Issuu

FRIDAY 23rd November, 2018

No.105467

City main garbage collectors quit 12 PAGE

… City Hall to deploy small contractors

Adhere to FATF 09 standards

GO-Invest aided $45B in investments PAGE

–CEO tells ICAG confab companies not taking advantage of incentives

PAGE

…Williams urges CFATF members to increase effectiveness in tackling financial crimes

East Canje man found dead 13 PAGE

Guyana, Aruba ink nifty aviation deal

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GCAA Director-General, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Egbert Field (second left) and his Aruban counterpart, Anthony Kirchner exchange pleasantries following the inking of the agreement. With them at left is GCAA Chairman, Lawrence London, and at right an official of Aruba’s Department of Civil Aviation (Samuel Maughn photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

‘It’s not about numbers, but competence’ GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

–– says Min. Greenidge of CCJ’s ability to adjudicate satisfactorily

MINISTER of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge has said that Guyana has every confidence in the ability of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to settle regional matters. And this is in spite of sister Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda this month voting, by way of referenda, against having it as their final court of appeal. Asked Wednesday for a comment on the subject, Minister Greenidge said that the choice of a Caribbean State to accept or refuse the CCJ as its final appellate court does not, in any way, affect the court’s functionality. Both Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda have opted to have the UK Privy Council remain as their final court. “The credibility of the court does not depend on the number of members of the court; it depends on its competence and processes, and we are satisfied with it so far,” Minister Greenidge said. He said that Guyana’s judicial system, which allows for cases to be heard in the High Court, then the Court of Appeal and finally the CCJ, if needs be, has proven to be beneficial over the years. “We’ve had difficulties, in that a number

of challenges that have been dealt with domestically, they sometimes arrive at positions that either the government or some other protagonist regard as unacceptable or not appropriate, and they go to the [CCJ] court… “We’ve looked at them with the benefit of hindsight that they [the CCJ] have taken us forward,” he said. Presently, only Guyana, Barbados, Belize and Dominica have abolished appeals to the Privy Council and accepted the Trinidad-based CCJ as their final appellate court. St. Vincent and the Grenadines had also, by way of a referendum, refused to abolish taking appeals to the Privy Council some seven years ago. Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Mitchell had expressed his disappointment at the results of the referendum in his country, which came in at a margin of 9,492 in favour and12, 434 against. Said he at the time: “The people have voted based on what they wished to see. As a serious Democrat, it has been accepted. I am not happy with it, but that has always been my position when results of elections are given.” In Antigua and Barbuda, some 47.96 per cent voted in favour of the CCJ, while 52.04 per cent chose to retain the Privy Council.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge CCJ President, Justice Adrian Saunders had also expressed his thoughts on the decision. “These results will not, of course, deter us from serving with distinction those nations

that currently send their final appeals to us,” he said. “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,” he added. Said Minister Greenidge in closing: “The public can be assured that the government, if it is dissatisfied with decisions taken at this level, will resort to court. And we are reasonably confident that the court will render acceptable decisions. “Of course, this is a court, and you’re never going to be able to guarantee that they’re going to agree to everything you say. “It’s law; there’s the question of interpretation of law. So, we are not going to tell you everything we take there we will win; and we are not going to say that every decision they make we will think is the right decision. “But we are satisfied that the processes and competences of the court, as currently constituted and likely to be constituted under the rules that we have, is a place; a forum that they provide us with…decisions that one would regard as acceptable and consistent.”

GO-Invest aided $45B in investments –– CEO tells ICAG confab companies not taking advantage of incentives THE Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest) has facilitated some $45 billion in approved investments up to October this year—an increase of about $33 billion from what was recorded during the first half of the year.

Guyana has been on the map since oil giant, ExxonMobil announced its significant discoveries of oil offshore Guyana. Major investors have started to turn their attention to Guyana, especially in the area of light manufacturing.

“We have facilitated approximately $45 billion in approved investments and more are in the processing pipeline,” said Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Go-Invest, Owen Verwey in a presentation to participants at the Institute of Chartered Ac-

A section of the participants at the ICAG summit (Samuel Maughn photo)

countants of Guyana (ICAG) Guyana 2020 and beyond two-day summit at the Marriott Hotel on Thursday. The office had facilitated $12.5 billion in investments during the first half of 2018 with that number expected to surpass $107.5 billion by December. Verwey had said that 20 investment agreements (IA) were executed from January 1 to June 30, 2018 with 434 jobs expected to be created across various sectors including services, agriculture, and energy, when the projects are fully operational. The amount of investments continue to grow and more is in the pipeline, he said, adding that companies from Trinidad and Tobago have been enquiring about investment incentives because they want to relocate their production activities to Guyana. Since last year, the office has been receiving calls from three-five Trinidadian companies every two days. In addition to the Trinidadians, companies from Dubai and

Chief Executive Officer of Go-Invest, Owen Verwey making his presentation the US have signaled their interest in opening gold refineries in Guyana, something which was only talked about at the level of government in the past.

Despite an increase in investment and interest, Verwey said many incentives are not being taken See page 8

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

Militants kill around 100 Nigerian soldiers in attack on army base: sources MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (Reuters) - Militants killed around 100 Ni-

gerian soldiers in an attack on an army base on Sunday, security

Friday, November 23, 2018

sources said on Thursday, blaming Islamic State West Africa. The toll is among the highest since President Muhammadu Buhari came to power in 2015 and it could raise pressure on him ahead of an election in February, not least because he has

claimed victory over the nine-year insurgency. The insurgents attacked the base in the village of Metele in northeastern Borno state, the epicentre of a revolt by Boko Haram and its Islamic State splinter group. “The insurgents took us unawares,” said an officer who requested anonymity. “The base was burned with arms and we lost about 100 soldiers. It is a huge loss.” Many troops are missing, the sources said. One soldier said more troops were killed on Tuesday when an attempt to recover bodies from the

initial attack was ambushed. “We all flew because we didn’t know where the bullets were coming from,” he said. “They killed some of us who went to evacuate the bodies of the killed soldiers.” “We left our amour, tanks and weapons. They were all there. The village is still under their control.” Four security sources said around 100 died in Metele and the death toll was not final. The fifth said 96 died in the northeast in recent days, mostly in Metele. The senate, which is controlled by the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), on Thurs-

day suspended its session in honour of what it said were 44 dead soldiers after the Metele attack. Opposition presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, who is Buhari’s main rival, has called on the government to support the families of the dead soldiers. A presidency spokesman said the military would issue a statement. Military spokesmen did not respond to requests for comment. The government and military often decline to acknowledge the scale of losses in the northeast. Militants have killed hundreds of soldiers in the region in recent months.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

Cuban doctors head home, leaving Brazilian towns with no care BRASILIA (Reuters) - The first of thousands of Cuban doctors began to return home on Thursday after criticism by Brazil’s far-right President-elect Jair Bolsonaro prompted Cuba’s government to sever a cooperation agreement, leaving millions of Brazilians without medical care. Bolsonaro said the Cuban doctors were being used as “slave labour” because the Cuban government took 75 per cent of their salaries. He said the programme that began in 2013 could only continue if they got full pay and were allowed to bring their families from Cuba. Bolsonaro, an admirer of U.S. President Donald Trump, was elected last month by Brazilians fed up with rising crime and rampant corruption that reached new highs during almost a decade and a half of

leftist governments with close ties to Cuba. The Cubans practiced mostly in poor and remote areas of Brazil where Brazilian doctors do not want to work. The government is now scrambling to replace them in 8,332 positions left vacant by the Cubans’ returns. Cuba has a respected health service and generates major export earnings by sending more than 50,000 health workers to more than 60 countries. In many Brazilian towns and the outskirts of cities that relied on the Cuban doctors, usually crowded waiting rooms at public health posts were empty this week and notices said appointments had been cancelled until further notice. Adrielly Rodrigues, a pregnant 22-year-old, was turned away on Wednesday

when she went for a pre-natal scan in Santa Maria, a town near the capital Brasilia. A national lobby of mayors, the FNP, and the municipal health authorities’ council, Conasems said in a statement that 29 million Brazilians could be left without basic healthcare. They urged the government to make it possible for the Cubans to stay. The Health Ministry plans next week to waive a requirement that Cubans validate their medical diploma in Brazil so that they can continue working directly contracted by the Brazilian government and not through the Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO). It is not clear how many Cubans will want to break with their communist-run government’s doctors-for-export programmes, which is present in about 60

countries, especially if they have children in Cuba since it would be tantamount to defecting. Bolsonaro, who takes office on Jan. 1, said last week he would grant asylum to any Cuban national who asks for it, further escalating tensions with Havana. Brazil hopes to fill the medical vacuum with local hires. In just two days since registration opened, 6,394 doctors have applied to fill the 8,332 empty posts, a ministry spokesman said, but the credentials of those applicants must be confirmed. One Cuban who will be staying in Brazil is Richel Collazo, who is so liked in the small town of Chapada in southern Brazil that the mayor has offered him the job of municipal health secretary.

Father, son remanded on ‘ganja’ charge A 28-year-old labourer and his father were on Thursday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for trafficking over 10 pounds of cannabis.

Quincy Charles and his father Orwin Batterfield

Quincy Charles and his 53-year-old father, Orwin Batterfield, both of North Ruimveldt denied the join charge. It is alleged that the men

CAL to add 12 new planes in 2019 NEWSDAY : State carrier Caribbean Airlines Ltd will soon add 12 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to its fleet, starting in the fourth quarter of 2019. This was announced tonight by chairman Shameer Ronnie Mohammed at a customer appreciation event at the Hyatt Regency Port of

Spain. CEO Garvin Madera also announced that in the first quarter of 2019 the company will launch the first phase of a new mobile app. This past year has been transforative for the airline, adding a new route to Havana, Cuba, as well as signing an agreement with Chinese

carrier Hainan Airlines that will allow trips between China and CAL destinations in the Caribbean to be bought on a single ticket. The airline also announced earlier this month that for the first nine months of 2018 the company turned a $96 million profit. CAL aircraft

were arrested at their North Ruimveldt Squatting Area home with 4.5 kilograms of cannabis in their possession for the purpose of trafficking. They’re both represented by attorney Mark Waldron, whose application for bail was strenuously objected to by Police Prosecutor, Inspector Gordon Mansfield due to the seriousness and prevalence of the charge. He explained that on the day in question, the police acted on a ‘tip-off’ and went to the defendants’ North Ruimveldt Squatting Area home and conducted a search. He said that although nothing was found in the house of itself, when the ranks searched the yard, they unearthed a plastic bucket full of “weed’. He said, too, that Charles even gave an oral confession to the police, admitting that the drugs were his. The Chief Magistrate having ruled in the prosecution’s favour, remanded both men to prison until December 10.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

A call to action

OURS is a society that has become one of inaction. Overtime, action has been replaced by the calls to action, which reflect an inconsistency with the birth and processes of development of this nation. A look into the foundational culture (i.e. lived experiences) of this society would see one of action, be it in the pursuit of self-empowerment or resistance to oppression, domination and marginalisation. Dependency on, or having expectation that others will do it continues to prevent actions on the part of institutions and self. The decolonisation struggles of our forebears involved actions that led to the toppling of colonization and the achievement of independence and republican status. The building of this nation was precipitated by the desire of the people to realise the inalienable right to self-determination. When this was

achieved in 1966, it did not find a people uncertain as to the type of destiny they wanted to forge, and how to get there. Where the differences existed was in regard to who should be the group or party assigned the privilege of leadership, which ideology the leadership should pursue, and whose ideas were better. Admittedly, the political partisanship saw disagreements on the means to achieve the end, but it should be said that such was not pursued in a vacuum. The ventilation of ideas between and among forces, more particularly the government, parliamentary opposition and civil society, created opportunities to understand points of view that helped the society in forming opinions and lending support one way or the other. This reality did not obliterate an aspect of our politics wherein support is informed by political affiliation, not necessarily

substance, but it points to the fact that, in spite of its competitiveness and at times ugly side, it also entailed getting things done on both sides of the political divide. Whereas the growth of society is dependent on not being held captive to the past, in the sense of being stuck in bygone eras, the mistakes, achievements and positive factors of the past can serve as lessons and inspirations to guide the present and build for the future. To the attainment of these, it may be necessary to revisit, learn from, and build on aspects of the past, where actions were seen as integral to development and persons were prepared to play their part through support and leadership. The politics of earlier periods notwithstanding, the features of divisions were not 100 per cent polarising. Things were done with collective support and initiation of actions by those whose portfolios

they fell under. Whether there is disagreement on the early developmental thrust of nationalisation, there is no disagreement that the parliamentary political parties had unifying legislative successes on major issues, such as sugar and bauxite. The trade union movement, the mass-based force outside of the political parties, could attest to instances of camaraderie across the political divide for working class issues and treatment of workers by foreign owners or management. The history of this society shows where there were differences as to approaches or support for particular issues, support could have been had from either political force in pushing the other to act on behalf of the workers. Unifying characteristics were also evident in matters of national import, and the major political forces engaged in deal-making to garner

legislative or policy support. In recent years, the societal landscape has gone through a metamorphosis, not in alignment to build on the positives, but rather what can be considered attitudes that are contributing to inaction. Engagements have moved from the level of tolerance and inclusion to that of zero tolerance and exclusion. It is not uncommon to find non-originators of ideas or actions refusing to support the initiator, no matter how sound that idea is, or go beyond blanket condemnation to offering counter-ideas in the seeming oblivion that none has the monopoly on all ideas. Changing the circumstances requires action on the part of both the leadership and the masses, which has to be borne out of recognition that if action were critical to this nation’s birth, further development requires the continuity of same.

