THURSDAY
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
1
8th NOVEMBER, 2018
No.105452
President recovering well
‘Each village must do its bit’ …Min Bulkan tells Village Day celebration
PAGE
03
See story page 02
…clinical analyses still incomplete Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan plants a tree following the formal ceremony of the National Village Day celebration hosted by the Region Three Regional Administration at the Hydronie Market Square, East Bank Essequibo (Samuel Maughn photo)
All public schools closed for LGEs 02 PAGE
President David Granger
Cop on ‘corruption’ charge
PAGE
09
…allegedly tries to change statement in businesswoman’s gunplay case
2
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
President recovering well …clinical analyses still incomplete
PRESIDENT David Granger is said to be recovering well following an intensive series of tests by specialist doctors immediately after he arrived in Cuba just over a week ago. In a statement the Ministry of the Presidency said the President is resting comfortably at an official residence and is receiving treatment at the Centro de Investigaciones Medico Quirugicas (CIMEQ) in Havana. According to the ministry, clinical analyses are still incomplete and it is expected that the Guyana Embassy in Havana will issue a statement when enough evidence is available, the release added. “The Head of State has
responded satisfactorily to medical interventions over the past week, however, and is recovering well. President Granger wishes to assure all citizens that he is receiving the best possible medical advice and attention. The President wishes to thank Guyanese for their expressions of concern,” the release stated. On October 30, 2018, President Granger and First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger departed Guyana for Cuba where he was expected to undergo a medical investigation. Speaking at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) Timehri before his departure, the Head of State said that recently he
travelled twice to Trinidad and Tobago and had done his annual medical checkup in May when he had been given a clean bill of health. “If I take you back over the last six months, I went to Trinidad and Tobago to do my annual medical examination which is normally done in August. I went in May because of the Congress of my party and the impending Local Government Elections,” he said. However, on his return to work, the President said that he started to experience certain symptoms which were persistent, and took the decision to travel back to Trinidad to revisit the tests that were done in May. “At that time, they discovered some symptoms which needed further investigation, so I just agreed with that diagnosis and made arrangements to go to Cuba for further investigations. At this time, there is no clear indication
of disorder or what the nature of the disorder is. It is a question of investigation and I think I can get the best advice in Cuba,” he said. While he does not suffer
from a particular ailment, President Granger said that out of an abundance of caution, he took the decision to travel to the Republic of Cuba to have the relevant medical investigation
done. “The Guyanese public should be assured that once those investigations are complete they would be kept abreast with the health of the President of the Republic,” he said.
All public schools closed for LGEs THE Education Ministry on Wednesday announced that all public schools will be closed on Monday, November 12, 2018, to facilitate the holding of Local Government Elections. Next Monday, when 573, 000 eligible voters are expected to vote within the 80 Local Authority Areas (LAAs), many public schools will be transformed into polling stations. According to the Guyana Elections Commission, voting will take place at 1,674 polling stations countrywide. In a notice on Wednesday, the education ministry said: “Parents and Guardians please be advised that all public schools will be closed on Monday November 12th 2018 to facilitate the holding of Local Government Elections (LGEs). School will reopen on Tuesday, November 13th 2018. Thank you for your cooperation.” Last Friday, less than 40 per cent of the police, soldiers and prison guards listed to vote in the Local Government Elections voted when the polling stations were opened to facilitate early voting by the disciplined services.
A total of 7,917 members of the disciplined services were deemed eligible to vote, but only 3,147 or 39.7 per cent of them did, according to the GECOM Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield. Only 1,938 members of the Guyana Police Force voted in the Local Government Elections from a list of 4,693. In the case of the Guyana Defence Force, he detailed that 2,773 soldiers were listed on the Official Voters’ List but less than half – 1,022 – cast their ballots. The Guyana Prison Service had a total of 451 eligible voters, but only 187 exercised their democratic right to elect their local leaders. Ballots were cast at 63 locations across the country. However, those law enforcers who were unable to vote will have another opportunity to so do on Monday. In March 2016, when Local Government Elections were held after 22 years, only 43% of the eligible voters did. However, with increased public awareness, it is hoped that a greater percentage of persons would turn out on polling day to cast their ballots.
3
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
‘Each village must do its bit’ …Min Bulkan tells Region Three at National Day of Villages
MINISTER of Communities Ronald Bulkan reminded residents that they have important roles to play in the development of their villages, as he delivered the feature address at the third annual National Day of Villages, hosted by the Region Three Regional Administration on Monday at the Hydronie Market Square, East Bank Essequibo. The day saw a number of cultural performances in the form of dance, songs and poetry to commemorate the day which is celebrated to promote togetherness and a sense of belonging among people.
“National Day of Villages provides a great opportunity for villages to reflect not only on [the] history of our respective villages, but to recommit ourselves to its continuous development and ultimately the development of our beloved country,” Bulkan said to the gathering, which included a number of students from schools within the Region. “We believe in people’s empowerment and development from the grassroots level, the level of our villages. The rate of our development as a country is dependent on the rate that the 10 regions, 10 towns and 70 Neighbour-
hood Democratic Councils (NDCs) develop, hence, our work to strengthen the capabilities of local organs to deliver effective services.” Bulkan emphasised that because of this mandate, it is even more important for residents to ensure that they go out and vote at the upcoming Local Government Elections slated for next Monday, November 12. “Each village must do its bit, therefore Guyanese will be given a historic opportunity to directly contribute to the development of their towns and villages next Monday, thanks to this administration. Residents are now empow-
ered to manage their own affairs. Residents are now the ones making the rules and regulating their own affairs,” Bulkan said. National Day of Villages is an initiative pioneered by President David Granger in 2016. The day is celebrated every year on November 7. The November date was chosen, since it coincided with the date that the first village was established when newly freed Africans in Guyana started the Village Movement. The first village was Plantation North Brook, now called Victoria. Other villages were established in this same way, such
as Buxton and Friendship on the East Coast of Demerara; Lichfield, Golden Grove, St. John and Providence in West Berbice, and Queenstown and Williamstown in Essequibo. “This administration is working towards stimulating the village economy. It is our intention to create a more enabling environment for self-sufficient communities through the promotion of local economic activities,” Bulkan noted. “In collaboration with local organs, several local area economic profiles have been crafted. This provides a mapping of the economic potential and
resources of those areas.” Also making remarks at the event was Geeta Chandan-Edmond, who spoke on behalf of Minister of State Joseph Harmon, who could not make it to the event. “The village economy remains critical to the national movement. It is important that we use every opportunity to celebrate and recognise our diversity. Today’s activity indicates a healthy development that promotes a good model for other regions to follow,” she said.
‘Report the misuse of police vehicles’ …deputy commissioner urges during inspection of China-gifted vehicles
ONE year after China’s government made a massive donation of vehicles and other equipment to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), an inspection was yesterday carried out to ensure that the officers have been keeping these vehicles in good condition to continue with the effective execution of their duties. This donation was worth US$2.6 million, and consisted of 56 pickup trucks, 35 ATVs, five big buses, 20 600 cc motorcycles, and 24 200 cc motorcycles. The donation, it was said, was made to boost the crime-fighting capacity of the GPF. The inspection saw ranks from Divisions ‘A’, ‘C’, ‘D’ and ‘E.’ Deputy Commissioner Maxine Graham explained to the media that Divisions ‘B’, ‘G’ and ‘F’, carried out the very inspections in their various divisions, since they wanted to avoid bringing all the vehicles to central Georgetown. Graham said that after the vehicles were inspected, it was concluded that they are being kept in a reasonable state. “And given that they are used for all purposes, patrols, general duty work and so on, looking at them you can see they are in very good condition, just as they were handed over to us,” she added. During the year, Gra-
Deputy Commissioner Maxine Graham
ham said that the vehicles were not problematic since officers would have been following the guidelines given by the Chinese. “They said after 5000 miles, we have to take them to service. And we did just that, and we have not gotten any form of engine problems,” she said. One vehicle however, is out of service and that is the one at Mahaica, Graham shared. She added that there were two incidents: one in Berbice and the other in Linden, which damaged two vehicles; but the divisions repaired them and they are back in good working condition. The deputy commissioner shared that they will not be waiting another year to have an inspection, but will be keeping it again in another six months, so as to keep close tabs on what is
happening. In addition to the inspection, Graham told the Guyana Chronicle that they have marked each vehicle with the division and station to which it belongs, and a contact number to the respective stations. With this, she urges members of the public to use such information to report when they see a misuse of these vehicles. “I’m asking the members of the public, that if they see any police vehicle not being used for its purpose, to call and report. On each vehicle, the division, station and number is printed on both sides. If you see the misuse, call the relevant commander and report their misconduct,” she said.
ATVs and motorcycles being inspected by ranks of the Guyana Police Force
Some of the vehicles being inspected by ranks
4
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
Grenada, Antigua say no to CCJ Both Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda voted against the move to have the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) as their highest appellate court in separate referenda held on Tuesday. President of the CCJ, the Mr. Justice Adrian Saunders said, “while the news is not what we hoped for, we respect the people of both nations and their decision. The court will naturally continue ongoing initiatives with justice sector bodies in each of these countries, and the wider Caribbean, through the JURIST project and otherwise.” In both Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda, the turnout of voters was low. In Grenada, of 21, 979 votes cast, some 9,846 persons voted to adopt the CCJ as the final Court of Appeal. In Antigua and Barbuda, the margin was a little closer. There were 9,234 votes against and 8,509 votes in favour of the adoption of the CCJ. The CCJ will still be serving both Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda. The CCJ President emphasised that, “these results will not, of course, deter
CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders
us from serving with distinction those nations that currently send their final appeals to us. As well, the Court will also continue to process and hear applications from all CARICOM States, and from CARICOM itself, in our Original Jurisdiction, and our justice reform work in the region will also continue”. In addition, there is an Original Jurisdiction case currently before the Court originating from Grenada. The JURIST Project, which is a multiyear justice reform project being implemented by the
Caribbean Court of Justice on behalf of the Conference of Heads of Judiciary of CARICOM states, is working on a Sexual Offences Model Court to be housed at the High Court of Antigua and Barbuda in 2019. The CCJ Academy of Law is also hosting a legal conference in Jamaica in December 2018 at which jurists from both countries, as well as the wider Caribbean, are participating. Mr. Justice Saunders stated, “one of the positives that came out of this exercise is that there was sustained public education in both nations and the conversation about the CCJ intensified. We can see the fact that there was more interest in our website, ccj. org, and on our social media platforms, on LinkedIn and Twitter. As we begin to implement our Strategic Plan for the 2019-2023, which includes a renewed focus on public education, we will certainly be taking advantage of the increased audience, and the interest that has been piqued, to provide more information about the work of the Court.”
Trinidad and Tobago urged to remain earthquake alert Thursday, November. 8, 2018
05:00hrs. - 06:30hrs.
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad-CMC – The Seismic Research Centre (SRC) of the University of the West Indies (UWI) Wednesday said that Trinidad and Tobago must continue to ensure that all necessary measures are in place to respond appropriately to any large magnitude earthquake which may potentially cause significant damage and loss of life. The SRC said that the oil rich twin-island republic would continue to experience earthquakes in keeping with the pattern expected after it experienced a 6.9 magnitude quake in August. Trinidad and Tobago has over the past nine days recorded quakes with magnitudes rang-
ing from 4.2 to 4.5 and the SRC said that “moderate to strong earthquakes such as these, are usually associated with aftershocks, with those at shallow depth producing a higher number “The earthquakes currently being recorded, in the Gulf of Paria, with some being felt, is in keeping with the pattern expected after such events. The other areas around Trinidad will continue to produce their normal annual magnitude output; on average, we expect just over 50 events of magnitude greater than 3.5 every year. “In that context, given the two areas in the Gulf of Paria that are currently adjusting following significant magnitude earthquakes and the
annual, expected events in the other, surrounding zones, the earthquake activity being seen is normal,” the SRC added. On August 21, the country was rocked by a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 6.9 causing widespread panic and damage to several buildings. No one was killed. The SRC said that the quake, which occurred off the coast of eastern Venezuela, about 130 km west of Port of Spain, with a depth of 127 km, was widely reported as felt in Trinidad and Tobago and neighbouring islands. It said that in addition, during the period 26th-28th January, 2018, there was a burst of more than 20 earthquakes in the Gulf of
Paria, about 70 km southwest of Port of Spain; the largest was of magnitude 5.3 at a depth of 23 km. The SRC said that the activity currently being recorded has little bearing on the larger magnitude earthquakes, like the one that occurred in 1766 with a magnitude of 7.9 “that can happen at any time. “Therefore, we here in Trinidad and Tobago, along with all relevant, regional agencies and communities, must continue to ensure that all necessary measures are in place to respond appropriately to any large magnitude earthquake which may potentially cause significant damage and loss of life,” the SRC added.
