15 appearances for his country and underlined the pivotal importance of the Tottenham Hotspur playmaker to the otherwise workmanlike Danes.

Mbappe helps France beat Peru 1-0 Messi missing in Argentina mauling

Kylian Mbappe of France scores his team’s first goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Group C match against Peru at Ekaterinburg Arena yesterday in Yekaterinburg, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

(REUTERS) - FRANCE beat Peru 1-0 with a goal from Kylian Mbappe yesterday to book their place in the last-16 of the World Cup and crush the South Americans’ hopes of progressing in their first appearance at the tournament for 36 years. Mbappe’s 34th minute goal made him France’s youngest scorer in the competition, at 19 years of age - beating the record of David Trezeguet (20) - and took them to two wins from two games in Group C. When Olivier Giroud’s shot took a deflection off a defender and looped over goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, the teenager was on hand to tap in a simple chance. But Les Bleus failed to convert several other first-half chances and rarely threatened their opponents’ goal after the break, as they struggled for the second game running to

justify their status as one of the pre-tournament favourites. Coach Didier Deschamps responded testily “there’s always an opponent” when asked by reporters about France’s failure to dominate and also about the strong pressure the Peruvians exerted in the second half. “I wasn’t nervous but I wasn’t totally satisfied. We had 25 minutes when we defended too much, certainly, although we did it well. It’s something we have to improve.” Goalkeeper-captain Hugo Lloris said after winning his 100th cap: “It’s very satisfying because we’ve reached our objective. “We need to hold onto first place by not losing against Denmark. Peru pressed right till the end, but we managed to stay solid and disciplined.” The result leaves France on six points and Denmark and

Australia on four and one respectively after their 1-1 draw earlier in the day. Peru have yet to win a point but they have won numerous hearts in Russia, thanks to their industrious style of play and the passion of their supporters, a remarkable 15 000 of whom made the journey to roar on their team in Yekaterinburg. “These people are incredible. There was this huge mass of people following us. We are sorry we could not give them a better tournament,” said coach Ricardo Gareca. “People will be surprised by their passion for the game and their love for the team. We will do all we can in the last match to win so we can finish better and the fans can celebrate one win in this World Cup,” he added, looking ahead to the Incas’ final game against Australia.

Ivan Rakitic of Croatia scores his team’s third goal past Wilfredo Caballero of Argentina during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group D match between Argentina and Croatia at Nizhny Novgorod Stadium on June 21, 2018 in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

(BBC) - ARGENTINA are facing the prospect of an early World Cup exit after a dreadful error from goalkeeper Willy Caballero set Croatia on their way to victory and a place in the last-16. On a night when so much was expected of Argentina captain Lionel Messi, Caballero made the most telling contribution to his team’s fate with an attempted chip over Ante Rebic that backfired badly, allowing the striker to volley into an exposed net in the 53rd minute. Messi - adrift for much of the match, especially during a pedestrian opening half - rallied his side, but neither he nor substitute forwards Gonzalo Higuain and Pablo Dybala

could find a way through in Nizhny Novgorod. The closest Messi came was a half-chance, a snatch at a rebound from a Maximiliano Meza shot which was blocked by Ivan Rakitic and turned behind to safety. It was a dogged defensive second-half display from Croatia, illuminated by a moment of magic from their own masterful number 10, Luka Modric. His curled shot from range drifted beautifully beyond Caballero’s gloves to put his side two ahead, before Rakitic’s injury-time tap-in sealed a victory that moves the Europeans through to the knockout stage and also leaves them in a strong position to win the

group. Argentina are no longer in control of their own destiny. This defeat follows their opening 1-1 draw with Iceland, in which Messi missed a penalty, and now even a heavy win over Nigeria in their final game on Tuesday may not be enough to send them through to the next round. Should Iceland beat Nigeria in their second Group D game today, Iceland would need only a draw against Croatia in their final match. For Messi, a prolific performer at club level with Barcelona, this was another harrowing chapter in his recent history of pain and disappointment in the international game.

CPL coming to Guyana! … GoG, CPL sign host venue agreement

Guyana Amazon Warriors Team Operations manager Omar Khan makes a point during yesterday signing ceremony. He shares the head table with Minister Dr George Norton, Permanent Secretary Melissa Tucker, Director of Sport Christopher Jones and Assistant Director of Sport Melissa Dow-Richardson.

