Issuu

WEDNESDAY 12th September, 2018

Arbitration panel closer No.105395

…Gov’t, GTU report progress in formulating terms of reference 03 PAGE

Eco Atlantic announces O&G potential in 17 Orinduik Block PAGE

Omar 04 Shariff granted $1M bail PAGE

– so he could pursue law studies in T&T

The Guyana Amazon Warriors in a lap of honour after their victory last night. (Adrian Narine photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Arbitration panel closer

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

…Gov’t, GTU report progress in formulating terms of reference

THE Guyana Teachers’ Union and Ministry of Education (MoE) are scheduled to meet again this Friday to further work out the terms of reference of the arbitration panel, after making much headway at their first meeting held on Tuesday. GTU executives were once again all smiles as they exited a meeting, which was held at the Department of Labour on Brickdam, Georgetown. According to GTU President, Mark Lyte, the meeting was very productive as the two sides were able to agree on all but two areas in the terms of reference. “I think this afternoon we made significant progress in getting closer to agreeing on the terms of reference. We have a few outstanding areas that we have to do some consultation on and we’re meeting next Friday to try and tie up the terms of reference. Both the union and the Ministry prepared terms of reference we were able to agree on all except two,” commented Lyte. “There are some terms that we believe it’s a bit

loose and we need to have if further tightened in order for the tribunal to have a tight run in terms of what they will be looking at. The Union is saying that we have

be revealed next Friday. The terms of reference will dictate how the panel will go about coming to a resolution in the GTU/MoE dispute over salary increases and

strike lasting for almost two weeks. The persons to comprise the three-person panel that would overlook the arbitration were not yet tabled.

Though they were not ready to disclose any names, Lyte shared that the GTU already has a few persons in mind. At a press conference held last week, Lyte had

The MoE representatives (on the left) and GTU representatives (on the right) in the Department of Labour Boardroom yesterday (Delano Williams photo) to look at the history of what obtained prior to this year’s multiyear agreement. That’s a little loose area and also indicating what evidence should [be] included.” Lyte said more on the terms of reference would

other issues. The panel is also expected to look into the instituting of a multiyear agreement to span 2016 – 2020. It was the GTU that had demanded that the dispute go to arbitration, after teachers had gone on

The nominees are expected to be announced, and final selection decided at Friday’s meeting. For the panel, the GTU and MoE would have to jointly agree on a chairman, while they each appoint a representative.

indicated that if necessary the GTU would be looking to its Caribbean affiliates to identify prospective nominations. “We have a pool of persons that we’re looking at, we don’t know what the ministry

has but the union has a pool both for our nominee as well as for the chairmanship. So far we’re looking locally. What I said last time is, if we have to look for a neutral and unbiased person the union would have the capacity to go outside if needs be,” Lyte said. Once the persons have been empanelled, he is hopeful that they would come to a conclusion within a few weeks. At last week’s press conference, Lyte said it is hoped that it would take the panel approximately two months. Coming out of yesterday’s meeting, he said the agreed timeline is even shorter than that. “Once we conclude the terms of reference, the union had indicated a specific timeline and we will work with a shorter timeline than that. The timeline that we have agreed on so far is feasible and the union is happy that we can work in that direction,” Lyte said. Chief Education Officer, Marcel Hutson, was tightlipped on the subject of nominees for the MoE. He added that he could not comment, since deliberations are still in progress.

Farmers start onion trial at Hope Estate FARMERS of the Hope Estate are becoming less dependent on traditional cash crops and have turned to the cultivation of onions with the help of the World University Service of Canada (WUSC) through its PROPEL initiative. In an effort to foster crop diversification in the farming community, PROPEL has approached 10 females and two male famers to plant the crop

collectively on a plot of land identified by the Hope Coconut Industries Limited. “Farmers have been facing many constraints with marketing traditional vegetables… so we want to promote crop diversification and see how well onion adapts to the conditions,” said PROPEL’s Agriculture Extension Facilitator Jason Persaud in an invited comment. He said a team from

WUSC has already done preliminary soil-testing, but the actual cultivation of the first set of onions will commence in two weeks. “Right now, the farmers are doing land preparation and we have even created a planter box at the coconut industries; training was already done too,” said Persaud. The farmers will work together to ensure that the crop is sustained and

well cultivated. Persaud said the weather is conducive to the cultivation of onions. Onions will be harvested in three months if they use young onions and it could take up to four months if they use seedlings. A Corentyne farmer had harvested some 450 pounds of organic onions from his Phillipe Farm, East Berbice. It was the largest har-

vest for a single farmer since implementation of the trial project by Promotion of Regional Opportunities for Produce and Enterprises and Linkages (PROPEL), in partnership with the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI). Kewal Mangar, the NAREI extension officer attached to the project, had said in addition to Medford there are at least

three other farmers who were part of the PROPEL project, who have gone on to become independent onion farmers. He said the Mercedes variety of onions has been more successful thus far and that NAREI is working closely with farmers both in and out of the field, providing technical advice in addition to identifying potential markets for their produce.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Omar Shariff put on $1M bail ‘Monster’ hurricane –so he could pursue law studies in T&T set to strengthen –make landfall by tomorrow

Savatri Hardio

FORMER Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of the Presidency, Omar Shariff was on Tuesday put on $1M bail so as to ensure his return to court for trial. Shariff and his reputed wife, Savatri Hardio, are on trial before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore for failing to comply with a production order contrary to Section 26 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act. The couple was charged on January 23, after they failed to comply with the production order issued by the

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Chief Justice, Yonette Cummings-Edwards in keeping with a summons by the High Court to produce certain named documents to Assistant Police Commissioner, Sydney James within seven days. They pleaded not guilty to the charge and were released on self-bail. They were also ordered by Magistrate Azore to report every other Monday to the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) and to lodge their passports with the court. When the matter was

called again on Tuesday, the couple’s attorney, Sanjeev Datadin made an application for Shariff’s passport to be returned to him, so he could take up a scholarship to the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago. With SOCU Prosecutor, Patrice Henry not being opposed to the idea, Magistrate Azore ordered that Shariff’s passport be returned to him, but imposed a $1M bail to ensure his return. The matter has been adjourned until next Monday when his attorney is expected to make a no-case submission. Shariff’s services with the Ministry of the Presidency were terminated effective December 31, 2016. The former senior public servant, who is the subject of a probe into alleged financial crimes by SOCU, has denied any such wrongdoing but conceded that he has unsettled tax matters with the Guyana Revenue Authority in relation to the sale of phone credit.

HURRICANE Florence, the most powerful storm to threaten the Carolinas in nearly three decades, is expected to strengthen, forecasters say. Officials warn there is a chance of “life-threatening inundation from rising water” over the next 48 hours as Florence heads for the US East Coast. With sustained winds of about 140mph (225km/h), the weather system is currently a Category Four storm. It could make landfall on Thursday, near Wilmington, North Carolina. Vi rg i n i a , M a r y l a n d , Washington DC, and North and South Carolina have all declared states of emergency. “This storm is a monster,” North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper told a news conference on Tuesday. “It’s big and it’s vicious. “It is an extremely dangerous, life-threatening, historic hurricane.” Hurricane Florence was 725 miles (1,170km) off Cape Fear, in North Carolina, as of 20:00 Atlantic Standard Time (00:00 GMT) on Tuesday, according to the latest National Weather Service (NWS) update. The update says Florence, which is moving north-west at about 17mph (28km/h), is expected to

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strengthen on Tuesday night and on Wednesday. “While some weakening is expected on Thursday, Florence is forecast to be an extremely dangerous major hurricane through landfall,” it says. Florence is expected to slow down considerably by late Thursday into Friday. The NWS predicts potential storm surges of up to 13ft (4m) on the coasts along with dangerously large swells and rip currents. Hurricane-force winds will extend outward up to 60 miles from the centre and tropical-storm-force winds up to 175 miles. Rainfall could be up to 25in (64cm) in some areas. This could worsen if, as some meteorologists predict, Florence stalls after it makes landfall. The office of Virginia Governor Ralph Northam predicted “catastrophic inland flooding, high winds and possible widespread power outages”. The chief meteorologist for WCBD-TV in South Carolina, Rob Fowler, told the BBC that Florence was getting bigger, and those even 100 miles away would feel the impact. He said Florence could rival the impact of Hurricane Hugo, which wreaked

$7bn (£5.3bn) in damage and claimed 49 lives in 1989. It is also likely to affect the Brunswick Nuclear Plant in Southport, North Carolina, which is just a few miles from where Florence is expected to make landfall. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered in parts of South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia, affecting more than a million people. South Carolina’s Governor Henry McMaster initially ordered the entire coastline of his state to leave. However, the order was later confined to the northern coast. Residents of affected areas have been flocking to stores to stock up on essentials. John Johnson, a hardware store manager in Charleston, South Carolina, told AFP news agency there had been a “nonstop” rush on batteries, flashlights, plastic tarpaulins and sandbags. Some petrol stations were running dry as customers filled up. Curtis Oil, a fuel distributor in Chesterfield, South Carolina, said it had been “overwhelmed with requests by state agencies and everybody else”. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

‘Lula’ pulls out of Brazil election FORMER Brazilian President Luiz Inácio ‘Lula’ da Silva has pulled out of next month’s presidential election, allowing his running mate to stand in his place. Workers’ Party leader Gleisi Hoffman announced the decision outside the police headquarters where the 72-year-old is serving a 12year sentence. Brazil’s top electoral court barred Lula’s candidacy less than two weeks ago due to his corruption conviction.

The move comes days after a far-right candidate was stabbed at a rally. The 63-year-old Jair Bolsonaro must now undergo major surgery, after being attacked by a lone assailant, doctors said. A letter written by ‘Lula’ in his prison cell was read out to his supporters who have been camping outside the jail for five months demanding he be freed. In it, the former president, who governed from

January 2003 until December 2010, said he would not run in the election scheduled for 7 October. He also named Fernando Haddad as the man to step into the breach. The decision comes after a lengthy legal battle which culminated on 31 August when the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) ruled that he was “ineligible” to run for the presidency. Lula’s legal team and the Workers’ Party have appealed against the decision, and the Supreme Court is

still due to rule on it. Up until Monday night, the Workers’ Party’s strategy had been to keep Lula’s name on the ticket for as long as possible. Lula left office with record approval ratings, and despite his imprisonment, almost 40% of people asked by polling firm, Datafolha said they would vote for him. Mr Haddad, on the other hand, is a former education minister who has little name recognition outside of São

Paulo, where he served as mayor. Lula’s legal team asked the Supreme Court to extend the deadline for registering candidates for the presidency from end of business Tuesday to Monday 17 September to buy itself more time. Typical of the high drama which has characterised the election campaign, Lula and his party decided to change tack after the Supreme Court rejected their request to extend the deadline. (BBC)

Jamaica to construct marine bases –to boost border protection KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – The Jamaica government will spend an estimated J$80 million (One Jamaica dollar=US$0.008 cents) constructing three marine bases as it seeks to strengthen the island’s borders and curtail illicit activities. Acting Director for Protective Security in the Ministry of National Security, Paul Henry, said the government is in the process of acquiring lands at key points across the island and that the bases will be jointly established and operated by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA).

He told the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) that the areas for the bases were chosen based on intelligence. “Intelligence and information would indicate that these specific geographical areas would be areas of concern, as it relates to interdicting shipments of contraband, whether they are regular contraband or high-security contraband. So it’s really based on police analysis of Jamaica’s coasts,” he said. Henry said that the bases will be built in keeping with engineering specifications and National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) standards to ensure their longevity.

“We are advanced in acquiring and leasing the lands as it relates to Oracabessa. The lease was drafted and it is now being reviewed… and will be eventually returned to the National Land Agency and the landowners for final signature.” The marine bases will be used to deter, prevent, detect and/or prosecute breaches of the Customs and other laws of Jamaica. Activities will include planning and execution of joint contraband-interdiction operations; search of vessels; interception of suspicious vessels, persons and/ or goods; coastal surveillance and intelligence gathering; and execution of and/or the

provision of support for the regulatory functions of other agencies of the Government. Henry said that the JCF and the JCA signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in December 2016 to undertake the project. “The MOU… is really seeking to target their roles as law-enforcement bodies on our borders,” he added. Under the agreement, JCA will be responsible for constructing and otherwise establishing the physical infrastructure required to support the marine bases. This includes modular facilities for the operation of the bases and installation of sewage disposal, water supply, electricity and any other utilities required. The JCA will also provide two 30-foot Boston

Whaler watercraft and twincab pickup motor vehicles to be deployed at Rocky Point and Alligator Pond while the JCF will provide three marine craft, along with a coxswain and crew to be deployed to all bases for 24-hours, seven days per week. Henry said that marine bases will better enable the security forces to launch operations, detect and interdict persons who are involved in criminal activities, particularly in the drugs trade. “When the security forces are showing dominance of space, it increases investor confidence and people will be more minded to construct marine-oriented attractions in the areas. When that is done, there will be more jobs,” he said.

Skerrit warns Dominicans to be prepared –in the event of a hurricane ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC – Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit Tuesday urged citizens to be “fully prepared’” as Dominica was placed on a hurricane watch despite Hurricane Isaac being downgraded to a strong tropical storm. Skerrit said he was urging all citizens “to take these warnings seriously. Whether it is a tropical storm, a tropical storm watch, or a hurricane watch or a hurricane warning, we must treat all of them the same way. “The fact remains the storm is some distance away from us and anything can happen. Our hope and prayer is that it weakens and it goes away and there will be no impact on our country and our residents. But we must not be like the foolish

Virgins. We have to prepare and show we prepare to the fullest possible extent,” he told a news conference. He said as far as the National Emergency Planning Organisation is concerned “we are taking no chances and we are leaving no stone unturned in respect to the preparation of the state, the country and its citizens for this incoming weather system.” The Miami-based National Hurricane Centre (NHC) in its latest bulletin said that hurricane watches had gone into effect for Dominica, and the two French islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe, while a tropical storm watch is in effect for Antigua and Barbuda and Montserrat. It said that the storm,

which was located at 775 miles east of the Lesser Antilles, had maximum sustained winds of 70 miles per hour (mph). It said that a hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within the watch area and Prime Minister Skerrit reminded citizens that Hurricane Maria had increased its intensity “in a matter of hours’ from a Category 3 to Category 5 storm when it lashed the island on September 18 last year, killing several people and causing hundreds of dollars (One EC dollar=US$0.37 cents) in losses. “We cannot afford a storm, much less for a hurricane, “Skerrit told a news conference, as he urged residents to take all precautions ahead of the storm.