Wednesday 7, November, 2018
04 17 25 03 28 11 01
C
2, November, 2018
12, 04, 07, 17, 03
8, 9, 5
3, 1, 0
09, 11, 12, 13, 17
05 07 14 18 21
5
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
Democrats take House WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The day after his party lost its lock on the U.S. Congress, President Donald Trump walked into a White House press conference ready for political combat, name-checking Republicans who he blamed for losing their seats and lashing out at reporters who challenged his assertions. Republicans lost control of the House of Representatives to Democrats, but Trump shrugged that off, casting Tuesday’s congressional election results as “very close to complete victory” for Republicans and saying he could negotiate
easier on some issues with Democrats, anyway. Republicans kept their Senate majority. Trump briefly sought to strike a statesmanlike tone in his first public remarks after the loss, praising House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi for her hard work and envisioning “a beautiful, bipartisan type of situation” on infrastructure investments and health care. But his news conference, which stretched close to 90 minutes, quickly turned raucous when some reporters pushed him on whether his campaign rhetoric on migrants from central America was divisive - and on developments in a federal investi-
gation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and any coordination between Moscow and the Trump campaign. Tr u m p a g g r e s s i v e l y pushed back. “CNN should be ashamed of itself, having you working for them,” Trump told CNN correspondent Jim Acosta, who wrestled with a White House staffer who forcibly pulled the microphone from his hands. “You are a rude, terrible person,” Trump told Acosta. To PBS NewsHour’s Yamiche Alcindor, who asked him about white nationalists emboldened by Trump label-
Mid-term elections 2018…
Trump hails ‘tremendous success’ U S P re s i d e n t D o n a l d Trump has hailed “tremendous success” in the mid-term elections after a night of mixed results for his Republican party. The Democrats won the House of Representatives, which will enable them to thwart the president’s agenda. But the Republicans consolidated their grip on the Senate, ensuring he can still make key appointments. Mr Trump said the outcome “defied history” as the ruling party does not usually gain seats in the mid-terms. At a feisty news conference on Wednesday, Mr Trump offered an olive branch to Democrats, proposing both parties work together on joint legislative priorities. But he said that if Democratic-controlled congressional committees started serving legal writs against his administration, Republicans would do likewise and gridlock would ensue. In ill-tempered exchanges, Mr Trump called a CNN correspondent “a rude, terrible person” and told an NBC reporter: “I’m not a big fan of
yours either.” He told a black reporter who asked whether his self-professed nationalism would embolden white nationalists that it was “such a racist question”. The president also mocked Republicans who did not “embrace” him on the campaign trail, and went on to lose their election races. “They did very poorly,” Mr Trump told reporters. “I’m not sure that I should be happy or sad but I feel just fine about it.” House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi has promised her party will serve as a counterweight to the White House. Ms Pelosi - who is favourite to become speaker, a position she held from 200711 - told supporters: “Today is more than about Democrats and Republicans. It’s about restoring the Constitution’s checks and balances to the Trump administration.” Meanwhile the Florida Senate race is heading for a recount after Republican Rick Scott got 50.21% and incumbent Bill Nelson 49.79% of the vote. A margin of less than half a percentage
point automatically triggers a recount. What difference will the new Congress make? The Democrats gained more than the 23 seats they needed for a majority in the 435-seat lower chamber. They could now launch investigations into Mr Trump’s administration and business affairs, from tax returns to potential conflicts of interest. The Democrats could also more effectively block his legislative plans, notably his signature promise to build a wall along the border with Mexico. In the Senate, Democrats were facing an uphill battle because they were defending 26 races, while just nine Republican seats were up for grabs. The Republicans are on course to increase their representation from 51 to 54 in the 100-seat Senate upper chamber. Mr Trump has threatened to retaliate for any Democratic investigations with his own probes in the Senate into alleged “leaks of classified information”. (BBC)
…defiant Trump blames media, fellow Republicans for losses ing himself a “nationalist,” Trump said he was insulted. “That’s such a racist question,” said Trump, who has made accusations of unfair coverage from the media a staple on the campaign trail. Even as Trump mused about working with Democrats, he was quick to promise a “warlike posture” if the Democratic controlled House opens investigations into his administration. “They can play that game, but we can play it better,” he said. Trump took credit for his Republican Party’s gains in the Senate, casting those results in historic terms. He said he “stopped the blue wave,”
noting 9 of 11 candidates who he stumped for in the final week of the race won. But he expressed frustration that 43 House Republicans retired rather than seek reelection, saying that hurt his party. He took at a jab at “grandstanding” congressmen from his own party whom he said would have made it difficult to get legislation through the House, had Republicans eked out a narrow win in the chamber. Trump took the rare step of mocking Republican candidates who kept their distance from him during the campaign because of concerns that his divisive messages on immigration
would turn off voters - but lost anyway. He singled out Peter Roskam of Illinois, Erik Paulsen of Minnesota, John Faso of New York, and New Jersey senate candidate Bob Hugin. “Carlos Curbelo, Mike Coffman - too bad, Mike,” he said, referring to losing Republican congressmen in Florida and Colorado contests. He scorned Utah’s Mia Love and Virginia’s Barbara Comstock. “Mia Love gave me no love,” he said. “And Barbara Comstock was another one. I mean, I think she could have won that race, but she didn’t want to have any embrace.”
Blasted by Trump over Russia probe, Sessions out as attorney general
U.S. President Donald Trump and Attorney General Jeff Sessions button their coats as they stand for the national anthem at a graduation ceremony at the FBI Academy on the grounds of Marine Corps Base Quantico in Quantico, Virginia, U.S. December 15, 2017. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions was fired on Wednesday after unrelenting criticism from President Donald Trump over his recusal from an investigation into Russia’s role in the 2016 presidential race. Sessions’ departure was widely expected to come soon after Tuesday’s congressional elections in which Republicans retained their majority in the Senate but lost control of the House of
Representatives. Never in modern history has a president attacked a Cabinet member as frequently and harshly in public as Trump did Sessions, 71, who had been one of the first members of Congress to back his presidential campaign in 2015. Trump announced Sessions’ departure on Twitter. Sessions said in a letter to Trump he resigned at the president’s request. Sessions’ chief of
staff, Matthew Whitaker, will be acting attorney general, Trump said on Twitter. Sessions departs as the nation’s top law enforcement officer while Special Counsel Robert Mueller, operating under the auspices of the Justice Department, pursues a wide-ranging Russia investigation that already has yielded a series of criminal charges against several of Trump’s associates and has dogged his presidency.
6
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
Fighting Malaria GUYANESE are not strangers to malaria, particularly citizens who work or reside in hinterland regions or communities. The mining sector is particularly hard-hit. Malaria – a potentially fatal disease – affects almost every person working or living in Guyana’s hinterland. The importance of fighting and defeating the disease, therefore, is obvious. In 2005, the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) adopted resolution CD46.R13, which articulated the position to reduce the number of malaria cases in the Americas by 75 per cent
by 2015. Guyana is one of 18 countries in the Americas that is committed to the elimination of malaria. Malaria is spread by mosquitoes. When an infected person is bitten by a mosquito, the insect becomes infected. When the mosquito bites another person, the infection is passed on to the new victim. Malaria may be caused my many organisms, some more dangerous than others. Malaria is caused by micro-organisms that attack the body’s systems, often resulting in death, after causing fever, vomiting, tiredness, aches, and great discomfort, and disability.
To date, in Guyana, the fight against malaria continues to be successful under the guidance of the APNU+AFC administration. Guyana had embarked on the National Plan of Action for Malaria Elimination in 2016. The plan, which extends to 2020, is intended to eradicate malaria within Guyana’s borders. At the end of 2020, the success of the initiative will be assessed and a new plan, or extension of the existing plan, will be considered. According to the World health Organisation (WHO), due to the efforts of government, Guyana has recently
succeeded in reducing the incidence of the disease by far more than the benchmark 50 per cent – a remarkable achievement. Dr. William Adu-Krow of PAHO/WHO, an expert in tropical diseases, said that it is possible for Guyana to completely eradicate malaria. He said, amazingly, “We see Guyanese cases falling from 45,000 every year to only 11,000.” The current administration has said, “The government of Guyana remains committed to the continued provision of the required resources, while counting on support from key partners such as the Global Fund,
USAID, and PAHO/WHO.” Government has stated that Guyana has made great strides in the fight against malaria, including, according to the Ministry of Public Health, “Improved surveillance efforts through revised data-collection tools, with emphasis on the timeliness of reporting.” Also, microscopy training for hinterland health workers coordinated by the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, has had a major positive effect on the national statistics. It should be noted that such statistics are monitored and verified by the
WHO and other international organisations. While there is no doubt that Guyana has made significant strides in the fight against malaria, international opinion is of significance. And Guyana remains on the list of 21 countries considered by the United Nations, to have malaria endemic to its population. As such, Guyanese must cooperate with the efforts of the national health authorities to eliminate this disease. We must support their efforts; we must be proactive and vigilant in defence of our health in every aspect of our lives.
Time for local creators of every type to be protected Dear Editor ONE should not be surprised at parliamentary Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo’s criticism, and non–support of President David Granger’s announcement that his government intends to table very soon the Intellectual Copyrights Bill that will update the more than archaic legislation of 1956 inherited from the British. It is simply the opposition leader’s continuous, grudging non-support of critical and essential programmes, in addition to another desperate act of seeking to shore up his party’s support. Editor, no amount of politicking should be reason of any kind that should cause any responsible national political leader, in this instance, a former president, and now the constitutional office of opposition leader to, in effect, agree with the continuation of what is plain, naked theft of the creative works of others. And as a reminder, it was during his government that a local dupli-
cating printing business began the now infamous illegality of copying thousands of school books from the originals, to be sold. This was further elevated when the then Jagdeo administration decided to award the same business house a multi- million dollar contract for copy-printing further copies for sale. Such a gross illegality attracted an injunction from the British-based Publishers Association. In fact, the leading book store in Guyana that is a household name for having British-published books on its shelves, made so many appeals to the Jagdeo government on the copy-printing of the British text books which were affecting the sales of its original texts. These appeals fell on deaf ears. It is utter nonsense for Jagdeo to proffer the excuse of “Guyana being a poor developing country” and that affordability should wait for the future when people are able. Why should the excuse of poverty cause this country to continue to be in very serious breach of copyright laws? This leader continues to be guilty of, and
being a party to denying those Guyanese artistes--particularly its cultural category--the rich rewards of their numerous artistic creations. One may recall that famous local calypso “Corkball”, that became a hit, but which piece was immediately pirated by a now defunct, well-known music house, on its public release. If memory serves me right, the artiste took the proprietrix to court. There are other artistes as well--both departed, and those still alive--whose works, as good as any from the Caribbean and elsewhere, who have not benefited in the manner that they should have. All of them have continuously complained, bitterly, as to their deprivation of the proceeds of their many years of hard labour, because of the absence of copyright laws. I do believe, the fact that many of them are still creating works, is because of their love for their art, as well as the appreciation for continued fan support. Since copyright is the protection of every work of personal creation, be it poetry,
writing, calypso, song, art etcetera, then it is about giving legal protection to the rights of every creator for their individual effort. Therefore, for Jagdeo to claim “protection of local artistes only” as a special case, reeks of outright disregard for the efforts of other similar innovators, as well as the usual political opportunism for which his cronies would have benefitted tremendously, has become well known. No Guyanese creator should be taken in by this shallow expression of concern. In plain terms, it is criminal theft, and it is time for this unfair practice be checked in Guyana. The government has a responsibility to protect the creative works of its citizens and its action is welcome. Of course, all creative artistes will welcome the Copyright Bill; it is time that they receive the benefits for their talent and time dedicated towards its realisation. Regards Troy Garraway
7
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
Dear Editor, PERMIT me to reply to former Minister of Home Affairs Clement J. Rohee’s letter which was published in the Wednesday, October 31st, 2018 edition of Kaieteur News and Friday, November 2, 2018 issue of Stabroek News under the respective captions, “Ogunseye ‘s whining comes as no surprise,” and “Ogunseye has to come to grips with the stark failures of the APNU+AFC gov’t.” Rohee’s letters were written in response to my own that was carried in Stabroek News on Oct 25th, 2018, which was critical of his opportunistic exploitation of the recent Lusignan prison escape and riot. At the outset, I want to give recognition to the political vigilance demonstrated by Mr. Rohee, now that he and the PPP/C are out of office. Having done so, I wish to point out to the former minister that vigilance in opposition from a politician and a party that governed the country for 23 consecutive years, is not enough to suffice; much more is required, namely, humility, honesty, and self-criticism; none of which are reflected in the former minister ’s self-serving letters, whether previous or present. More important to this debate are the following statements made by Rohee: “Ogunseye trotted out the oft-repeated whinings about the PPP’s protection of the so-called ‘phantom gang.’ He also contended that I provided no evidence to support my claim. The PPP/C and its government’s involvement with the “phantom” killers are well established at home and abroad; so much so, that I don’t feel the need to elaborate evidently. On this matter, I refuse to play Rohee’s and the PPP‘s game of “show me the evidence.” He wrote, “ Ogunseye is one of those who went into government thinking that they would have been able to influence policy along the lines of the WPA.” This observation by the veteran politician is 100% correct. Rohee claimed that my presence in government, whatever that is has “ tethered” me. Given my limited vocabulary, I must admit that I was forced to consult a dictionary to decipher
the meaning of the word. Having done so, I now ask Rohee the following: given my known public criticism of the coalition government, both in the letter columns of the newspapers and on the Walter Rodney Groundings TV programme, juxtaposed against his history of non-criticism of the PPP/C government over its 23 years rule, which one of us is more likely to be considered as being “tethered” by governmental involvement? Rohee’s problem is his barefacedness in refusing to recognise that what he had failed to do when he and the PPP/C were in office, he is now demanding of coalition members and supporters. Let me reiterate for Rohee’s benefit – I Tacuma Ogunseye have no difficulty with putting the APNU+AFC government under the same kind of “scrutiny” as was meted out to the PPP when it was in government. However, there is a difference and it is this: there has been no government in the recent history of the country which has been as scrutinised, publicly and privately, as the present one. Rohee seeks to indict the coalition government and me for the 40% unemployment among the nation’s youth population, when he referenced President Granger’s recent address to parliament. I would have been more inclined to have a meeting of minds on this matter if the former minister had given us the youth unemployment figures at the end of the PPP/C’s rule in 2015. Rohee is well aware of his party and government’s practice of doctoring statistics to hide the true unemployment figures. If he were more objective and had provided the comparative figures, his case against the government would be more compelling and the public would have a better appreciation of the alleged failure of the APNU+AFC government on this matter. But if truth is to be told, the former minister and member of the PPP/C leadership is devoid of truth, facts and fairness in his propagandising on this and other national issues. Even if he were endowed with the qualities to which I referred, it would be unreasonable for Guyanese to expect that in just over three years the government would be able to effectively address Guy-
ana’s unemployment challenges–a situation that was created by the PPP’s mismanagement of the economy and the rape of the country’s resources during its 23 years in office. On the question of corruption in the present administration, my position has been stated and restated on several occasions on the Walter Rodney Groundings programme. Corruption at any level is unacceptable and must be addressed in keeping with the law. I am also on record as saying that the coalition government will help its cause by jailing anyone in its ranks who is guilty of corruption. Mr. Rohee, can you point to a similar public position you have taken in relation to the widespread corruption in the PPP/C government? I am looking forward for your honest answer. On the issue of the collapse of the African village economies, I want to say that this problem predates both the PPP/C and APNU+AFC regimes. However, it reached an unprecedented crisis point under the PPP/C’s rule. To date, the problem has received inadequate attention from the present government. I n t e r e s t i n g l y, w h i l e Rohee has no difficulty in contending that the prison challenges were inherited by the PPP/C in 1992 from the PNC government, he has tremendous problems with the similar logic pointed out in my letter: that the APNU+AFC administration inherited the same from the PPP/C. According to Rohee’s reasoning, what is good for the goose is not good for the gander. With unwavering consistency, Rohee resorted to his party’s old tactic of invoking Walter Rodney when the PPP and its leadership are criticised by a WPA person – this has become their familiar and overworked defence. We are asked to justify our present politics in keeping with Rodney’s revolutionary ideas; yet, when they were enunciated by Rodney, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, Rohee and company castigated him as being ultra-left and adventurist. Finally, I am grateful that the former Minister of Home Affairs Clement J. Rohee answered my question -- why no phantom killers were brought to justice under his steward-
Ogunseye takes on Rohee over security challenges – past and present ship? His answer is politically revealing: “As to why ‘no phantom killers were charged under Rohee’s stewardship, the answer is simple; they either killed off themselves or were caught by the DEA of the
USA for engaging in other illegal activities.” Rohee is passing the buck to his comrade Ms. Gail Teixeira who was his predecessor. But in her defence, she is likely to point to the fact that under his watch
there were many phantom killers around; to which I will add, who maintained their connections with the PPP/C. Regards Tacuma Ogunseye
8
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
GL&SC represented at UN Global Geospatial Information Management forum
Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, Trevor L. Benn; Tavendra Ojha and Micaela Reece at the Fifth session of the United Nations—Global Geospatial Information Management (UN-GGIM): Americas Regional Workshop on Integration of Statistical and Geospatial Information in Mexico
COMMISSIONER and Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC) Trevor L. Benn is currently attending the Fifth session of the United Nations--Global Geospatial Information Management (UNGGIM): Americas Regional Workshop on Integration of Statistical and Geospatial Information in Mexico. He is accompanied by Tavendra Ojha and Micaela Reece, officials of the commission. The forum opened on Tuesday and will conclude today. The meeting is intended to strengthen integration and contribute to progress in the joint construction of statistical and geospatial information systems at each country
level. “It also provides a forum for convening of the regional statistical community represented by the National Focal Points (NFOs) of the Statistical Conference of the Americas SCA-ECLAC and the regional geospatial community represented by the NFOs of UN-GGIM: Americas,” the Lands and Surveys Commission said in a statement on Wednesday. During the forum, country representatives are expected to discuss diagnosis and agree on strategies for integration of geospatial and statistical information; also to be discussed is the use of geospatial information, statistics and Earth observation data to support implementation
of the 2030 Agenda in member states, at the national and regional levels. “The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission is legally mandated to “formulate policy on geographic and land information and set standards in relation to digital data, establish the framework for a national network of geographic information systems and develop and maintain a parcel-based land information system”. “It is expected that the current work being undertaken by the commission to establish a National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI), formulate, and implement a National GIS Policy and Action Plan will benefit from the experience gained and
the additional learning that the participants will be exposed to during the Regional Workshop,” the commission said. Ojha presented on Wednesday under the theme: “Geospatial Information: Conduit to SDGs Success,” focusing on the commission’s work in geospatial information within the country. Ojha and Reece also attended a two-day training session in the days preceding the UN forum. This training placed special emphasis on the knowledge and use of images of the GOES 16 and Geonet Cast satellites and was conducted by the National Laboratory of Earth Observation (LANOT), Institute of Geography, National Autonomous University of Mexico. The training was part of the Project for Strengthening of Spatial Data Infrastructure of the Caribbean. While in Mexico, the commissioner took time out to meet with the Honourable Miklos Giterson, Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning Environment and Infrastructure from St. Maarten and his delegation; as well as Mr. Lawrence A. Friedl, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), USA. Additional meetings are scheduled to be conducted with representatives from ECLAC, UNGGIM, and representatives from other Caribbean countries.