Minister Harmon spoke the truth Dear Editor LEADER of the political opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Bharat Jagdeo’s response to Minister of State Joseph Harmon’s statement at the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Sophia meeting could have been anticipated, as the night follows the day. What Jagdeo in his now easily predicted and expected culture of deceit and dishonesty is attempting to do is to mislead a statement of fact by the Minister of State into one that purports threats of an ethnic nature against his Indo Guyanese support base, hence his threat of reporting Mr. Harmon’s statement to the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC). This is another of Jagdeo’s famed

red herrings, and must be exposed for what it is. What the Minister of State has pronounced on can be discerned in every PPP/C controlled NDC, in which there are Afro Guyanese, and has been the fact of PPP/C local governance towards Afro Guyanese communities during its 23 years in office. The irony is that it still is a pattern of PPP/C discriminatory behaviour, even though there is a change of government. It does not take an alien to make such a vivid observation. In fact, Minister Harmon’s accurate observation has been the source of constant complaints from his party supporters that predates the recently held Local Government Elections, and therefore has nothing to do with its results as Jagdeo would have expectedly peddle as a response.

Up until now Harmon’s statements of the very well known racist practice by PPP/C- controlled NDCs has been seen to be long overdue. In fact, there have been numerous warnings to the coalition government by letter writers and well known political commentators about highly questionable practices not in the public interest, carried out by persons in the public service known for their alignment to the PPP/C. However, rather than expose the PPP/C not only on this particular aspect of its racist culture, but also on practices such as stymieing the implementation of socio-economic projects in the wider public service, which actions are designed to bring the government into disaffection with the country’s citizens, the government adopted a position of non-confrontation, while in

the process seeking to have the cooperation of Jagdeo in his role as a constitutional office holder. Although the door has still been left open for this to happen, it has not been a successful strategy, since the leader of the opposition is only interested in total and complete power and ethnic dominance for his party as a government. In all this, the government has chosen to ignore Jagdeo and his daily political deceptions, while concentrating on the more important undertaking of cleaning up the national mess left by his former PPP/C government. Jagdeo must be reminded that the coalition government did not take office to be pre-occupied with his daily subterfuge, inclusive of incessant lies, racist divisiveness, and daily misleading statements aimed at bringing

the government into dispute with the citizens of this country. Its mandate is to govern in the interest of all Guyana and its people, unlike the PPP/C which carried out a programme of institutionalised racism. However, there is an overwhelming consensus, one which is much supported, that the government’s seemingly ignoring of Jagdeo has resulted in him looming larger than he should, and that he and his party’s dirty deceptions should have been rebutted ever since. Just imagine, a former leader whose government degutted this country criminally in every respect, alleging the current coalition as the most corrupt in this country’s history, and in the Caribbean! No one denies Jagdeo his right of speech, especially if it is constructively honest, for this administration has

not put a muzzle on any of its daily critics, including those with political agendas that continue to unfairly criticize the current administration. But those criminal lies and egregious tactics that are the daily slew of the opposition leader and his party must be exposed and be refuted. He must also be further reminded that the government, same as his party does, has a responsibility to respond to matters that affect its party support base; and it is time that it does, because what continuously obtains in the PPP-controlled NDCs is iniquitous and unfair. Minister Harmon’s statement is therefore one of fact and has nothing to do with attacking Indo-Guyanese. Regards Dillon Goring

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

All adults should do what is best for children Dear Editor,

IN celebrating another anniversary on the convention on the rights of children, it is important to point out to all adults Article 3 which states that adults should do what is best for children and Article 34 further states that children have a right to be protected from sexual abuse. These Articles from the convention must no longer be foreign to any parent. Parents need to be exposed to these fundamental rights of children if our children in Guyana are going to be better cared for and protected from all forms of abuse. Child sexual abuse is an immoral, gruesome act that not only violates the rights of a child but causes the child to experience unimaginable trauma that, if not treated, can stay with that child throughout his/her life. While many in society believe strangers pose the greatest danger to children, growing evidence shows that adults [who are] in a position of trust are most likely to sexually abuse a child. The Child Rights Alli-

ance (CRA) report from September 2018 captioned ‘Cries in The Dark- Child Sexual Abuse in Guyana’ indicated that 82% of the reported child sexual cases were cases of a family member sexually abusing a child within the family. These are cases that were reported to the CACs operated by ChildLinK, however, other civil society organisations have indicated similarities in the reports. 42% of the reported cases were by a known and trusted adult known to the family, while 40% were by a family member. The family members consist of fathers, step fathers, uncles, step uncles, cousins and grandfathers. According to the report, trusted adults who sexually abused children included, but is not limited to, community members, pastors, teachers and bus conductors. Strangers who might grab a child in a dark alley do not pose the greatest danger to Guyana’s children. Rather, men who they know—both inside and outside their family—are most likely to sexually abuse them. The Cries in the Dark report revealed children were

abused during all times of day and night, whenever the abuser had private and uninterrupted access to the child, even for brief periods, such as when the child’s mother stepped out to run an errand. As a result, in many cases, the abuse was not a one-off event. Rather, it often took place over a prolonged period. In some cases, the abuse went on for months and in other cases for years. In some cases the abuse started in childhood years and continued into the teen years. It is quite alarming that perpetrators can coerce or intimidate children into silence for such a prolonged period. According to the report, while most children reported abuse by only one individual, many children reported abuse by as many as five perpetrators. The true percentage of children abused by family members and known persons is even higher but goes unreported due to manipulation by the abuser and in most instances children are unable to identify abuse. Family members are also likely to cover up the abuse due to shame that they associate with sexual abuse. This gives

Is Jagdeo for real?

Dear Editor

SO, Bharat Jagdeo, leader of the parliamentary opposition would want the nation to accept that Minister of State Joseph Harmon’s statements about PPP/C-controlled NDCs discriminating against Afro Guyanese, while sabotaging government programmes, amounts to being “incendiary” that will “affect ethnic and political harmony”. Again, just who does Jagdeo believe he is fooling, in a country which he has been one of the chief architects of institutionalized racism and political disharmony? In fact, this great pretender and deceiver as a national leader should be asked to show what and when has been his contribution towards fostering

racial unity among the people of this land. It is my firm conviction that Bharrat Jagdeo, of all the nation’s presidents, had the greatest opportunity to change the course of this nation’s history, as far as bringing about the coveted goal of racial harmony. The rest is now history, of a Jagdeo’s regime with its patently racist policies have driven the wedge of divisiveness even deeper, which is the cause of the great socio-economic disparities that now exist. Even with the change of government, and President’s Granger invitation to explore the national avenue for unity, he has blatantly refused because of his own personal, selfish political ambitions. Editor, how can he as a former leader speak of a

threat to “ethnic and political harmony” to which he has never made any contribution? Instead, his many policies and statements would have pushed this country to the dangerous precipice. The many instances of institutionalized racism are well documented and are in the public sphere. Suffice to say that it was on his watch that Dr Roger Luncheon said that no African-Guyanese was qualified to be appointed Ambassador or High Commissioner for Guyana, while he was being questioned in court in the famous Freddie Kissoon libel case. Editor, is Jagdeo for real? Regards Troy Douglas

the perpetrator an advantage over the victim. Ultimately, it is the child who must endure the trauma of prolonged abuse and a sense of betrayal by those who should be protecting them. As family and community members, it is our duty to protect children from sexual abuse. We must have a vested interest in our children’s interests and affairs, and it is important that parents educate themselves first, and then their children, about sexual abuse, safe touches and unsafe touches, and that abusers can be anyone, including immediate family members. Parents should be observant, and mindful of drastic behavior changes in children. Parents should be open to reading materials and watching videos that provide information on child abuse

preventative measures. Take advantage of parenting skills education sessions offered by civil society organizations such as ChildLinK and government agencies such as the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA). Be an active participant in your child’s Parent/Teachers Association (PTA). Keep the communications line open and maintain an environment where your child will not feel victimized for disclosing sexual abuse. Yes! Strangers may pose a threat to children but parents/caregivers must understand that no one should be given the benefit of the doubt where child sexual abuse is concerned. Every parent should keep a watchful eye where the welfare of children is concerned. We, therefore, call upon every adult on November 20th to take

the time to think about the child or children in your care and ask yourself and family members and your friends and, importantly, ask your children. Are they safe, are they exposed to a potential sexual predator, what else you can do to safeguard your child. Are you making decisions that are best for your child’s safety? Last year 841 children reported sexual abuse, we appeal to you parents/ caregivers to protect your children from child sexual abuse. Regards Shaquita Thomas Communications Officer ChildLinK Inc.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

Guyana, Aruba ink nifty aviation deal –– in ‘welcome’ open-skies arrangement

AN air link between Guyana and Aruba is expected to be enhanced following the inking of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which paves the way for the furthering of air transport connectivity between the two countries. Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA), Egbert Field and Acting Director-General of Aruba’s Department of Civil Aviation, Anthony Kirchner signed the agreement on Thursday afternoon on the sidelines of the ongoing International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Air Transport meet here at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre at Liliendaal. Field said that the inking of the deal comes after

a lengthy process, in which temporary approval was given Aruba Airlines after it decided to operate here, while the process for the establishment of the agreement was being worked out. He said the GCAA believes in the open-skies policy, which is a global strategy surrounding the liberalisation of the rules and regulations of the international aviation industry, as it forms the basis on which airlines can operate. “These things must be in place so that an airline from another State from which our State may have agreements or MOU can apply and then be given the necessary approval and right to fly the route,” he said. Field said invitations have

GCAA Director-General, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Egbert Field (second left) and his Aruban counterpart, Anthony Kirchner signing the agreement. At left is GCAA Chairman, Lawrence London (Samuel Maughn photo) been extended to any airline further MOUs and agree- he hopes that there can be vides ground handling which wishes to operate in ments to be signed, as it one between Guyana and services to Aruba Airlines Guyana. “We invite them to provides for the develop- Aruba with the help of Aru- at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, was apply, because the doubling ment of the economies of ba Airlines. of air traffic will surely be a both countries. “This agreement will recognised for its role boost for them,” he added. He noted, too, that a lot definitely be the start of in the establishment of Kircher told witnesses of thought went into the further agreements in the relations between the two aviation umbrella bodies to the signing of the agree- working out of the details future,” he added. ment that the event signals of the MOU, and that while Local carrier, Rorai- which led to the agreea start of negotiations for there are no straight flights, ma Airways, which pro- ment.