“This is not the time to go to a dark room and cry,” he said, indicating that later on Tuesday, the authorities will be making a statement regarding the schools and the working hours within the public and private sectors. The NHC said that Isaac is located near latitude 14.6 North, longitude 49.7 West and is moving towards the west near 16 mph. It said that this motion is expected to continue for the next few days. “On the forecast track Isaac is anticipated to move near or over the central Lesser Antilles on Thursday and move into the eastern Caribbean Sea Thursday night.” The maximum sustained winds remain near 70 mph with higher gusts. “Isaac is expected to be

near hurricane strength when it moves through the central Lesser Antilles, with some weakening forecast afterward on Friday,” the NHC added. It warned that Isaac is expected to produce total rainfall accumulations of three to five inches with isolated amounts near 10 inches across the southern Leeward Islands late this week, with one to two inches anticipated across portions of the Windward Islands. “A storm surge of two to four 4 feet above normal tide levels is possible near and to the north of where the centre moves through the Lesser Antilles. Near the coast, the surge will be accompanied by large and destructive waves,” the NHC added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Our multi-culturalism MULTI-CULTURALISM is always a challenge in any society. It is often the most delicate of social ideals, as exemplified by those examples of traditionally known countries across the globe, in which this co-existence of peoples of different ethnicities and race has been known to always exist, in milieus of varying stress and conflict; and much more exacerbated within recent times, with the phenomenon of the immigrant waves pouring into many of these countries. Guyana, despite the stresses and strains of its challenge of race, can be said to enjoy a melting pot in which there is mutual acceptance of, and respect for, the cultures of each of the six races that have been living

here for over 100 years. It may not be perfect, as a result of the fears and suspicions that do exist. But there is a greater understanding of each other, and a better degree of co-existence, that at times begs the question as to how dissimilar are we. Most important, is the fact that our constitution stipulates that each race is entitled to embrace, uphold, and celebrate its culture and custom without hindrance. And indeed, this has always been demonstrated in the annual calendar of individual ethnic festival occasions; and on what is now celebrated as the highlight of their being a part of the nation of Guyanese people–Arrival Day. An exception to this are the First Peoples, also known as the Amerindians

or Indigenous Peoples, whose presence pre-dates all other arrivals. As these people celebrate their current Indigenous Heritage Month at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, where their traditional life in the hinterland has been re-enacted, it is wonderful to behold a bolder, more confident segment of Guyana’s population, assertively display their customs, culture, and general way of life in colourful extravaganza. Their display pieces, whether in song, dance, skit, and poetry, depicts a people very proud of their way of life, and not bashful to exhibit or display its simple, but revealing array of customs, which explains what it is to be Indigenous. But it is even more compelling, a feeling of genuine

appreciation for our Indigenous peoples, and the synthesizing of their unique ways of life through cultural displays. These displays see hundreds of Guyanese across ethnic and social lines, attending the nightly shows to sway to the musical sounds of guitar and drum, as these people tell their story in rich tradition. It is just a wonderful sight which continues to encapsulate all those who have been visiting the Indigenous Village. What has been even more instructive and heartening is the array of traditional indigenous craft, which are much more innovative than used to be, attracting both admirers, and buyers. Add the creative commercial goods, manufactured from indigenous materials, and inclusive

of physical beauty products, such as soaps, creams, and lotions, to name a few; also, condiments for making teas, such as ground coffee, cocoa and other spices; these efforts are sure signs of a people and their communities that are being empowered by socio-economic, self-sustainable methods, such as agro- processing. Of great significance has been the magnificence of the Indigenous art display, at Castellani House. These pieces represent both a creative and intellectual interpretation of the many facets of the Indigenous way of life; they highlight a people who are without doubt the equal of their fellow countrymen/ women, in conceptualising the numerous themes of life’s daily experiences. It is a manifestation of a people, who

are continuing to excel, given the opportunities to do so. Indigenous Heritage Month 2018, with its colourful mosaic of customs and culture, articulated through the expression of dance and song, is yet another reminder of the enduring presence of our Indigenous Peoples, and how much their rich traditions have added to and continues to enrich the Guyanese culture. The fact that Indigenous cultural displays have once again been showcased to appreciative audiences of citizens, supports the inalienable right of the celebrants to this freedom and right of expression, as well as adding a greater sense of purpose and belief to our multi-culturalism. It can only get better.

Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration: Principles and Practice Dear Editor, IN the field of industrial relations, effective means of settlement of labour disputes have evolved through third-party interventions, namely conciliation/mediation, adjudication by way of arbitration, and labour courts or other judicial means of settlement. Since conflicting demands in industrial relations often result in disputes, it is important to utilise methods of dispute settlement. These “should aim at peaceful and orderly settlement of disputes, so as to make it unnecessary to resort to strikes and lockouts” or other forms of industrial action. Conciliation, mediation, and arbitration are valued

dispute-resolution methods used in the settlement of industrial disputes and have special significance for the social partners. These methods have been frequently and intensively utilised in industrial relations and have been permanently established in many countries with a long tradition and history of success. Conciliation/mediation and arbitration have also been used in the field of international relations, civil society, family and community relations and in the commercial world in place of costly and time-consuming litigation. Frequent and prolonged labour disputes could have a negative impact on industrial growth, economic development and overall socio-political stability of any country. Effective and improved dis-

pute-settlement procedures and machinery are crucially important for the national economy and the general good of the population. CONCILIATION/ MEDIATION Conciliation/mediation in industrial disputes, whether it is a dispute of interest or a dispute of rights, is an essential process in the field of industrial relations. The conciliation process seeks to encourage disputing parties to discuss their differences with a view to assisting them to develop their own proposed solution, as an extension of negotiations. The ministry/ department of labour in the English-speaking Caribbean, as in many other countries, is the principal third party dealing with individual and

collective labour disputes and provides a free, voluntary conciliation service. The Dutch-speaking countries in the Caribbean provide this service through a state-funded independent mediation service. The Ministry of Labour/ Department of Labour, or a mediation service embodies the concept of non-political conciliation/mediation and must maintain a role of non-partisan conciliation/ mediation, if it is to enjoy the confidence of the social partners. It must function with credibility, impartiality, professionalism, and integrity, whether or not the service is located within or outside the ministry of labour. From the ILO perspective, “conciliation and mediation are regarded as

equivalent terms referring essentially to the same kind of third-party intervention to promote voluntary settlement of disputes.” Technically, conciliation is limited to encouraging employers and unions in developing their own proposed solutions through rational discussion of their differences. Mediation, on the other hand, is a stronger form of third-party intervention in which the mediator can offer to the parties, proposals for settlement of any industrial dispute. In practice, however, the technical distinction is blurred or disappears as both words are used interchangeably in some countries to express the same process of third-party intervention. In some other countries, the two words – conciliation

and mediation -- denote different forms of intervention for voluntary settlement of disputes in which mediation is the stronger form of third-party intervention than pure conciliation. The Dutch-speaking Caribbean countries use the term “mediation.” It should be noted that ILO guidelines use conciliation and mediation interchangeably, while at the same time recognising distinct national practices in the use of these words. “Conciliation can be described as the practice by which the services of a neutral third party are used in a dispute as a means of helping disputing parties to reduce the extent of their differences and arrive at an amicable settlement or agreed TURN TO PAGE 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Conciliation, Mediation... FROM PAGE 6 solution. It is a process of rational and orderly discussion of differences between the parties to a dispute, under the guidance of the conciliator.” “As a process of peace-making in industrial relations, conciliation aims to bring about the speedy settlement of disputes without resort to strikes or lockouts, and to hasten the termination of work stoppages when these have occurred. The steps that a conciliator may take to bring about an amicable settlement vary from one country to another, but always the function is to assist the parties towards a mutually acceptable compromise or solution.” The use of the conciliation/mediation service may be required by law, and/or by a collective labour agreement, or at the intervention of the conciliation/mediation service. This is usually the procedure required before resorting to adjudication through arbitration or labour court for final settlement. In the Caribbean, the conciliation/mediation services are state institutions/state-funded institutions and agencies, which provide free services to employers and unions. CONCILIATION AND COLLECTIVE BARGAINING The ILO notes that “The practice of conciliation in industrial disputes has developed mainly in connection with disputes arising from the failure of collective bargaining, i.e. the negotiations between the parties with a view to the conclusion of a collective agreement. Conciliation has thus been described as an extension of collective bargaining with third-party assistance, or simply as “assisted collective bargaining”( The ILO uses the following definition for conciliation/mediation in its training manual: “Conciliation/mediation is ideally a voluntary process in which the services of an acceptable and independent third party are used in a conflict as a means of helping the parties to arrive at an agreed outcome.” THE CONCILIATOR/ MEDIATOR:

The Conciliator/Mediator is not an arbitrator and cannot substitute his/her judgement for that of the parties. The conciliator/mediator cannot impose a settlement; it is for the parties to agree to a solution under the guidance and skill of the conciliator, who must maintain a strictly impartial and neutral attitude towards the two parties. The conciliation function requires independent judgement and a conciliator should not be swayed by external pressures. The conciliator must endeavour to bring about an agreement. However, if it is not possible to obtain agreement, the conciliator should persuade the parties to agree to submit the dispute to binding arbitration or to another procedure for dispute settlement, in keeping with the national law or practices in the process of conflict management ARBITRATION Arbitration is another type of third-party intervention. It is the stage which, in the context of the usual grievance-representation procedure, is expected to follow closely upon an impasse or failure at conciliation to resolve a dispute. However, arbitration need not await the failure of the conciliation process in situations where a dispute can have a severe social and economic impact, or where a prolonged dispute in a major industry/ service could severely affect community life, or where the ongoing operation of an industry is necessary to sustain the national economy. In such cases, some states are empowered to refer the dispute to compulsory machineries such as arbitration, industrial tribunal or the labour court as a means of resolving the disputes. Arbitration, industrial tribunals and labour courts, like conciliation, involve third-party intervention in the collective bargaining process. In conciliation, however, the conciliator is expected to use his powers of persuasion in order to enable the parties to narrow the areas of differences between them with a view to reaching acceptable solutions. In arbitration, industrial tribunal and labour court proceedings, the ar-

bitrator, or the adjudicator/ judge is required to decide the issue on the merits of a case presented by the parties and make an award (tribunal) or judgement (court). Such an award or judgement is final and binding on the parties involved in the dispute, and they are expected to give effect to that award/judgement in the tradition of industrial relations practice. In general, when an employer recognises a trade union as the sole bargaining agent of the workers in any undertaking, the parties usually sign a collective agreement for recognition and

avoidance and settlement of disputes. Embodied in that recognition agreement is the grievance procedure in which the various stages through which a grievance/ dispute can be processed are outlined.. In most cases, it provides for arbitration as the final stage for the resolution of disputes. But there are, within industrial relations practice, several means by which the stage of arbitration could be reached. In some agreements, either party may request that the matter under dispute be taken to arbitration; if this happens, the other party has no option but to comply. In others, arbitration can only take place with the mutual consent of parties; and once one of the parties refuses to consent to arbitra-

tion, no arbitration proceedings can take place. The law, in certain situations, provides for arbitration or reference to an industrial tribunal, or a labour court with which the parties must comply. In collective agreements, there are two types of arbitration provisions: - Voluntary arbitration -- where the consent of both parties is required to set the machinery for arbitration in motion, and ask an independent and acceptable third party to hear both sides and consider the dispute and make an award, which by prior agreement would be final and binding and Compulsory arbitration: (a) Where the collective labour agreement provides

for the matter to be referred to arbitration at the request of either party; (b) Where the state may consider it necessary to ensure that services deemed to be essential are not unduly interrupted by work stoppages resulting from industrial disputes. In this case, the state can refer a dispute to compulsory arbitration or to an industrial tribunal, as applicable in national law, for final resolution of any such disputes. Adjudication through arbitration or industrial tribunal reflects the rights approach, and makes final awards which are binding on all the involved parties. Regards Samuel J. Goolsarran

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Guyana, Chile promise to deepen relations

VICE President and Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge has lauded outgoing Chilean Ambassador, Claudio Rachel Rojas, for his efforts to further strengthen relations between the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Republic of Chile. Ambassador Rojas, on Tuesday, paid a courtesy call on Minister Greenidge during which they discussed areas of mutual interest and reflected on his tenure in Guyana. The Chilean envoy also shared his hopes for the future as regards the relationship between the two States. According to Minister Greenidge, the Ambassador immediately began his tenure with determination, ensuring that Guyana benefitted from its relationship with Chile as well as from the Ambassador’s expertise. “We valued your

(l-r) Foreign Service Officer Ms. Sondra Cheong, Ambassador of the Republic of Chile to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, His Excellency Claudio Rachel Rojas, Vice President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Carl B. Greenidge, and third Secretary in the Embassy of Chile in Georgetown, Guyana, Ms. Carolina Faune. cooperation at the bilateral level and we are pleased to see that it has continued through the change of

[the Chilean] Government,” Minister Greenidge stated. Diplomatic relations between Guyana and Chile

were established on July 22, 1971. Bilateral relations were increased in 2015 with the opening of the

Embassy of Chile located in Georgetown and the accreditation of Ambassador Rojas as the first Resident

Ambassador to Guyana. Through bilateral cooperation, Chile has extended technical assistance on data collection through Chile’s National Service of Geology and Mining (SERNAGEOMIN). Additionally, Foreign Service officials in Guyana benefitted from a course in Globalisation and Global Governments and Guyanese public servants were offered Spanish language training by the Government of Chile. The two countries are commonly involved in a number of regional bodies, such as the Organisation of American States (OAS) and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). Chile also engages the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) under the South-South Cooperation framework and CARICOM - Chile Joint Commission.

Min. Lawrence, Region 10 committee brainstorm ways to improve health services MEMBERS of the Region 10 Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) health committee met with Minister of Public Health, Vola Lawrence last week to discuss ways in which the committee can work with the Public Health Ministry to improve services offered to the region. This meeting was part of a series of engagements conducted by the minister and a team from her ministry during a three-day visit to the region where they met the staff and addressed a number of issues. Among the issues discussed at the meeting was the need for improved management of resources in hospitals across Region

Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) Health Committee outgoing Chairman, Dr. Gregory Harris [extreme left] and other committee members Ten. This was cited as one of the main contributing factors to subsequent exist-

ing issues. This was related to the Public Health Minister by Dr. Gregory Harris,

Outgoing Chairman of the Health Committee Regional Democratic Council.