Psychiatric evaluation for Golden Grove ‘beheader’
POLICE are seeking a psychiatric evaluation of Anthony King, 25, in the aftermath of the killing of his brother-in-law, Justin Peterkin, as an autopsy done on Thursday gave the cause of death as multiple blunt and sharp injuries to the head and neck. The autopsy was Dead: c o n d u c t e d b y D r. Justin Peterkin Nehaul Singh at the Georgetown Public Hospital Mortuary and the body was handed over to relatives for burial. Police said they are trying to question the perpetrator and get him to give a statement, but King “seems to be spaced out”. It is alleged that the 25-year-old porknocker was ‘high’ on drugs when he attacked and killed his 39-year-old brother-in-law on Monday at Section ‘C’ Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Peterkin, an electrician, is a father of one who resides at Paradise Village, East Coast Demerara. Police said investigations revealed that Peterkin and the porknocker visited the Golden Grove property on Monday and soon after the occupants, David King, a 51-year-old contractor, and his daughter Cassandra King, (father and sister of the suspect) left for work. Shortly after, an eyewitness allegedly saw the perpetrator chopping his in-law in the yard. An alarm was raised and the suspect left the scene, but was promptly arrested by the police who were summoned.
I marvel at the boisterousness and boldness of some members of the PPP
Dear Editor,
I READ with consternation a letter titled ‘ Taking Over of Berbice Bridge is act of compulsory acquisition,’ Stabroek News, Nov 5, 2018, written by an Honourable Gentleman, Mr. Anil Nandlall. His initial verbal assault claimed that government action must have shocked the conscience of law-abiding citizens. All that the government sought to do was to save travellers over the bridge the trauma of those massive increases by this private ‘sic’ company.
My mother would have referred to Mr. Nandlall’s letter as being written by someone who is brassfaced. We can name scores of actions by Mr. Nandlall’s government (PPP/C) that shocked the conscience of all of us. For brevity, I will not recall the many instances, but to refresh the Gentleman’s memory just a few. Under the tutorage of his colleagues, police deaths increased by one thousand percent, yes (1,000%). On this bridge company being a private entity, the largest investment was money sub-
orned by his government from the National Insurance Scheme (NIS). This and other financial acts of bullyism represented snatching money from the poor to give to the rich. He ignored state assets, GPC, among them, Prado Ville I and II, handed to selected, private persons for a pittance. The PPP so plundered the NIS that it was completely destabilised and could not deliver on its promises to help the ordinary people as was intended by the architects of the National Insurance Scheme
(Burnham and the PNC). He refers to Echillibar Villas, Hope Estate and Takuba Lodge. As a member of the government then, I am aware that in every instance there was cordial dialogue with the owners, which led to mutually satisfactory financial arrangements. He also mentioned Citizens Bank? What is he talking about? Is this a figment of his imagination? I expect that in a response, Mr. Nandlall to explain how it is or why it is that the NIS management was never part of the decision-making mechanism of
the Berbice bridge. Mr. Nandlall should also let those whose consciences were shocked to explain that the cost of constructing the said Berbice River Bridge was double, because the then government ignored an earlier engineering recommendation that the Berbice Bridge should be built from Ithaca on the West Bank to Stanleytown on the East Bank of the Berbice River. It is no secret that the PPP government did not identify that location because notwithstanding the shorter distance and better soil conditions, those com-
munities were regarded as not PPP-friendly. A Sad, Sorry Situation. I marvelled at the boisterousness and boldness of some members of the PPP hierarchy, and I repeat-some members of the PPP hierarchy. The people who use the Berbice bridge have been spared the trauma of having to pay these massive and unconscionable increases proposed by this private company, whose only aim was to make More Mighty Money. Regards Hamilton Green
9
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
Indigenous communities benefit from improved production techniques By Vishani Ragobeer LOCAL indigenous communities in the Rupununi region are benefiting from improved production techniques aimed at empowering their residents. For the past four years, Canadian development organisation Cuso International has recognised the importance of cassava production in empowering and sustaining these communities. Consequently, it has been helping to develop appropriate systems for processing cassava as food fit for long-term storage as well as other products. In so doing, the Government of Canada through G l o b a l A ff a i r s C a n a d a (GAC) and the Canada-Caribbean Disaster Risk Management Fund (CCDRM) supported this process by co-funding development of two farine-processing facilities in Wowetta village, North Rupununi and Moco Moco village, Central Rupununi, in Region Nine.
According to information from Cuso, “The goal is improvement of product variety and standards acceptable for not only local, but national and international markets.” Furthermore, it noted that the specific objectives of the projects are to provide opportunities for each community to stockpile at least 10,000 pounds of farine for natural-disaster preparedness. This was specifically identified since the Rupununi region is prone to extreme dry spells that can last at least six months. This is compounded by floods, which makes the region highly vulnerable to the vagaries of weather associated with increasing climate-change phenomena. The facilities aim to supply households within the communities, or at the nearest business hub, Lethem in Central Rupununi. The release noted however, that through assured consistency and quantity in production at
the Wowetta and Moco Moco farine-processing facilities, community members have opportunities to sell raw materials for income-generation. The farine-processing facilities at Wowetta and Moco Moco combine the evolution from the traditional processing environment, to use of a mechanised, monitored system with the stellar indigenous knowledge of the cassava. The facilities are also encouraging local research, based on the experience generated during processing, to foster project expansion. And the knowledge garnered will be used in agro-forestry production systems to promote environmental protection, enhance new farming systems, and promote a green economy. New farming technologies that aim to improve and increase the production cycle per unit of farm area are also being encouraged, such as planting pigeon peas in the
cassava crop system. “It is a new practice and its adoption still induces some skepticism; but at least through this project, both communities introduced it in the crop cycle for further monitoring.” According to the toshao of Moco Moco village, “We tried, in our own way, but we never imagined we would have such a facility here…. We waited for so long.” The community has tried to establish a smaller facility earlier. “These two farine-processing and storage facilities have now begun, but certainly not done. Despite the initiatives, the projects need further support to improve access to markets, product development, especially with respect to packaging, product nutrition value analysis, and the microbiological analysis associated with the process of fermentation during the production process,” the release noted. The next stage of the
Equipment inside the farine-processing factory at Wowetta (DPI photo)
project will involve crafting a business model for those interested in operating businesses from
cassava root, to off-shoot possibilities for enabling and enhancing lives and communities.
Cop on corruption charge Motorcyclist in ‘South’ …allegedly tried to change statement in businesswoman gunplay case
John Holder
A POLICE constable on We d n e s d a y a p p e a r e d before a city magistrate in Court Three of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice. The charge is in relation to a matter involving city
businesswoman Maryann Daby. The particulars of the charge state that between August 10 and October 2, 2018 at Georgetown, John Holder, 28, of North Road, Bourda, attempted to pervert the course of justice by deviating from his police statement dated May 13, 2018, in the case involving The Police vs Maryann Daby. Holder is represented by Attorney-at-law Steven Roberts, who, in his application for bail, told the court that his client told the truth under oath and had done nothing wrong.He also alleged that his client has been suspended from duty, pending further investigation into the matter. While Police Inspector Shellon Daniels was not opposed to Holder being granted bail, she asked that there be conditions attached. According to the police, a member of the Guyana Police Force, is the key witness in the Maryann Daby matter. It is alleged that during investigation of the said matter, Holder gave several
conflicting statements; and that when he was testifying in court, he deviated from the one in which he claimed that he was authorised by an officer to do so. Bail was granted in the sum of $ 300,000 on condition that he report to the Court Three clerk every Monday, while the matter has been adjourned to November 20. A few months ago, Daby was arraigned before a city magistrate for allegedly trying to kill a police rank with her unlicensed firearm. Daby, 25, of D’Aguiar Park, Houston, was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on May 13 this year at Albert Street, Thomas Lands, with intent to commit murder she attempted to discharge a loaded firearm at Police Constable Christopher Kissoon. According to reports, Constable Kissoon had approached Daby about offloading her firearm in public when she placed the gun to his forehead and pulled the trigger. Fortunately, the gun was empty.
accident granted bail
A 25-year-old man on Wednesday appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ on a charge of causing death by dangerous driving. Trevor Singh, of Buttercup Place, South Ruimveldt, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and denied the charge which alleges that on November 1, 2018 at Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt, he drove his motorcycle in such a manner as to cause the death
of one Floyd Howes. Singh, through his attorney Paul Fung-A-Fat, applied for bail which was approved by Prosecutor Simone Payne once certain conditions were met. According to the police, on the day in question at around 18:45hrs, the defendant was riding his motorcycle along Aubrey Barker Road, when he collided with Howes; Howes was riding his bicycle on the same side of the road. They were both
picked up in an unconscious state and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where Singh was treated and sent away;Howes, however, died while receiving medical attention. Singh was on Wednesday released on $350,000 bail on condition that he reports to the East La Penitence station every Friday. He is expected to make his next court appearance on November 20, 2018.
Law catches up with alleged child rapist A 41-year-old man was on Wednesday remanded to prison after it was alleged that he raped a 13-year-old girl two years ago. Odingo Green, who resides in Kitty, appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was not required to plead
to the charge, since it was indictable. The court heard that between November 1 and 30, 2016, Green engaged in sexual activity with a child under the age of 16. He was remanded to prison, and the matter was adjourned to November 21.
Odingo Green
10
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Guyana expected to sign MoU with Tanzania, Ghana – authorising African airlines to connect here, says air transport director By Rabindra Rooplall
MINISTERS and officials from Tanzania and Ghana are expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Guyana, authorising interested airlines in the African continent to connect directly with this country. The signing will occur during the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) Air Transport meeting slated for November 2123. Briefing reporters on Wednesday, Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Director of Air Transport Management, Saheed Sulaman, said the interested airlines will conduct the feasibility of the route. “Feasibility for routes is done at the investor stage and the stepping stone to reach that stage is to have an agreement,” the GCAA director
noted. He explained that the objective of this air transport meeting is to proffer practical solutions to remove existing regulatory impediments to air transport liberalisation and to finance the development of quality aviation infrastructure.