No bail for Pomeroon man busted with ‘coke’

FOLLOWING a recent cocaine bust in the Pomeroon River by the police, a 37-year-old farmer was on Thursday hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer to a drug trafficking charge. Wayne Correia pleaded

not guilty to the charge when it was read to him by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Particulars of the charge allege that Correia was on Tuesday found at the Pomeroon River Landing to be possession of 2.2kilograms of cocaine for the

purpose of trafficking. According to the facts presented in court by Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield, ranks from the Police Narcotics Branch, acting on a ‘tip-off’ went to the defendant’s home, which is located on an island in the Pomeroon River.

During the search, he said, a quantity of cocaine was found in a wooden box in his workshop, while another set was found in a cooler under his house. The prosecutor strongly opposed to Correia being released on bail, citing the nature and gravity of the

GO-Invest aided ...

From page 3

advantage of although Guyana has more incentives than many countries in the region. Governments can offer financial assistance to private businesses making investments through the use of economic incentives. Incentives can include tax abatements, tax revenue sharing, grants, infrastructure assistance, no or low-interest financing, free land, tax credits and other financial resources. “We have incentives in various categories like general, specific and even land…land has been added because nowhere else you can get an acre of land to lease for lower than US$1 and in Guyana land is being leased for as low as GUY$25,” said Verwey. According to the CEO, there are limited restrictions on the purchase of property

From (left) Shawn Gurcharran, Council Member, ICAG sits alongside the organisation’s President, Colin Thompson and Treasurer Dr. Arron Fraser (Samuel Maughn photo) in Guyana, especially for pany’s export is 61 per cent ICAG, Dr. Arron Fraser in his welcome remarks, foreign countries. The cri- of your sales. teria for being eligible for “Many of the small- said the conference could those incentives include er companies lose out on not be at a more opportune the value of investments, those opportunities but time. “A time when Guyana is jobs created and uniqueness they should look into this,” about to enter an epoch of of the activity. Companies said Verwey. unprecedented opportunities which export also have an and uncertainty,” Dr. Fraser, opportunity to benefit from UNPRECEDENTED who is also Chief Execucertain incentives such as OPPORTUNITIES paying 25 per cent tax on exM e a n w h i l e , a t t h e tive Officer of the Power port income once the com- opening Treasurer of the Producers and Distributors

charge. The Chief Magistrate ruled in the prosecution’s favour and remanded Correia to prison until December 10. His matter has also been is transferred to the Charity Magistrate’s Court for hearing.

Wayne Correia

Incorporated (PPDI), said. He said in many regards the conference represents the resuscitation of the ICAG’s marquee event which has been absent for a few years for various reasons. “It is our strong belief that the ICAG should be a significant player in the conversations and deliberations regarding Guyana’s economic future because of the pivot roles many of our members play in both the private and public sectors.” “We are fortunate to be able to assemble experts from many facets of the economy including government agencies, industry regulators and the private sector. The multi-focus nature of the conference is intentional, as we posit a successful Guyana must have stellar performances from all sectors as an antecedent. As we share presentations, I encourage you to have healthy dialogue that would be thought provoking, generate tension and further reduce our bounded

rationality.” Colin Thompson, Deputy Programme Manager, Finance at the CARICOM Secretariat, and President of the ICAG, said they are extremely pleased to have placed the conference back on the calendar after a short break and look forward to continuing this as an annual event. “We believe that events like these help to promote and increase the knowledge, skills and proficiency of you our members and students and they provide opportunities for us to meet to exchange views and discuss matters of interest,” Thompson said. He urged participants, regardless of their status in their respective organisations, to find some key takeaways from each of the sessions “that you can apply to what you do, that may influence your approach to and choices for continued education, something that you can share with colleagues who are not here…”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

Adhere to FATF standards … Williams urges CFATF members to increase effectiveness to tackle financial crimes

CARIBBEAN countries have been urged to increase their levels of effectiveness in the implementation of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards amid heightened global risks of proliferation financing. This was the charge given by Chairman of the Caribbean Action Task Force, Basil Williams SC, when he addressed the opening of the Caribbean Action Task Force Plenary and Working Groups Meeting being held in Bridgetown, Barbados over the next two days. Williams, who is also Attorney Gen-

implement the AML/CFT laws and processes that can be considered as ‘High’ or ‘Substantial’ levels of effectiveness,” Williams stressed. He said under his tenure as chairman of the CFATF he was not daunted by these challenges, “instead, I was confident and remain confident that we as CFATF Members and as a Region will continue to improve our compliance with the FATF Standards and increase our levels of effective implementation.” Williams told the meeting that the plenary meetings represent the Region’s ongo-

Judges and Prosecutors in May that saw the participation of forty participants from member countries comprising 15 judges, one Chief Magistrate and 24 Prosecutors, including; Directors of Public Prosecution, Deputy and Assistant Directors of Public Prosecution, Senior Crown Counsels, Principal Crown Counsel and Crown Counsel attended the workshop. Honourable Baroness Patricia Scotland, Commonwealth Secretary General also attended. Williams also highlighted that during his participation in the Compliance Aid

Chairman of CFATF, Basil Williams SC and other officials at the head table

Chairman of CFATF and Attorney General, Basil Williams SC and his colleagues across the region at the opening of the conference all CFATF Members.” Additionally, Williams eral and Minister of Legal ing commitment to the work Conference in Miami, the Affairs, is leading Guyana’s of the CFATF as a mem- High-Level Mission to St. noted that during the past delegation to the conference. ber of the Global Network Maarten and attendance at the year CFATF has seen caHe told the conference in the implementation of FATF Plenary meetings, “I pacity building at the Secreopening that coupled with counter-measures to address have advocated the work be- tariat, in terms of new staff the challenges of the Fourth Money Laundering, Terrorist ing done by the CFATF and appointments with the new Round of Mutual Evalua- Financing and the Financing our members, which is all Executive Director, Dawne tions, small member states of the Proliferation of Weap- aimed at improving our level Spicer, commencing her tenare dealing with economies ons of Mass Destruction. of AML/CFT compliance. I ure on February 1st of this affected by low levels of Williams said during his am also happy to say that the year. There was also the financial growth, recovery term as Chair, CFATF has 11th EDF Grant Agreement appointment of Deputy Execfrom hurricanes and de-risk- been able to assist with en- was successfully signed and utive Director Joanne Daniel, ing. “Resources are being hancing AML/CFT capacity is being implemented. This who took up the post on stretched as we all use our in the Region through the Project will provide much September 1st. This was folbest efforts to legislatively hosting of Assessors’ Train- needed Fourth Round mutual lowed by the revision of the strengthen our AML/CFT ing in January of this year in evaluation funding directly Secretariat’s Organisational frameworks, establish mea- Guyana. He said the event for CFATF beneficiary mem- Chart and the appointment sures to deal with Prolifer- was followed by the AML/ bers and also provide oppor- of Magdalene Walcott as ation Financing (PF) and CFT/CVE Workshop for tunities for participation for the Director of Finance and

Administration. In addition to these senior management positions, a new Translator, Ayana Jack, and the appointment of Ellisha George as an Administrative Officer specifically dedicated to the Secretariat’s Mutual Evaluation Team. For the 11th EDF, Project Manager Andrew Frection and Senior Project Officer Beverley Perez have also become part of the CFATF. “To all of you I say congratulations on your appointments. I also take the opportunity to express my appreciation to all staff at the secretariat for their dedication and commitment to the membership. I had the opportunity to visit the secretariat in March of this year and see the operations firsthand.” Williams stressed that CFATF has made progress in its Mutual Evaluation programme, noting that only one country St. Maarten has been left in Round Three, but following a High-Level Mission visit that he led in August, “I can say that there was a clear commitment to exiting the Third Round.” In the Fourth Round he said there are five Mutual Evaluation Reports published (Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, The Bahamas, Barbados and Antigua and Barbuda) and while the results could indeed be better, these countries continue to make progress. “Ladies and gentlemen, we have a full agenda of relevant issues and the presentation of the Mutual Evaluation Report of the Cayman

Islands, which allows us to focus on our primary function as a FATF-Style Regional Body (FSRB). Issues discussed in the Heads of FIU, CFATF Risk Trends and Methods (CRTMG) Working Group, CFATF International Cooperation Review Group (CFATF ICRG), and the Working Group on FATF Issues (WGFI) will all be presented over the next two days. Colleagues, your active participation in all discussions is essential to strengthening your understanding of the requirements of the FATF Standards and in so doing build our capacity as an organisation. Your active participation in the Mutual Evaluation process is crucial to the work of the organisation, while your engagement in the global discussions through responses to FATF documents allows us to have a much-needed Regional position on these important issues,” Williams told the opening. During his remarks he also welcomed the body’s Cooperating and Supporting Nations (COSUNs), the FATF Secretariat and all observers, “who continue to place tremendous investment of human and financial resources over the years to assist our jurisdictions in building critical AML/CFT capacity. We value your generosity and remain committed to partnering with you throughout the Fourth Round of Mutual Evaluations and beyond.”

Miner in ‘shallow-grave’ saga remanded A 27-year-old miner was on Thursday remanded to prison for the murder of his girlfriend, a week after her decomposed body was discovered in a shallow grave at Eye Lash Backdam, in the North West District (NWD.)

Trevon Anthony Alleyne of South Sophia, Greater Georgetown appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was not required to plea to the capital offence. It is alleged that between

October 10 and November 15, 2018 at Eye Lash Backdam, Alleyne murdered 23-year-old Patricia Davis. The matter has been transferred to the Mathews Ridge Magistrate’s Court for hearing on February 5, 2019. According to reports, Al-

leyne and Davis had shared a common-law relationship, and both resided on camp in the backdam. The accused had allegedly confessed to the police to brutally beating Davis with a piece of wood in the course of an argument.

According to the suspect, when he woke up the next morning, he found her motionless, and in an apparent panic, proceeded to wrap her body in a length of plastic and a mosquito net and dumped it in a hastily dug shallow grave nearby.

Trevon Anthony Alleyne

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

Guyana Airways can 'fly' … after High Court quashes decision to remove company from registry

JUSTICE Fidela Corbin-Lincoln on Thursday afternoon ruled in favour of Guyana Airways Corporation Inc., ordering that they be given the legal right to use and operate with the name. The company had filed an application at the High Court earlier this year, after the Registrar of Commerce (Ag) removed the name ‘Guyana Airways Corporation Inc.’ from the Company’s Register, pursuant to section 487 of the Companies Act. Chief Executive Officer/Chairman of Guyana Airways Corporation Inc. Dr. Col-

in Abrams, had said that their company’s operations, which was expected to start in Guyana, had come to a halt because their business name was “unregistered.” The move, he explained, was costing him a lot of money since the company was involved in a legal tussle in the court to have its business name registered and to get approval from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCCA) to start operations in Guyana. Abrams said they had been registered since 2016 and every entity had an op-

The office of Guyana Airways Incorporated Inc. located at Barrack Street, Kingston portunity to object to the name; ‘Guyana Airways Corporation Inc.’ within a sixmonth period after which they would have received their registration. He explained that they had their attorneys prepare the paperwork and the name was available since the law states that names must not be identical. Abrams stated that they choose to use the name Guyana Airways Corporation Inc. because the name was available and separate from Guyana Air 2000 and for 18 years there was no airline to this country and he wanted to bring one to Guyana. GAC Inc. is using the colours and logo of the former state-owned carrier. He explained that Guyana Air 2000 logo was never copyrighted and they went about things the right way. The judge agreed with the arguments presented by the company’s counsel, Pamela DeSantos and Senior Counsel (SC) Bernard DeSantos that the registrar’s decision was unlawful, null, void and of no legal effect.