By Rajiv Bisnauth

CRICKET lovers here can breathe a sigh of relief after Guyana was confirmed as a host venue for this year’s Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) season. The confirmation came yesterday after Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport Ms. Melissa Tucker, and Team Operations Manager of the Guyana Amazon Warriors, Omar Khan, signed the Host Venue Agreement. The significant signing

ceremony took place in the office of Sport Minister Dr George Norton. Information released to the media confirmed that Guyana will host five games. The local franchise is set to play St Kitts & Nevis Patriots on August 9, St Lucia Stars on August 11, Barbados Tridents on August 12, Jamaica Tallawahs on September 8 and Trinbago Knight Riders on September 9. However, it was also announced that there is a possibility of two playoff matches here, on September 11 and 12 but that confirmation lies with CPL who is expected

to make an announcement shortly. Speaking at the signing, Dr Norton said that the Government of Guyana is happy to be a part of the tournament since hosting of the CPL T20 games here has largely been considered a successful venture for Guyana over the years. The games always attract sold-out crowds with figures from 2017 showing that US$14M or G$2.8B was made for hosting four matches. Dr Norton recalled the large turnout by the Guyanese at last year’s matches and in this regard he added that a similar

turnout is anticipated this year. Khan, in his remarks, pointed out that the agreement plays an integral part for the local franchise, since home support over the years has been tremendous. Further Khan pointed out that tickets for the games here could be on sale by the first week in July while an encampment period for the Guyana Amazon Warriors unit is billed for August 2-7. The league will enter its sixth year and the Amazon Warriors have played in three of the five finals to date but are yet to lift the title.

Wiltshire teams up with Sunflower Hotel to host Domino Competition ...R&F Wholesale Depot on board

R&F Wholesale Depot Amrita Singh (right) presents the trophies to Jane Chase in the presence of Wiltshire.

MARK ‘Jumbie’ Wiltshire in association with Sunflower Hotel & Bar of Charity in Essequibo will be hosting a 2-day Domino Competition starting tomorrow and concludes the following day, at the sponsor’s location in Essequibo. According to a release from Wiltshire, the com-

petition is open to all interested teams and persons can contact Johnny on tele #641-1131 or Wiltshire on 665-5855. The release added that over $400,000 in prize monies and trophies will be up for grabs with the winning team set to receive $200,000, runner-up

$120,000 and 3rd place $60,000 along with trophies. The Most Valuable Player of the final will be awarded $5,000, while entrance fee per team is $20,000 which must be paid before the commencement of play. Starting time is 14:30hrs. Meanwhile, Meanwhile,

R&F Wholesale Depot of Bourda Market was the latest entity to throw its support behind the tournament following a presentation of trophies yesterday at its location. Staffer Amrita Singh presented the sponsorship to Organising Committee member Jane Chase in the presence of Wiltshire.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Twenty-five countries to be represented at AP Invitational THE third edition of the Aliann Pompey Invitational was officially launched yesterday at the SleepIn International Hotel and Casino (Church Street), as the event set for June 30 will see athletes from over 25 countries converging at the Leonora Track and Field Centre. Wi t h O l y m p i c a n d World Champion Kirani James, along with Guya n a ’s C o m m o n w e a l t h Games triple jump gold medallist Troy Doris headlining the meet, Aliann Pompey, the principle behind the event, pointed out already the AP invitational has taken its place as one of the marquee programme in the Caribbean and by extension South America.

Aliann Pompey

Pompey, the 2002 Commonwealth Games 400M Gold Medallist, told the media that she’s overwhelmed at the support her meet is receiving from the track and field community and as such, the day will be memorable for fans. James, at the JN Racers Grand Prix on June 9 in Jamaica, clocked an impressive 44.35 seconds to win the 400 metres in his first race in over a year after recovering from Graves’ disease (an immune system disorder that results in the overproduction of thyroid hormones). The Grenadian’s time of 44.35 seconds is the eighth-best time in the world this year. James’ personal best in the 400 metres is 43.74 seconds, set in 2014. James had always been regarded as one of the Caribbean’s best talent over the 400 metres, though he has competed over the 200 meters with considerable amount of success, racing to a personal best of 20.41 seconds in 2011.