Dr. Harris reasoned that one of the keys to improving the services the sector provides, is by ensuring management is familiar with their responsibilities and commitment to supporting the health care system. He also recalled that in 2017, the PAHO/ WHO office in Guyana exposed managerial staff of hospitals to a three-day training which focused on integrated healthcare management. He suggested that more training sessions and refresher courses such as these are needed for managers. Minister Lawrence noted if the health sector is to move forward and provide the best level of healthcare, these issues must be

identified and addressed “hands on.” The minister explained that all members of staff in the health sector should be targeted in this regard. She added that the governing bodies such as the ministry and the RDC must also evaluate prudently and examine persons who are selected to be managers. Having this grave concern highlighted, the health committee’s incoming Chairman, Gordon Callendar committed himself and the members of the committee towards working with the Ministry of Public Health through the RDC to eliminate the health related issues in the region.

SBB grant fund exhausted THE grant fund of the Small Business Bureau (SBB) has been exhausted but programmes, loan facilitation and other technical services are available. A reliable source from the SBB said the fund was depleted because of the influx of micro, small and

medium scale businesses over the past year. Grants once limited to G$300,000 were increased up to G$1M through a new system which made it easier for small businesses to be developed in Guyana. According to the SBB, the fund will not be replen-

ished this year but they hope to get more money for the grant in the 2019 budget. Despite the depletion of the fund, there are still business management training programmes and other technical programmes which the SBB offers.

According to the 2018 budget, $100 million had been allocated towards the establishment of the Small Business Development Fund. This served as a revolving loan fund to address the needs of businesses that cannot meet the requirements of the traditional banking system.

Twelve persons were also the recipients of G$1M each for financing of their “green” business ideas, made possible through the SBB’s Green Business Technology Fund. The SBB had also implemented a programme which registered companies

that meet certain criteria with regard to standard and quality. Those companies formed a list of companies that the bureau can recommend to larger companies looking to sub-contract or contract Small-to-Medium Enterprises (SME).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

GMSA proposes measures to improve manufacturing sector

MEMBERS of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) have proposed measures which could improve the local manufacturing sector when they met with the Ministry of Finance this week for budget consultations. The proposal was made on Tuesday when a team from GMSA including its President, Shyam Nokta, Vice Presidents

along with sector specific measures covering forestry and wood processing, agro-processing, services and construction and engineering. Nokta in presenting the organisation’s position paper for budget 2019 alluded to the slowing down of the manufacturing sector. According to the Ministry of Finance MidYear Report for 2018, the manufacturing sector

now slowing down. “For much of the year this sector has been plagued by the deplorable condition of hinterland roads which has been compounded by poor weather. The state of interior roads has also affected the supply of goods by manufacturers to hinterland areas,” said the GMSA. The association also said tax measures intro-

cessing and rice exports. The GMSA also pointed out that the steady decline in the sugar industry is cause for concern, not only for its national impact but also because of the dependence of light manufacturing for inputs from the sugar industry – specifically molasses, and where there were instances of delays and unavailability in 2018. Among the measures

Members of the GMSA during discussions with the Finance Minister Ramsay Ali, Ramesh Dookhoo and Glennis Hodge, along with several executive members, met with Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan as part of engagements on Budget 2019. GMSA submitted a comprehensive list of measures which cover key areas of taxation, energy, public procurement, hinterland road improvement and management, access to finance, and standards and regulations

contracted by 2.4 per cent primarily due to declines in the production of sugar and rice. Light manufacturing also recorded slower growth compared to 2017, 1.2 per cent as compared to present. While alluding to the growth in the forestry sub-sector at the half year point of 18.1 per cent and driven by the production of logs and round wood, mainly from small operators, the GMSA indicated that exports of timber are

duced in Budget 2017 such as Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity, continue to impact negatively on the manufacturing sector. Additionally, adjustments to the VAT Act in 2018 where several items were re-categorised from zero rated to exempt have affected the ability of manufacturers to reclaim VAT on inputs made for items for export. Among the sectors which have been severely affected are wood pro-

proposed are: removal of VAT on electricity; reversal of the policy where items that were transferred from zero rated to exempt, especially for items of export from the manufacturing sector; provide incentives to manufacturers utilising local raw materials in their manufacturing processes; provide a greater share of public procurement for locally manufactured goods in areas of pharmaceuticals, lum-

ber, aggregate and quarry products, agro-produce and juices, etc., removal of the excise tax on fuel used in manufacturing and adjusted/reduced tariffs for manufacturing entities based on performance thresholds; incentives for renewable energy options such as gasifiers to utilize biomass in wood processing and agro-processing; and support for packaging and labelling facilities for agro-processors. “The GMSA acknowledges that

for many of the proposed measures are not new and have featured in the Ministerial Roundtable Discussions between the GMSA and the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Finance,” said the association. They also form part of the deliberations of the Joint Technical Working Group where focus is on the Forestry & Wood-Processing and Agro-Processing Sectors.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Stephen Campbell hailed for representing Indigenous Peoples’ land interests

ACTIVITIES for Indigenous Heritage month continued on Monday with a reflection on the life of Stephen Campbell, at the Umana Yana.

Campbell was the first Amerindian Member of Parliament in Guyana. He was elected to the Legislative Council of British Guiana on September 10,

1957 and as such, on this date every year Guyana celebrates his achievements as part of the Heritage Month. Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney

First Lady Sandra Granger, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock and Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe stood with other government ministers and 11 Indigenous leaders who were recognised for their work in community development through health, education, culture and politics, at the Reflection on the Life of Stephen Campbell

Allicock, while speaking at the event stressed that “Campbell was one of our greatest pioneers, looking into the future.” The minister explained that though he was a jackof-all-trades, he was the “master” at providing representation for lands for the Indigenous peoples of Guyana. “In years gone by -- many many years ago -- we have no records to show when this beautiful land of Guyana was handed over from home to home,” Allicock said. And Junior Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Valerie Garrido-Lowe, acknowledged in this respect that Campbell had lobbied the British government to fight for Amerindians’ land rights and rights generally. “He pushed for the Amerindian land rights to be guaranteed in the Independence constitution,” she reminded the audience of mostly young people. She said, “He was not a tall

man, but he was a giant in representing his people. He was a very progressive person, especially regarding Indigenous peoples’ land rights.” Minister Allicock also explained that while the first Amerindian parliamentarian was fighting for land for the Indigenous peoples, he fought for space, so that the people could live in harmony with other livings things. “The Indigenous [peoples] never saw it as ownership, but as a resource to manage and use by the great creator,” the vice-president highlighted. Even today, what Stephen Campbell fought for remains critical to preservation of the Indigenous peoples and Guyana, according to Allicock. “That is why space is needed for Indigenous peoples to keep and protect a healthy ecosystem, so that we can have a healthy nation.” Minister Lowe also highlighted that Campbell

had made advances in securing proper social amenities for Indigenous peoples years ago and encouraged them to practise agriculture and develop their craft. With Campbell’s mould in mind, Minister Lowe told his Indigenous folk that now is a time to reflect and celebrate, but it is also a time to join with the other groups in the country to prepare for the country’s unfolding future of economic freedom. “It is a time to have the coast and the hinterland making that link that will show us with respect that we are all Guyanese and we need to unite to build this country,” Allicock said. “Now is the time -- it was never better than this period -- for us to connect Guyana through radios, through internet connections, through roads, through businesses -- now is the time for us to capitalise on that opportunity.”

Part of the exhibition held at the event, Reflection on the Life of Stephen Campbell

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

The Arts and Humanities

“THE arts and humanities define who we are as a people. That is the power-- to remind us of what we each have to offer, and what we all have in common. To help us understand our history and imagine our future. To give us hope in the moments of struggle and to bring us together when nothing else will.” These words, perfectly said by former first lady of The United States of America, Michelle Obama, inspired me to write this week’s piece. Out of approximately 90 students or more, 15 of us from my high school decided to pursue the arts. That is, enter into the humanities and/or arts stream (class). My interest in the arts began when I started to scribble amateur poems and do make-up looks in the 9th grade. This automatically brought my attention to the humanities stream, aka. ‘Arts Stream,’ because of the subject areas offered. I knew little to nothing about the field of humanities. It was and still is hardly talked about and is not as mainstream as the Science, Business, Agriculture and Tech streams. Not believable? Well, sadly, only two schools in all of Berbice offer the humanities stream. The process as to how people process and document the human experience, can be described as the study of humanities. The way in which a person can express his/her self varies. Some of the different ways include: literature, art, music, history, language, religion and philosophy. I am certain that the highlights of much of the humanities stream in Guyana is through the experience of theatre arts. Theatre arts transformed my entire perspective of the arts, self-confidence and team work. My class participated in the National Drama Festival and held in-school productions. I also had the chance to showcase my make-up skills in all of the productions. The experience was even better, all thanks to our teacher, Ms Shaundel Phillips, who always supported us. For parents reading this, you’ve been reading about my story. Perhaps, still wondering, what does the humanities have to offer your child? For starters, It gave

me a headstart in my courses at university. If your 9th grade child has aspirations of becoming a lawyer, historian, geographer, social worker (social sciences), an actor, producer, then the humanities stream is the best place to begin that journey. I have done subjects that may come across as bizarre to many people. From Spanish to Geography, Theatre Arts, Caribbean History and English Literature. All in all, I can surely tell you that they have helped me and many others to be more aware of our culture, human way of life, human expressions, public speaking (through on-stage performances) and decision making. I do not think I would have been as successful, writing these column pieces along with my poetry and pursuing my passion for make-up, without the help of the Humanities stream. To better understand what it’s like to be in the Humanities stream, here is Miss Sukranie Dookoo explaining her story: “ I remember being part of the Arts/Humanities stream at school and was asked quite often by several of my peers what the stream will do for me? Theatre Arts being a core and important subject was often the subject of discussion for fellow students, who did not understand exactly what it was. It was generalised and labelled as just acting when it was much more than that. Theatre Arts develop the personality, eliminating shyness, developing stage presence, a more confident and open-minded individual. Quite often people ridicule those who embark on such a journey, that it’s a waste of time. But how can you laugh at those wanting to be part of the arts or entertainment industry, when you sit behind a screen to view your favourite tv show, or listen to music. That’s laughing at your artists for doing what we want to do? Theatre Arts are much more than your basic “get on stage and say a few lines.” As a young teen, it helps to mold your personality, lower self-esteem [sic], teach planning, how to deal with gruelling deadlines and improve analytical and thinking skills. To have an Arts stream in school is extremely valuable,

this is where creative minds can flourish; how important it is to preserve Art and teach it. It gives you a taste of the real world and what it means to be part of a work environment. As a class, we faced many struggles, team-building exercises were frequent

and it took us months to learn how to cooperate fully. But we did, because of the Arts. If I hadn’t done Theatre Arts, I would not have been the person I am today. I believe every child is born an artist, overflowing with imagination and cre-

ativity. It is the environment and experience of that child that determine his/her perception and continuation of art. In fact, I believe Humanities combined with other areas of study are very vital, because it helps us to understand human existence.

As George Lucas said, ‘’Sciences are the ‘how’, Humanities are the ‘why’-Why are we here, why do we believe in things we believe in. I don’t think you can have the ‘how’ without the ‘why’.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Swimming against the tide

NOTHING I write here is new or innovative but the argument must be made again and again and again. Socrates, the father of Western philosophy was tried and executed because he gave the Greek youths a dangerous weapon, the ability to critique and question everything. Once described as the ‘Gadfly’ within the state, Socrates stung the status quo by questioning democracy and upsetting the established order. He was deemed to be too dangerous by those who benefitted from the power structures of Athens. Socrates influenced the minds of the Athenian youth and I am here thinking, he did this without any

form of technology, just an academy and books. In this age, anybody can become a modern-day Socrates with a mobile phone and a social media account with a large following. The future is the internet and the internet is the future. In a keynote speech at the international Government Communication Forum on Monday, September 6 in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, 24-year-old Shamma Al Mazrui, cautioned: “If we want to understand the youth, government bodies need to open diverse and direct communication channels with them, use their technologies to understand

them, or else we will be swimming against the tide”. Shamma’s words were sharp and rang true. I have finally found the description for those luddites who are part of the government systems that refuse to embrace modern forms of communication to connect with the population. Forty-two per cent of the global population is under 25 (World Bank), the world’s population is very young. According to a report by Common Sense Media, 75 per cent of teenagers currently have social media accounts and 68 per cent of that group use Facebook as their main medium. As an obvious consequence, it is undeniably

incumbent upon any entity that seeks to reach the largest possible audience to embrace technology. Troglodytes who are of the government system and say: ‘I don’t understand them fancy technology’ or ‘Stay away from the Facebook thing’, should not be in government leadership positions in this day and age. If you stay away, you leave a vacuum. That space will be filled by your detractors and other agents with shadowy agendas. Your refusal to engage through technological means is self-defeating. When news breaks, it breaks online and you have about one hour to respond. If you wait for the next day to print a response in the

print medium, you would have already lost control of the message and by extension, the entire plot. The dull black and white pages are sadly losing in the anti-intellectual age. Some millennials will tell you: ‘I am not reading anything with more than three paragraphs, if it is not a contract or some assignment for grades’. Yet government agencies insist on resorting to long black and white scripts to communicate to the largest section of the population.