She agreed that striking off the name was not in compliance with the procedures in the Companies Act. Representing the Registrar, Deputy Solicitor General, Deborah Kumar, argued that the decision was made inadvertence, and that the registrar’s interpretation was that the name was too similar to a name registered as ‘Guyana Airways 2000’. SC DeSantos said that the decision could not have been inadvertence since the company would have signed a declaration that they are not affiliated with the government and the registrar knew all along that the names were similar. In fact, he said the law caters for identical names, and in most places in the world, identical means the same. And the names are not the same. Given the losses and expenses caused on the company from the move by the registrar, SC said he will advise the company to bring an action against the registrar and the attorney general for loss and damages.

Jailed and fined –– for carrying without licence

TWO labourers were on Thursday sentenced to three years imprisonment apiece by Magistrate Esther Sam at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court on a series of firearm and ammunition charges. 34-year-old Anthony Lamazon of Grant Cullen, Lower Pomeroon River and Munesh Ramsaroop, 27, of Charity Back Street, Essequibo Coast both pleaded guilty to having the items in their posses-

sion without having the requisite licences to do carry them. The pair was apprehended by the police on Monday in a motorcar on the Charity Public Road with two 9mm pistols, three magazines and 58 live rounds of ammunition. In addition to the three-year sentence, they were both slapped with a $100,000 fine.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

EPA helps police build capacity

–– to address noise nuisance, pollution

NOISE pollution can lead to all sorts of social ills, says Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan. But that’s not all, he says, as under the Environmental Protection Act and Noise Management Regulations, persons can be prosecuted. Minister Ramjattan was at the time addressing some

that there’s more to policing than meets the eye; that “a policeman is more than just a policeman”. What this means, constitutionally, he said, is that “As citizens you can do what you want, but do not hurt or harm others,” as society has become more complicated; the roles of policemen and

opportunities they’re being offered, there will be law and order in the society. Weighing in on the subject, EPA Executive Director, Aminah McPherson-Damon said the objective of the course is to get to a stage where the population is environmentally conscious. McPherson-Damon, who

Police ranks at the Noise Management Training Course on Thursday 50 police ranks attending a one-day Noise Management Training Course, at the Officers’ Training Centre at Eve Leary. The course, which was held on Thursday, was facilitated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the ‘stats’, there were 417 reports of noise nuisance 2017, and more than 300 for 2018. The course is part of the Guyana Police Force’s efforts to build capacity to address evolving challenges. Minister Ramjattan said that such training illustrates

women will expand, depending on the circumstances. Training, he said, is but one step, “since we want a revolution in terms of how they perceive themselves.” He, however, noted that given the ever-evolving nature of society, the time has come to implement more effective prosecutions, such as seizing equipment, revoking licences, and increasing fines. “I want policemen to know about the laws and how they should be enforced,” Minister Ramjattan said, adding that once all officers employ the increased training

also serves as the organisation’s Legal Corporate Secretary, highlighted that regulations prescribe penalties for those who breach them. She, however, lamented that despite a sound framework, there’s yet more work to be done, hence the need to equip ranks with the legal framework and technical competence to deal with these issues. “It is hoped that today’s workshop is another step to achieving these lofty ideals,” she said. Participants were given an overview of the EPA’s

Pregnant teen stabbed by boyfriend A pregnant teen is in a serious condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital after she was stabbed several times by her boyfriend on Sunday at her mother’s home. The 16-year-old, at the time of the incident, was staying at her mother’s home which is located on the East Coast of Demerara. The teen’s mother told the media that her daughter and the 24-year-old man had eloped two years ago and were living together, but following an argument the young lady returned home. She stated that the young man visited her home and requested to speak with her daughter in private. The young lady agreed

and the two then went upstairs. The mother was later alerted by a loud scream from her daughter summoning her. She then found her daughter lying in a pool of blood on the veranda with what appeared to be a cut to her throat and the young man standing over her. The mother added that the teen attempted to get up but was stabbed twice again. The teen was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where she is currently hospitalised in a stable condition. According to the mother, a police report was made but the family later decided to drop the matter after learning that the teenager was pregnant.

role in noise management, noise control case studies, noise regulations, effective noise management through the Noise Task Force, evidence-based enforcement of noise regulations, and taken on a field visit and practical sessions.

Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan addressing police ranks at Thursday’s training session

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

MOPH staffers receive training to enhance work

THE Public Relations (PR) and Health Promotion (HP) Unit of the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) is conducting a twoday training that started on Thursday and concludes today, for their staff to be better equipped with the knowledge they need to execute their tasks effectively. The training delved specifically into ‘epidemiology’, which is said to offer powerful tools such as surveys, surveillance, analysis of programme data, and rapid assessment to quantify the degree to which risk factors and humanitarian interventions affect population health in a crisis. Conducting the training is epidemiologist, Sasha Walrond.

The Head of PR/HR, Terrence Esseboom explained that the knowledge on epidemiology will help the health practitioners and journalists to be advocates for the voiceless and document their experiences so that future generations can be better prepared to counter, in a much more pre-emptive and efficient manner, the health challenges communities and nations experience. “While I’m singing the praises of epidemiology I don’t want you to believe that it is a panacea for the myriad challenges endemic in the health sector. There are limitations to the epidemiological tools,” Esseboom said. He added that “There are shortcomings in the data collection methods, especially in an

Participants of the training on Epidemiology for journalists

emergency when access is severely restricted. The restrictions may be entirely due to non-scientific factors such as lack of transportation to reach remote areas; communication difficulties; resource limitations, and public relations (PR) snafus.” Using the influx of Venezuelans as an illustration, he said that usually in those emergency-type situations, there can be rapid changes in the nutritional and health status, and by the time the appropriate data are collected and analysed, the conclusion and recommendations derived from these analyses may be out of date. “Participants should not be overawed by the relatively unfamiliar term ‘epidemiology’; though scientific, a healthy dose of common sense helps decode its supposed mysteries,” he advised the participants of the training. From these two days, Esseboom said that the participants should have better insight into the logistical requirements of a survey; proper techniques for interviewing respondents and collecting biologic specimens; day entry and data cleaning, including setting up the data derived from surveys using complex sampling; presentation of results in a standard fashion; formulation of appropriate conclusions and recommendations; report writing and verbal presentation. “This training programme is testimony to the fact that the government has not abandoned its vision about the entire nation

Epidemiologist, Sasha Walrond enjoying the good life. We will continue to invest in upgrading worker’s skills so that all Guyanese can enjoy excellent service from the public sector,” he said. He also made mention of the ministry’s plans to extend the training next year to include the general media fraternity.

Garbage collectors withdraw from City Hall

PURAN Brothers and Cevons Waste Management have indicated via letters that they would be withdrawing their services effective from Monday from the Mayor and City Council over millions in outstanding fees. In a release, City Hall said it is in a serious financial crisis and is unable to honour its obligation to both contractors in a timely manner, a situation which the council regrets. It is not the first time the contractors have withdrawn their

services from the M&CC over outstanding payments. “The Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown wishes to inform the public that five of the small garbage contractors have expressed willingness to work with the council from Monday, November, 26 2018. The council expends approximately 30 million dollars monthly for the removal of waste from the city environs. The monthly income of the council is approximately 89 million dollars and the

solid waste Management bill accounts for 38 percent of that monthly revenue intake,” City Hall said in its release. Moving forward in the year 2019, the council said it will have to reassess how it manages waste collection in the city by: re-examining the contractual agreements with both Puran Brothers and Cevons Waste Management. Additionally, City Hall said it will consider the proposal of the Director of Solid Waste Management, Mr. Walter Na-

rine, who proposed that the collection of waste be subsidised by collecting a small fee from each household. According to Narine, a small fee would help to offset the waste management bill. “The council will have to reorganise the structure of the Solid Waste Management Department by increasing the fleet of vehicles.” According to the Director of Solid Waste Management, council will be able save substantially if it takes on 50 per

cent of the work. The council is scheduled to meet with the small contractors today to concretise the details of the agreement. Both contractors wrote to the M&CC last week stating that it is not that they want to stop working, but their current financial positions cannot permit them to continue working without pay. The contractors have not been paid since last June and even though the M&CC announced that it was going to make a part payment some time ago, none has since been forthcoming. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday, Director at Cevons, Morse Archer, said even though the M&CC might not be able to cover all of the outstanding balances, his company is looking for a substantial payment before it considers if to continue working from November 26. He added that his company belongs to a highly specialised industry and hence his trucks can only be used for one purpose — garbage collection. “We also sent a letter to them some time last week. It’s not that we want to stop, but we do not have the money to continue working. We are struggling as it is. We told them we would pull off the same day as Puran’s have said they would,” Archer informed. Kalesh Puran, manager at Puran’s, told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday that the company had a meeting with the M&CC two weeks ago and that another was promised on November 23. “Our current financial position doesn’t warrant us to continue. It is very, very tough to work without payment. Can you imagine

working without pay for six months? Our letter said we would be forced to come off if no payment is made by the 26th. It’s not that we want to, but the company is seriously constrained,” Puran said. The M&CC told this publication last week that while it was not ruling out a strike by the contractors for the Christmas season, the time of year when their services are most needed, emergency plans are in place in the event this materialises. Representatives of both companies said last month that they were frustrated by the M&CC’s inability to make timely payments to them. “We are at a close breaking point… we had a meeting with the City Council and they promised to meet again to discuss payments; but it is annoying and frustrating, it is a consistent cycle,” Morse Archer had said. The contractors had opted to pull their services in August 2017 when the City Council had racked up more than $400M in debts to the two companies. Although the companies had agreed to wait for payments for the years 2015 and 2016, the municipality was not even keeping up with its current balances for 2017. Government stepped in and paid the contractors all of the outstanding balances and even went further to create a special arrangement to cover services up to the end of that year. During that time, the contractors had anticipated that the City Council would make some effort to contact them on a new system beginning 2018.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

Tourism bodies sign pact to deepen working partnership

THE Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) on Thursday officially formalised their partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a ceremony held at the OMG Restaurant on Sheriff Street, Georgetown. Both working with a mandate of developing the tourism industry, THAG and

here in Guyana.” With the MoU now in place, the two entities can now pool their resources and efforts towards a more meaningful outcome. The entities will no longer have to apply for the same resources separately. “So the Ministry of Finance gets one list of top priorities to help to improve the enabling environment for tourism. We are also looking to prioritize infrastructure

GTA Director, Brian Mullis and THAG President, Mitra Ramkumar shake hands after signing the MOU GTA have been partnering for some years now but have never formally entered into an agreement to work together. THAG is a private sector-organised umbrella body of several tourism related entities in Guyana, while GTA is a semi-autonomous governmental organisation operating under the Ministry of Business. “A structured approach of this nature will ensure that our efforts are complementary and mutually reinforcing. This takes it to another level,” explained GTA Director, Brian Mullis, moments before signing the MoU. “Partnerships are the norm in tourism destinations around the world and we certainly want to ensure that’s the norm

development. There’s a lot that the Ministry of Public Infrastructure is already doing, but now we have a chance to come to the table together to direct what priorities are from the tourisms industry’s stand point,” Mullis further said. The signing of the MoU comes as the tourism month celebrations continue. GTA and THAG just recently jointly launched their “Weekend Getaway” initiative, and shortly after the signing together, launched the Guyana Restaurant Week. Signing on behalf of THAG was its president, Mitra Ramkumar, who commended the example the tourism industry was setting for government-private sector linkages.