Sulaman explained that air transport policies and regulations should aim to facilitate transformation and new technologies. “Efforts in this respect must focus on the liberalisation of market access and the establishment of good
Franklin ‘Bobby’ Vieira, Director of Marketing and Operational Support and GCAA Director of Air Transport Management, Saheed Sulaman, during the press briefing on Wednesday (Delano Williams photo)
regulatory practices and governance for air transport, including modernisation, harmonisation and convergence of regulatory approaches and regimes of states, and the promotion of connectivity, competition, transparency and choice for consumers,” Sulaman noted. In the first session, the GCAA director said there will be a review of current status and outlook of economies and air transport in the region, its systemic impact on and from other sectors of the economy and discuss how states and private sectors can cooperate and stimulate air traffic demand, considering the vital role the air connectivity plays in the region. In the second session, Sulaman said issues of having different regulatory policies and regimes applicable to air transport, especially in the areas of consumer protection, competition and taxation, has continued to create regulatory impediments to the operating environment of air carriers. HARMONISATION “While there has been general desire for fostering regulatory convergence in these areas, achieving this has remained a challenge. This session will review the implementation status of the ICAO statement on the
development of air transport in North America, Central America, the Caribbean and South America, and examine the common tools, policy guidance and best practices for harmonisation and compatibility of these regulatory regimes within the region,” he explained. Thirdly, the GCAA director said there have been several key developments since the sixth Worldwide Air Transport Conference, including efforts by ICAO to develop an international agreement to facilitate further liberalisation of air cargo services on a global and multilateral basis. “Knowing fully well that air cargo has become an indispensable component of e-commerce, what can states and aviation stakeholders do to support the development of the international agreement for air cargo liberalisation? How can regional/ plurilateral approaches provide a foundation for global liberalisation for air cargo? How will the liberalisation of air cargo contribute to the growth and success of e-commerce?” are some of the questions that will have to be explored. He explained that there will be six sessions where discussion will be held to chart the way to develop all
aspects of the sector. The director also explained that air transport plays an essential role of linking many coastal areas and communities in the hinterland, many of which are not easily accessible by any other means of transportation. By connecting states to regional and global markets and facilitating travel, tourism and trade, air transport generates economic growth and development, provides jobs and fosters other socio-economic benefits. Director of marketing and operational support, Franklin ‘Bobby’ Vieira said officials from ICAO and CARICOM ministers of transport will meet to discuss, with the president of ICAO and regional directors, the way forward. “That is being coordinated through the CARICOM secretariat; the secretary general will also be making a presentation at the opening ceremony. The African Union is also very much a part in the conference itself as well at the international civil organisation,” he said. Some 192 signatory states of ICAO are expected to participate in the meeting which is to be held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal.
Businessman donates office equipment to police force
Businessman Cobeer ‘Anand’ Persaud hands over the supplies to Divisional Commander Assistant Commissioner Marlon Chapman
GUYANA Police Force ‘A’ Division (Georgetown and East Bank Demerara) received supplies donated by businessman Cobeer ‘Anand’ Persaud during a simple ceremony held at the commander’s Brickdam office, Georgetown. The businessman of 14 Peters Hall Public Road, East Bank Demerara, donated two computers and two printers (HP) . The office equipment earmarked for use at the Brickdam and Providence Police Stations were received by Divisional Commander As-
sistant Commissioner Marlon Chapman, during a simple ceremony at his Brickdam office. Persaud, popularly known as ‘Anand’ or ‘Cobeer’, is actively involved in activities that support law enforcement and has received many commendation awards from the GPF for his community-minded approach in the fight against crime, dating back since 1992. The owner and managing-director of C. Persaud Dental Lab located in front of his Peters Hall Property, Persaud has also been chairman
of the Providence Police Station Management Committee for the past 15 years and is fully aware of the needs of the station and those of the divisional headquarters. Commander Chapman applauded and thanked the donor who has been holding the rank of a rural sergeant for a quarter of a century for his timely donation of the much-needed pieces of equipment. The commander also used the opportunity to call on the other station management committees in ‘A’ Division to emulate the work of Cobeer ‘Anand’ Persaud.
11
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Young LGE candidate has big plans for Georgetown
INSPIRED by the late Desmond Hoyte, the youngest constituency candidate for Georgetown, Denroy Tudor, has great plans for his constituency and is confident of winning. Tudor is the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) candidate for constituency 14, contesting in the Local Government Elections (LGEs) slated for November 12th. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Tudor said that he has always loved serving his community, and has been privileged to assist in several areas of development during his formative years. He assisted in the erecting of several bus sheds within the community, along with most of the signage, and also played an instrumental part in the South Ruimveldt Women Empowerment Group. The LGE, he said, is simply another opportunity for him to better serve his constituency, and to better serve the people of South Ruimveldt Park. This young man has
a strong belief that leadership plays an integral role in the growth of a community, as well as the inclusion of the people in the decision-making and strategic planning of the way forward.
so as to ensure that we remind them that they are a part of the picture. Because these are individuals [for whom] we have seen their excellence, and we look forward to their guidance as we move
Denroy Tudor
“I certainly believe that community leaders are vital in the shaping and structuring of the community. What we have done throughout our campaign, we have embraced community leaders who have been working within their respective sub communities of Constituency 14,
forward,” Tudor said. He added that they have been meeting the people of Constituency 14, through house to house visits, and encouraging them and sharing with them their plans for this constituency. “I believe that we have the capacity to be the launch pad constituency
for the entire municipality of Georgetown. We are blessed with several green spaces within the constituency, a lot of the intelligentsia of Georgetown, as well as many business persons live within the constituency,” he said. Conveying some of his challenges being the youngest contender in his constituency, Tudor said that the people of South Ruimveldt Park have lost hope in electing a leader, given their past experiences with leaders who they put in the position and never lived up to their promises. “Some of the key challenges as a youth leader is that persons would have felt betrayed within the last elections because they would have seen [other party representatives] basically show up, just at the election time and never returned to actually assist the community. So I have had to try to assure persons that under the guid-
ance of the APNU and the steadfast partnership with the community and the council, we can get things done effectively,” he said. Tudor indicated some of the known challenges faced in his community, which through unity, cooperation and good leadership, can be overcome. “What we know are four of the major issues that presently exist within the constituency are drainage, lighting, general infrastructure concerns, and regular maintenance of green spaces. But as I would have said before, we are open to the issues of the people, and together as a partnership we will work towards resolving same,” he shared. Thus far, the young leader has earmarked a few projects which he deemed beneficial for South Ruimveldt Park. Together as a community, they are looking to ensure that a community centre is construct-
ed. This facility will be geared towards offering support for persons who are unskilled, and teach them trades such as mechanics, welding, arts and craft as well as ICT, so that they can better serve the constituency in some regard. This community centre, he said, will have the responsibility for Southern Georgetown. In addition to the centre, Tudor also made mention of formulating a constituency council which will offer guidance to the constituency. This council will comprise members or representatives of community groups within the constituency, as well as individuals who may have expertise in areas such as health, infrastructure, education, and members of religious bodies, along with some amount of urban planning within the constituency. This, he says, will provide clarity to tackle the major issues.
12
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Singh, Brassington were reckless –SG argues SOLICITOR General Kim Kyte-Thomas has argued that former Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and former National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Winston Brassington were reckless and breached their positions of trust when they sold prime state properties below market value. Kyte-Thomas made the
comments when she defended the state’s case against Singh and Brassington, who are both charged on three counts of misconduct in public office, contrary to the public law. They have challenged the charges, and presiding over the case is Chief Justice (CJ) (ag), Roxane George-Wiltshire. On Wednesday, the state was given the opportunity to respond to the contentions of the appellants. Leading
the defence, Kyte-Thomas highlighted that several contentions were made through written submissions; however, she addressed the issues of misconduct and recklessness, as those were the ingredients of the offence. Kyte-Thomas said that the allegation was made by the state that no valuation was done before those properties were sold. That is why the DPP, she said, made the contention that at least the minimum requirement should
have been a valuation from the government's valuation office. “They have got to be prudent vendors. It's not their personal property that can just be disposed freely. They were in a position of trust, holding public property on trust. And that is why I indicated in my submissions that the offence is in breach of trust. The ingredient of the offence,” Kyte-Thomas argued.
In addition to the no valuation being done contention, Kyte-Thomas also mentioned that a subsequent valuation was done by Rodriques Architects Associates; and the value at which the properties were sold was far below the value of the valuation done by Rodriquez. The contention in that regard, she said, is that they took the time to do a valuation by ‘Rodrigues’, but then they sold it for almost half of that. “This is not property owned by Ashni Singh and Brassington… The offence is the serious departure from proper standards…abuse of the public's trust of the office holder… You are dealing with the state's property,” she continued to argue. Kyte-Thomas also pointed to the appellants’ affidavits where they too accepted that the selling price must be a fair market value. “A valuation certainly will assist in determining what the market value is, even if there are other factors which can contribute, the valuation is the starting point…That is where the issue [sic] of conduct and recklessness comes [sic] in,” she said. The SG continued to argue emphatically on the grounds of the state’s contention, addressing issues identified by the CJ. The matter was then adjourned and is set to continue on Thursday, when a decision is likely to be made. After the charges were made and heard in the Magistrates’ Court, the duo had filed fixed-date applications at the High Court against the decision of the director of public prosecutions (DPP) to charge them. The first charge alleges that on Monday, December 28, 2009, by way of an agreement of sale and purchase, they “acted recklessly” when they sold to National Hardware Guyana Limited, lands amounting to 103.88 acres, property of the state for the sum of $598, 659, 398 (Vat exclusive) without first having procured a valuation of the said property from a competent valuation officer. The second charge alleges that the duo on Tuesday, December 30, 2008, by way of agreement of sale and purchase “without due diligence” sold to Scady Business Corporation, land located at Liliendaal, ECD, amounting to 4,700 acres, also the property of the state for the sum of $150,000,000 knowing that the said property was valued at
$340,000,000 by Rodrigues Architects Associates. The final charge alleges that the former finance minister and the former NICIL CEO on Saturday, May 14, 2011, by way of agreement of sale and purchase, “acted recklessly” when they sold to Multi-Cinemas Guyana Inc. 10, 002 acres of land located at Turkeyen, ECD, property of the state for the sum of $185, 037,000 without first having procured a valuation of the said property from a competent valuation officer. However, attorneys Anil Nandlall and Ronald Burch-Smith who are representing the duo are arguing that the allegations are illogical and incapable of truth. Their arguments were heard at several hearings before Acting Chief Justice (CJ) Roxane George, where the two attorneys emphasised that Singh and Brassington were acting as part of a collective. Singh as a member of cabinet and both Brassington and Singh as members of the board of directors. They stressed that their clients were simply carrying out the decision of these two agencies, and they have been charged and not the other members of the cabinet, nor the other members of the board. Mr. Nandlall further emphasised that the charges filed are unprecedented and the charge of misconduct has never been instituted. The common law for misconduct of Public officer cannot be applied to Guyana, since it is not within the Constitution of Guyana, he said. Addressing the question of “misconduct” as is used in the allegation, Nandlall argued that selling a property below market value is not unlawful; and there is no allegation that states that Singh and Brassington acted dishonestly. The allegation said they acted “recklessly”, due to the fact that they executed transaction without valuation. So Nandlall questioned if selling a plot of land without collecting valuation certificate is against the law. Explaining in his own words that all the valuation is, is someone’s opinion, and not conforming to someone’s opinion doesn’t make you a criminal.
13
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
SPL opens ice cream parlour at Enmore A NEW Igloo Ice Cream outlet at the Enmore Mall, East Coast Demerara, is using the magic of sweet treats to generate fun, positive human engagement and community spirit in the area. Launched on September 15, the newest Sterling Products Ltd (SPL) venture has quickly become a prime meeting place where families and passersby can unwind in a pleasant environment and enjoy Igloo’s Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, Cherry and Cookies and Cream ice-cream. Ice-cream lovers can also select from among other fun flavours such as Fudge Brownie, Pie Crust, Choco-Peanut, Lemon Cake and Sour-Sop. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sterling Products Ltd. Mr. Ramsay Ali said the launching of the Enmore Igloo Ice Cream facility was the continuation of a successful business model, whereby the company takes its top-quality ice-cream to selected locations and makes a positive social contribution by getting people from different cultural backgrounds to merge and mix, based on their shared love of sweet treats. The CEO explained that the Enmore outlet is practically a replica of Igloo Ice Cream’s thriving
A staff member at the new parlour showcases some of the products
outlet at Providence, East Bank Demerara. He said the Providence outlet was successfully remodelled and upgraded two years ago and has a popular playpark that is a big drawing card and a hub of social activities for families from nearby communities. “What you have seen at Providence is exactly what is happening at Enmore… Families are coming out on weekends, especially in the afternoons. They are bringing their children; they are buying ice-cream products and they are using the play area to have some fun…” Ali said. The CEO emphasised that his company’s business development model has a
strong social component that seeks to develop communities and enhance family ties. “What [Sterling products Ltd. has] done is to create the environment for people to come and spend quality time with their children…it is very wholesome…” Ali pointed out. He said SPL, which is ISO 9001: 2015 compliant, is considering opening similar outlets across Guyana. One is on the cards for East Berbice next year. He added that each facility is built and operated according to strict hygienic and safety standards; further, he disclosed that the Enmore facility’s children’s play-park complies with the highest standards of comfort and
safety. Visitors to the new icecream shop at Enmore will find that it is brightly lit and colourful. The team of six friendly staff all hail from the Enmore community. Apart from the muchsought-after Igloo IceCream flavours, patrons can also buy Ben & Jerry’s, Magnum and other icecream varieties. Other SPL sweet treats available include yoghurts, milkshakes and ice-cream cones. The outlet opens from 11:00hrs until 20:00hrs and sometimes later on weekends.
Opposition leader urges greater effort on voter education NOT satisfied with the Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOMs) education campaign on the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGEs) is Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo who has referred to the efforts as “sparse.” His comments were made on Wednesday at his weekly press conference where he also addressed his leading role in the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP’s) LGE campaign as opposed to a successive leader. “I don’t know much about this public education programme. I even had trouble remembering it because it’s so sparse. As to whether there has been anything done, I don’t know. It could be because I have not been tracking the programmes on T/V etcetera, I’ve been busy. But I’ve seen very little evidence of it,” Jagdeo stated. Regarding his role in the campaign, he said: “Our party leaders are right across the country. Each member of [the] central committee has an area of responsibility; they are having many public meetings; they are leading the meetings on the ground. “My press conference is a regular press conference and I don’t have a problem with going out there to bat for our candidates. I’m on the ballot [sic], they are …but I’m still the gener-
al-secretary of the party.” Speaking, too, on the government’s announcement that all public schools will be closed on Monday, November 12, 2018, to facilitate LGEs, the opposition leader stated that he is not against this provision. “I think people should allow their employees to go and vote. I saw the schools are to be closed to facilitate the voting at the polling places. People have a responsibility, a civic responsibility, to vote,” he said. He added that on the PPP’s political campaign, party members continue to reinforce the importance of voting; and Jagdeo reminded that during periods such as the1950s, this was not possible for all Guyanese. However, as recent as three years ago before the current administration, for some 23 years the PPP had failed to hold LGEs, choosing to replace outgoing councillors with Interim Management Committees. It wasn’t until March 2016 that the democratic process was restored. Nonetheless, again comparing the 1950s to present times, the opposition leader said: “Now that we have this right every one of us [must vote]. This is not for PPP supporters alone, this is for Guyanese; this is essentially a part of our freedom as people that now that we have this right we must exercise it.”