In some cases of policy and legal communication, this is unavoidable but where possible, go to social media. Three lines on Twitter, a WhatsApp broadcast message, a Facebook post or an Instagram picture will get you more returns on your information investment. If this method is something that you don’t get, hire a millennial, establish a social media desk and get with the programme or be swept aside by the tide.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

UG Law Society urges speedy resolution of law school impasse

PRESIDENT of the University of Guyana Law Society (UGLS) believes that a joint venture will better benefit Guyana in the establishment of its own law school, even as he anticipates that the similar standards of the Caribbean will be realised here. Weighing in on the ongoing engagements between the government and the Council of Legal Education (CLE), UGLS President, Delonté De Clou spoke to the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday. His comments were made in light of the recent unfolding situation whereby the government-submitted feasibility study on the construction of a local law school was said to be non-compliant with the treaty which established the CLE. This was relayed by CLE Chairman Reginald Armour on September 8, when he found issue with the government and its joint-venture partners - the Law School of the Americas (LCA) and the University College of the Caribbean (UCC). “At the moment, I don’t see that a joint venture agreement can be presented for approval to Council within the treaty… so the concept of other persons forming a law school and bringing them to the Council for approval doesn’t fit within the treaty and that is one of the points we have made to the attorney general, that his government needs

to reconsider in terms of the proposal that has been brought to us so far,” Armour had explained to reporters. On the issue, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams had stated that it is a matter of interpretation. After outlining the guidelines for the feasibility study, he said that the CLE has now taken issue with the model which the Government of Guyana intends to use to establish its own law school. De Clou said that while he understands the concerns of the CLE, he believes that a joint venture may prove to be better for the country at the moment. However, he added that ultimately, what ensues is up to the government, but should nonetheless see relieved, the financial, educational and social challenges faced by LLB students in pursuing studies at the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago. “The government should continue doing what it’s doing which is jointly with the University College of the Caribbean as well as the Law College of the Americas on the basis that, together, it will be more sustainable for our economy, in general, to have other partners. But when we’re talking about going on a solo venture, I am not privy to the thinking of the government and I would not want to speak contrary to

what the position is in terms of what the government decides to do,” he said. De Clou is positive that Guyana has ample legal luminaries willing and able to provide their expertise to Guyanese students, naming Justice Duke E.E. Pollard as one in the lot. The UGLS president also addressed the current challenges faced by the non-existence of a local law school and the limited quota of 25 Guyanese per academic year that are allowed to attend Hugh Wooding. “When you look at the financial feasibility in relations to the Hugh Wooding Law School and Guyanese students, we have to pay an exorbitant amount of money to be able to graduate… it’s just inequitable in that sense. We still have to have to pay for dorm, etcetera so it’s very hard on Guyanese students,” he posited. Being UGLS president for one year and member of the Association of Caribbean Students for Equal Access to the Legal Profession (ACSEAL), De Clou also advocates for greater accessibility to law schools in the Region. He noted problems which exist in Guyana as well as in countries such as Jamaica, where he said only students of the University of the West Indies admitted to the Norman Manley law school. “We should free up accessibility to law schools throughout the Caribbean

and in this we can have more legal scholars and create the equity in regards to general understanding of law and practice,” he said, later adding: “The process needs to be open, we need to have more visibility and we believe that the issue with entrance exams and the barriers in entering into these law schools is very problematic to continue doing what we’ve been doing [especially] with the 25 limit.” Despite the current challenges, De Clou hopes that the level of professionalism

and education which will be provided at the school, once established, will be of the highest standard and no different from the Caribbean Region. “We hope to see the same standard of education and teaching that’s available throughout the Caribbean. When you look at Eugene Dupuch, Norman Manley or you look at Hugh Wooding, we’re aiming for the same standards as any other law school and, of course, an important part is the financial feasibility of [attending the school],” he said.

University of Guyana Law Society (UGLS) President Delonté De Clou

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Flash floods hit some parts of Georgetown

SEVERAL areas in Georgetown experienced flash flooding on Tuesday morning following intermittent but heavy rainfalls which began around 08:45hrs. According to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), flood waters were

four inches high in West Ruimveldt and seven inches high in First Street Alexander Village. The Guyana Chronicle also visited these flood-prone areas and found that Alexander Village was most affected. There, persons travers-

ing were seen carefully manoeuvring the floodwaters by way of vehicle while others waded by foot. Meanwhile, on Ebenezer Drive, West Ruimveldt at the Our Heritage Day Care Centre, the floodwaters had stopped

Residents wade through floodwaters in Alexander Village on Tuesday (Adrian Narine photo)

The after effects of morning showers in the West Ruimveldt community (Adrian Narine photo) just short of entering the building where activities were ongoing as per normal. There were mild effects in South Ruimveldt. The CDC has since re-

ported that water was receding with the afternoon low tide and no homes were seen or reported to be under water in both areas. It also stated that the

Alexander Village canal and the Laing Avenue Canal are blocked with vegetation and sediments which contributed to the floods due to heavy rainfall.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Drilling of wells in Region Nine by October 4

THE Government of Guyana in collaboration with the Government of Brazil, are set to commence the drilling of eight wells in eight villages in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region Nine) from October 4, 2018. The drilling follows 10 days of reconnaissance which was conducted in March of this year. The wells are expected to assist in the storage of water for the dry season (El Niño). On Tuesday, stakeholders met at the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) for the second working group meeting. That meeting was attended by Director General of the organisation (CDC), Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig; Brazilian Military Attaché to Guyana, Colonel Deni Da Silva and stakeholders from the Ministries of Communities, Public Health, Foreign Affairs and Agriculture, as well as the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Department of Citizenship, Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), the Hydrometeorological office and the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI). According to Col. Deni Da Silva, the equipment and support vehicles are expected to arrive in Guyana on October 1, 2018 while drilling will commence on October 4, 2018. It is the intention of the Brazilian team to have the wells handed over to the Guyanese authorities on November 28, 2018.

Already, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure with approval from Cabinet has commenced road works to facilitate the smooth transportation of the vehicles and equipment, from Brazil through Lethem to the targeted communities. During the drilling phase, the Brazilian Army will be working closely with the GDF and this collaboration will see the drilling of artesian wells in the villages of Aishalton, Chukrikednau, Shea, Maruranawa, Awaruwaunau, Karaudanawa, Achiwib and Bashraidrun. The aim of this process is to develop the capacity of GDF’S Engineering Corps, to drill future artesian wells and to respond to future water shortages caused by extensive droughts. In an invited comment, Colonel Craig said that the drilling of the wells is an important part of disaster response and preparedness, particularly during the El Niño season. “As we know, [the] Rupununi is susceptible to droughts and floods, so we want to remove that uncertainty and have a system under which the communities could be supplied with fresh water continuously during the year. Mainly, in Region Nine, the residents use hand dug wells and you find that a couple weeks into the dry season, there is no water for them to use. Those wells are usually about 20 metres but these that will be dug later in the year will be 100

metres, which translates to about 300 feet. It is all part of us responding to the drought situation during the dry season in the region,” he said. This project follows President David Granger’s State Visit to Brazil in December 2017, where the Complementary Agreement to the Basic Agreement on Technical Cooperation between the Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Federative Republic of Brazil for the Implementation of the Project Technologies to Reduce the Effects of the Drought in Region Nine was inked. The Complementary Agreement states that the Government of Brazil shall undertake to “promote the transfer of Brazilian knowledge and experience related to mitigation of the effects of drought; provide the means for implementation of activities foreseen in the Project, send consultants and experts to implement activities to be carried out in Guyana, support the development of the Guyanese technical team’s capacity to drill artesian wells and monitor and evaluate Project implementation.” Meanwhile, the Government of Guyana, as prescribed in the Agreement, shall undertake to “take responsibility for the maintenance of the artesian wells that will be drilled during the practical operations on the ground; appoint a technical team to

‘Costello’ man granted bail –– partner-in-crime not so lucky

A 38-year-old mechanic was on Tuesday released on $200,000 bail, after appearing before City Magistrate Dylon Bess to answer to the charge of attempting to commit a felony. Maxwell George pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleged that on Saturday, September 8, 2018 on Albert Street, Alberttown while being armed with a cutlass and in the company of

another who was armed with a knife, he attempted to rob one Randy Bourne. George, of Costello Housing Scheme, Georgetown was released on $200,000 bail and had his matter adjourned until October 26. On Monday, 32-year-old Teshaka Bobb was charged with the same offence, appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman and was remanded to prison until September 24.

monitor and participate in activities to be implemented, provide the technical team sent by the Government of Federative Republic of Brazil with the logistical support required to implement activities of

their responsibility and to take measures to ensure that activities implemented by professionals sent by the Brazilian Government will be continued by professionals from the Guyanese implementing

institution.” The drilling of the wells also coincides with the 50th anniversary of bilateral ties between Guyana and Brazil. (Ministry of the Presidency)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Sugar workers complete training in industrial relations activities THE first batch of 30 sugar workers participating in the UNIFOR/Guyana Agricultural & General Workers Union (GAWU) Educational project have completed the initial stage of their training in industrial relations activities. The sessions which began on September 5, 2018 and concluded on Saturday,

saw workers from Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt estates attending the classes which was facilitated at the GAWU Labour College. During the sessions, participants were exposed to international, regional and local developments in the sugar sector; a special presentation from GuySuCo on its plans for the sugar

industry and the experiences following re-organisation of the sugar sector in the Caribbean. They were also provided information on GAWU’s participation in national sugar discussions; the sugar industry and its relations with the economy and society; the structure and history of GAWU; review of relevant

labour legislation, agreements and international conventions and other topics. The participants will return in 2019 for another one-week training session where they will share their experiences gained from the training and receive additional teaching on matters beneficial to them. The one-year $6.5M ed-

ucational project, funded by UNIFOR’s Social Justice Fund (SJF), has devised several strategies to remain in contact with the participants. It will aid in assisting workers in overcoming difficulties faced; provide necessary material and information they would need to speak with workers and community members. In a media release from GAWU on Tuesday, the union stated that the workers were appreciative of the training sessions having learnt much of the information for the first time. They also committed to returning to their respective workplaces and communities to share what they learnt. Meanwhile, GAWU’s President Komal Chand expressed the union’s appreciation to UNIFOR for its timely support and encouraged participants to make

full use of the training and techniques taught. He also thanked GuySuCo for its support in facilitating the paid-release of the workers to attend the training programme. Similarly, UNIFOR’s National President, Jerry Dias said his union was pleased to lend support as he pointed out that the participants have the ability to effect change to their benefit. The next course is set to take place by the end of October, 2018 with subtle changes to allow for a smoother flow of the sessions. GAWU’s said in the release that it has always strongly held that education of union members is a critical task, as it is only through such that workers can better understand their rights, obligations and become better union members, employees and persons in society.

Crime-scene photographer sets the tone –as PI into Sasia Adams murder begins THE Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the death of Sasia Adams, allegedly killed by her boyfriend after being pushed out of a moving motorcar, began Tuesday before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Rick Sewcharran, 21, of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara is charged with manslaughter and is currently out on $500,000 bail for the crime. Particulars of the charge allege that on June 10, 2018 at Lamaha Street, Georgetown, Sewcharran unlawfully killed Adams, his 19-year-old girlfriend. On Tuesday, Police crime scene photographer, Constable Asafo Felix was the first witness to testify, followed by Adams’ mother, Jennifer Adams. The matter is being prosecuted by Inspector Neville Jeffers, while Sewcharran is being represented by attorney Sanjeev Datadin. The matter continues today, and a total of 15 witnesses are expected to be called during the course of the inquiry.

Rick Sewcharran

On June 10, Adams was rushed to a private city hospital by her boyfriend, Sewcharran, who claimed that she had jumped out of the car as he was driving. Adams, who reportedly arrived at the hospital in a conscious state, was said to have told health workers there that she fell at home. The police found the developments to be strange, as both had given conflicting reports and her 21-year-old boyfriend was taken into custody.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Eco Atlantic announces O&G potential in Orinduik Block

THE Orinduik Block offshore Guyana contains an estimated three billion barrels of oil and gas, Eco Atlantic Oil and Gas disclosed on Tuesday. The report comes even as Eco Atlantic and its partner Tullow Oil prepare to drill for oil in 2019. Eco Atlantic Oil & Gas holds a 40 per cent working interest in the Orinduik Block while Tullow Oil has 60 per cent. The Orinduik Block is located just 11km from and up-dip to ExxonMobil’s Liza Discoveries. In a resource study dubbed “Competent Persons Report for Certain Assets in Offshore Guyana” published on Tuesday, it was estimated that the Orinduik block contains a resource of around 2.9 billion barrels of oil and gas equivalent in 10 large prospects. According to that report, the target reservoir rocks for the Orinduik Block are expected to be similar to the Cretaceous age reservoirs discovered on the neighbouring Stabroek Block by U.S Oil giant ExxonMobil at Liza, Payara, Pecora, Ranger, Hammerhead and Turbot. “The Hammerhead discovery less than seven kilometres east of the Orinduik Block boundary has proven

that the tertiary section has commercial accumulations of hydrocarbons in stratigraphic sand traps. This analogue is currently being evaluated by the ECO and the partners,” the report, which was prepared by Gustavson Associates LLC on behalf of ECO Atlantic, stated. According to a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) inked between the Guyana Government, Tullow Guyana B.V and its partner Eco Atlantic, Guyana could benefit from as much as 60 per cent in oil profit, including a one per cent royalty once the companies commence pumping for oil in the Orinduik Block. Tullow Oil, parent company of Tullow Guyana B.V., is a leading independent oil and gas exploration This image taken from Eco Atlantic Oil & Gas shows the Orinduik Block along with the and production company, Stabroek Block where U.S. oil giant ExxonMobil has made nine oil discoveries to date. which has interests in 90 exploration and production licences across 16 countries and released by the Guyana available in any month after cent. For the next 25,000 that are in West Africa, East Government earlier this year, recoverable contract costs barrels, the country’s profit Africa and ‘New Ventures’, once the recoverable costs have been satisfied to the would increase to 52.5 per which includes Guyana and have been satisfied, the profit extent aforesaid (hereinafter cent and 55 per cent for the French Guiana. Eco Atlantic will be shared between the referred to as “Profit Oil” next 15,000 barrels. For the Oil and Gas is a small, inde- government and the contrac- and or “Profit Gas’ as the subsequent batch of 15,000 pendent international oil and tor for each field, based on case may be) shall be shared barrels of oil, Guyana would gas exploration company an established system. This between the government benefit from a 57.5 per cent could see Guyana receiving and the contractor for each profit and 60 per cent profit based in Toronto, Canada. According to the Petro- a profit share as high as 60 field…,” Article 11:04 of the for more than 80, 000 barleum Contract, which was per cent and as low as 50 Petroleum Agreement states. rels of oil. The profit will For the first 25,000 bar- be shared between the govsigned on January 14, 2016, per cent. “The balance of crude rels of oil, Guyana is in line ernment and contractor on a oil and/ or natural gas to receive a profit of 50 per monthly basis.

$139M project to target vulnerable groups

GOVERNMENT through the Ministry of Social Protection and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) signed a Technical Cooperation (TC) to boost the delivery of social services here. The project will target vulnerable local groups. The more than $139M (US$666,700) project aims to improve the system that identifies and aids targeted groups, as well as further develop the management and administration of social assistance programmes, the Department of Public Information said in a release. The Institutional Strengthening to Guyana Social Safety Net Project will apply a portion of the proceeds towards consultancy services. The Ministry of Social Protection is inviting eligible ‘Individual Consultants’ to indicate their interest in providing services. Interested consultants must provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to conduct a social protection expenditure review, design the Social Safety Net Reform Strategy, conduct an Institutional and Organisational Assessment and evaluate Alternative Payment Systems. Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures outlined in the IDB policies for the selection and contracting of consultants financed by the bank and principles of comparison based on qualification of an international individual. Expressions of Interest and detailed Curriculum Vitae can be delivered to the Ministry of Social Protection’s Special Projects Coordinator at 357 Lamaha & East Streets or via email (mospgytcp@gmail. com) on or before Friday, September 14, 2018.