East Canje man found dead

THE body of 58-year-old Ramlall Bassant, called ‘Rope’ and ‘Doc’ was discovered motionless early Thursday morning at East Canje, Berbice. Bassant lived with his mother Pemia Bassant, a widow at Lot 13 Goed Bannanen Land, East Canje. Neighbours said Bassant never worked as he was ‘sickly’, but noted that he was a big consumer of alcohol. His mother recalled him leaving home the previous evening and after he did not return she assumed he had gone to his cousin’s house. “This morning (Thursday) I got up and looked at the

Ramlall Bassant, called ‘Rope’ bench he usually sits on outside and me nah see him. Afterwards one of dem boys at the back, come

tell me how he lying on the road with his crotch open,” the elderly woman related. As a result she ventured to the area, referred to by residents as ‘Pandit Runner Dam’, where she saw the body of her son lying with his pants pulled halfway down. Describing her son, the woman said, “he was a good son who deh like tek he drinks, but he never give me any problems.” Meanwhile, the body remained on the road for over three hours before police visited the crime scene. A post mortem examination is expected to be conducted shortly. Police are investigating.

“This is an area I think that could be used across Guyana of how the authority can work with the private sector in the interest of building the industry. This MoU, it’s a way of saying we are going to move this industry forward to its rightful place as the new frontier industry in Guyana,” Ramkumar noted. “The MoU is just to formalise what already exists and avoid duplication of efforts, ensure that everything we do is aligned and so we get better results from our resources that we have now. We want to ensure that we be strategic.” Ramkumar is very happy with how the MoU has been put together and what will come from it going forward. Nonetheless,

he is not ruling out amendments to the MoU should the need arise, given the developing nature of the industry. “It covers all the areas in terms of capacity building and training, marketing, cluster development, product development. I really don’t see any area that is missing at this point but the tourism industry is a dynamic industry; it grows, and it involves everyone. We will have regular engagements to ensure this MoU works, and it’s going to be a living MoU, in that if there are other areas that need to be addressed, we will address them and we will, if we need to, amend the MoU,” he declared.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

LIAT official sends ICAO distress signal –– asks help to ‘grow’ intra-regional travel By Alva Solomon

A CALL has been made for the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to intervene on issues affecting travel within the

Caribbean. At the same time, Julie Reifer-Jones, the Chief Executive Officer of regional airline LIAT, impressed upon participants at the ongoing ICAO Air Transport Meet-

ing here that the decline in intra-regional travel needs to be examined urgently, as tourism is vital for the economies of the Caribbean. Reifer-Jones, who spoke during Thursday morning’s

session aimed at exploring practical ways to develop “a smart product mix”, said that the mere idea that there are little or no policy measures geared specifically to boosting intra-regional travel is playing havoc with airline numbers, a problem that is not only unique to LIAT as people like to think. So as to give an idea as to how LIAT is faring these days, Reifer-Jones said that at the moment it transports just around 750,000 passengers within the region, which is a dramatic decline from the 1.2M passengers it did in the past. Another “big concern” for regional travellers, she said, is the inhibitive cost factor, especially the taxes, which is putting a damper on the demand for travel. She said that in most cases when taxes are introduced, they tend to be very substantial when they take effect. “So this is really a difficult issue for the governments; for the airports. But I think it is something that we have to find a way to address,” Reifer-Jones said, adding: “We need to acknowledge that the taxes are too high, and to get an agreement from the governments to reduce the taxes to some level.” Another significant easeof-travel issue, which she said some describe as an “irritant” when travelling across the Caribbean region, is security. “Our passengers, on average, given the nature of our network, have at least two stops,” she said. Reifer-Jones said that if there are “issues” at the stops, then it would not be a good experience for the traveller. She said that many of the issues need to be addressed with some urgency, and al-

LIAT’s Julie Reifer-Jones addressing the ICAO meeting on Thursday (Samuel Maughn photo) though there were assurances come on board in recognising given at the conference, the the importance of intra-rebig question is, when, as the gional travel.” issue has been on the front During her presentation, burner some time now. Reifer-Jones told the gathAs she told participants, ering that there is need for some changes were imple- a broader approach in linkmented during the 2007 In- ing regional air transport ternational Cricket Council with tourism. She also said World Cup. “Then we just that multi-destination travel reverted.” should not be an idea, but She said that interestingly rather an action item. “Visenough, some airlines are of itors to the region want it,” the view that it is because of she said. the ICAO that the changes She reiterated that there cannot be made. As such, is need for an acknowlshe is suggesting that the edgment from the relevant international umbrella body stakeholders that intra-rebecome more involved in gional travel contributes that conversation to ensure to the growth of tourism that whatever measures need within the region. She said, to be put in place are done in too, that there should be earnest. support from all the regional She feels that measures territories, as opposed to should be put in place to only four who support the make travel grow within the regional airlines. region, and as such called Besides air transport on the governments of the and tourism, the presenregion to support initiatives tations on Day Two of the through direct funding geared conference, which ends toat improving the situation. day, also focused on stimu“So, this is an appeal,” lating investments in in the she said, “because we need to financing and development ensure that all the territories of aviation infrastructure.

Essequibo cops recover six illegal firearms this year RANKS attached to ‘G’ Division (Essequibo Coast, Essequibo Islands) have recovered six firearms thus far this year as compared to one in 2017 and have destroyed over eight acres of marijuana cultivation. This is according to Divisional Commander Khali Pareshram. Pareshram, during his “Christmas Policing” presentation held Wednesday morning at the Richard Faikall Police Training College, said the division has recorded successes in 2018. He said 39 persons were arrested and charged for cocaine and cannabis possession during the year 2018. The division conducted two eradications and eight and half acres of cannabis/Sativa were destroyed. The first eradication exercise was held on June, 6, 2018 at Onderneeming. A total of 11700 cannabis sativa plants on an eight-

acre plot of land were destroyed. The plants totaled 58,545 kilograms and thus far one person was arrested and charged. On November, 2, 2018 another raid was conducted at Onderneeming where 600 cannabis sativa plants were destroyed. The plants weighed 200 kilograms; however no one was arrested for that discovery. The divisional commander said the firearms and the discovery of cannabis plots were found due to intelligence-led policing, (CID and Crime Intel Unit), continuous road blocks, increased stop and searches, search at suspected drug houses and social crime prevention programs (DARE, Lectures, Youth and Scout Groups). He said that the division has seen an increase in public trust and more persons are engaging the police and making reports.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

Guyana lends voice to weighty global policing matters –– at Interpol meet in Dubai

GUYANA was among the 173 countries meeting in Dubai last week to address the new realities facing police forces the world over among other matters of import. The occasion was the 87th General Assembly Session of the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) held there from November 18 to 21. It’s three-member delegation was led by Commissioner of Police Leslie James, and comprised Deputy Crime Chief, Senior Superintendent Michael Kingston; and Director of the Multilateral and

Global Affairs Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Troy Torrington. The meeting was reportedly successful in advancing the positioning of Interpol to discharge its mandate of creating a safer world by tackling current and emerging challenges. On that score, it took decisions on a wide range of issues on its agenda, among them the fostering of innovation in police work; membership applications; cooperation with external agencies; filling positions on the Executive Committee; and strengthening count-

er-terrorism and efforts to combat cybercrime. Among other decisions taken at the four-day meet was the election of Kim Jong Yang of the Republic of Korea as Interpol President for the next two years. A number of resolutions on core aspects of the work of the organisation were also approved, key among them being a decision on the establishment of a Liaison Office to enhance the capacity of the National Central Bureaus (NCBs) in the Caribbean. Guyana’s participation in the General Assembly Session reinforced cooperation between Guyana and Interpol, as well as inspired

At the Interpol meet in Dubai are, from left, Commissioner of Police, Leslie James; incoming Interpol President, Kim Jong Yang of Korea; Deputy Crime Chief, Michael Kingston, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Troy Torrington ongoing endeavours to bring more innovative approaches to the work of the Guyana Police Force. The 88th Session of the General Assembly is billed for Chile next October.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

Restaurant Week officially launched Resort Week in the works

he Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) on Thursday morning officially launched Guyana Restaurant Week (GRW) and piqued interest as they announced that they are currently working on a Re-

sort Week to follow a similar format as the GRW. GRW officially begins today and will run until December 2, featuring participants from 19 restaurants. GFW is a part of the Tourism Awareness Month activities, which is being celebrated throughout November. This is the second GRW of

2018, with the last being held in June and the eighth overall GRW. GRW has usually been held twice per year, since it’s commencement in November 2014. How it works is that the participating restaurants have their meals listed at a fixed price. Lunch at any of the restaurants is $2,000 and din-

ner is $5,000. It was launched as a means of making restaurant meals more affordable and accessible to the Guyanese public. “Culinary tourism has become increasingly important in the tourism industry around the world, doesn’t matter what you’re coming to Guyana for, you’re going to want to enjoy

the food,” expressed Brian Mullis, GTA Director. “What I like about the model is that it has been successfully implemented around the world, it provides an incentive to locals and visitors alike to explore new different kinds of foods, new and different restaurants that they might not have gone to otherwise. It also pushes restaurants to be innovative and creative with their menus because they have to hit a certain price point.” THAG committee member Kevin Daby, expects this GRW to be even bigger and better and is banking on the buzz around to turnover real numbers when the event begins. “There’s going to be a lot of excitement buzzing for this season by pure nature of the number of people participating, and the creativity that’s coming from a lot of the restaurants. We are going to be pushing it as heavily as possible at the airport, our social media, newspapers, videos,” Daby said. He noted that the restaurants have really been going all out as they up the ante for the week. “I recommend all the diners out there, don’t just try one, try them all. They’ve really pushed the limit, they’re getting very creative with their items.“ THAG President, Mitra Ramkumar says it’s going to be about more than just the food. “When you come to dine

it’s an experience, it’s about more than the food. Each restaurant, the ambience, the experience will be different, you have different menus,” he noted. Noting the success of GRW, they said it has really encouraged the tourism organisations to see just how far they can take it, so they want to see if the same turnover would exist if a similar situation were put in place with the resorts. “What GRW highlighted to us is that if you have the flow you are able to operate at prices that are affordable and accessible to the Guyanese public, so the major hurdle for us is the numbers and once we get the numbers then the prices come down immediately. So we want to do that for the resort week as well,” Ramkumar explained. While all the logistics are still to be worked out, the organisers assured that come sometime early 2019. They’re hoping to do it sometime around one of the national holidays. “We already have two resorts that have already opted in, so we’re just in the process of ensuring that we have enough variety. It would be over the holiday season so that we’re taking advantage of a bit of down season in tourism to open up the opportunity to local folks. It would pattern off of GRW in that it will have a fixed price,” Mullis said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

v a s t U Kalsa r o f t e s s t r A f o l a tiv

- The fe a r d n e K ic m r a h D November, 25 at A flashback of youths performing a classical dance

Youths participating in Kirtan of a previous Kala Utsav

EMBERS of the various Praants countrywide of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will be competing

for different prizes at the Sabhaâ€™s Kala Utsav on November 25 from 10:00 hrs at the Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud Dharmic Kendra. Participants will be com-

peting in various categories such as Ramayan Chanting (male and female categories), Kirtan, Tassa, classical dances, folk dance and instrumental. Before the participants

could have made it to the final there were preliminaries held at the various Praants selecting the best for the final competition. Kala Utsav was introduced by the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha in 1994 and provides a platform for hun-

dreds of youth to express their talents. Many participants have also discovered their talents at the competition and today are artistes. One such person is Purnash Durgaprasad. In 1998 he performed at Kala Utsav representing the East Berbice

Praant for which he won the first prize on the Male Singing category. Even though he was very young at the time, the signs were already there. He has emerged into a fantastic local singer and still loves Anup Jalotaâ€™s bhajans.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