14
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
Businesses urged to become ISO-compliant AHEAD of first-oil in 2020 organisations within the private sector were sensitised on the importance of becoming International Organization for Standardization (ISO) compliant during an information session on Wednesday. The session took place at the Pegasus Hotel and was attended by several companies and organisations in the local sector. It was organised in collaboration with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI); the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD); the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) and the private Trinidad and Tobago company Streamline Management. Delivering opening remarks, Executive Director of the GCCI Richard Rambarran established that over the recent years, many Guyanese companies have not been receiving the specific ISO certification they need. He noted that this is concerning to the chamber of commerce as ?oil-and- gas sectors around the world depend highly on compliance
Executive Director of the GCCI Richard Rambarran (Delano Williams)
and internationally recognised certification. “We see that the business community is in need of support from organisations [which include] tailoring projects, tailoring workshops, tailoring information sessions to the needs of the private sector and, as such, we see it necessary to fill that void,” Rambarran said. Added to this, the GCCI is in the beginning stage of developing a roadmap document, which will be used by companies as a guide to becoming certified. “Right now it’s in the
conceptual stage; at the stage where we are in discussions. We want to identify key stakeholders who are involved in the development of the private sector. It is our intention to have it eventually finished sometime next year. It’s going to be an information booklet which will be distributed to the private sector and anybody can access it free of cost,” he explained on the sidelines. Meanwhile, a presentation came from CLBD Senior Business Specialist Natasha Gaskin-Peters, who expounded on why ISO standards are important to local companies. “Within the oil-and-gas industry standards, especially international standards are very important. You’ll find that for a company when they’re come in to a country, they do not rely on the national standards. They always bring international standards; this is what governs oil-andgas companies and it’s the same here in Guyana,” Gaskin-Peters explained. Some of the other benefits of international standards certification are: enhancement of safety operations; enhance-
Members of the audience at the Pegasus Hotel on Wednesday (Delano Williams)
ment of technical integrity; reduction of costs and waste and assured quality. The three ISO compliance programmes being offered by CLBD: ISO 9001- Quality Managment Systems; ISO 45001 - Occupational Health and Safety Management and ISO 14001 -Environmental Management Systems. Gaskin-Peters disclosed that it ?takes about 200 hours minimum or within roughly three months for a committed company to become IOS-compliant. Because of its limited
resources, the CLBD can train only a handful of businesses at a time; this is why other companies, such as Streamline Management, are welcome. GCCI’s partnership with Streamline saw presentations coming from Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Lecturer at Streamline Management Everol Wilikie. Wilikie announced that the company is hoping to soon be established in Guyana and addressed the topic of ISO assessment and implementation. He stated that oftentimes, persons who pursue
?ISO9001 often forget about ISO9002 and ISO9004; these tell companies how to implement and sustain their standards respectively. “When these fundamental principles are understood, there’s little room for error, there’s little room for challenges,” he told the audience. The ISO is a network of institutions in over 160 countries which seeks to establish standards for quality and requirements of products, services and systems, to ensure quality, safety and efficiency.
15
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
Bandits attack Corentyne family BANDITS struck in the Central Corentyne area on Tuesday night, leaving a family of Bush Lot Farm without their savings and other valuables. At approximately 22:45hrs, two men, both armed with handguns, barged into the yard of Sasewattie Singh and held her son Tameshwar Singh, 19, at gunpoint. He was in a hammock under the house. The men escorted him upstairs after relieving him of his Samsung cellphone. They then bound him and placed him on the floor while demanding cash and valuables. By this time Sasewattie said she was awakened by the sound of the men making demands. When
she and her 18-her-old daughter came out of the bedroom to enquire, they were confronted by the two men. A bag containing their savings of $45,000 in cash, several pieces of jewellery, including two pairs of gold jingles, four finger rings and two cell phones were given to the men. Before leaving, one of the men told Sasewattie he was paid to kill her but he left. “The tall one tell me how a man pay he to kill me and me ask him who, and he say one millionaire man, but when me ask why and what he name, them just left. I wasn’t really worried cause I don’t really know no rich people and if he
Packed calendar of activities for Tourism Awareness Month A NUMBER of activities have been planned for Tourism Awareness Month, with the aim of highlighting Guyana as a leading sustainable destination. The activities were officially launched on October 31st under the theme ‘Tourism: Promoting Sustainability, Celebrating Diversity’ when Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin emphasised the need for Guyana to boost its tourism awareness. With that mandate in mind, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), in collaboration with the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), has planned a series of events to take place during this month. This will see special emphasis being placed on nature, adventure and cultural experiences and encouraging all Guyanese to celebrate the diversity of their tourism products. In an effort to increase public awareness about this, a Tourism Sector Fair is planned for November 9th from 12:00hs at the Giftland Mall, according to a release. The GTA is encouraging persons to visit the fair and learn about available tours and opportunities to see the beauty of Guyana, which will be promoted by companies such as Old Fort Tours, Dagron Tours, Rainforest Tours, Evergreen Adventures, Lake Mainstay and Aruwai Resort. GTA Director Brian Mullis, at the launching of Tourism Awareness Month, assured that the GTA will continue to work to ensure that Guyanese have access
to affordable special tours, not only in November, but all year-round. This, he explained, would allow citizens to better connect with operators, while the interaction will serve as a stimulus for local travel within the destination. Meanwhile, the Travel Industry and Operations Division of the GTA has planned a series of ‘school talks’ countrywide to run from November 8-14. Participating schools include the Linden Foundation Secondary School, Tutorial High School, JC Chandisingh Secondary School, and the Anna Regina Secondary School. A series of topics will be discussed with the students which are geared towards highlighting the importance of tourism to national development. Through the various presentations, participants will be exposed to literature centred on the month’s theme. One of the main aims of this activity is to foster a sense of ownership among students for the tourism products within the identified communities. Then on November 24, 2018, persons can get ready to once again experience the exciting ‘Scavenger Hunt’ planned by the GTA. The fun- filled physical activity is intended to engage the younger generation by promoting teamwork and driving conversations about tourism. Other events to come also include: Guyana Restaurant Week, Regional Tourism Planning & Development Workshops and the launch of the Guyana Rum Route, among others.
wanted to kill me he wouldn’t tell me,” she related. The men wore dark clothing and had masks and toques on. One was described as tall and big built while the other as short. Both brandished ‘shiney’ hand guns. The men left on foot and the police arrived shortly after but were unable to locate anyone matching the description provided. The family is calling for increased police patrol in the area, especially the back streets, because this is the third robbery since Friday last within the neighbouring villages of Maida and Bush Lot Farm on the Corentyne. Police investigations are ongoing.
Thank you for your cooperation
Outgoing U.S. Ambassador Perry Holloway and Deputy Chief of Mission, Mr. Terry Steers-Gonzalez on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mr. Basil Williams, S.C at his Carmichael Street, Georgetown office. Mr Holloway who is on a farewell tour to public officials before his departure thanked the Attorney General for his cooperation during his tenure. The Ambassador paid the visit as part of his concluding tour as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America
16
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Guyana observes World Radiography Day
A radiographer at Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital conducting a CT scan procedure
RADIOLOGISTS and Radiographers are being encouraged to celebrate and promote their profession so as to attract others to join the corps. The call was made by Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, who indicated that this human resource is vital to the sustainability of the health sector. “I wish to encourage our core of radiology and radiography professionals to promote the profession and spread the word to our young graduates that this field can be a viable and specialised alternative career in which they can contribute to the betterment of human life.” The Public Health Ministry is recognising the two professions as World Radiography Day and the 7th International Day of Radiology was observed on Wednesday. According to Minister Lawrence, they play a critical role in providing information to aid in the medical diagnoses and treatment of diseases and patients’ condition. She charged this corps of medical technologists to
focus on the trending incidents of non-communicable diseases and, more importantly, to note the significant percentage of citizens who are suffering from cardiac and cardiovascular diseases. “We want to celebrate with our radiologists and to charge you to continue to enhance your skills, so that our imaging techniques are sharpened, and we can thereby impact on the mortality and morbidity of our cardiac patients through detection, diagnosis and management, and increase the quality of care and treatment of our cardiac patients,” Minister Lawrence indicated. While the observance of World Radiography Day promotes the profession, the 7th International Day of Radiology 2018 focusses more on cardiac imaging which is this year’s theme. The date set aside for World Radiography Day and International Day of Radiology marks the anniversary of the discovery of x-radiation by Wilhelm Roentgen in 1895.
17
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
Jagdeo baulks at BBCI 19-year extension request …says company should show revenue management OPPOSITION Leader Bharrat Jagdeo does not support the Berbice Bridge Company Inc.’s (BBCIs) proposal of 19-year concession extension and wants the company to instead provide evidence that it has not mismanaged its revenues. The opposition leader’s statement comes just days after the BBCI board had requested that Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson, provide legal evidence to support the government’s decision to temporarily supervise the bridge operations.
On Wednesday at his weekly press conference, Jagdeo stated that the BBCI’s proposal is unjustified and the focus of the government should be placed on the company’s failure to meet its obligations over the years. It is widely believed that Jagdeo, under whose tenure the bridge was constructed, has deep connections to the players at the BBCI. “The bridge company made a proposal not to increase any toll, but to extend the life of the agreement that we signed for another 19
years, so that there would be no toll increase. My position on that is that it is not justified by any economics to extend the life of the bridge agreement by another 19 years to keep it in the hands of the company,” the opposition leader said. He further added: “We made it clear that the revenue is performing better in the Concession Agreement than was predicted. So, clearly, the company has to justify, in great detail, why it has not met all of its obligations to the shareholders and investors.”
Second rice crop impressive -GRDB says Regions 4, 5, 6 & 9 exceed national average DESPITE a few setbacks within the rice industry the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) has recorded an impressive second-crop harvest, the Ministry of Agriculture has said. Figures have shown Regions Four, Five, Six and Nine thus far exceeding the national average of 35 bags per acre and reaching 38 bags per acre. General Manager of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) Mr. Nizam Hassan in an invited comment, lauded the efforts of farmers who prevailed despite the many challenges, ensuring that the rice industry continues its upward trend. He added that while harvesting has not yet been
completed, four regions have already exceeded the projected national average with Regions Two and Three slightly behind. According to the ministry, thus far, Region Two at the end of October had harvested 97.5 percent of total harvest with 34 bags per acre. Region Three stands at 97.4 percent with 32 bags per acre. “Region Four has already completed harvesting and has a recorded 43.4 bags per acre which is commendable, while Regions, Five, Six and Nine have not yet completed harvesting, but at the end of October recorded 37.3, 42.0 and 46.0 bags per acre,” the general manager noted. Of the rice-growing
regions in Guyana, Regions Nine, Four and Six are leading in terms of the amount of bags per acre farmers received. This the general manager credits to not only the sterling contributions of the farmers, but also to the work of the extension arm of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB); the contribution of the newly introduced GRDB 15 and the adoption of the Six-Point practice system.The Six-Point Management Practice System has been introduced across Guyana. It deals with the time of sowing, planting density, seed treatment, a balanced fertilisation, weed control and effective water management.
He read from a document which outlined the BBCI’s returns in the last 12 years since the Berbice River Bridge Act was enacted in 2006, to prove that the company was receiving significant revenues. “The bridge needs to justify how in the face of increased revenue, beyond the model, they cannot meet their obligations; it’s a management issue. They have to demonstrate what happened there,” he said, adding: “The revenue stream in
Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo (Delano Williams)
the model performed better than what it was predicted to. So if the revenues stream performed better, why is it that you need to have an extension of even any toll increase because the original model said two minor toll increases: six per cent and seven per cent. Why now 300 per cent? That is what they [the government] should ask…did your cost go beyond [what was] predicted? If so, who is to be blamed?” Jagdeo recommended that
a financial analyst be used to examine the unknowns. The BBCI has reported over G$6B in debts. Patterson had announced in the National Assembly last Thursday that upon government’s request, the BBCI had presented a portion of its audited accounts, while the government was still awaiting the remaining information for transmission to the Ministry of Finance.