Also known as the ‘Jaguar’, James had won gold in the 400 metres at the 2012 Olympic Games in London – Grenada’s first and only medal at the Olympics. However, four years later in Brazil, the Grenadian (43.76 seconds) crossed the line second, relinquishing his Olympic title to South African Wayde van Niekerk who won 400 metres gold and also setting a new world record in the distance, a time of 43.03 seconds; erasing American Michael Johnson’s 43.18 seconds which he clocked in 1999. Meanwhile, Doris, who has been representing Guyana since 2015, will face Cuban Jordan Diaz, touted by many in his country, as the next World triple jump champion. Quite a technician, Diaz is the World U-18 Champion and junior World record holder at 17.32 metres. Joining Diaz will be last year’s champion from Suriname Miguel Van Assen who holds his country’s national record in the event, as well as the CARIFTA and South American title. Van Assen’s personal best is 16.94 metres. The Surinamese is also the 2014 Summer Youth Olympic Games champion. The triple jump at this year’s Aliann Pompey Invitational, could steal the show, since also confirming his participation is The Bahamas’ Leevan Sands. Sands won bronze at the 2008 Olympic Games, as well as bronze at the World Championship and Commonwealth Games. He’s a Pan Am Games silver medallist and multiple times gold medallist at the CARIFTA Games. The Aliann Pompey Invitational the only event of its kind in Guyana where athletes from across the Caribbean, Central and North America, converge on Leonora for what has been the best showing of track and field in Guyana. Fly Jamaica, E-Networks, Quality Plus, Banks DIH, the Ministry of Communities and SleepIn International Hotel and Casino are among the sponsors for the event.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Local blind cricket seeking Guyana dominates CWI/WIPA ceremony sponsors for Barbados match … It’sawards an honour to win such By Telesha Ramnarine

PASSIONATE advocate for women’s rights and manager of the local blind cricket team, Theresa Pemberton, is not yet sure where the money will come from to send five women for a game in Barbados next month, but she is remaining confident that the funds will pour in. The five Guyanese women, who are either blind or visually impaired, are expected to play on the West Indies Blind Cricket Team in a game against the English Blind Cricket Team in July. So far, letters seeking help have been dispatched to various agencies including the National Sports Commission and the Ministry of Social Cohesion. The response from these organisations will indicate to the players whether they are going or not. “We’re still scraping in. But you know me? By hook or crook we’ll go. We don’t give up,” Pemberton told this publication during an interview a few days ago. The game is scheduled for July 8 to 15. In the meantime, the girls are practising at the Guyana Society for the Blind on High Street, and permission has been granted for them to practise at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence on Sundays. Although the tour is said to be in limbo due to a lack of

resources, executive member of the Blind Society, Ganesh Singh, hopes that something will be worked out. He, along with Kevin Douglas and Seon Mitchell, is conducting the training sessions with the girls.

dies Blind Cricket Association is said to be having some ‘teething’ problems at the moment, with the stronger teams oftentimes trying to dictate how the organisation ought to be run.

Ganesh Singh

Theresa Pemberton

If anyone wants to contribute to the trip, Singh can be reached on telephone number 652-8975; while Pemberton’s numbers are 670-3535 and -3175. At the tournament, officials from the English team and other organisations will use the opportunity to train coaches and administrators for blind cricket. As such, two more persons who are visually impaired will be going for such training. Nineteen-year-old Melieka Crawford and 20-yearold Ackila Smith are the two individuals who are expected to benefit from the training. Meanwhile, the West In-

“Some of the countries, they have this big boy, big girl attitude where blind cricket is concerned. They feel that what they say must go because they are the winners. This is the attitude they have around the place,” Pemberton expressed. Like conventional cricket, some players lack loyalty to their country. “You find a lot of disgruntled players who want to go with the other countries and this brings a negative impact to blind cricket,” she said, adding that this is one of the issues that should be dealt with during the training. “We have to stop telling

ourselves that because we have more money as a Caribbean country, we are better than the rest,” she said. “Because they are the big players; for instance, Trinidad one year was sanctioned because they did not want to share the trophy with Jamaica; and some of them don’t want to participate because of the current president and all sorts of things. If we don’t put a grip on it and make some strong decisions and let them know this is where the buck stops, blind cricket will have problems.” She added, “If we have weak persons within our structure at the top, we will have countries that want to dictate how the organisation should be run and it should not be that way. We are hoping that this spill-off of West Indies women will send out a strong warning to the regional teams that play blind cricket.” Blind cricket is played with a hard plastic ball, a special ball that makes a very strong sound. The stumps are laid out like conventional cricket but without bails on them. The umpire usually guides the blind persons back to the stump, which they use as a gauge to bowl. The bowlers bowl underhand style and when they are about to bowl, they ask: “Batsman, are you ready?” When the batsman replies in the affirmative, the bowler then says, “Play!”