WWI

WWII

Our forgotten and seldom acknowledged History

ost of the modern certified Guyanese that I have attempted to engage the discourse of why the World Wars were of relevance brushed it aside with that usual air of certification announcing that those terrible events were of no significance to us and were nothing but European civil wars. I became interested in those conflicts by the superficial titbits of exposure that came from men like ‘Law and Order’ and Mr. Westmaas, two

to change in the mid-70s, with movies like ‘Salt in the wound’, ‘The Dirty Dozen’ and a few others. It is commendable that Lt. Colonel Gomes was featured showcasing two veterans on national TV, and well interviewed by Mark Watson asserting a part of our memory erroneously dismissed as just the colonial past, simplistically ignoring the fact that our colonial period is also our history. I am a product of the post-Independence era that created the Guyanese awareness, expertly moulded by

special books, I’ll give you a list, others you’ll find on your own,” he said. I supplanted the space with other works, in the years after that depressing engagement. I, however, have to admit that Dr Dennis Williams was right. I came to the conclusion that WWI and II were relevant even more to my holistic history after reading three mind rocking books. The first I bought from Shaka’s mom’s bookstore in South Ruimveldt, ‘The Race to Fashoda’ by David L. Lewis. The second, much later at Austin’s, ‘The Scramble for Africa’ by Thomas Pakenham. Then later I purchased on the Internet ‘The Devil’s Handwriting’ by George Steinmetz. These and other related text reinforced that the bright people in my country that thought that WWI and II were just European civil wars and had nothing to do with us were so wrong. A worldview and secret doctrine was created back then that enveloped us, to move on and redefine it. We have to understand it, clarify its subplots, then recognise that our modern

famous eccentrics of diverse expressions. Law and Order would occupy space outside of Bettencourt and with his miniature gallows pronounce of street crimes with his famous metaphors, antecedents and parables. “Calling all choke and robbers gather around and keep yuh hands in yuh own pockets, sons of Fagin.”(I learnt who Fagin was much later). Then with parades especially the Memorial Day parade, Law and Order would adorn his military medals and pay his solemn respect. With Westmas, who did not leave these shores with the South Caribbean Regiment, but joined the British army and served in the artillery, his stories were different. Back then since we had no TV, the cinemas, toy soldiers, comic books and novels were our significant exposure to the World Wars and outside of Europeans and Caucasian Americans, the only other ethnic group visible on screens were the Japanese. That began

the Burnham era. I had already had creative work published when I approached the Director of Art, Denis Williams with a special Graphic novel project, to extract some financial support from the Department of Culture. We discussed the project and where I wanted to take it, he liked it, but then dropped the bomb: you need about 15 to 20 years exploring the events of the worlds you are addressing in your graphic universe. “All you know now is from Hollywood, which is nonsense. You need to read

historical perspective and references should begin with the rise of Islam to the present. Not from the arrival of the slave ships and our colonial period that instructed us as to the careers we should embrace the value system that we should measure and extract our leadership from. In Guyana, the events from the 1800s have shaped us even more dramatically. What the wars did is challenge us to defy the mocking myths that once defied and defiled us as black, yellow and brown peoples. Myths

that demanded to show what we were truly made off, with the challenge of courage and with our blood in combat, that sacrifice became the liberating path to Independence. Hitler attempted the creation of the Third Reich (Realm) of German expansion but unveiled the restless ‘Third World’ instead. Trinidad is the only Caribbean country that has a profound Military museum that I’m aware of. I visited it through

Darrel Woo, a friend from Trinidad in the late 80s. It’s privately owned. There’s a WWII fighter pilot’s statue on the way in with the names of fallen pilots. I’m not sure that its founder is still alive. I do hope that its structure and artifacts are preserved and that the museum is still around. The recent rejections by the opposition of the government’s attempt to upgrade our obsolete copy-

right laws speak volumes about the patriotic interest in the preservation of our history, through the empowering of our creative minds. Minds that must be engaged to realise the vision and capture the public interest, to understand why we must preserve the ancestral being of this nation through records transferred into edutainment, drama and embracing imagery.

Tekashi 6ix9ine Faces 32 Years to Life in Prison on Racketeering, Firearm Charges

Tekashi 6ix9ine (real name Daniel Hernandez) is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 32 years in prison, according to the prosecuting U.S. attorney at the rapper’s arraignment on Monday night. The rapper was arrested on Sunday night and faces federal charges including racketeering allegations stemming from Hernandez’s involvement with the Nine Trey Bloods, as well as a previously unreported armed robbery. Hernandez faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. “[Hernandez] is a member of a violent sect of the Bloods,” said Assistant US Attorney Michael Longyear at the arraignment. “This defendant participated in multiple acts of violence.” Hernandez’ attorney, Lance Lazzaro, advocated for bail for his client under the condition that Hernandez surrender his passport, pay over $1 million for bail and be placed under house arrest. However, the judge denied bail, opting to keep Hernandez in custody and citing that the rapper may still be a danger to the community even if those bail conditions were met. Hernandez’ legal team plans to appeal that decision. Four of Hernandez’ associates — ex-manager Kifano “Shottie” Jordan, Faheem “Crippy” Walter, Jensel “Ish” Butler

and Jamel “Mel Murda” Jones — were also arrested by the ATF on Sunday night and Monday morning and are facing many of the same charges as Hernandez, as well as drug charges stemming from the sale of heroin, fentanyl, MDMA and marijuana, prosecutors said.

Daniel Hernandez (a.k.a. Tekashi 6ix9ine)

According to the prosecution, the charges are the result of a five-year federal investigation. Lazzaro contended that Hernandez has only been affiliated with the associates and, by extension, their gang for a little over one year, when he met them at a concert and subsequently hired them as his manager and security detail. Hernandez publicly fired his management and the

rest of his team late last week, alleging in an Instagram video that they had been stealing from him. He subsequently gave an interview with New York radio station Power 105’s the Breakfast Club on Friday to expand on his situation. The armed robbery charge, which was never prosecuted, took place in Times Square this April; prosecutors said that the rapper’s four associates robbed a rival gang at gunpoint while Hernandez waited in the vehicle and alleged he filmed the robbery. When his home was searched in September, investigators found the stolen items from that April robbery. The prosecution didn’t offer further details. Hernandez is also being charged with possession of an AR-15, and involvement in two additional shootings: One at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center where he was performing and another in which he allegedly ordered the shooting of a bystander at a Brooklyn housing project. The latter comes with a conspiracy to commit murder charge. The robbery charge comes with a seven-year minimum sentence, and the collected racketeering charges, which stem from the litany of alleged activities with gang members, comes with a minimum of 25 years.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

Essequibo Chamber of Commerce to host Dinner and Dance Members of the business community and residents of Region Two will be given the opportunity to socialise and network, as the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosts a Dinner and Dance on Decem-

ber15. According to President of ECCI Ms. Sueann Suenaryan, the activity will provide members of the business community to interact and also to get to know the newly elected members of

the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce and Industry. She is therefore urging persons to support the dinner which cost $5,000. Guest speaker will be the US Embassy Charge D’ Affaires, Terry Steers-Gonzalez.

IT’S time for the weekend again, people! There a few big events going off this weekend including the Schools’ Nationals on the West Coast. So don’t stay cooped up at home. TODAY Tower Suites presents its Poolside Happy Hour from 17:30hrs to 19:30hrs. Enjoy a number of combos for just $1,000. Have a beer and burger combo, enjoy a margarita or any of their beer specials, or cutters platters, for that unbeatable cost. You don’t want to miss it. Come buss a nice lime this Friday at the Georgetown Club Squash Bar from 16:00hrs. Enjoy some of finger lickin’ good BBQ and specials at the bar - and there’ll also be singing involved. Cost: $2,000 TOMORROW Ultra Saturdays Special Edition presents “Elevation” featuring live from Antigua DJ Elementz live inside District Ultra Lounge. Tequila specials, buy four shots get one free. Ladies FREE before 21:00hrs. Music by DJ Country Boy Are you a gamer? Are you up for a challenge? Then take part in the first ever E-Sport tournament at The Game Lounge. Over $150,000 to be won. Admission: $1,000 per life. The Vintage Wine Bar, Restaurant & Lounge presents Saturday Fete & Karaoke. Ladies get one free cocktail. Enjoy soca, chutney, reggaeton, dancehall, and electronic mixes.

Sunday

The Rotary Club of Georgetown presents “Island Flavours” featuring mouthwatering, tantalising foods of the islands at the Guyana National Stadium. Come for the food and stay for the lime! Lunch served from 12:00hrs-16:00hrs. All proceeds in aid of their service projects. Admission: $2,500 (includes meal) Guyana’s premier youth and junior event that showcases Guyana’s best swimmers, cyclists, tracks and field athletes and teacher/athlete is here again. The National Schools’ Championships opens on Sunday at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora. Party Sundays continue at Club Privilege . Everybody free before 22:00hrs. Drink specials all night, free Bacardi shots on entry. Music by fusion DJs, Stereo Sonic DJs, Boom DJs and other DJs passing through.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 23, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

Canadian Racing Tips Woodbine Race 1 Castle Gate Race 2 Gwendoline H Race 3 Kucherov Race 4 Twiceaslucky Race 5 Court Central Race 6 Tishina Race 7 Big Shanty American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Apello Race 2 Samara Race 3 Saratoga Style Race 4 Kasbach Race 5 Impazible Creek Race 6 Kreesie Race 7 Breaking The Rules Race 8 Sassy Agnes Race 9 Blamed Race10 La Moneda Irish Racing Tips Dundalk 13:30 hrs Ajmera 14:00 hrs Georgian Bay 14:30 hrs Too Precious 15:00 hrs Vivacious Spirit 15:30 hrs Staranagone 16:00 hrs Pulsating 16:30 hrs La Novia 17:00 hrs Paved Paradise South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:40 hrs Tubular Bell 09:15 hrs Seattle Oak 09:55 hrs Burnt Rock 10:30 hrs Captain Marmalade 11:05 hrs Bell Tower English Racing Tips Ffos Las 08:35 hrs Strong Resemblance 09:10 hrs Al Dancer 09:40 hrs Emitom 10:15 hrs Sir Egbert 10:50 hrs Gardiners Hill 11:25 hrs Bubbles Of Gold Ascot 09:00 hrs Wenyerreadyfreddie 09:30 hrs Westbury 10:05 hrs Didtheyleaveuoutto 10:40 hrs Royal Regatta 11:15 hrs Minella Daddy 11:50 hrs Distingo Kempton 13:15 hrs Poeta Brasileiro 13:45 hrs Jadeerah 14:15 hrs Inhale 14:45 hrs Fredrickbarbarosa 15:15 hrs Padura Brave 15:45 hrs Ring Dancer 16:15 hrs Villette 16:45 hrs Imperial Court

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

Dominant Aussies crush Windies to make World T20 final

AS a deathly silence descended on the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua, a bespectacled Alyssa Healy curiously remarked that Australia came into this Women’s World T20 semi-final fixture as the underdogs. There may have been some truth to it, but their performance on the big day was straight from the Goliath playbook. They put on a masterclass of a demolition job as Windies’ reign as World T20 champions ended with a whimper. The hosts were bowled out for 71, exactly half the runs that Australia managed batting first and exited the tournament in tears, even as the man, whom the stadium in Antigua was named after, made a concerted effort to console ‘his’ team. A target of 143 should not have affected this strong Windies line-up in an ideal scenario. However, barring the vociferous support from the home crowd, this was far from an ideal situation. North Sound, hosting a T20I for the first time in five years, served a two-paced wicket on which run-scoring was not straightforward. Yet, Windies believed. At least till the PowerPlay, at the end of which all hopes were snuffed out by Ellyse Perry. The Australia all-rounder had Deandara Dottin chop one on with a sharp inducker. In her next, the innings’ fifth, Shemaine Campbelle pulled Perry straight to Sophie Mollineux to leave the team tottering at 25 for 3. Perry had 2 for 2 from her two overs. She wasn’t even required to bowl thereafter. If anything, Windies’s struggle - bowled out in the 18th over with Stafanie Taylor’s 16 the

top contribution - added more gloss to Healy’s terrific batting performance. The Australia opener scored 46 off 38 on this track - the best on the night by some distance - and deservedly walked away with her fourth player of the match award of the series. Healy was at her adventurous best here, the minor concussion suffered in a collision during the India game long forgotten. And in Meg Lanning (31 off 39) she had an ideal partner, who was just as shrewd to identify that conditions demanded industry and not exuberance. The Australian captain dropped anchor and focussed on strike rotation even as Healy went searching for the boundaries with her usual bombast. The duo put on 51 for the second wicket in 8.1 overs after the early loss of Beth Mooney. Healy was eventually dismissed four short of a deserved half-century in the 12th over, but not before she’d struck two fours off Afy Fletcher, signalling the change of gears. Windies enjoyed a brief period of success when they prised out Gardner, Lanning and Elyse Vilani in quick succession. But all that early graft from Lanning and Healy had given Australia the safety blanket of a 125-plus score. They were now free to push it to near-unreachable levels. Rachael Haynes did just that with her unbeaten 15-ball 25. She struck four boundaries in the 19th over bowled by a hobbling Dottin to push the total past 140. Cameras cut to Stafanie Taylor as the teams headed back to the dugout at the end of the innings and discussions on her decision to field first in a big