18
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
More females than males have Type 2 diabetes –– study finds By Lisa Hamilton THE first estimate of diabetes prevalence in Guyana
based on actual glycaemic measures estimate that Guyana’s national prevalence in diabetes is higher
than previously estimated. The data for this conclusion was collected by a team of Canadian and Guyanese investigators and presented by Professor at the University of Toronto Department of
Surgery, Dr. Brian Ostrow. His presentation titled, “Estimation of Type 2 Diabetes Prevalence and Validation of new Diabetes Risk Score in Guyana,” was delivered during the 11th Annual
Guyana Medical Scientific Research Conference on Sunday. The findings show that while other research have estimated Guyana’s national diabetes prevalence to stand at 11.2 per cent, research in keeping with the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) have estimated the actual figure to stand at some 17 per cent (ages: 25-65). The IDF recommends a two-step detection programme, which identifies high-risk individuals via questionnaires, followed by glycaemic measures of these high-risk individuals. “Prior to this study there was no data on diabetes prevalence in Guyana. Previous estimates in the ‘Diabetes Atlas’ published by the International Diabetes Federation are extrapolated from other countries that are [said to] have similar socio-economic and ethnic diversity. So, this information from Guyana is significant,” Dr. Ostrow explained. To gather the prevalence data, the Public Health Ministry provided the researchers with the raw data from a 2016 STEPS (Stepwise Approach to Chronic Disease Surveillance). It was a national study conducted in all 10 regions of Guyana. Out of the coded responses to STEPS questions and coded results of blood tests received, the team analysed 798 persons with blood tests linked to 36 STEPS questions. It found that there was a 13.7 per cent prevalence of males with Type 2 diabetes and a 19 per cent prevalence in females. HIGHER THAN PREVIOUS ESTIMATES “This is the first estimate of diabetes prevalence in Guyana based on actual glycaemic measures and is higher than previous estimates based on extrapolation,” Dr. Ostrow said. He added: “The actual number of people in Guyana with diabetes is about twice
the number currently diagnosed [while the] female to male diabetes ratio is less than previously recorded.” Dr. Ostrow stated, too, that due to a long asymptomatic pre-clinical phase of Type 2 Diabetes, a significant number of persons may be undiagnosed. A total of 72 persons were placed in the ‘undiagnosed category,’ meaning that they had been tested positive and had either no previous sugar testing done, or had never been told they have diabetes. Meanwhile, more than half or 52 per cent of those diagnosed were unaware of their condition. However, the professor reminded that early diagnosis and treatment has proven to be significantly beneficial in reducing the risk factors of glycaemia and cardiovascular issues. The STEPS questions also analysed correlated factors to Type 2 Diabetes such as sex, age, ethnic background, smoking habits, Body Mass Index (BMI), history and results of previous blood sugar measurements and more, which could be utilised in the risk score. Pointing out that the Ministry of Public Health is interested in the development of a Guyana Diabetes Risk Score (GDRS), Dr. Ostrow said: “Risk scores developed in Caucasian populations cannot be applied to other populations of diverse ethnic origins.” He added: “We recommended a risk score of 10 or more which maximises sensitivity with a reasonable number of false positives; either trigger or biochemical verification of Type 2 diabetes status in any subsequent survey. Thirty-five per cent of the population is ruled out with this score.” The team’s work was funded by the World Diabetes Foundation and the University of Toronto; its next step in Guyana is to examine the urban and rural distribution of Type 2 Diabetes.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
19
20
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, November 8, 2018
21
22
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Essequibo crowned GCB Franchise League U-17 champions ESSEQUIBO Under-17 female team won the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Franchise league Under-17 T-20 tournament after producing a dominant performance over their opponents. While the tournament was hampered by a few hiccups, where standard umpiring was the key issue, Essequibo, under the guidance of head coach Ryan Hercules and Forbes Daniels, defied all the odds to be crowned champions. Essequibo tied with Lower Corentyne on 30 points, but Essequibo were crowned champions because they won their match against Lower Corentyne. In yesterday’s encounter, Essequibo defeated West Berbice by 17 runs at Wales, WCD. Essequibo won the toss and batted first, scoring
106-4 in 15 overs. Anisa D’Aguair top scored with 18 not out. Bowling for West Berbice, Marisa Telford collected 2-19. West Berbice in reply made 89-7 in 15 overs, with Tia Issacs (21) and Tiernicia Solomon (11). Bowling for Essequibo, Divine Ross picked up 3-19. Over at Wales, West Demerara won the toss and mustered 140-5 in 20 overs. Jamaica Simon hit an unbeaten 29 while Africa Gentle collected 3-23 and Hemwanttie Mohabir 1-30. In reply, Africa Gentle hit 56 in a losing effort. West Demerara failed to reach their target and fell short by two runs, scoring 139-7 from their allotted 20 overs. Simon was the most destructive bowler, grabbing 3-23 while she gained support from Ariana Buckan, Rebika Renee and Vauni Pitamber, who took one wicket apiece.
American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Pioneerof New York Race 2 Carrera Cat Race 3 Moment Of Triumph Race 4 Bail Out Race 5 Honey I’m Good Race 6 Constant Knight Race 7 Trustworthy Race 8 Mr Maybe Race 9 Our Last Buck Arab Emirates Racing Tips Meydan 10:30 hrs Martial Art 11:05 hrs Storm Belt 11:40 hrs Roy Orbison 12:15 hrs Pilgrim’s Treasure 12:50 hrs Native Appeal 13:25 hrs Ajraam 14:00 hrs First Down South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:10 hrs Torio Lake 08:50 hrs Cardiff Castle 09:25 hrs Seventh Rule 10:00 hrs Western Dance 10:40 hrs Shezahotti 11:15 hrs Flattley English Racing Tips Newbury
In the game between Lower Corentyne and Georgetown over at Enterprise, Lower Corentyne won the toss and batted first. They scored 176-4 in 20 overs. Shana Simon top scored with 32, while Niveena Rannauth supported with 25. Bowling for Georgetown, Emalissa Whyte picked up 3-35 while Alisa Brandon supported with one wicket. Georgetown were then restricted to 20-8 in seven overs. Niveena Ramnauth ripped through the batting line up with 5-8 and Anisa Samaroo supported with 3-11. East Coast, winning the toss and batting, made 1633 in their 20 overs. Shemika Edwards scored an unbeaten 51 while Sarah Amin was also not out on 14. Upper Corentyne in reply struggled to reach their total, scoring 101-8 in 20 overs. Shaina Farzer top scored with 11.
08:40 hrs New Quay 09:15 hrs Mister Fisher 09:30 hrs Lostintranslation 10:25 hrs Duhallow Grsture 10:55 hrs Ready And Able 11:30 mhrs Kapcorse 12:00 hrs Genius Market Rasen 08:55 hrs Idilico 09:30 hrs Festival Dawn 10:05 hrs Casablanca Mix 10:35 hrs Forgot To Ask 11:10 hrs Show’s Over 11:40 hrs Malangen Sedgefield 09:05 hrs Millie The Minx 09:40 hrs Kovera 10:15 hrs Informateur 10:45 hrs Stormbay Bomber 11:20 hrs Handy Hollow 11:50 hrs I’m To Blame Irish Racing Tips Thurles 08:45 hrs Ashjan 09:20 hrs Jaunty Thor 09:55 hrs Tara Dylan 10:30 hrs Rain In Spain 11:00 hrs Toor General 11:35 hrs Moratorium 12:10 hrs Silk And Sand
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Torginol goes Radical with Jeffrey KRISTIAN Jeffrey will enter the Radical Caribbean Cup with a ‘fresh coat of paint’ from Torginol after the company branded his SR3 yesterday. At a brief ceremony, Mohamed S. Ally, company secretary of the paint brand, contended that the partnership represented a pair of aces. “Kristian is an ace driver in this country and Torginol is top notch when it comes to paint, so ace with ace is a winning team,” Ally added. Ally did not rule out the idea of a deal extending beyond the race meet, saying that, “There is a distinct possibility that this may be so, but I don’t commit 100% to that right now. This is our first getting-together with Kristian and let us hope that it grows from strength to strength.” He continued, “Kristian is a winner and Torginol paint is a winner and we will paint the entire racetrack W.I.N.” Jeffrey believes that with
the new-look on his Radical, he is definitely better equipped to take on the competition. “Torginol came on board and as Mr Ally said, ‘it’s the best paint in Guyana’, so hopefully, I can help to market the product better.” “Definitely with this help, it puts us in a better position. We’ve acquired some more tyres to do some additional testing, and we should be up there to win,” Jeffrey added. Jeffrey, along with fellow Guyanese Mark Vieira and Calvin Ming, will represent team Guyana in the cup. Barbados has the Maloney brothers in point leader Stuart, third placed Mark and Sean Maloney. Second placed Isa Deen, out of Trinidad, will be joined by countrymen, Luke Bhola and Kristian Boodoosingh, to confirm the nine car line up. The first of the three twenty-lap races will take place on Saturday, with the remaining two set for Sunday.
Kaur’s half-century inspires India to 11-run warm-up win over England By Michelangelo Jacobus THE Indian women cricketers did just enough with bat and ball to defeat England by 11 runs in their warm-up match yesterday at the Providence National Stadium. and then restricted England to 133 for 8. After winning the toss, India elected to bat and managed a challenging total of 144 for 6, a par total on a bouncy Providence pitch which seemed a batting paradise. They got off to a brisk start, but in the second over, Smriti Mandhana, who played a couple of attractive cuts through the offside, holed out to midwicket off the bowling of Natalie Sciver with the score on 14. Jemimah Rodrigues and opener Mitali Raj then combined to take their team past 50 before the 18-year-old Rodrigues was out caught off of Heather Knight for 21 after getting a start. Raj was the next to go and this triggered a mini-collapse as Vida Krishnamurthy (3) and Dayalam Hemalatha (0) soon followed her back to the pavilion with india in trouble at 70 for 5. India’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur led from the front with an unbeaten half century (62 not out) and combined with Deepti Sharma (18) to bail India out with a partnership of 54. Kaur ’s knock was especially fluent, laced with six boundaries and three maximums; she almost single-handedly ensured that India ended with a challenging total of 144 for the loss of six wickets. Spinner Heather Knight, who is also captain, was the pick of the English bowlers and helped restrict India with figures of two wickets for just 9 runs off of 2.1 overs; she was supported by Danielle Hazell, who picked
up two wickets for 28 runs off of three overs, while Sophie Ecclestone and Natalie Sciver had one wicket each. In response, the English got off to a slow start which set the tone for the rest of the innings. Openers Danielle Wyatt and Tamsin Beaumont combined for 32 runs before the latter was caught in the deep by Deepti Sharma off the bowling of spinner Radha Yadav for 12. Natalie Sciver then joined Wyatt and together they saw England past 50 before Sciver was stumped by the keeper Tania Bhatya off of Poonam Yadav with the score at 51. That brought Skipper Knight to the crease and she barely lasted three deliveries before she became Poonam’s second victim. Despite the wickets tumbling all around her, Wyatt held her own and scored a resilient 54 off of 53 deliveries, striking just two fours before she was out, caught and bowled by Deepti Sharma, at a critical juncture to leave England at 108-5 in the 16th over. No other batter put up any sort of resistance despite a couple of them getting starts; Laura Winfield made 19 before she too was out caught in the deep and that signalled the beginning of the end for England. Jenny Gunn was stumped off the last delivery of the match with England 11 runs shy of India’s total. Poonam Yadav stood out for the Indian bowlers, claiming 3 for 20 off her four overs and she was ably supported by Radha Yadav and Deepti Sharma who had figures of 2 for 21 (four overs) and 2 for 28 (four overs), respectively. India will start their T20 World Cup campaign tomorrow at the Providence Stadium against New Zealand at 11:00hrs.
23
24
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Moeen Ali & Ben Foakes star as tourists dominate in Galle ….Foakes’ dream debut continues GALLE, Sri Lanka (Reuters) - Ben Foakes marked his Test debut with a century and impressed with his glovework, too, as England bowled out Sri Lanka for 203 before stretching their lead to 177 runs on the second day of the opening test. The tourists were 38 without loss at stumps on Wednesday after their bowlers, led by off-spinner Moeen Ali, had earned them a handy 139-run first innings lead at the Galle International Stadium. Keaton Jennings was on 26 and debutant Rory Burns still with him on 11, hoping to make amends after managing only nine in the first innings. All eyes had been on Foakes at the start of play, when he resumed needing 13 runs for a century in his first test innings with England on 321-8. The 25-year-old hit the first ball of the day for a boundary but was in danger of running out of partners after
Jack Leach became off-spinner Dilruwan Perera’s fifth victim.
second England wicketkeeper, after Matt Prior, to score a century on his Test debut.
Ben Foakes brings up his maiden Test ton (Getty Images)
However, number 11 batsman James Anderson survived long enough for Foakes to reach three figures before falling to paceman Suranga Lakmal. Foakes hit 10 boundaries in his sparkling 107 and is the
The Anderson-Foakes pairing was soon back in tandem in the field, combining to dismiss Dimuth Karunaratne caught behind off the second ball of the Sri Lankan innings. With the hosts reeling
on 40-4, former captain Angelo Mathews arrested the slide in a 75-run stand with skipper Dinesh Chandimal, who braved a groin injury to make 33. Foakes effected a smart stumping to dismiss Chandimal off an Adil Rashid legbreak and remained in the thick of the action by pouching a couple of catches. Mathews hit three boundaries in his patient 52, silencing questions about his fitness and running between the wickets, but fell to Moeen off the first ball after the tea break. England’s three-pronged spin attack grabbed eight of the 10 Sri Lankan wickets, with Moeen claiming 4-66 as Sri Lanka folded soon after crossing the 200-mark. Sri Lanka’s top-order collapse mirrored England’s wretched start in the first innings, but lacked a Foakesstyle rescue in their middle order.
SCOREBOARD
ENGLAND 1st innings Rory Burns c Niroshan Dickwella b Suranga Lakmal 9 Keaton Jennings b Dilruwan Perera 46 Moeen Ali b Suranga Lakmal 0 Joe Root b Rangana Herath 35 Ben Stokes b Dilruwan Perera 7 Jos Buttler c Niroshan Dickwella b Dilruwan Perera 38 Ben Foakes c Dhananjaya de Silva b Suranga Lakmal 107 Sam Curran c Dinesh Chandimal b Akila Dananjaya 48 Adil Rashid c Dhananjaya de Silva b Dilruwan Perera 35 Jack Leach c Dhananjaya de Silva b Dilruwan Perera 15 James Anderson Not Out 0 Extras: 1b 1lb 0nb 0pen 0w 2 Total: (97.0 overs) 342 all out Fall of Wickets : 1-10 Burns, 2-10 Ali, 3-72 Root, 4-98 Jennings, 5-103 Stokes, 6-164 Buttler, 7-252 Curran, 8-306 Rashid, 9-330 Leach, 10-342 Foakes Bowling: Suranga Lakmal 18-5-73-3, Dilruwan Perera 31-675-5, Akila Dananjaya 20-2-96-1, Rangana Herath 25-4-78-1, Dhananjaya de Silva 3-0-18-0. ................................................................ SRI LANKA 1st innings Dimuth Karunaratne c Ben Foakes b James Anderson 4 Kaushal Silva lbw Sam Curran 1 Dhananjaya de Silva b Moeen Ali 14 Kusal Mendis c Ben Stokes b Jack Leach 19 Angelo Mathews c Keaton Jennings b Moeen Ali 52 Dinesh Chandimal st Ben Foakes b Adil Rashid 33 Niroshan Dickwella c Jos Buttler b Moeen Ali 28 Dilruwan Perera c Jos Buttler b Jack Leach 21 Akila Dananjaya c Ben Foakes b Moeen Ali 0 Suranga Lakmal c James Anderson b Adil Rashid 15 Rangana Herath Not Out 14 Extras: 0b 2lb 0nb 0pen 0w 2 Total: (68.0 overs) 203 all out Fall of Wickets : 1-4 Karunaratne, 2-10 Silva, 3-34 Mendis, 4-40 de Silva, 5-115 Chandimal, 6-136 Mathews, 7-171 Dickwella, 8-173 Perera, 9-175 Perera, 10-203 Lakmal Bowling: James Anderson 10-0-26-1, Sam Curran 6-1-16-1, Jack Leach 18-2-41-2, Moeen Ali 21-4-66-4, Adil Rashi 9-1-30-2, Ben Stokes 4-0-22-0. ................................................................ ENGLAND 2nd innings Rory Burns Not Out 11 Keaton Jennings Not Out 26 Extras: 0b 1lb 0nb 0pen 0w 1 Total: (12.0 overs) 38-0 Bowling: Dilruwan Perera 5-0-12-0, Suranga Lakmal 3-0-14-0, Rangana Herath 3-0-10-0, Akila Dananjaya 1- 0-1-0.