prestigious award, says Paul

Keemo Paul was voted Windies Emerging Cricketer-of-the-Year

By Rajiv Bisnauth GUYANA snatched the headlines at CWI/WIPA sixth annual awards ceremony, Wednesday night in Barbados, with three awards. Fast-rising all-rounder

GABBFF National Seniors Mr Guyana set for July 15

THE Guyana Amateur Body Building and Fitness Federation (GBBFF) has revealed July 15 as its ‘D-Day’ for the National Seniors ‘Mr Guyana’ Championships with the Parc Rayne Hotel, Rahaman’s Park, East Bank Demerara, set as the battleground. The Championships will see the Ms Bikini Body being contested along with Ms Body Fitness, in addition to the Mr Guyana 2018. Athletes are currently undergoing intense training for what is anticipated to be a sizzling competition with the usual big names expected on stage. As is the norm, corporate Guyana has been slow so

far in coming on board the event, according to GBBFF president Coel Marks. However, Fitness Express has always been a mainstay in the arena. Apart from sponsorship,

Marks revealed that everything is in ‘full swing’ and he anticipates a packed programme as well as a large crowd. Tickets are already on sale at $2 500 and can be

purchased from Fitness Express, Space Gym, Buddy’s Gym, Fitness Paradise Gym, Fitness 53 Gym and Body Alive. Flexing is set to begin at 19:00hrs.

Esaun Crandon

Keemo Paul was voted Windies Emerging Cricketer-of-theYear, while the Guyana Jaguars, four-time winners of the Professional Cricket League (PCL) Four-day tournament, were voted First-Class Teamof-the-Year, with the Guyana Under-19 side named Windies Under-19 Team-of-the-Year. The award capped off a good week for Paul, who has been called up to the Test side for the final match against Sri Lanka. Paul, who was part of Windies Under-19 World Cup-winning squad in 2016 and made The best of Guyana’s bodybuilders and fitness fanatics will take centre stage on July 15 at the GABBFF National Seniors Championship at Parc Rayne.

his senior international debut this year, is expected to make his Test debut with the Windies leading the Test series against Sri Lanka, 1-0, after the second Test finished in a draw. The final fixture is a day/night Test, starting June 23. In an invited comment yesterday, the 20-year-old Paul said, “It is an honour to win such a prestigious award. It’s a great feeling - a dream come through, to win such a prestigious award ... definitely. It’s an honour to be presented with such award, an award I will cherish,” Paul beamed. Head coach of the Guyana Jaguars, Esaun Crandon, is extremely overjoyed that the team’s hard work has not gone unnoticed. He lauded all involved, especially the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) for its commitment towards the continued growth of the game in Guyana. Crandon is of the opinion that the GCB is undoubtedly one of the key factors responsible for the progression of the game locally. Crandon, the former national fast bowler is of the opinion that the PCL also plays a major role in Guyana’s success story. Meanwhile, Shai Hope and Stafanie Taylor took home top honours. Hope, 24, who made twin hun-

Turn to page 30

ISSI sponsors WIFBSC individual champion for DCRA 150th LONG-TIME corporate supporter of the Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA), Industrial Safety Supplies Inc. (ISSI), located at 226 Camp Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown, has once again shown its commitment by fully sponsoring reigning West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council (WIFBSC) individual champion Ransford Goodluck for the 150th Canadian Fullbore Rifle Championships. Just off his commanding performance at the WIFBSC Championships at the Paragon Ranges in Barbados last month, Goodluck will now point his rifle towards the Connaught Ranges, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada from August 18 to 25. General Manager of Industrial Safety Supplies Inc., Hemant Narine, commenting on his company’s decision to fully sponsor Goodluck, said the company had no hesitation when approached, pointing out that the top Caribbean marksman is deserving of the support. “The support for Mr Goodluck I think has been earned. He has had a good year so far, competing at the Commonwealth Games and then taking the cake at the Caribbean level. As a company we have been following his progress and we

believe that he would continue this good form at the Canadian 150th championships.” Apart from winning the Overall Aggregate in Barbados with a score of 390.27 Vs to countryman Lennox

Day 3; won the 1000 yards and was third at 500 yards on Day 2; was first at the 300 yards whilst taking third at both the 500 and 900 yards on Day 1. In responding, Goodluck said words could not express

do the best I can at the Canadian 150th in August. Training for me will continue every Sunday until we depart around August 10 for Canada.” GuyanaNRA secretary Ryan Sampson was on hand

Administrative Assistant of Industrial Safety Supplies Inc., Ms Crystal Kallu presents the cheque to Ransford Goodluck. Ryan Sampson is at right.