According to Article 15:06 of the Petroleum Agreement; a one per cent royalty is included in the government’s share of profit. “The government’s share of profit oil specified in Article 11 includes royalty payable by the contractor at the rate of one per cent of crude oil produced and sold, and delivery to the minister, pursuant to Article 14 of his share of profit oil equivalent to royalty shall constitute payment of such royalty in kind,” the agreement states. The agreement also provides for associated gas produced from an oil field within the contract area to be used for the purposes of the operations of production and production enhancement of oil fields, such as gas injection, gas lifting and power generation. 3D seismic operations in the Orinduik Block were completed early September 2017, and according to the Natural Resources Ministry, processing and subsequent interpretation will follow with the possibility of drilling in 2019. The ECO Atlantic report comes at a time when ExxonMobil’s is estimated to have recoverable resource of more than 4 billion oil-equivalent barrels following a total of nine discoveries.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Work Together for Common Dev

KEYNOTE Speech by H.E. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China At the Opening Ceremony of the 2018 Beijing Summit Of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (Beijing, 3 September 2018) September has just set in Beijing, bringing with it refreshing breeze and picturesque autumn scenery. And we are so delighted to have all of you with us, friends both old and new, in this lovely season for the reunion of the China-Africa big family at the 2018 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). I wish to extend, on behalf of the Chinese government and people and in my own name, a very warm welcome to all of you, dear colleagues and guests. I also wish to extend, through you, the best regards and cordial greetings of the Chinese people to the brotherly people of Africa. I wish to mention in particular that since the Johannesburg Summit, FOCAC has had three new members, namely, the Gambia, Sao Tome and Principe and Burkina Faso. Today, we are joined by President Barrow, Prime Minister Trovoada and President Kabore and their delegations. Let us welcome them with a warm round of applause! Over a month ago, I paid my fourth visit to Africa as the Chinese President, which was also my ninth visit to this land of great promise. During the last visit, I once again saw an Africa that is beautiful and richly endowed, that is full of dynamism in development, and I learned about first-hand the African people’s ardent hope for a better future. I concluded the visit even more convinced that Africa’s development has great potential, that this great continent is full of hope, that China-Africa friendship and cooperation have broad vistas, and that China and Africa can forge an even stronger comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership! As an ancient Chinese scholar once observed, “Only with deep roots can a tree yield rich fruit; only filled with oil can a lamp burn brightly.” History follows its own rules and logic. With similar fate in the past and a common mission, China and Africa have extended sympathy to and helped each other throughout all the years. Together, we have embarked on a distinctive path of win-win cooperation. Marching on this path, China has followed the principle of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith and the principle of pursuing the greater good and shared interests. China has stood with African countries. Together, we have worked in unity and forged ahead. -- China values sincerity, friendship and equality in pursuing cooperation. The over 1.3 billion Chinese people have been with the over 1.2 billion African people in pursuing a shared future. We respect Africa, love Africa and support Africa. We follow a “five-no” approach in our relations with Africa: no interference in African countries’ pursuit of development paths that fit their national conditions; no interference in African countries’ internal affairs; no imposition of our will on African countries; no attachment of political strings to assistance to Africa; and no seeking of selfish political gains in investment and financing cooperation with Africa. We hope this “five-no” approach could apply to other countries as they deal with matters regarding Africa. For China, we are always Africa’s good friend, good partner and good broth-

H.E. Xi Jinping President of the People’s Republic of China er. No one could undermine the great unity between the Chinese people and the African people. -- China pursues common interests and puts friendship first in pursuing cooperation. China believes that the sure way to boost China-Africa cooperation is for both sides to leverage its respective strength; it is for China to complement Africa’s development through its own growth, and it is for both China and Africa to pursue win-win cooperation and common development. In doing so, China follows the principle of giving more and taking less, giving before taking and giving without asking for return. With open arms, we welcome African countries aboard the express train of China’s development. No one could hold back the Chinese people or the African people as we march toward rejuvenation. -- China takes a people-oriented approach in pursuing practical cooperation with efficiency. With top priority given to the interests of Chinese and African peoples, China advances its cooperation with Africa to improve the well-being of Chinese and African peoples and deliver more benefits to them. We will fully honor the promises we have made to our African brothers. Faced with new developments and challenges, China will continue to improve institution building, develop new ideas and expand areas of cooperation with Africa to bring our cooperation to greater heights. Ultimately, it is for the peoples of China and Africa to judge the performance of China-Africa cooperation. No one could deny the remarkable achievements made in China-Africa cooperation, not with their assumption or imagination. -- China takes an open and inclusive approach to cooperation. China is fully aware that long-term stability, security, development and invigoration for Africa is not only the longing of the African people; it is also the responsibility of the international community. China stands ready to work with other international partners to support Africa in pursuing peace and development. China welcomes and supports all initiatives that meet Africa’s interests, and believes that it should be the same with the wider international community. No one could stand in the way or obstruct international efforts to support Africa’s development. Our world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century: the surging trend to-

ward multi-polarity, economic globalization, IT application and cultural diversity, accelerated transformation of the global governance system and international order, rapid rise of emerging markets and developing countries, and greater balance in global power configuration. The well-being of people in all countries has never been so closely intertwined as it is today. On the other hand, we also face challenges unseen before. Hegemony and power politics persist; protectionism and unilateralism are mounting; war, conflicts, terrorism, famine and epidemics continue to plague us; security challenges, both traditional and non-traditional, remain as complex and interwoven as ever. However, we are firm in our conviction that peace and development remain the underlying trend of our times. Indeed, they are the call of the times. The international community should take our historical responsibility and respond to the call of our times with solidarity, vision, courage and a sense of mission. -- To respond to the call of the times, China takes it its mission to make new and even greater contribution to mankind. China will work with other countries to build a community with a shared future for mankind, forge partnerships across the world, enhance friendship and cooperation, and explore a new path of growing state-to-state relations based on mutual respect, fairness, justice and win-win cooperation. Our goal is to make the world a place of peace and stability and life happier and more fulfilling for all. -- To respond to the call of the times, China is ready to jointly promote the Belt and Road Initiative with international partners. We hope to create new drivers to power common development through this new platform of international cooperation; and we hope to turn it into a road of peace, prosperity, openness, green development and innovation and a road that brings together different civilizations. -- To respond to the call of the times, China will get actively involved in global governance and stay committed to the vision of consultation, cooperation and benefit for all in global governance. China has all along played its part in promoting world peace and development and upholding the international order. We call for increasing the representation and voice of developing countries in international affairs and support efforts to strengthen the South, a weak link in the global governance system, as well as efforts to create synergy in South-South cooperation. We will continue the efforts to make the global governance system better represent the will and interests of the majority of countries, especially developing countries. -- To respond to the call of the times, China will remain committed to opening-up. Facing uncertainty and unpredictability in global growth, China will continue to grow an open economy for win-win cooperation, and it will embrace an open world economy and the multilateral trading system and reject protectionism and unilateralism. No one who keeps himself in isolation on a single island will have a future. To quote a Chinese saying, “The ocean is vast because it rejects no rivers.” China, the world’s largest developing country, and Africa, the continent with the largest number of developing countries, have long formed a

community with a shared future. Indeed, we share a common stake. China will work with Africa to achieve our shared goal of building a closer China-Africa community with a shared future and turn it into a pacesetter for building such a community for mankind. FIRST, let us build a China-Africa community with a shared future to assume our joint responsibility. We could increase political and policy dialogue at various levels, enhance mutual understanding and support on issues involving each other’s core interests and major concerns, and boost coordination on major international and regional issues. Such efforts will enable us to uphold the common interests of China and Africa as well as other developing countries. SECOND, let us build a China-Africa community with a shared future that pursues win-win cooperation. We could both seize the opportunity created by the complementarity

between our respective development strategies and the major opportunities presented by the Belt and Road Initiative. We need to see to it that the Belt and Road Initiative and the AU Agenda 2063, the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the development programs of African countries better complement each other. With these efforts, we could expand areas of cooperation, unlock new cooperation potential, consolidate our traditional areas of cooperation, and foster new highlights of cooperation in the new economy. THIRD, let us build a China-Africa community with a shared future that delivers happiness for all of us. Making lives better for our people is what we aim to achieve in growing China-Africa relations; so we need to make sure our cooperation delivers real benefits to us both in China and in Africa. Mutual help and solidarity is what has defined China-Africa relations over the years. Going forward, China will do more to help Africa alleviate poverty, pursue development, increase employment and income, and better the lives of its people. FOURTH, let us build a China-Africa community with a shared future that enjoys cultural prosperity. Both China and Africa are proud of our splendid civilizations, and we are both ready to make greater contributions

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

velopment and a Shared Future to promoting cultural diversity in the world. By enhancing exchanges, mutual learning and harmonious co-existence of our civilizations, we will inject lasting impetus into invigorating our civilizations and cultures, enriching our artistic creations, and provide rich cultural nourishment for China-Africa cooperation. With more people-to-people exchanges in culture and art, education, sports, and between our think tanks, the media, and women and young people, we will strengthen the bond between the people of China and Africa. FIFTH, let us build a China-Africa community with a shared future that enjoys common security. People that have gone through adversity value peace most. China champions a new vision of security featuring common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security. We firmly support African countries and the African Union as well as other regional organizations in Africa in solving African

issues in the African way, and we support the African initiative of “Silence the Guns in Africa”. China is ready to play a constructive role in promoting peace and stability in Africa and will support African countries to strengthen their independent capacity for safeguarding stability and peace. SIXTH, let us build a China-Africa community with a shared future that promotes harmony between man and nature. The Earth is the only place which we mankind call home. China will work with Africa to pursue green, low-carbon, circular and sustainable development and protect our lush mountains and lucid waters and all living beings on our planet. We will strengthen exchange and cooperation with Africa on climate change, clean energy, prevention and control of desertification and soil erosion, protection of wildlife and other areas of ecological and environmental preservation. Together, we could make China and Africa beautiful places for people to live in harmony with nature. Since the 2015 FOCAC Johannesburg Summit, China has fully implemented the ten cooperation plans adopted at the Summit. A large number of railway, highway, airport, port and other infrastructure projects as well as a number of economic and trade cooperation zones have been built or are under

construction. Our cooperation on peace and security, science, education, culture, health, poverty reduction, and people-to-people interactions has deepened. The US$60 billion financing pledged by China has been either delivered or arranged. These ten cooperation plans have brought huge benefits to the African and Chinese peoples. They have fully demonstrated the creativity, rallying power and efficiency of China-Africa cooperation, and lifted China-Africa comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership to new heights. To build an even closer China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era, China will, on the basis of the ten cooperation plans already adopted, launch eight major initiatives in close collaboration with African countries in the next three years and beyond. FIRST, China will launch an industrial promotion initiative. We have decided to open a China-Africa economic and trade expo in China; we encourage Chinese companies to increase investment in Africa, and will build and upgrade a number of economic and trade cooperation zones in Africa. We will support Africa in achieving general food security by 2030, work with Africa to formulate and implement a program of action to promote China-Africa cooperation on agricultural modernization. We will implement 50 agricultural assistance programs, provide RMB 1 billion of emergency humanitarian food assistance to African countries affected by natural disasters, send 500 senior agriculture experts to Africa, and train young researchers in agri-science and entrepreneurs in agri-business. We will support Chinese companies in Africa to forge alliance of corporate social responsibilities. We will continue to strengthen cooperation with African countries in local currency settlement and make good use of the China-Africa Development Fund, the China-Africa Fund for Industrial Cooperation and the Special Loan for the Development of African SMEs. SECOND, China will launch an infrastructure connectivity initiative. We have decided to jointly formulate a China-Africa infrastructure cooperation plan with the African Union. We will support Chinese companies in participating in Africa’s infrastructure development by way of investment-construction-operation or through other models, with focus on enhancing cooperation on energy, transport, information, telecommunications and cross-border water resources. We will work with Africa to undertake a number of key connectivity projects. We will support Africa in developing the Single African Air Transport Market and open more direct flights between China and Africa. We will facilitate bond issuance by African countries and their financial institutions in China. On the basis of following multilateral rules and procedures, we will support African countries in making better use of financing resources of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, the New Development Bank, and the Silk Road Fund. THIRD, China will launch a trade facilitation initiative. We have decided to increase imports, particularly non-resource products, from Africa. We support African countries in participating in the China International Import Expo. The least developed African countries participating in it will be exempted

from paying exhibition stand fees. We will continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation on market regulation and between customs authorities, and implement 50 trade facilitation programs for Africa. We will hold, on a regular basis, marketing activities for Chinese and African brand products. We support the building of the African Continental Free Trade Area and will continue to hold free trade negotiations with interested African countries and regions. And we will set up relevant mechanisms to promote e-commerce cooperation with Africa. FOURTH, we will launch a green development initiative. We have decided to undertake 50 projects for green development and ecological and environmental protection in Africa to expand exchanges and cooperation with Africa on climate change, ocean, desertification prevention and control, and wildlife protection. A China-Africa environmental cooperation center will be set up, and more policy dialogue and joint research on environmental issues will be conducted. The China-Africa Green Envoys Program will be implemented to strengthen Africa’s human capacity for environmental management, pollution prevention and control, and green development. A China-Africa bamboo center will be established to help Africa make bamboo and rattan products. China will also work with Africa to raise public awareness of environmental protection. FIFTH, we will launch a capacity building initiative. China will share more of its development practices with Africa and support cooperation with Africa on economic and social development planning. Ten Luban Workshops will be set up in Africa to provide vocational training for young Africans. China will support opening of a China-Africa innovation cooperation center to promote youth innovation and entrepreneurship. A tailor-made program will be carried out to train 1,000 high-caliber Africans. China will provide Africa with 50,000 government scholarships and 50,000 training opportunities for seminars and workshops, and will invite 2,000 young Africans to visit China for exchanges. SIXTH, we will launch a health care initiative. China has decided to upgrade 50 medical and health aid programs for Africa, particularly flagship projects such as the headquarters of the African Center for Disease Control and Prevention and China-Africa Friendship Hospitals. Exchange and information cooperation will be carried out on public health. Cooperation programs will be launched on the prevention and control of emerging and re-emerging communicable diseases, schistosomiasis, HIV/AIDS and malaria. China will train more medical specialists for Africa and continue to send medical teams that better meet Africa’s needs. More mobile medical services will be provided to patients for the treatment of cataract, heart disease and dental defects. And targeted health care services will be provided to women and children of vulnerable groups in Africa. SEVENTH, we will launch a people-to-people exchange initiative. China decided to establish an institute of African studies to enhance exchanges with Africa on civilization. The China-Africa Joint Research and Exchange Plan will be upgraded. Fifty joint cultural, sports and tourism events will be organized. China welcomes Africa’s