Knight’s spinners shine as England join Australia in final HEATHER Knight, the England captain, took 3/9, and left-arm spinners Sophie Ecclestone and Kirstie Gordon took two wickets each as they set up an eight-wicket win to seal a spot in the final of the ICC Women’s World T20 2018. Choosing to bat at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua without Mithali Raj in the XI, India made a statement. With Smriti Mandhana and Taniya Bhatia adding 43 for the first wicket inside the Powerplay on what looked like slow wicket, the gamble seemed to work. However, they then lost their last eight wickets for 23 runs. The England spinners did much of the damage, with Gordon getting Harmanpreet Kaur to miscue one and captain Knight scalping two in two to bowl out the opposition for 112 in 19.3 overs. India, going with an all-spin attack, sent back the openers for single-digit scores to give themselves an opening. But Amy Jones and Nat Sciver worked the gaps and ran hard in their unbroken 92-run partnership without doing anything too flashy. Kaur stuck to the tactics that had worked well for the team so far, but the one-side fields only made for easy singles. A four off the first ball of the 18th over brought up a well-earned half-century for Jones and a comfortable win. England thus joined Australia in the final of the tournament at the same venue on Saturday, 24 November.

game and on such a pitch slowly gathered steam. Australia were clearly enjoying themselves. It showed in the way they purposefully strutted out on to the field after

the interval.` A little more than an hour later, they’d sealed their place in a record fifth final at the World T20 - a tournament they’ve won thrice

before. They were now only a step away from becoming World Champions once again. Brief Scores: Australia 142/5 in 20 overs (Alyssa

Healy 46, Meg Lanning 31; Stafanie Taylor 1-20) beat Windies 71 in 17.3 overs (Stafanie Taylor 16; Ellyse Perry 2-2, Ashleigh Gardner 2-15) by 71 runs. (Cricbuzz)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

U.S. beat Mexico 2-0 to win second consecutive CONCACAF U-20 title THE United States Under-20 Men’s National Team turned in a sterling effort in a 2-0 win against Mexico to capture a second consecutive CONCACAF U-20 Championship title on Wednesday night at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. Alex Mendez scored both goals to guide the U.S. to victory and cap off a Golden Ball-winning performance at the 2018 CONCACAF U-20 Championship, while goalkeeper Brady Scott was recognised with the tournament Golden Glove Award. The game began with the U.S. well in control with the wealth of possession and offensive forays. After the 15-minute mark, Mexico began to push forward with more confidence and players, having played on the counter in the early going. With increased space to operate its offence, the U.S. struck the opening blow via a nice attack down the left sideline that culminated in Paxton Pomykal cutting infield and picking out Alex Mendez at the top of the area for a one-time shot through traffic that nestled in the lower right corner of the net for the 1-0 advantage. Continuing its run of commanding play, the U.S. nearly doubled its lead in the 26th minute again through Pomykal, but the ball refused to go in, hitting a defender

then the Mexico goalkeeper and bounced toward the open net before being cleared off the line. Things began to get chippy after that as tackles from both teams came in hard and confrontations between players became more common. The disrupted nature of the game suited Mexico just fine as it won a number of free kicks in dangerous areas around the USA’s final third, one of which resulted in the best chance of the half for El Tri.

kick save to deny a headed attempt in the 41st minute to preserve his side’s 1-0 lead. In the second half, the U.S. used the lead well, picking their spots to go forward and striking just six minutes in. It was Pomykal again who played the catalyst, winning the ball in midfield and streaking down the left side, then cutting through the box past multiple defenders before picking out the late run of Mendez. The skilful midfielder rounded a defender

double the U.S. lead. From there, the game began to stretch, and the spotlight shone brightest on the goalkeepers who were both superb, making numerous saves to keep the match tilted on a knife edge. Mexico nearly broke through in the 62nd minute, but Brandon Saravina was on hand to clear the ball of the line for the U.S. Passions continued to flare as they had in the first half, but neither team exceeded the intensity of the other and U.S. head coach Tab

Team USA celebrating their 2-0 win over Mexico in the CONCACAF U20 Championship final

With halftime closing in, a set piece was lofted into the USA’s six-yard box and required U.S. goalkeeper Brady Scott to make an imperative

and played a wall pass with Pomykal that put him in a goal and Mendez tucked his shot between the legs of the on-rushing goalkeeper to

Ramos made the right subs to keep the U.S. in the driver’s seat and across the finish line for a second straight U-20 championship.

Minister Norton endorses GASA Open Water Meet … Event set for Sunday at Lake Mainstay

MINISTER of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton, has given his full support to the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association’s (GASA) Open Water Meet scheduled for Sunday, November 25 at the Lake Mainstay Resort. Minister Norton, who also holds responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, signalled his support during a meeting with president of the GASA, Ivan Persaud, and vice-president of the South American Confederation of Swimming, Jorge Delgado. The meeting was held last Wednesday at Minister Norton’s Main and Quamina Streets office, where he was briefed on the grand competition, which caters for 300 swimmers from all across the country. This activity is seen as the practical aspect of a Coach’s Swimming Clinic which kicked off on Wednesday evening. According to Persaud, Sunday’s meet will also be used as a test event to determine Guyana’s prepared-

ness to host international competitions. “I believe that Guyana will make a strong competitor for open water swimming, so the GASA will have my full support in this initiative,”

Minister Norton said. Dr Norton also congratulated Persaud on the work that GASA has been doing so, adding that he’s “very pleased that GASA is putting so much effort into

producing Olympic-ready swimmers. Their dedication has not gone unnoticed.” Dr Norton has also accepted an invitation to pull the trigger to declare Sunday’s activity open.

From left, Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton, vice-president of the South American Confederation of Swimming, Jorge Delgado, and president of GASA Ivan Persaud.

8th of May, Abram Zuil win in Ramballi and Mahadeo Under-17 cricket in Essequibo

THE first round in the Ramballi and Mahadeo 30 overs Inter-school Under-17 competition got on the way on Tuesday with 8th of May and Abram Zuil Secondary taking the lead with contrasting wins. At the Imam Bacchus ground, 8th of May Secondary almost squandered their chance after an impressive bowling display. Batting first after they were inserted, Charity Secondary were stunned early on, losing wickets at regular intervals. It appeared too that some of the batsmen were playing at that level for the first time and couldn’t cope with the accuracy and spin that was offered. Left-arm spinner Benjamin Michael, who opened the bowling, was in menacing form and claimed the first five-wicket haul in the competition. His impressive line, flight and spin accounted mainly for the destruction of his opponents who were all-out for 51 in 16 overs. Michael’s magical figures were 5-15 from his 5 overs while Trevor Rodrigues and Alonzo Zamet claimed 2 wickets apiece for 8 and 14 respectively. Only Tekchand Lala (18) and Andrew DeSantos (12) reached double figures. Despite the meagre total, Charity fought gallantly by also taking early wickets. Fast medium bowler Arlon Aleen struck with crucial wickets but eventually in vain. A well-composed and unbeaten 28 (2x4) by captain Alonzo Zamet steered his side to safety, as they reached 53-6 in 11 overs to win by 4 wickets. Aleen claimed 3-17 from 4 overs while Tekchand Lala returned with the ball to take 2 for 14 from 3 overs. Over at the Number 1 ground in Affiance, Abram Zuil Secondary carved out a 57-run victory against Anna

Regina Secondary ‘B’. After batting first upon winning the toss, Abram Zuil posted 1357 in 25 overs after that game also started late. A boundary-studded innings of 30 (4x4, 1x6) from Jarron Allicock and Darendra Persaud with 27 (2x4) were the principal scorers. Romel Ramroop with 3-27 bowled purposefully. In response, leg-spinner Imtiaz Hack with 4-19 and Imran Alli 2-10 combined to comfortably demolish Anna Regina Secondary for 88 in 17 overs. Only Mahindra Parsotam 16 and Quincy Jones 14 temporarily resisted and reached double figures. Meanwhile, the two other matches were abandoned after rain intervened. However, not before national Under-15 all-rounder Sheldon Charles chalked up the first half-century of the competition. Playing against Cotton Field Secondary at the Imam Bacchus ground, Anna Regina Secondary ‘A’ scored 1256 from their 25 overs with Charles making an even 50 containing 5x4 and 1x6 while Arkelly Williams contributed 23 (2x4). Fast bowler Nicholi Wilson claimed 3-21. At that time when the rain poured and the match was eventually abandoned, Cotton Field Secondary were responding strongly with 36 without loss from 6 overs. The other game between Aurora and Johanna Cecilia Secondary also ended prematurely without a result due to rain. The next round of matches will be played tomorrow with Anna Regina ‘B’ vs Johanna Cecilia Secondary from 09:30hrs while Abram Zuil will battle Aurora Secondary from 14:00hrs. Both matches will be played at the No.1 ground in Affiance.

Over 50 horses on show today

OVER 50 of the country’s top race horses will compete against one another today in the Ryan Crawford Memorial Turf Club (RCMTC) one-day horse race meet at the club’s track Alness, Corentyne, Berbice. Six races are listed for the day and reports from the organisers have indicated that, a highly anticipated day of racing is in the making. Among the horses entered already are Seven Dust, Lucky Star, Not this Time, Mary Ann, Orion, Party Time, Kentucky Woman, Slim Shady and Gypsie Princess. The feature event is for horses classified H and Lower over 1200m for a winning purse of $300 000 and trophy. The other events listed are for J and Lower horses over a distance of 1200m with a first prize of $160 000 and trophy. The event for 2-Year-Old Maiden animals carries a winning prize of $100 000 and trophy over 1000m. The horses classified L1 and Lower will be competing for a winner’s take of $100 000 and trophy over 1200m. There is a race for L2 and Lower animals also over 1200m with the winner taking home $70 000 and trophy. The other event is another 1200m affair for the L3 and Lower animals for a first prize of $50 000 and trophy. There will be trophies and other incentives for outstanding individual performers. Race time is 12:00hrs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

Quartet of National table tennis players off to China for High Level Training Camp FOLLOWING Guyana’s excellent showing at the 2018 Senior Caribbean Table Tennis Championships which concluded in Jamaica on September 22, four of Guyana’s National table tennis players - Natalie Cummings, Joel Alleyne, Nigel Bryan and Elishaba Johnson will depart Guyana today for China to participate in a one-month high level training camp at the Hebei Zhengding Table Tennis Training Centre, China. The team members will depart on a Caribbean Airlines flight at 10:20hrs to Fort Lauderdale en route to China, They will arrive in Fort Lauderdale at 15:35hrs, overnight and depart Fort Lauderdale at 07:00hrs tomorrow for China via Delta Airlines, and will arrive in China on Sunday (November 25) at 17:10hrs. The critical high-level table tennis training programme being offered to eight of Guyana’s national table tennis team members is facilitated through the support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China Embassy in Guyana, through current technical and diplomatic engagements with the Guyana Table Tennis Association in tandem with Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Nigel Bryan

It is aimed at supporting and improving the performance and development of Guyana’s table tennis. This engagement signals the commencement and forms part of the many initiatives to be unfolded between China and Guyana aimed at improving Guyana’s table tennis prospects. The GTTA had selected Miguel Wong, Nicholas Romain, Kyle Edghill and Jamal Nicholas as the other members to benefit from this engagement. However, this group will be the first set undertaking the training programme.