Braithwaite’s 379.26 and Canada’s Geoff Woodman who placed third with 373.026; Goodluck also won Day 1 and 2 Aggregate whilst placing second in the Day 3 Aggregate. He was second at the 900 yards and third at 600 yards on

the way he felt about the tremendous gesture of Mr Narine and Industrial Safety Supplies Inc. towards his quest to be the best in Canada. “The commitment shown by this company is great and has stimulated me to ensure I

for the presentation yesterday and extended thanks to Narine and Industrial Safety Supplies Inc. for its continued support for the sport. The company was one of the major sponsors for Guyana’s 150th Anniversary last year.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Savory, Sampson steer Rising Sun into quarter-finals RISING Sun rose to the occasion to defeat Cotton Field Sports Club by 57 runs via the Duckworth/Lewis Method due to rain. After losing the toss, Rising Sun were inserted to bat first and they posted a competitive 144-5 in the reduced 16-overs match, after play was delayed due to a wet outfield. Essequibo senior team franchise wicketkeeper/batsman Kemol Savory belted an entertaining 40 (2x4, 3x6) and received valuable support from Quentin Sampson who hammered an unbeaten 32 (2x4, 3x6) and Imran Khan with 23 (3x4, 2x6). One wicket apiece went to Rajiv Rajkumar, Ryan Kissoon and Parmesh Persaud. In reply, Cotton Field felt the heat from the Rising Sun bowlers early in their innings. Looking perhaps to keep ahead of the run rate in the wake of the threatening weather, they lost wickets early and regularly. They were then precariously positioned at 18-6 in 5.5 overs when the rain intervened for the remainder of the match. Fast bowler Quentin Sampson had impressive figures of 3-8 from 2 overs while left-arm spinner Imran Khan took 2-10 from 2 overs. Umpires Deva Dass and Wazeer Dhanraj then resorted to the Duckworth/Lewis system to pronounce Rising Star as winners and into the quarter-finals of the South Essequibo Invitational T20 tournament. Meanwhile, in the same competition Reliance Hustlers gained a walkover from Reliance Sports Club to also qualify. The remaining qualifying fixtures will see Young Achievers vs Jaguars and Sparwin vs Bush Lot Trend Setters do battle this Sunday at the Imam Bacchus ground in Affiance. The competition attracted 32 teams from across the Essequibo Coast and attracted most of the Region’s premier cricketers including Norman Fredericks, Yogeshwar Lall, Ramesh Narine, Rovindra Parasram, Anthony Adams, Vishwanauth Lall, Kevon Boodie and Parmesh Parsotam.

New EBFA referees commence technical training THE new crop of officials who completed the Guyana Football Federation (GFF)-sponsored East Bank Football Association’s (EBFA) Referees Training Programme last Sunday with a pass rate of 96%, commenced their technical training session on Tuesday at the Timehri Red Ground. Fourteen officials attended the programme and wrote the examinations following the 3-day event which was facilitated by GFF’s referee instructors Stanley Lancaster and Ingram Johnson. Tuesday afternoon’s session was conducted by Member Association’s technical instructors Roy McArthur and Lancaster. McArthur focused on basic line movements (shuttling, sideward movements, positioning of the flag while moving on the line) of the assistant referee now known as the other Match Official.