participation in the Silk Road International League of Theaters, the Silk Road International Museum Alliance and the Network of Silk Road Art Festivals. A China-Africa media cooperation network will be established. More African culture centers will be opened in China and more Chinese culture centers in Africa. Qualified African educational institutes are welcome to host Confucius Institutes. More African countries are welcome to become destinations for Chinese tour groups. EIGHTH, we will launch a peace and security initiative. China decided to set up a China-Africa peace and security fund to boost our cooperation on peace, security, peacekeeping, and law and order. China will continue to provide military aid to the AU, and will support countries in the Sahel region and those bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Gulf of Guinea in upholding security and combating terrorism in their regions. A China-Africa peace and security forum will be established as a platform for conducting more exchanges in this area. Fifty security assistance programs will be launched to advance China-Africa cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, and in areas of law and order, UN peacekeeping missions, fighting piracy and combating terrorism. To make sure that these eight initiatives are implemented on the ground, China will extend US$60 billion of financing to Africa in the form of government assistance as well as investment and financing by financial institutions and companies. This will include US$15 billion of grants, interest-free loans and concessional loans, US$20 billion of credit lines, the setting up of a US$10 billion special fund for development financing and a US$5 billion special fund for financing imports from Africa. We encourage Chinese companies to make at least US$10 billion of investment in Africa in the next three years. In addition, for those of Africa’s least developed countries, heavily indebted and poor countries, landlocked developing countries and small island developing countries that have diplomatic relations with China, the debt they have incurred in the form of interest-free Chinese government loans due to mature by the end of 2018 will be exempted. The future of China-Africa relations lies in our young people. Many of the measures in the eight initiatives I just outlined are designed to help young people in Africa. These measures will provide young Africans with more training and job opportunities and open up more space for their development. Last October, I wrote back to the exchange students of the Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development. Most of them were from Africa. I encouraged them to make the best of what they have learned, aim high, and keep working hard to promote China-Africa cooperation and South-South cooperation. I believe they have new roles to play and new accomplishments to make in this regard. “The red rising sun will light up the road ahead.” I am confident that the baton of China-Africa friendship will be passed from one generation to the next and that China and Africa, working together, will build an even more vibrant community with a shared future. The day will surely come when the Chinese nation realizes its dream of national renewal and Africa realizes its dream of unity and invigoration!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Simon’s newest artwork on display at airport arrival terminal Visitors to Guyana will get a taste of the country through the vision and expression of renowned artist, George Simon. The indigenous painter,

who is arguably one of the best Guyana has ever produced, was commissioned to do a large piece that captures Guyana’s beauty. He has since completed it as a

triptych (a work of art that is divided into three sections) and they are now on display at the arrival lounge at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport.

Entitled, “The Silent Witness,” Simon has dedicated the piece to the memory of famed deceased Guyanese writer Sir Wilson Harris. The 71-year-old used an earlier piece, “The Study of Silent,” which was also dedicated to the memory of Mr. Harris, to inspire his latest work. The “Palace of the Peacock” author Harris, who died in March at the age of 96, was an inspiration to Simon. The two creative minds met through another renowned Guyanese, Pauline Melville. The writer/actress introduced the pair in the early 90s, while Simon was a university student in London. “Wilson and I religiously met every Wednesday to go

St. Cuthbert’s Mission, told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday that he wanted to set the atmosphere for visitors. “The idea is to impress visitors immediately on arrival of our lush country, outstanding sites, Amerindian heritage, wildlife and mystery!”

George Simon took three months to complete the three paintings

Simon had a challenge to paint the entire piece in his studio at his new home in Spain, and even when he went outdoors to the garden—his walls were too low to support the canvas. So, he decided to break the composition up into three pieces. “I then proceeded to work on the canvases in-

The paintings before they were put on display

The permanent location of the three pieces

for walks in the Kingston gardens. We spoke at great lengths about the hinterland of Guyana and its inhabitants. He, like Denis Williams, made me realise my rich cultural heritage. They brought me back to my roots, so to speak.” That nature aspect of life has been an inspiration for Simon in many of his works and his latest painting was no exception. The 15ft by 9ft piece,

which was hung earlier this month, highlights Mount Roraima, Lake Amuku, the Kaieteur Falls and the Kaieteur Gorge, but it is expressed in Simon’s mystical understanding of the harmonious energies that connect our flora and fauna. S i m o n ’s a r c h e o l o g y background is also captured, since he used a number of petroglyphs abstractly in the painting. Simon, who was born in

dividually. I placed them together on the ground outside my studio and viewed it from the terrace above to match the pieces. It was an interesting undertaking as I had a small group of individuals who visited regularly to see the progress of the work. Having completed the work I un-stretched the pieces and rolled them up for transport to Guyana.” The ‘Silent Witness’ took three months to paint.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Ex-policeman gets life imprisonment for rape A UNANIMOUS guilty verdict from a 12-member jury shook accused Milton Kewley in the sexual offenses courtroom at the Georgetown High Court on Monday, and on Tuesday he was handed a life sentence for raping a 13-year-old back in 2013. It was alleged that on August 22, 2013 in the county of Demerara, Kewley sexually molested a 13-year-old boy, who is well known to him. Kewley, however, after hearing his fate professed his innocence and even attempted to send threats to the jury. “I’m innocent. This whole thing is a fabrication and the jury made a mistake… I would never have sex with any male. I’m not attracted to men,” the accused said on Monday. Adding to that, he spoke of God as his witness and that the jury putting an innocent person in prison will result in judgment from his God. This left the entire courtroom appalled, even the judge. The accused who went on to lament his sentence said that the victim’s mother had a personal vendetta against him and had threatened him with incarceration on several

Milton Kewley, child rapist

occasions. But in response to his cry of innocence, State Prosecutor Lisa Cave reminded the court of the offence and said that a message ought to be sent out to society. She reiterated that the child was placed in Kewley’s care and how he violated his position of trust. As such, she urged the judge to pass a sentence that will send the message of the court’s zero tolerance of such brutal crime. Kewley’s defence attorney Maxwell McKay was asked by Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, the presiding judge, whether he would request a probation report. But McKay responded that he does not believe a

probation report is necessary. He told the court that the accused is 50 years old, a father of two boys and one girl and is a member of the Universal Church. It was at that point that the judge remanded the accused and scheduled his sentencing for Tuesday. The court returned on Tuesday in anticipation of the judge’s decision in tempering justice for the gruesome act. Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry stated that according to the evidence, the accused was visited by the boy on the day in question to collect some clothing that the accused claimed he had bought for him. Upon entering a room in the house to try on the clothing, Kewley locked the door and started touching the boy inappropriately, and proceeded to indulge in sexual activity with the child for about five minutes. The boy who was traumatised, scared and ashamed of what was done to him, kept his silence until the accused attempted to repeat the act in October of the said year. In handing down her judgement, the judge stated she arrived at the sentence while keeping in mind that the accused re-

mained unremorseful throughout the trial. He was adamant that he was innocent without supporting evidence, she said. “He was 32 years senior

to the victim and violated his position of trust. He was a police officer and a counselor for suicide and HIV/AIDS, and instead of

nurturing the boy into becoming the best that he can be, he committed an “abominable offence on the child,” the judge added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Guyana to tap FAO fisherfolk strengthening project

THE Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) will launch the Developing Organisational Capacity for

Ecosystem Stewardship and Livelihoods in Caribbean Small-Scale Fisheries (StewardFish) project this week.

The project aims to strengthen the capacity of fisherfolk and their organisations to better participate in the governance and man-

agement of the shared living marine resources in the Caribbean and North Brazil Shelf Large Marine Ecosystems (CLME+ region), to enhance their livelihood opportunities. Targeted countries are Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The StewardFish project will be officially launched on Thursday during an inception workshop hosted by FAO at the United Nations House in Barbados, with Dr. Lystra Fletcher-Paul, FAO Sub-regional Coordinator for the Caribbean slated to deliver the opening remarks. The StewardFish Project launch and inception workshop will bring together key partners and stakeholders, who will be involved in the delivery of the project to ensure that there is a common understanding of objectives, components, outcomes, inputs, outputs and planned activities, as well as the roles and responsibilities of all partners. The event will give participants an opportunity to develop participatory mechanisms for effective project implementation, monitoring and evaluation. Workshop participants will include representatives

from the fisheries authorities, who will serve as national executing partners for the project, as well as lead fisherfolk organisations in the seven project countries. Also in attendance will be representatives from regional executing partner institutions, such as the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CFRM); Caribbean Network of Fisherfolk Organizations (CNFO); Caribbean Natural Resources Institute (CANARI); University of the West Indies Centre for Resource Management and Environmental Studies (UWI CERMES); FAO; and Western Central Atlantic Fishery Commission (WECAFC). Cooperatives, small businesses, coastal zone agencies and gender-related organisations are also expected to participate. â€œThe StewardFish Project is designed to empower fisherfolk so that they can be more resilient to the socio-economic and environmental challenges that they face. The project will focus on building their capacity in fisheries value chains, so that they can improve their participation in resource management, decision-making processes and the sustainability of their livelihoods, with strengthened institutional

support at all levels,â€? said Ms. Yvette DieiOuadi, Fishery Officer for FAOâ€™s Sub-regional Office for the Caribbean. The FAO said that the seven project countries share similar characteristics that can affect their growth and viability. These include relatively small but expanding populations; limited natural resource endowments that are fragile; vulnerability to natural disasters; and high dependence on international trade and external support for sustainable fisheries development and management. The small-scale fisheries of these countries also face transboundary environmental threats such as unsustainable fisheries; habitat degradation and ecosystem community modification; and pollution. Other difficulties associated with the sustainable development of fisheries in project countries include insufficient financial resources and human capacity in state institutions; and inadequate organisational, human, financial and technical capacity among non-state actors, such as fisherfolk along the value chain to engage meaningfully in management.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Woman killed on Goedverwagting Public Road A WOMAN, who is so far unidentified, was on Monday killed in an accident on the Goedverwagting Public Road by a motorcar bearing registration number

PRR 6071. Police said the car was being driven by a resident of Thomas Street, Kitty, Georgetown. Reports indicate that the

The car that crashed into the unidentified woman

Man crushed by motor lorry

Dead: Phillip Arthur

POLICE are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Phillip Arthur, 35, of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, which occurred at about 18:30hrs last Sunday at Kumung Kumung Trail, Mazaruni, Region Seven. Enquiries revealed that the deceased was seated in the cabin of motor lorry GPP 8748 with trailer TPP 9380 attached, which, while reportedly ascending a hill, developed a mechanical problem and began to descend. During the descent, Auther allegedly jumped out of the vehicle and ended up in front the right wheel of the vehicle which ran over him.

His body is at the Bartica Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem. The driver, a 42-yearold resident of Itaballi, Mazaruni, is in custody assisting with the investigation. According to his reputed wife, Veronica Johnson, he had been working with Alfro Alphonso mining company for the past 15 years before he met his demise. â€œHe travelled in Friday last, but the news I received is that he was carrying in an excavator in Kumung Kumung and there is where the accident occurred. The information I get is that he jump off the excavator when they were going up a hill and he died,â€? she explained.

vehicle was heading west along the southern carriageway of the road at around 22:20hrs when it collided

with the pedestrian who reportedly ran into its path. The woman was rushed to the Georgetown Public

Hospital where she succumbed at about 05:30hrs Tuesday. The driver, who has suc-

cessfully passed a breathalyser test, is in police custody assisting with the investigation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Father charged with son’s murder

Dead: Satesh Kevin Sookdeo

THE father, who allegedly stabbed his son to death on Saturday last, has been charged with murder and will make his first court appearance at the Cove and John Magistrate’s Court today. The suspect, 44-yearold Mohan Sookdeo called “Wire,” and his wife had an argument during which he grabbed her by the neck and began choking her at their of Lot 217 Fifth Street, Foulis, East Coast Demerara home. Upon seeing this, Satesh

Kevin Sookdeo, 21, and another sibling intervened. The father, who was outraged, took part of the remains of a louvre pane he had subsequently broken and stabbed the young man to the chest. The autopsy was conducted by Dr. Nehaul Singh at the Georgetown Public Hospital on Monday. Neighbours rushed to the family’s aid after hearing screams, but it was too late as the younger Sookdeo had already succumbed to his injuries.