Howard sacked as Australia’s high performance chief Vietnam to host Formula One race in Hanoi from 2020 By Ian Ransom
MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Cricket Australia (CA) announced on Wednesday that high performance chief Pat Howard will leave his role next week as the fallout from a scathing cultural review into the governing body continues.
Pat Howard
Howard, who has been in the role since 2011, had intended to stay until the Ashes tour of England next year, the governing body announced last month, a week before releasing the Longstaff review. However, he becomes the latest executive to fall in the wake of the review, which CA commissioned after the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town in March. “While Pat Howard has previously made clear his intentions not to renew his contract next year, it has been decided to bring forward his departure which will take effect next week after a hando-
ver,” CA said in a statement. “Belinda Clark ... has agreed to take on the role of Interim EGM, Team Performance until Pat’s permanent replacement is announced in the new year.” The Longstaff review criticised CA for fostering a culture of “winning without counting the cost” and blamed the governing body in part for the ball-tampering crisis, which led to the suspensions of former captain Steve Smith and two other players. Australian cricket has struggled to recover from the crisis, with its men’s teams losing a test series to Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates and being whitewashed 5-0 by England in a one-day international series. Aaron Finch’s one-day side were thrashed by six wickets by South Africa in Perth on Sunday in the first of a three-match ODI series, which was also the first international match of the Australian summer. Appointed in 2011, former rugby international Howard was a polarising figure in the role, with former players and pundits questioning his lack of a significant cricket background. But CA CEO Kevin Roberts said Howard’s tenure had been a success, praising him for bringing high performance into the “21st century” and helping deliver World Cups for both the
men’s and women’s national teams. CA would look for a replacement with “deep cricket experience”, Roberts told reporters in Melbourne on Wednesday. “I’ll be seeking the counsel of other cricket experts in terms of determining our future direction,” he said. CA also said broadcasting executive Ben Amarfio had left the business on Wednesday, with Stephanie Beltrame stepping into a new role as Interim EGM Broadcasting and Commercial. The changes come on the heels of Chairman David Peever’s decision to quit on Thursday after his position became untenable, while long-serving board director Mark Taylor, the former Australia captain, announced his resignation on Monday. CA installed deputy chairman Earl Eddings as an interim replacement for Peever and said last week it would seek someone to take on the role permanently. On Wednesday, however, Roberts said there would be no “significant change at executive level” in coming months, barring the interim appointments being made permanent. “From here on we’re about growing and building and moving beyond these tough decisions and tough times for some people that we really respect to take the game forward,” he said.
By James Pearson, Khanh Vu
HANOI (Reuters) - Vietnam will host a Formula One grand prix for the first time in 2020 with a street race in the capital Hanoi, organisers said on Wednesday. The Vietnamese Grand Prix is the first entirely new addition to the calendar since U.S.-based Liberty Media took over as commercial rights holders last year and replaced former dealmaker and supremo Bernie Ecclestone. “We are delighted to announce that Hanoi will host a Formula One Grand Prix,” the sport’s chairman Chase Carey said in a statement. “Since we became involved in this sport in 2017, we have talked about developing new destination cities to broaden the appeal of Formula One and the Vietnamese Grand Prix is a realisation of that ambition. “We are thrilled to be here in Hanoi, one of the most exciting cities in the world right now with such a rich history and an incredible future ahead of it.” The South-East Asian country is a growing market for sponsors such as brewer Heineken and will give the region four races on the calendar again after the departure of Malaysia last year. The others are China, Singapore and Japan. Ecclestone told Reuters last year that he had talks with the Vietnamese about a race while he was in charge but had decided, despite the money on offer, against it because he felt there were enough
in that part of the world already. Wednesday’s announcement was marked with a launch party held inside the centuries-old walls of central Hanoi’s Thang Long citadel and featuring electronic music and traditional dance and drumming. Retired British F1 driver David Coulthard also attended with a Red Bull demonstration car.
hit the streets next August. The Hanoi race will be run on a 5.565-km layout in the west of the city, adding another street race to the existing ones in Monaco, Singapore, Azerbaijan and Melbourne’s Albert Park in Australia. Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Nguyen Duc Chung said the race would reflect
Formula One boss Chase Carey
Vietnamese prime minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc had met Carey earlier. “This is an important event not only in the field of sport but also in culture and society, contributing to the development of Vietnam,” Phuc said in a government statement. Vietnam’s largest conglomerate, Vingroup JSC, has signed a “multi-year deal” to host the event, the Formula One press release said, without elaborating. VinFast, a unit of Vingroup, is set to become Vietnam’s first fully-fledged domestic car manufacturer when its first production models built under its own badge
Vietnam’s ability to hold global events. “It provides an opportunity for inward investment to Vietnam and importantly to bring the exciting wheel-to-wheel racing of Formula One to the people of Vietnam,” he said. While the country does not have much of a tradition of motorsports, sporting events or competitions in which the national team does even marginally well are widely watched and passionately celebrated. There will again be 21 races on the 2019 calendar, with the same races.
25
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Boult hat-trick scripts comfortable Kiwis win in first ODI
TRENT Boult’s hat-trick set New Zealand on their way to a 47-run defeat of Pakistan in their first one-day international in Abu Dhabi. Black Caps bowler Boult lit up the contest with a six to end one innings - scoring an unbeaten eight off three balls - and a treble early in the next, becoming the third male Kiwi to achieve the feat in an ODI. Pakistan looked in trouble from then on, with Shadab Khan’s own fine show of bowling (4-38) unable to secure a more realistic target than 267 as the influential Ross Taylor hit 80. And Sarfraz Ahmed’s side were blown away by wickets in short bursts - the first of which belonged to man-of-the-match Boult (3-54) - and fell some way short, all out on 219. Despite the best efforts of Shaheen Afridi (4-46) and Shadab, New Zealand looked to be progressing steadily towards 300 thanks to a fourth-wicket stand of 130 between Taylor and Tom Latham (68). Their effort had been interrupted midway through the innings, however, as Taylor
appeared to take issue with Mohammad Hafeez’s bowling action, prompting a lengthy back-and-forth with Pakistan captain Sarfraz.
olls lbw in consecutive balls, with Colin de Grandhomme removed two deliveries later. After three wickets in four balls for no runs, Pakistan
Trent Boult became the third New Zealander to pick up an ODI hat-trick. © (Getty Images)
But the Black Caps soon had bigger problems as Shadab came to the fore, having earlier taken care of opposing skipper Kane Williamson for 27. A devastating 42nd over, which began with New Zealand on 208-3, saw Shadab trap Latham and Henry Nich-
did not stop there. Taylor’s innings was ended by Imad Wasim, the ball edged down into the stumps. However, Ish Sodhi (24) and Tim Southee (20) combined for 42 to keep New Zealand ticking over before Afridi intervened, the innings ended at 266-9.
And Williamson’s men quickly took control against the Pakistan top order, with Boult’s sensational hat-trick including the popular wicket of Hafeez - limiting the early scoring to 8-3. The Black Caps’ momentum was checked by remaining opener Imam-ulHaq (34) and Shoaib Malik (30) and their partnership of 63, before Sarfraz showed similar grit to keep his side in with a chance. Yet even the most optimistic Pakistan batsman must have known their target was beyond them, Imad’s late 50 quickly followed by his departure to Southee. That prompted another flurry of wickets as Lockie Ferguson (3-36) removed Hasan Ali (16) and Afridi in consecutive balls to end the innings in style 16 deliveries early. (Brief scores: New Zealand 266/9 in 50 overs (Ross Taylor 80, Tom Latham 68; Shadab Khan 4-38, Shaheen Afridi 4-46) beat Pakistan 219 in 47.2 overs (Sarfraz Ahmed 64, Imad Wasim 50; Trent Boult 3-54, Lockie Ferguson 3-36) by 47 runs).
Maroof stars in Pakistan 8-run win over Bangladesh
Bismah Maroof
BISMAH Maroof starred in Pakistan’s eight-run win over Bangladesh in Tuesday night’s practice match ahead of the ICC Women’s World T20 2018 tournament at the National Stadium. Maroof, who was included in the squad quite
late as she was recovering after a sinus surgery, slammed 22 to show her fitness, as Pakistan scored 106-7 after they decided to bat first. Captain Javeria Khan chipped in with 21. For Bangladesh, Captain Salma Khatun and Khadiza-Tul Kubra grabbed two wickets each. Maroof also grabbed two wickets with her useful slow bowling as Pakistan held off Bangladesh’s challenge and restricted them to below the three-figure mark. Former captain Sana Mir, who recently became the top-ranked bowler in the MRF Tyres ICC ODI Women’s Player Rankings, also took two wickets, as did Aiman Anwar.
Dick’s six-wicket spell fails Two batsmen in New Zealand have set to stop MYO in U-17 cricket a record by scoring 43 runs in an over THE Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) recovered from a deadly spell of off spin bowling from Dwain Dick to register an 18-run victory against the Georgetown Eco Champs in a low-scoring clash in the GCA/Friends of Cricket Hundred Overs U-17 tournament on Wednesday at the GNIC ground. MYO won the toss and batted first. They had some success early with national U-15 captain Zeynul Ramsammy playing some exquisite shots. The number three batsman finished with a match high 32 runs (6x4s) and featured in a 52-run third-wicket partnership with Tomani Caesar (15 runs 3x4s). The partnership ended after Dick got into the ‘spin of things’. The national U-17 cricketer, who was the second-change bowler, stifled the batsmen in his early overs,
before he began taking their wickets. He grabbed the wicket of Ramsammy in his fourth over—his second maiden-- while he grabbed a wicket each in his fifth and sixth overs, two in his seventh over and the last in his ninth over to finish with 6-22 from 8.1 overs. Pacer Bryion Bowen and left-arm-spinner Sameer Hussain also grabbed two wickets
Dwain Dick captured six wickets for 22 runs.
each to restrict MYO to 111 in 25.1 overs. In reply, Eco Champs were pegged back early as their first four wickets, that of Mitra Dhanraj (1), Mohamed Jameer (09), Dick (2) and Daniel Roberts (7), fell for 26 runs, due to good bowling from the opening pair of Isai Thorne and Elnathan Suknandan. After the fast bowlers exited, the spinners took control with Krsna Singh and Abdul Ramsammy cleaning up the middle and the tail. Middle- order batsman Bryion Bowen (16) and lower order batsmen Joshua Thomas (15) and Keon Wright (17) made the clash exciting, but they could not hold on to their wickets. Singh finished with 3-12 from five overs, while Thorne, Suknandan and Ramsammy supported with two wickets each.
J O E C a r t e r a n d B re t t Hampton were batting for Northern Districts against Central Districts in a domestic one-day match in Hamilton on Wednesday. South Africa-born fast bowler Willem Ludick bowled eight balls in the over, including two no-balls, conceding six sixes, a four and a single. The total is a record for ‘List A’ matches - one-day internationals and recognised domestic limited-over games. Ludick might have been removed from the attack after only one legitimate delivery because his next two attempts were waist-high full tosses. But playing conditions in New Zealand allow umpires to “apply understanding and tolerance with regard to overwaist-high full toss deliveries” and officials decided a no-ball was sufficient penalty on both
occasions. Carter and Hampton passed the previous record for a List A over of 39, set by Zimbabwe’s Elton Chigumbura for Sheikh Jamal Dhanmondi against Abahani Ltd in the Dhaka Premier League.
the 20-over format, India’s Yuvraj Singh dispatched England’s Stuart Broad for six sixes in the 2007 World T20 in Durban. In a first-class match between Wellington and Canterbury in 1990, occasional bowler Bert Vance
Joe Carter, now 25, is a former New Zealand U19 international
In one-day internationals, South African Herschelle Gibbs scored 36 in an over - with six sixes - against Daan van Bunge of the Netherlands in the 2007 World Cup. In
conceded 77 in an over in which only one of his first 17 deliveries was legitimate, part of a bizarre attempt to contrive a result on the final day. (BBC Sport)
26
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Windies top order shuffle crucial in absence of specialists, says Brathwaite CHENNAI, India, (CMC) – Captain Carlos Brathwaite said experimenting at the top of the order was necessary, as West Indies searched for a solution to their opening woes in the ongoing Twenty20 International series against India. In the opening match in Kolkata, the Windies partnered Shai Hope with Denesh Ramdin but then opted for Shimron Hetmyer and Hope in last Sunday’s second match in Lucknow. Neither combination b ro u g h t re w a r d s a n d Brathwaite said without any specialist openers on tour, management had been forced to experiment. “We didn’t come on tour with an out-and-out opener so we’re still trying to find that best opening combination,” the all-rounder said. There were a few theories in the first game as well as this [second] game about
how we wanted to send the order for different reasons. Ultimately, none of the two really worked because we never got off to a great start in the first six [overs] in the first two games but working with the players we have on tour, it was difficult to choose the perfect batting pair.” Hope and Ramdin put on 16 off 13 balls in the opening match while Hope and Hetmyer could muster just seven in the second game. West Indies suffered a five-wicket and 71-run defeat in the two matches, to concede the three-match series. West Indies have been hamstrung by the unavailability of their frontline opening pair for the series, with veteran Chris Gayle making himself unavailable for the tour and Evin Lewis withdrawing from the squad just days before the series.
Shai Hope … has been paired with different partners in the opening two T20 Internationals.