Lancaster worked on positioning and movements of a referee while the basic mechanics of offside and

being in line, foul, goal, corner kicks, basic positioning and movements as a central referee also formed part of

the session, which would continue today, next Tuesday and Thursday. The officials are being

prepared to make their onfield debuts at the EBFA/ Juicy Juice Under-13 competition set to kick off next

Referees listen attentively to FIFA Member Association’s technical instructor Roy McArthur.

weekend. Lancaster commented on Tuesday’s session: “The feedback from the officials is that they are very excited and impressed with progress so far and are looking forward to learning more about refereeing and even going on to a higher level in time. “It’s a new experience for them having been around as coaches and other officials but now are exposed to the relevant referees training in their quest of pursuing a new career.” It was also noted that the sky is the limit for the new officials as every effort would be made to ensure that they are exposed to the best training with the view of one day making the FIFA List. This is the first in a series of prorgammes being undertaken by the GFF as part of its national recruitment drive aimed at tripling the number of officials available across Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 22, 2018

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Berbice Zone kicks off tonight THE Ancient County of Berbice will see the kick-off of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Berbice Championship at the New Amsterdam Ferry (NA) Stelling tarmac this evening. In a release to the media, Coordinator of the tournament, Phillip Carrington said, “It will be a very competitive tournament. All the players have been asking about it and looking forward to it.” Carrington went on to say, “It’s a great tournament, and it has come at the right time because no football is being played countrywide and nothing has been played in Berbice since New Year’s Day so the players will get something to play and the public will get something to look at.” It has been confirmed that 12 elimination matches will be staged on the opening night, with the resulting winners advancing to the round-of-16 stage to join the top four finishers from last year’s edition. The teams that have

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Berbice Zone kicks off tonight with 11 matches at the New Amsterdam Ferry (NA) Stelling tarmac.

earned a direct berth to the round-of-16 section are defending champs NA Kings, Mahaicony, Outsiders and East Bank Gunners. Eleven matchups have been confirmed thus far, with the final fixture set to be established today. At 19:00hrs, No. #5-A take on Young Strikers-A, while Hopetown will engage Young Strikers from 19:30hrs and No. #5-B will face Dam Boys at 20:00hrs. Meanwhile Goal Rush United take aim at Soccer Ville from 20:30hrs while Trafalgar clash with Tucber Stars from 21:00hrs and Rose Hall Town take on Tucber Giants at 21:30hrs. The seventh fixture sees Street Knights tackle Ol Skool at 22:00hrs, while Young Squad clash with Platinum Squad at 22:30hrs and City Ville face Top-7 at 23:00hrs. In the 10th showdown, Canje will wage battle with Twenties from 23:00hrs while Lichfield United clash with Big Ballers at 23:30hrs.

Food Town to host inaugural golf tournament

Golf returns to the Lusignan golf course on Saturday, June 23

THE recently opened Food Town Restaurant and Distribution Outlet, 266 Newton Street, Enmore, East Coast, Demerara, has partnered with the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) to host its first-ever golf tournament this Saturday at 12:30hrs. According to a release from the LGC, the course is in magnificent playing condition as the weather has cooperated and it is expected that a full field of golfers will take part in the

competition. Great food and lots of prizes will be provided by Food Town Restaurant and the owner has offered a special prize of $200 000 in food to any orphanage if a player scores a Hole-in-One during the tournament. “The golf course is the perfect place to relax with your family and since Food Town Restaurant is all about tasty, affordable food and a fun environment, the partnership makes good sense”,

said proprietor Rudy, who decided to incorporate family values, great food and an entrepreneurial spirit to assist anyone, who has a desire to start a food business but does not have the capital or resources to do so on his/ her own. All members of the public are invited to visit and learn more about the game of golf. They are encouraged to come out on Saturday to the Lusignan Golf Club.

Botha to coach Guyana Amazon Warriors

CPL coming to Guyana!

â€Ś GoG, CPL sign host venue agreement See Page 32

Johan Botha FORMER South African cricketer Johan Botha is set to become the coach of the Guyana Amazon Warriors ahead of the local franchises 2018 season. A source confirmed that Botha will take over the reins of the side who have never won the tournament. Details in a subsequent edition.

Messi missing in Argentina mauling

See Page 31

All smiles! Guyana Amazon Warriors Team Operations manager Omar Khan receives the signed document from Minister Dr George Norton. (Adrian Narine photos)

Twenty-five countries to be represented at AP Invitational

See Page 32

FIFA WORLD CUP MATCH SCHEDULE FOR FRIDAY, JUNE 22 Brazil vs. Costa Rica 8 a.m. Saint Petersburg Nigeria vs. Iceland

11 a.m.

Volgograd

Serbia vs. Switzerland 2 p.m.

Kaliningrad

Sponsors and members of the AP Invitational Organising Committee at the launch of the event (Samuel Maughn Photo)

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FRIDAY, JUNE 22, 2018