Sophia man ‘tries a t’ing’ –but Her Worship doesn’t bite A SOPHIA man was on M o n d a y re m a n d e d t o prison when he appeared before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman for attempting to commit a robbery. The charge alleges that on Saturday at Albert Street in Alberttown, Tisaka Babb while armed with a knife and in the company of another who was armed with a cutlass, attempted to robbed one Randy Bourne. The 32-year-old father of three denied the charge, while Prosecutor Quinn Harris objected to bail due to seriousness of the offence and the penalty the charge attracts. According to the facts

presented to the court, at around 17:00h on the day in question, the virtual complainant, Bourne, was at his Alberttown business place when he was approached by the defendant and his accomplice. Luckily for him, a police patrol was passing at the same time and observed what was happening and arrested the defendant. Babb, however, told the court that he was not about to rob anyone; that he was riding and the police just knocked him down and charged him for something he knew nothing of. Sadly, his defence did not wash and he was refused bail and remanded to prison until September 24.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Warriors clinch one-ball thriller to storm into CPL final ... beat TKR by two wickets By Rajiv Bisnauth IN what has widely been termed the most engaging Hero Caribbean Premier League season of all, the Guyana Amazon Warriors have defied predictions to become the first to reach the final. Retaining the core of their players with some smart new purchases proved immense for the Amazon Warriors, as they beat table-toppers Trinbago Knight Riders for the second time in a row to move to Sunday’s final. Sherfane Rutherford made a stupendous 17-ball 30 knock, while Shimron Hetmyer (39 off 36 balls) was equally brilliant. But Romario Shepherd and Sohail Tanvir proved to be the magicians at the end to ensure the Warriors reach their fourth final in the six-year CPL history. Earlier, on a chilly night at Providence, it was the Trinbago Knight Riders who were caught cold. The Amazon Warriors were simply too good, too slick and too well-drilled upfront. Deciding to bowl first on a good batting wicket, the Warriors’ bowlers played their part to restrict the Knight Riders’ powerful batting line-up to just 122-7. This score looked unlikely, when they were reduced to 26-4 in the powerplay. Darren Bravo (24) and Colin Ingram (25), were involved in an important partnership. Though neither of them managed to get going, it allowed the duo of Dwayne Bravo (22) and Kevin Cooper (15) to up the ante towards the end. Tanvir (2-38), gave the hosts the first break through, when he trapped Brendon McCullum leg before wicket without scoring in the first over. But it was their slow bowlers, particularly Chris Green, who seized the early momentum with tight lines and immaculate, unhittable lengths. His four overs went for just eight runs with the wickets of Colin Munro (0) and Sunil Narine (8). Munroe, the leading run-scorer this season, was caught at extra cover, while Narine was taken at mid-off. Denesh Ramdin came and hit three fours off Tanvir in the third over, but leg-spinner Imran Tahir (1-22), prevented the Knight Riders from gathering momentum when he trapped Ramdin LBW in the fifth over. Ingram and Darren Bravo joined forces in the middle, but despite a few boundaries, the innings meandered along at a glacial pace. Bravo was put down by Tanvir at mid-off, but after

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Anderson breaks McGrath’s record as England beat India … Rahul, Pant hit centuries By Martyn Herman LONDON, England (Reuters) - A compelling series kept giving right until the very last ball as James Anderson sealed England’s 118-run victory over India with a wicket that made him the most successful fast bowler in the history of Test cricket yesterday. With less than an hour remaining and India teetering on 345-9, the 36-year-old Anderson was finally rewarded for a long spell as he ripped out Mohammed Shami’s middle stump. It was Anderson’s 564th Test wicket - one more than retired Australian great Glenn McGrath managed - and left him fourth on the all-time list behind spinners Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (708) and Anil Kumble (619). There could not have been a more fitting conclusion to an incredible few days at the historic south London ground that on Monday witnessed Anderson’s close friend Alastair Cook sign off his record-breaking career with an emotional century. They walked off together to a standing ovation yesterday and Anderson was close to tears as he spoke of his achievement. “Happy that Cooky was on the field to see that wicket, it’s been a tough week,” Anderson, who played the first of his 143 Tests in 2003, said. “I’m just happy to win the game. I wasn’t even thinking about the record. When India were building that partnership it was looking like they were going to get close. “But I got into a good rhythm and thankfully (Joe) Root let me take the new ball and gave me a chance to take that wicket.” Only if Cook had taken the final catch off of Anderson’s bowling could the summer have had a more fitting end. Cook, England’s mostc a p p e d Te s t p l a y e r a n d run-scorer, led the tributes for his old pal. “(It has) been a privilege to play with England’s greatest cricketer, no disrespect to any other guys, his skills to do it time and time again,” he said. “He didn’t miss his length once.” HEADS HIGH India, the world’s topranked Test nation, may have lost the series 4-1 but could walk off with their heads held high. Anderson’s two wickets in four balls on Monday, together with strike partner Stuart Broad’s first-ball dismissal of Indian run machine Virat Kohli, had left India on a precarious 2-3 and facing an impossible salvage operation. Rahul, who began the day

on 46 not out, reached his first half-century of the series in the day’s opening over, flicking Anderson off his legs for a boundary. On a murky day and with the wicket offering little for England’s pace attack, he grew in confidence with Ajinkya Rahane also looking solid at the other end. Their 118-run partnership ended when Rahane ballooned an attempted sweep of Moeen Ali to Keaton Jennings at mid-wicket, having made 37. When Ben Stokes had Hanuma Vihari edging behind for a duck in the next over it looked bleak for India.

Lokesh Rahul and Rishabh Pant frustrate England by adding 204 for the sixth wicket with both batsmen hitting centuries. (Getty Images)

James Anderson uproots the middle stump of Mohammad Shami to surpass Glenn McGrath’s tally of 563 wickets and seal the series 4-1. (Getty Images)

But Rahul went back on the attack with a flurry of boundaries off Stokes, accelerating from 78 to three figures in the space of nine balls, including a six over deep extra cover. Pant took centre stage after lunch as he treated the Oval crowd to a sensational display of shot-making to become the first Indian wicketkeeper to make a century in England. The fearless 20-year-old reached his maiden Test century from 117 balls, reaching three figures with a huge six off Adil Rashid shortly before tea. The onslaught continued after that as India dared to dream with the score on 325-5 and the partnership worth 204. Rashid then bowled Rahul with a ‘wonder ball’ that pitched way outside, spinning back out of the rough and hitting off. Pant struck 19 boundaries, including four sixes, but shortly after Rahul went, he holed out trying to smash Rashid into row Z. With India’s tail exposed, England took the new ball with 18 overs remaining but it was Sam Curran, not Anderson, who struck first to dismiss Ishant Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja.

SCORECARD

ENGLAND 1st innings 322 INDIA 1st innings 292 ENGLAND 2nd innings423 INDIA 2nd innings o/n 58-3 Lokesh Rahul b Adil Rashid 149 Shikhar Dhawan lbw James Anderson 1 Cheteshwar Pujara lbw James Anderson 0 Virat Kohli c Jonny Bairstow b Stuart Broad 0 Ajinkya Rahane c Keaton Jennings b Moeen Ali 37 Hanuma Vihari c Jonny Bairstow b Ben Stokes 0 Rishabh Pant c Moeen Ali b Adil Rashid 114 Ravindra Jadeja c Jonny Bairstow b Sam Curran 13 Ishant Sharma c Jonny Bairstow b Sam Curran 5 Mohammed Shami b James Anderson 0 Jasprit Bumrah not out 0 Extras: (b-10, lb-16) 26 Total: (all out, 94.3 overs) 345 Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-1, 3-2, 4-120, 5-121, 6-325, 7-328 t, 8-336, 9-345. Bowling: James Anderson 22.3 1-45-3, Stuart Broad 12-1-43-1, Moeen Ali 17-2-68-1, Sam Curran 9-2-23-2, Ben Stokes 13-1-601, Adil Rashid 15-2-63-2, Joe Root 6-1-17-0.

Leading wicket-takers in Test matches (REUTERS) - The five leading Test wicket-takers after England’s James Anderson moved past Australia’s Glenn McGrath into fourth on the final day of the fifth Test against India yesterday. Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka) - 800 wickets in 133 matches Shane Warne (Australia) - 708 wickets in 145 matches Anil Kumble (India) - 619 wickets in 132 matches James Anderson (England) - 564 wickets in 143 matches Glenn McGrath (Australia) - 563 wickets in 124 matches

Warriors clinch one-ball thriller ... returning for his second spell, the Pakistani produced a length ball that shaped away from Bravo, which took the edge through to the keeper. Soon after, Emrit (222), removed Ingram before Dwayne Bravo and Cooper took the score past 120. For the Amazon Warriors, the target was never out of reach, though they faltered at the start. The Knight Riders then looked like making it difficult for the three-time finalists, reducing them to 52-5 at the end of the 12th over. But their calculated run-chase saw the Amazon Warriors reach the target in 19.5 overs. Knight Riders spinners – Fawad Ahmed (119), Sunil Narine (1-9) and Khary Pierre (2-18), did well to contain the Warriors batsmen up front. Ahmed removed Cameron Delport (2), while Pierre claimed Luke Ronchi (13), and Chris Green (0), Narine had Jason Mohammed (3) before Chadwick Walton was run out for 13, but Hetmyer and Rutherford then swung the tide in the Warriors’ favour. At this point in time,

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Guyana were strolling home but an ill-judged single cost Hetmyer’s wicket and TKR were allowed to get back into the game. With Rutherford being snuffed out next ball and Emrit following him soon, it seemed as though Guyana would falter. But they found an unlikely hero in Shepherd - who smashed a 6-ball 13 and the seasoned campaigner in Tanvir to help them pull off the chase. Shepherd muscled Bravo for a first-ball six to leave the equation at 12 runs off 12 balls. The Warriors scored eight runs from the 19th over, courtesy of Shepherd who slash a boundary off Kevon Cooper past point. That boundary definitely hurt the Knight Riders, with four runs from the last over. Dwayne Bravo conceded a single off the first ball and there were then three dot balls before Tanvir sealed the victory in style with a straight six. The defending champions can still reach the final, when they play the winner of today’s eliminator between St Kitts and Nevis Patriots and the Jamaica Tallawahs, on Friday.

SCORECARD TRINBAGO KNIGHT RIDERS innings S Narine c Shepherd b Green 8 B McCullum lbw b Sohail Tanvir 0 C Munro c Mohammed b Green 0 D Ramdin † lbw b Imran Tahir 15 C Ingram c Shepherd b Emrit 25 D Bravo c †Ronchi b Sohail Tanvir 24 D Bravo (c) c Imran Tahir b Emrit 22 K Cooper not out 15 Extras: (b 2, nb 2, w 9) 13 TOTAL: (20 Overs, RR: 6.1) 122/7 Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-6, 3-24, 4-26, 5-74, 6-86, 7-122 Bowling: Sohail Tanvir 4-0-38-2, Green 4-1-8-2, Imran Tahir 4-0-22-1, R Shepherd 4-0-30-0, R Emrit 4-0-22-2 GUYANA AMAZON WARRIORS C Delport c Pierre b Fawad Ahmed 2 L Ronchi † c Narine b Pierre 13 S Hetmyer run out (Ingram) 39 J Mohammed lbw b Narine 3 C Walton run out (Pierre/†Ramdin) 13 C Green (c) c DJ Bravo b Pierre 0 S Rutherford c DJ Bravo b Cooper 30 Sohail Tanvir not out 10 R Emrit c †Ramdin b DJ Bravo 1 R Shepherd not out 13 Extras: (lb 2) 2 TOTAL: (19.5 Overs, RR: 6.35) 126/8 Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-23, 3-29, 4-52, 5-52 ,6-102, 7-102, 8-105 Bowling: Ali Khan 2-0-18-0, Narine 4-0-9-1, Fawad Ahmed 4-019-1, K Pierre 4-0-18-2, DJ Bravo 3.5-0-39-1, Cooper 2-21-0-1

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Finch, Siddle named in Aussie squad for Pakistan series AARON Finch, Travis Head, Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett and Marnus Labuschagne, who are yet to don the Australian white jersey, have been named in the 15-man squad for their upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates (UAE). Meanwhile, 62 Test-veteran Peter Siddle, who last played for Australia in November 2016, too makes a return to the side. Large chunk of players are currently in India with the ‘A’ side involved in two four-day games. The likes of Usman Khawaja, Jon Holland, Head, Neser, Labuschagne and Mitchell Marsh have been in good form for the ‘A’ side. With Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft all banned, and Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins sidelined due to injury, there were expected to be quite a few changes. Tim Paine will continue to lead the team, while his deputy will be announced ahead of the series. “There has been significant change to our Test squad, due to the unavailability of a number of key players,” selector Trevor Hohns said in a statement. “That said, we firmly believe the squad selected is up to the challenge ahead, and is capable of playing a brand of cricket that can perform well in this series against Pakistan. “It’s a blend of experienced players who have a significant amount of either Test or first-class cricket, and a number of younger players who we are confident are ready for the Test arena. “Looking at the conditions we may face in the UAE, we believe this squad covers all bases. We have selected four frontline fast bowlers and three spinners, with Mitchell Marsh ready to play as an all-rounder and a number of top-order batsmen who also offer part-time spin options.”

… No place for Maxwell

Seeram powers Skeldon to OMSCC Over-50 title

The victorious Skeldon team and supporters pose with the winner’s trophy.

By Frederick Halley Glenn Maxwell

Peter Siddle

Finch, 31, has been an integral part of Australia in the limited-overs setup but this is the first time has been included in the Tests. The right-hander will be expected to open the batting with Matthew Renshaw. Meanwhile, Siddle is one of the four pacers in the squad alongside Mitchell Starc, Neser and Doggett. If selected to debut, Doggett would become just the second indigenous cricketer to play Test cricket for the Australian Men’s Cricket Team, following Jason Gillespie. “Aaron is in sensational form, and this is the right time to give him a chance to play Test cricket,” said Hohns. “He has performed well in the Sheffield Shield in recent seasons, and brings added experience and leadership to this group. “Peter is a proven performer in the Test arena, who has been in outstanding form in his recent first-class outings over in England. His experience will be crucial for this bowling group, and we know that he is a warrior who can bowl the type of long, tight spells which may be required in the conditions we expect to face. “Brendan is an exciting prospect, a fast bowler with raw pace and wicket-taking ability. He provides an additional option to Mitchell Starc if extra pace is called for, and this is an ideal opportunity to get him involved in a national set-up for the first time after his recent showings for Queensland and Australia A.” Selectors have overlooked Glenn Maxwell who is considered to be Australia’s finest batsman, from the current batch, in spinning conditions. Joe Burns and Peter Handscomb, who were both in the playing XI for the Johannesburg Test, have also been dropped. “Joe, Peter and Glenn were players we discussed when selecting the batting group, but we had to take into account the conditions and competition we are set to face in the upcoming series,” explained Hohns. “All three remain on our radar for Test cricket, but we want them to perform for their States and continue to push their case ahead of what is going to be a big Australian summer.” The squad will assemble in Brisbane for a pre-tour camp on September 16. The first of two Tests will be played in Dubai from October 7 before the action shifts to Abu Dhabi. SQUAD: Tim Paine (capt./wkp.), Ashton Agar, Brendan Doggett, Aaron Finch, Travis Head, Jon Holland, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitch Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc.