With the final T20 set for Chennai on Sunday, Brathwaite said hopefully the Windies could come up with a successful pairing to end the series on a high note. “We’re trying and up until the theory works out, I guess it will look bad and it will give the pundits something to say,” he pointed out. But until then we as a management group and even as a players group, we need to make the best decisions we
think, at the point time, with the players who are here and try to go out there and win games for the West Indies. “We tried that in both games and it didn’t work batting-wise so the third game we’ll regroup and see if we can put in a performance that the fans of the West Indies will be proud of.” Sunday’s defeat was the Windies’ ninth in 11 outings and their fourth straight series defeat.
Joseph replaces Grimmond for Windies T20 World Cupe defence GEORGETOWN, Guyana, (CMC) – Teenaged left-arm seamer Qiana Joseph has been called up to replace injured off-spinner Sheneta Grimmond, ahead of West
Left-arm seamer Qiana Joseph.
Indies’ campaign in the Women’s Twenty20 World Cup which bowls off here tomorrow. The 17-year-old, who hails from St Lucia, made her international debut last year when she played two matches during the Windies’ ill-fated excursion in the 50-overs World Cup in England. Joseph was also a member of both the one-day and T20 squad for South Africa’s tour of the Caribbean in September but failed to get a game. Grimmond, meanwhile, a 20-year-old native of Guyana, was expected to make her international debut in the upcoming tournament but has been sidelined by a foot injury.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday November 08, 2018)
COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) (1) (2)
ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: Marlon Samuels-1611 runs Virat Kohli-2102 runs
TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Who has taken most wickets in T20 Int’ls for the WI to date? (2) Who has claimed most wickets in T20 Int’ls for India to date? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE
West Indies will field an experienced squad for their title defence with experienced captain Stafanie Taylor, all-rounder Deandra Dottin, Merissa Aguilleira and Hayley Matthews all featuring. The hosts faced New Zea-
land in their final official ICC warm-up match last night at the Providencel Stadium before playing their first match of the T20 World Cup campaign against Bangladesh at the same venue on tomorrow’s opening night of the tournament.
United fight back to snatch unlikely late 2-1 win at Juventus By Richard Martin TURIN (Reuters) - Manchester United snatched an extraordinary and barely deserved 2-1 win at Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday with a late free kick from Juan Mata and a scrappy own goal from Alex Sandro, revitalising their hopes of reaching the last 16. Cristiano Ronaldo looked to have haunted the club which turned him into a global superstar when he volleyed in the opening goal in the 65th minute after Juventus had dominated proceedings and struck the woodwork twice. Jose Mourinho’s side had looked utterly toothless in attack but after the Portuguese threw on Mata, Marouane Fellaini and Marcus Rashford late in the game they staged the most unlikely of comebacks, recalling their epic 3-2 win from two goals down in Turin in the 1999 semi-finals. Their stunning revival prevented Juventus from sealing their place in the last 16 and turned Group H on its head. Juve still lead with nine points but United are second on seven, crucially two ahead of Valencia in third place, while Young Boys are bottom of the group and out of the competition. This was United’s first visit to Juventus’s shiny new stadium and revived memories of their epic battles around the turn of the century when the two teams were arguably the best sides in Europe. Juve’s dominant performance at Old Trafford two weeks ago appeared to underline the current gulf in class between the two sides, though, which was also reflected in their respective domestic results: Juve are riding high, six points clear at the top of Serie A, while United are seventh in the Premier League. Juve began strongly and stepped up their pursuit of a goal as the first half progressed and almost found one when Sami Khedira side-footed a cross from Ronaldo against the far post. United goalkeeper David de Gea also had to be alert to turn away another shot from Khedira and a deflected strike from Juve’s active winger Juan Cuadrado. The Italian champions again struck the woodwork in the second half when Paulo Dybala clipped the crossbar from outside the area, and there was more than an air of inevitability about Ronaldo’s deadly volley, created by a classy chipped pass from Leonardo Bonucci, which broke the deadlock. This time there was to be no muted celebration from the Portuguese against the club that turned him into a global superstar, as he lifted his shirt to flex his chest muscles before high-fiving team mates. Juan Cuadrado wasted a glorious chance to seal the win for Juventus although there appeared to be little danger of United making them pay for their wastefulness.
Guyoil/Tradewind Tankers football league….
Uitvlugt thump QC 11-2; Vergenoegen hold CWSS THE inaugural Guyoil/Tradewind tankers football league continued on Tuesday afternoon at the Ministry of Education (MOE) ground with two intense matches. In the feature match, West Demerara-based school, Uitvlugt, didn’t hold back against the lads from Queen’s College and inflicted a heavy 11-2 thrashing which was spearheaded by five goals from Anthony Benn in the 4th, 28th, 29th, 52nd and 66th minutes. It was an extremely dominant performance for the West Side school and Ruben Dainty was very much involved in the action with a hat-trick of his own with goals in the 18th, 44th and 53rd minutes. Also on the scoresheet for the victors were Jadius Edwards with a brace after successful strikes in the 26th and 56th minutes, while Ivelaw Khan scored one goal in the 36th minute. Meanwhile, in the opening match on Tuesday, leaders Vergenoegen held the free-scoring Christianburg/Wismar Secondary School (CWSS) to a 1-1 draw; the Lindener’s second consecutive draw. CWSS who are the champions of Linden, prior to
this top of the table clash, had scored 26 goals in four matches, with one of the those four games being a goalless draw against Bishops’ High. Ronaldo Macey continued his goal-scoring form for the league’s front-runners and sent his side ahead within 26 minutes of the first half, but with two minutes of normal time remaining in that period of play, Tyrese Lewis made no mistake as he equalised for CWSS. As CWSS sent wave after attacking wave, Vergenoegen absorbed the pressure and held on for a point. On Monday, Dolphin Secondary made light work of Marian Academy with a 3-1 victory, courtesy of goals off the laces of Shamar Welch in the 29th, Kieron Dazzle in the 51st and Judah Younge in the 9th. Daniel Lowe scored a consolation goal for Marian in the 60th minute. In the feature match played on Monday, Annandale scored three unanswered goals against Queenstown. Sean Haywood, Omari Glasgow and Jamar Harrigon each scored in the win for the East Coast Demerara-based school.
27
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 8, 2018
Super League players would risk a World Cup ban, says FIFA boss LONDON (Reuters) - FIFA President Gianni Infantino warned on Wednesday that any players taking part in a breakaway European super league would be excluded from the World Cup and other international tournaments. Those who might be barred should such a league get off the ground could include the likes of Argentina’s Lionel Messi, Brazilian Neymar, France’s Kylian Mbappe and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo. “You are either in or you are out,” the head of the world soccer body told a group of international reporters on Wednesday. “If there are players who
FIFA president Gianni Infantino
don’t play organised football then that encompasses everything — national leagues, confederation competitions, the Euros and the World Cup,” the Times newspaper quoted him as saying. German news magazine
Der Spiegel reported last week that plans for a Super League, involving top clubs such as Real Madrid and Manchester United, were back on the table. The magazine shared access to the documents with Reuters and more than a dozen other media outlets in cooperation with European Investigative Collaborations (EIC). Reuters was not invited to Wednesday’s meeting with Infantino. According to Der Spiegel, a 16-team Super League would replace the Champions League and feature 11 ‘founders’ — including Messi’s Barcelona and Real Madrid — who could not be relegated
for the first 20 years. Other clubs mentioned include Manchester United, Mbappe and Neymar’s Paris St Germain, Bayern Munich and Ronaldo’s Juventus. “We have seen for many years these attempts to break away outside of the structures, going back to the 1990s,” said Infantino. “It is up to us to protect football and come up with solutions that benefit clubs and also the world football community.” Infantino said the Club World Cup was his answer to any breakaway attempt, presenting it as a competition
t h a t would generate more revenues for the clubs but also benefit the soccer community. “If clubs organise a breakaway Super League, who benefits? The clubs,” he said. “If FIFA organises a Club World Cup, UEFA continues to organise the Champions League and the Premier League continues to organise the Premier League then the clubs benefit but also 211 member associations.” Infantino revealed plans in May for a new Global Nations League and a revamped Club World Cup
which he says are backed by a ‘solid and serious’ group of investors willing to spend $25 billion over a 12-year cycle starting in 2021. The Club World Cup, currently an annual tournament with seven teams, could become a four-yearly event featuring 24 clubs instead. The European Leagues, which includes the Premier League, Bundesliga and La Liga, and European football’s governing body UEFA are among several organisations unwilling to endorse the plans at this stage.
‘Top Gun’ Hopkinson and Dr. Pravesh Harry Guyana playing for pride against Curacao today excel at IPSC/Suriname Open 2018 DIRECTOR and the Steel Challenge chairperson of the Guyana Sport Shooting Foundation, Dr. Pravesh Harry and IPSC Regional Director of the Guyana NRA, Harold Hopkinson, last weekend attended and excelled at the IPSC/Suriname Open 2018 shoot, held at the MTC Shooting Ranges, Verlengde Rijsdijkweg. The event attracted experienced shooters from many countries including Aruba, Barbados, Jamaica, French Guiana, Guyana and the host--Suriname. When the smoke evaporated, Harry shot his way to the bronze medal in the highly-competitive Production Division while Guyana’s veteran hand gunner, Harold “Top gun” Hopkinson was golden in the Production Division, using his CZ Shadow 2 semi-automatic pistol. Dr Harry, who was awesome on debut at this level, started shooting competitively about four years ago. He was invited to Suriname by IPSC Regional Director of the Guyana NRA, Harold Hopkinson, at what was a Level 3 competition, sanctioned by the International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC). The Guyanese duo, which flew into Suriname on Wednesday last via Gum Air, participated in a training programme on Thursday and Friday at the competition venue under the watchful eyes of Practical Shooting Grand Master from Jamaica, Ronald ‘The Dragon’ Brown as the Instructor and Trainer. Shooting the 9mm CZ Shadow 2, with which he got familiar on the 27th October at the GDF ranges where he cleaned up the competition by winning the Standard Division of the BM Soat Halloween Practical Pistol match, Dr Harry, from the commence-
ment of the training programme, did not disappoint his trainer and the Regional Director’s instinct, by surprising the rest of the highly intense Production Division with his accuracy and double tap prowess in this 250-round competition. Harry took the 3rd position away from the more experienced shooters in this highly competitive division. First was Surinamese Bruce Djosetiko, who shot like a man possessed; second was Suriname Open 2018 Match Director, veteran production shooter Romano Adel with Dr. Parvesh Harry taking the third spot.
Production, Harold Hopkinson and Dr. Pravesh Harry, took first, second and third place in the Production Division. Dr. Harry related that it was a life-altering experience, and was impressed by the level of organization by the Surinamese. He mused that being awarded the 3rd place was a great feeling, because the night before he literally sat and reviewed everyone’s hit factors and scores in excel and realized he was in 5th place after day one. Harry then decided he would push himself as much as he could to get onto the podium. He did
The Guyanese duo of Harold ‘Top Gun’ Hopkinson (first from left) and Dr Pravesh Harry (2nd left) with two other colleagues in Suriname. Guyana’s veteran hand and felt very satisfied with his gunner, 63-year-old grandfa- performance. He also remarked ther Hopkinson, decided to that he was very grateful for rest his Open Division, Akai the invitation and look forward custom pistol and test the very to more international events. The Guyanese handgun competitive Production Division with another CZ Shad- duo wishes to thank the folow 2 semi-automatic pistol. lowing head of agencies and He informed that he was their staff for their support: very surprised when his name was Commissioner of Police, Leslie called as the Production, Senior James, DSS, DSM; CommisCategory’s High overall winner. sioner General of GRA, GodMeanwhile, Yuhong Lee of frey Statia MS; Chief of Staff Aruba took the Open Division of the Guyana Defence Force from Surinamese favorite top and president of the Guyana shot, Desmond Chang, who NRA, Brigadier Patrick West, placed second and third was MSS; Guyana NRA Small-bore Andrew “Shaggy” Wilson. In Captain Dale Hing and Secure the Standard Division, Ronald Innovations & Concepts who all Brown, the High Overall Senior made this tour possible.
GUYANA’s 3 – 2 defeat to the Cayman Islands on Tuesday meant that they are officially out of the CONCACAF U-20 Championship and will face Curacao today in a match that will see the young Golden Jaguars unit playing for pride at the IMG Academy in Florida, USA. Kick-off time is 1:45pm. Like Guyana, Curacao are win-less after their two games so far, which makes today’s game interesting. The Wayne Dover-coached side showed flashes of brilliance during their heart-breaking loss to Cayman Islands, especially Western Tigers forward, Kelsey Benjamin, who netted
the side’s first goal of the tournament. While Guyana conceded seven goals and scored in two games, Curacao scored just as much but allowed only four. In Guyana’s loss to the Cayman Islands, Benjamin was the side’s best player, and will want to continue his form in today’s game. Guyana did much better in keeping possession of the ball against the Cayman Islands, as compared to their game against Guatemala, and Dover’s men will want to find a way to convert their possessions into more goal-scoring opportunities.
Given the start to their last game, it is unlikely that Guyana will change their line-up which saw Jeremy Garrett wearing the captain’s band, and was joined by Benjamin and Chris Macey who also found the tournament, along with Cecil Jackman, Ryan Hackett, Job Caesar, Ryan Dowding, Thair Britton, Nixon Robertson, Kwai MarshBrown, Nicholas McArthur and goalkeeper Jonathan Vaughn. Guyana will play their final game of the 2018 CONCACAF U-20 tournament against El Salvador on November 10.
Guyana’s U-20 squad prior to kick-off against the Cayman Islands on November 6 (photo compliments: CONCACAF)
s e o g l o Torgin y e r f f e J h t i w l a Radic
Page
23
Kristian Jeffrey (third from right) collects sponsorship from the Torginol representatives yesterday
Essequibo crowned GCB Franchise League U-17 champions 22 Page
Kaur’s half-century inspires India to 11-run warm-up win over England Page 23
The winning Essequibo team along with GCB’s acting president, Fizul Bacchus, and GCB’s TDO Admin Assistant, Kavita Yadram.
India’s captain Harmanpreet Kaur drives through the offside during her half-century against England in their warm-up match yesterday.
Super League players would risk a World Cup ban, says FIFA boss 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
Page
27
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2018