TORONTO, Canada –After suffering consecutive defeats to Dirty Dozen in 2016 and archrivals Caribbean Sensation last year, Skeldon Sports Club recorded an emphatic 40-run victory over the latter to emerge winners of the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) 2018 Over-50 tournament which climaxed at the St Bede’s ground, Scarborough here last Saturday. Led by a masterful boundary-studded 102 from former Guyana player Shivnauth Seeram, Skeldon made amends for their failure in the last two years in a game witnessed by a fair-sized crowd in a very festive atmosphere. Set a challenging 237 for victory, after Skeldon had reached 236 for six in their allotted 20 overs, Caribbean Sensation were restricted to 196 for four when their 20 overs expired. Imam ‘Bunzie’ Gafoor (68 not out) and Roy Brittania (39 not out) gave Caribbean Sensation some hope in an unbeaten fifth-wicket partnership of 112 but the task proved beyond them, as the Skeldon bowlers kept a tight rein on proceedings. Gafoor, who was later named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) on the losing team, smote eight sixes and a four while Brittania’s knock included two sixes and a four. Skipper Ganesh Ramraj had earlier given his team a bright start but his dismissal for 37 (3x6, 1x4) and the unfortunate run-out of Jito Narine who scored a quick 29 with three sixes were telling blows in the hectic run chase. The three wickets which went to the bowlers were shared by Naz Baksh, Mohan Harihar and Jaimini Singh, the latter going for 40 in a single over. The day started with Seeram and Singh sharing an opening stand of 48 before Singh departed for 28 (3x4. 1x6). Thereafter, it was mainly Seeram’s show as he treated most of the bowlers with disdain, clobbering 11 massive sixes and a four, sharing in a second-wicket partnership of 69 with Sunil Dhaniram who hit 29 with two sixes and a four. Former Canadian World Cup player, Desmond Chumney, also contributed a quick-fire 29, lashing four sixes and a four in the process. There was one wicket each for Mohamed Azizuddin, Rudy Ramdial, Ramanand Dass and Imam Gafoor.

MVP Shivnauth Seeram receives his cash incentive from sponsor Teddy Hussein.

Apart from winning the trophy sponsored by businessman Teddy Hussein, who is also the president of Skeldon, MVPs Seeram and Gafoor were also recipients of cash awards from Hussein. Prakash ‘Pandit’ Singh of Skeldon was also presented with a gift certificate, compliments of Caribbean Wave Restaurant, for being adjudged as the fielder taking the best catch. OMSCC president Azeem Khan lauded both teams for reaching the final and was extremely pleased with their display. According to Khan, the OMSCC Over-50 Division started some nine years ago with the objective of giving the most experienced cricketers the opportunity to continue to engage in and enjoy their boyhood sport. Khan also spoke about the interest the tournament has generated over the years and thanked the several sponsors for their generosity that has helped it to survive.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

BCB/Sueria Manufacturing Magic Moments 20/20 Tournament

No.48 Challengers crush Skeldon Super Kings to lift Upper Corentyne title

Mattocks, Burke bury Cayman Islands

Veteran Darren Mattocks scored a brace for Jamaica.

The victorious No.48 Challengers cricket team pose with a representative of Sueria Manufacturing and the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association. THE first of four internal cricket finals of the historic Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)-organised Sueria Manufacturing Magic Moments 20/20 Cricket tournament was hosted at the No.72 Cut and Load cricket ground. Playing in front of a large and colourful crowd in a festive atmosphere, No.48 Challengers defeated Skeldon Super Kings by 75 runs to lay their hands on the first title of the four-way Magic Moments tournament. A total of 28 teams started the tournament which was for teams in the Upper Corentyne while the other finals would be played for teams in the following areas shortly - Lower Corentyne, New Amsterdam/Canje and West Berbice In the lone semifinal, earlier in the day Skeldon Super Kings Cricket Club defeated No.72 All Stars Cricket Club by three wickets. No.72 All Stars were bowled out for 73. Trishan Ramdass 18 top-scored for No.72 while Totaram Rajaram (5 for 8, Sherwin Murray (3 for 31) and Claude Felix (2 for 11) were the best bowlers for Skeldon. In reply, Skeldon struggled to 75 for 7 in 13.1 overs as Murray

returned with the bat to score 29 while Pradeep Guben claimed 4 for 13 in a losing cause. In the final, No.48 Challengers Cricket Club blasted their way to 187 for 6 off their allotted 20 overs as Balram Persaud struck 43 not out, Terrence Budhoo 39 and Balram Samaroo 38. Junior Blair was the successful bowler for Skeldon Super Kings Cricket Club with 3 for 19. Skeldon Super Kings in response were bowled out for 112 Man-of-the-final, Balr from Yog in 15.3 overs. Zakeel Gordon eshwar P am Persaud, rec e ersaud o fought a lone battle with 30 as f Sueria ives his award Manufac Totaram Persaud bowled a tight turing. spell with his left-arm spin to F o s t e r claim 4 for 11. hailed the festive atmoAt the impressive ceremony sphere at the beautiful No. 72 r i a after the final, Lakeram Latchman Ground, with trees surrounding Manufacturing of the Upper Corentyne Cricket the entire venue. Cricket in Up- for his sponsorship and also to the Association hailed the rebirth of per Corentyne, he stated would management of the No. 72 Cut and Berbice and Upper Corentyne not be the same again as the Load cricket ground for hosting Cricket under the leadership of BCB would continue to invest the final. Hilbert Foster. The winners, runners-up and heavily in the area not only in Latchman noted that Foster man-of-the-final received financial tournaments but in off-the-field has brought a no-nonsense attitude incentives and trophies. The three programmes. and tireless work ethics to cricket other finals for teams in Lower He pledged to take major leadership in Berbice. He told the Corentyne, New Amsterdam/ matches to venues in the Sub-Zone audience that the BCB president Canje and West Berbice would be but cautioned clubs that discipline has a policy of visiting matches held before the four Sub-Zones would be the cornerstone of the in the Upper Corentyne area and Champions battle for the overall BCB. Special thanks were expressed most importantly is always availBerbice Championship. to Mr Frank Sanichara, CEO of Sueable to listen to advice.

BCB/Magic Moments 20/20 - Lower Corentyne

Chesney join Rose Hall Town Bakewell, Courtland and Fyrish in semi-finals CHESNEY, last Sunday, defeated Albion Community Centre Cricket Club by 11 runs in the playoff of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) Magic Moments 20/20 Tournament for teams in the Lower Corentyne Sub-Zones to reach the semifinals. They now join Rose Hall Town Bakewell, Courtland and Fyrish in the final four, as the BCB strives to complete its planned 22 tournaments at the different levels. Chesney won the toss and batted first and reached 135 all out in 19.3 overs. Stanford 20/20 cricket star, Imran Khan, rolled back the years with a hard-hitting 80 which included 10 fours and two huge sixes, Saif Latchana supported Khan with a patient 24. Bowling for Albion, Kevin Umroa took 4 for 32, Joshua Harrichand 3 for 18 and Mahendra Chaitnarine 2 for 18. Needing to score 136 runs off 129 balls, the Albion batsmen were able to score only 124 for 9. Umroa returned with the bat

to top-score for his team with a polished 64. His brother Ritesh was the only other batsman to reach double figures with 12. Bowling for Chesney, Anish Deonarine claimed 2 wickets for 28 from four overs and Davindra Harillall 2 for 34 from four overs. Chesney will now play Fyrish at Chesney while Rose Hall Town Bakewell will host arch rivals Courtland in the semifinals. The Lower Corentyne Magic Moments 20/20 Tournament is one of four that will be hosted under sponsorship from Sueria Manufacturing and its CEO Frank Sanichara. The Upper Corentyne leg has already been completed with No.48 Challengers emerging as champions. Rose Hall Canje and Young Warriors will clash in the New Amsterdam/ Canje league while the fourth final will be for teams in West Berbice.

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Veteran Darren Mattocks and Cory Burke both netted braces as Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz predictably made light work of minnows Cayman Islands in their opening match of the inaugural CONCACAF Nations League. Both strikers found the target in each half, handing the hosts a 2-0 lead at half-time which they converted into a 4-0 verdict at full-time, at the National Stadium here Sunday. At the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad, Bermuda thrashed Aruba 3-1 while at the same venue,Bonaire went down 5-0 to the Dominican Republic. At IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, the US Virgin Islands slumped to a heavy 8-0 defeat while St Kitts and Nevis edged Puerto Rico 1-0 in Basseterre. Reggae Boyz, however, the highest-ranked Caribbean side in the FIFA world rankings, took early charge of their contest against the lowly Caymanians, leaving the result in little doubt. As early as the third minute, full back Kemar Lawrence was played through down the left side and his cross from just outside the boss saw Mattocks elude his marker and beat goalkeeper Ramon Sealy with a lovely glancing head into the upper right hand corner. Jamaica doubled their lead in the 35th minute when Owayne Gordon fought off a defender inside the penalty area and squared for Burke who tapped home from close range. The hosts extended their dominance following the break, Mattocks adding a third goal courtesy of another close-range header following Adrian Mariappa’s right-sided cross in the 59th minute. And eight minutes later, Burke also grabbed his second, producing a give-and-go with Javon East at the top of the box before scuffing a right-footed shot past Sealy. Jamaica will face Bonaire next month away on Match-Day 2 of the competition.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Wednesday September 12, 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)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Mohammed Sami (Stars) (2) 4 centuries Today’s Quiz: (1) How many dismissals Dinesh Ramdin effected while playing for the Warriors? (2) How many CPL games have been declared ‘no result’ to date?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, September 12, 2018

Baron Foods of St Lucia on board with BCB’s Dave Martins Cricket Development concert THE outstanding work of the Hilbert Foster-led Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) continues to attract support from overseas-based Guyanese. Chief Executive Officer of Baron Foods, Ronald Ramjattan has become the latest overseas Guyanese to support the BCB by making a financial contribution towards the hosting of a Cricket Development concert with legendary Guyanese singer Dave Martins on November 3. The concert would be held in the compound of the New Amsterdam Technical Institute and all funds raised would be used to assist in the development of youth and female cricket in the Ancient County. Foster, who is spearheading the planning for the historic concert, expressed delight at the support from Ramjattan and Baron Food. The sponsorship from the St Lucia-based company was obtained by international cricket commentator, Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira, who recently visited Berbice as a special guest of the BCB. The donated funds would cover the cost associated with Martins’ band and transportation. Martins has committed to performing for one hour at the concert, which is expected to attract thousands of Berbicians, excited to see the legendary international singer live on stage. Martins is known worldwide for songs like “We are the

Champions, Honey Mooning Couple, Not a Blade of Grass, A Man and a Bunch of Animals, Cricket in the Jungle, Copy Cat, Boyhood Days and Come Back Again”. Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira who handed over the donation to former BCB president Anil Beharry on behalf of Baron Food, stated that during his visit to Berbice, he was very impressed with the dedication, vision and plans of Foster and the BCB and as such has committed himself to assisting Berbice cricket as much as possible. Perreira arranged the services of Martins for the BCB and is also working on other fundraising ventures. Beharry expressed gratitude to both Perreira and Ramjattan for the sponsorship. He noted that in addition to planning 22 cricket tournaments in 2018, there are dozens of cricket-related developmental programmes. The BCB also has huge overhead expenses such as rental, GPL and GTT bills, office staff salaries, transportation costs among others. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS has assisted the BCB by pumping in over $1.5M of its own funds to assist the Board to stay afloat financially. Sponsors interested in coming on board the historic concert can contact Hilbert Foster on 337-4562, Angela Haniff 333-2375, Robby Saywack 660-0049, Dr Cecil Beharry 624-5707 and Anil Beharry on 623-6875.

Anil Beharry receives the donation from Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira.

NSC, Vita Malt team up for September 15 Blood Drive

Part of the action between Beacon and Grove Hi-Tech. (Adrian Narine photo)

Riddim Squad dispose of Camptown LIMACOL football action continued Monday evening with a double at the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue. In the first game, it was all Beacon as they thumped Grove Hi-Tech 1-0. Kimba Brathwaite was the danger-man on the night with his effort in the 53rd minute. Grove tried hard but they had no answer for the Beacon defence. In game two, it was Riddim Squad who were the big victors against

their Camptown FC opponents. Wendell Joseph started the scoring in the 33rd minute for Riddim Squad with Kevin Gordon in the 35th following suit in the first half. Kevin Agard put the final nail in the coffin in the 76th minute, with Riddim Squad taking full points on the night. Matches will continue tomorrow with Santos playing Pouderoyen in the first game and Police tackling Pele in the later game.

THE National Sports Commission (NSC) will be partnering with Banks DIH under their Vita Malt brand, to host a ‘Blood Drive’ on Saturday September 15, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), using sport as a vehicle to promote a healthy lifestyle and to aid the National Blood Bank exercise. According to Director of Sport Christopher Jones, the idea is to encourage the country’s athletes and sports enthusiasts, to be regular donors of blood, which in turn will prompt them to be more health conscious, since in becoming a donor, it will require a certain lifestyle. “The NSS solicited support from the national associations and the sports men and women all across Guyana, to come out to the CASH on Saturday the 15th and donate blood. This is a partnership recognising the importance of blood, to the Blood Bank,” Jones told reporters at a press briefing yesterday at the NSC’s headquarters on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown. Jones was adamant that athletes can play an important role in the National Blood Transfusion Services blood drive, given the fact that they can encourage or motivate others to follow

their lead. Meanwhile, Pedro Lewis, Director at the Ministry of Education’s National Blood Transfusion Services, told reporters that the event on Saturday will be the first of its kind, where the country’s sports men and women will be the direct target of their blood drive; an initiative he said will be repeated annually.

difficult. I mean, a lot of people see it every day, where people call the Blood Bank daily for blood to save lives.” “We have to think outside of the box to get people to donate blood. I’m so happy that we have this opportunity, this is the first event of its kind with the NSC and we hope to have it every year,” Dr. Lewis noted. Donors are asked not

donors will be screened and according to Jones while persons await their turn to donate, the NSC has organised a series of sporting events to occupy their time. “Let’s just say that it is not going to be a boring day. We intend to have fun while giving blood, saving a life and promoting a healthy lifestyle,” Jones said. Clayton McKenzie,

(L-R) Dr. Pedro Lewis, Director of Sport Christopher Jones and Clayton McKenzie, Banks DIH Limited Non-Alcoholic Brand Manager.

“We’re not just marketing the blood bank where we promote voluntary blood donation, but what we do, we change lifestyle,” Lewis said, while adding “It’s not something simple, it’s very

to consume alcohol for 24 hours prior to the event, while those with tattoos done under 12 months, are not eligible to participate in the blood drive. Dr. Lewis explained that

Banks DIH Limited NonAlcoholic Brand Manager, said his company shares a long history of assisting the National Blood Bank, and that as usual, donors will be given a free Vita Malt.

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Leg-spinner Imran Tahir and his team-mates after the dismissal of Denesh Ramdin.

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The Guyana Amazon Warriors celebrate the dismissal of Brendon McCullum who was trapped leg before to Sohail Tanvir (2-38), without scoring, in the first over. (Adrian Narine photos) Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2018