Mahaica, GFC seal semi-final spots in Turbo competition MAHAICA Determinators and Georgetown Football Club (GFC) are the final teams to seal semi-final spots in the second annual Turbo knockout football competition. The two teams now complete the semi-final line-up. In the first game, Pouderoyen battled hard in their game against eventual winners Mahaica. The game was a tense affair from the outset and the more time went on, the tenser it got. After the first half and well into the second, several scares occurred for the east coast side but they weathered the storm. It was the second period of extra time that yielded the result for the Mahaicans as Neil Lynton’s 110th minute strike sealed the deal. The other game did not disappoint either. Camptown and GFC played to a 2-goal stalemate before sudden-death penalties handed the Bourda side the win. LaVaughn Enniss opened the scoring in the 21st minute for the eventual winners and before the end of the half; Adrian Aaron restored the balance. As the game progressed, any one goal should have sealed the game as both sides produced excellent defensive displays. Jamal Codrington (82nd) finally pushed Camptown ahead, but not for long, as Enniss came to the rescue again, this time with a stunner in the 86th minute. After that, there was a tense back-and-forth penalty session with GFC winning 8-7 on sudden-death penalties. The semi-finals are set for Sunday with Mahaica playing GFC and Northern Rangers opposng Santos.

The members attending the programme have made tremendous sacrifices for this engagement. They underwent intense practice over the last few months in preparation for this training programme in order to be ready to maximally benefit from the training engagement. In a release to the media, the GTTA said it “has recognised and identified that there is a critical need to reorient the culture and process of training in the psyche of our national team representatives, at all levels, and for them to commence

Natalie Cummings

training and play in high-yield competitive environments similar to international peers, in order for them to bridge the gap and excel in regional and international competitions in the future”. The Hebei Zhengding International Table Tennis Club has a repertoire of high level and quality players and coaches. It is the centre for China’s national table tennis team and many international players and has a tradition of producing world-level players at junior and senior levels. The programmes offered are very intense; players train

and practise hours eight (8) hours a day benefiting from a wide range of coaching expertise that is available, while a variety of top-level players and practice partners train there. In addition, competitive matches are played in leagues which allow players to develop their technical and tactical proficiency transitioning them to reach and exploit their fullest potential. This is the current formula being utilised by all top-level players and nations internationally as their basis for success and has been proving successful for players and teams

adopting this approach. With Guyana scheduled to host the 2019 Caribbean Table Tennis Championships and, based on the International Table Tennis Federation’s assigning this competition as the Pan American games qualification event to select four teams from the Caribbean region to participate in the 2019 Pan American games, the training camp is critical. By extension, the 2019 Pan American Games is one of the key qualification events for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Therefore it has given greater importance to Guyana’s hosting of the Caribbean championships and the push to have players benefit from training in addition to being well prepared for these types of arrangements. The Guyana Table Tennis Association extended appreciation to Charge de Affaires Mr Chen Xillai, His Excellency Cui JianChun - Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Mrs Wang Qiuyi, Minister of State Joseph Harmon, Guyana Olympics Association, Guyana Power Producers and Distributors, Dwayne Munroe - CEO Dominion Enterprises, Guyana Revenue Authority and all who assisted in making this venture a reality.

BK Tiwari Birthday football tournament concludes tonight SOESDYKE, Sophia, Uitvlugt, Timehri, Bagotville and hosts Den Amstel were the teams left standing, following the completion of the preliminary round of the Brian Tiwari 60th Birth Anniversary football tournament which kicked off on Tuesday at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground. The tournament being held to celebrate Tiwari’s birth anniversary is expected to conclude this evening when the finals are held at the same venue. In the opening fixture, Soesdyke tackle Sophia and this encounter is expected to provide the perfect setting for an exciting conclusion to the tournament. Soesdyke’s chances of progressing to the latter stage will rest on the shoulders of players such as Roger Dey, Alvin Adams, Dwayne Booker, Tyrone Khan and Shane Meusa, while Sophia’s quest to advance depends on the

display of Ernie, Simon and Peter Smith, Mervin Morris and Stephan Maycock. In the game to follow, Uitvlugt face Timehri. The West Demerara unit will be looking for solid performances from national player Trayon Bobb, Seon Bobb, Keon Duke, Daniel Floy, Lerone Jacobs and Shonol Smith. On the other hand, Timehri’s ambition to move on will rely on how well Kevin So-

bers, Owen Denny, Tyrone David, Travis Thornhill, Prince Ford and Samuel Steele perform. In the other game, hosts Den Amstel are clear favourites to proceed, especially with the likes of national player Delon Lanferman, Leo Lovell, Kester Dundas, Ryan Hunte, Jeffrey Perreira and Junior Gordon in

Trayon Bobb

Brian Tiwari

their line-up. Bagotville’s aim to register an upset could only be possible through good performances from Ivan Metland, Tevon Anderson, Shokel Brisport, Orlando Junior, Keyon July and Stanford Souvenir. Cash prizes totalling more than $150 000 and trophies will be up for grabs with the winning team set to receive $100 000 and runners-up $50 000, compliments of Michael Cummings. Meanwhile, Tiwari’s two grandsons, Bradley and Kane Gabriel, have agreed to put up $50 000 winner-take-all prize for the winners of an exhibition tournament to be played on the final night between Mahaicony, Zeelugt, Plaisance and Timehri. The tournament is being coordinated by former national player/ head coach Lennox Arthur. Kick-off time is 18:00hrs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

Gabriel hits back after Mominul century inspires Bangladesh CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh (CMC) – Mominul Haque struck his eighth Test hundred to equal the most for Bangladesh but West Indies hit back strongly in the final session, to grab a share of the honours on the opening day of the first Test here yesterday. Opting for first knock at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, Bangladesh ended on 315 for eight, an innings built on left-hander Mominul’s 120 – his fourth century this year and third in successive innings at the venue. Fellow opener Imrul Kayes hit a battling 44 while captain Shakib-al-Hasan chipped in with 34 and tailender Taijul Islam, an unbeaten 32. Bangladesh were well poised on 216 for three at tea but speedster Shannon Gabriel, who went wicket-less for the opening two sessions, wrecked the middle and lower order to finish with four for 69. Left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican supported with two for 62 as the tourists clawed their way back into the contest after the hosts dominated. West Indies struck with just the third ball of the morning when left-hander Soumya Sarkar (0) got one from seamer Kemar Roach which straightened, and nicked a defensive prod behind with a single run on the board. However, Mominul then settled down to anchor the innings, inspiring a succession of strong partnerships to give Bangladesh the advantage.

First, he posted 104 for the second wicket with Imrul, who lived a charmed life in an

87-ball knock which included five fours. Imrul, also a left-hander,

Mominul Haque registers his eighth Test century.

Shannon Gabriel dismisses Mominul and then destroys Bangladesh middle-order to rattle Bangladesh.

was dropped on three by Roston Chase at second slip off Roach in the fifth over and survived another chance on 16 when he swept Warrican and was caught by Gabriel at deep square, only for replays to show the bowler had overstepped. He was denied a fifth Test half-century, however, caught at short leg by Sunil Ambris off Warrican in the final over before lunch. On 105 for two at the interval, Bangladesh lost just one wicket in the second session, as Mominul impressively marched to triple figures. All told, the 27-year-old faced 167 balls and counted 10 fours and a six – a loft over wide long on off leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo which took him to 98. Importantly, Mominul added a further 48 for the third wicket with Mohammed Mithun (20) before putting 69 for the fourth wicket with Shakib as Bangladesh prospered. He reached his half-century in the third over before lunch to be unbeaten on 55 at the break, and then survived a chance on 67 when wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich put down a sharp chance off Bishoo, in the eighth over after lunch. However, he carried on unfazed, reaching his landmark when he cut off-spinner Chase to the backward point ropes, just over half-hour away from the tea interval. The only wicket to fall

We are still in the CONCACF Gold Cup – Johnson IMPROBABLE, but not impossible is the task ahead for the country’s senior men’s national team – the Golden Jaguars – in their quest to qualify for next year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup, following their 2-1 defeat to French Guiana in the November 20 CONCACAF Nations League qualifier tournament. Jules Haabo netted on both sides of the half for French Guiana, while Guyana’s lone goal came from captain Neil Danns in a result

which changed the tide for both teams; in the case of Guyana, for the worse. The win pushed French Guiana (six points) to 11th on the 34-team standing; one spot out of qualification, while Guyana (four points) drifted five places out (15th). Guyana will play Belize on March 23, 2019 at the Leonora Track and Field Centre in a game head coach Michael Johnson said the result will be crucial and only

a win will give them a chance of reach the Gold Cup’. “We have one more bite at the cherry,” Johnson said in a statement sent to the media by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF). “We have to win our last game to stand any chance of qualifying, we need to do our bit in the hope

that results will go our way. We are still in the competition. We need the home support to come to the national stadium in your colours in support of a team that need your help in winning this game.” Few things will have to happen for Guyana to stand a chance of joining Trinidad and Tobago, Costa Rica, Panama, Mexico,

in the session was that of Mithun, who skied Bishoo for Dowrich to take a simple catch. Unbeaten on 116 at tea, Mominul’s departure in the second over following the resumption, triggered a slide which saw Bangladesh lose five wickets for 37 runs. Against the run of play, he slashed at Gabriel with minimal foot movement and edged to Dowrich. Gabriel then wasted little time in getting into the middle order. Three balls later in the same over, he claimed Mushfiqur Rahim, lbw for four on review and in his next over, brought one back to bowl the dangerous Mahmudullah for three.

SCOREBOARD BANGLADESH 1st innings Imrul Kayes c Ambris b Warrican 44 Soumya Sarkar c wkp. Dowrich b Roach 0 Mominul Haque c wkp. Dowrich b Gabriel 120 Mohammad Mithun c wkp. Dowrich b Bishoo 20 Shakib Al Hasan b Gabriel 34 Mushfiqur Rahim lbw b Gabriel 4 Mahmudullah Riyad b Gabriel 3 Mehidy Hasan b Warrican 22 Nayeem Hasan not out 24 Taijul Islam not out 32 Extras: (b-3, lb-5, nb-4) 12 Total: (8 wkts, 88 overs) 315 Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-105, 3-153, 4-222, 5-226, 6-230, 7-235, 8-259. Bowling: Roach 15-2-55-1, Gabriel 18-2-69-4 (nb-3), Chase 110-42-0, Warrican 21-6-62-2 (nb-1), Bishoo 15-0-60-1, Brathwaite 8-1-19-0. WEST INDIES – K. Brathwaite, K. Powell, S. Hope, S. Hetmyer, R. Chase, S. Ambris, S. Dowrich, D. Bishoo, K. Roach, J. Warrican, S. Gabriel.

Honduras and the USA at the 2019 June 15-July 7 event, and that doesn’t include a miracle. Curacao (1), Haiti (2), Cuba (3), Canada (4), Jamaica (5) and Martinique (6) are the top six teams in the tournament, having picked up full points from their three matches played. Bermuda (7), St Kitts and Nevis (8), Dominican Republic (9) and Nicaragua (10) are the other teams in the top ten; all having six points, picking one loss from three games.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday November 23, 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: Deandra Dottin-9 wickets Deandra Dottin-5/5 (vs BANG, Providence)

(1) (2)

TODAY’S QUIZ: Where and when was the first ever Test between the WI & Bangladesh played? Who were the captains involved?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

Shakib inside-edged Gabriel onto his stumps two overs later and Warrican got the wicket of Mehidy Hasan Miraz for 22, beating the right-hander’s drive to rattle his stumps. With Bangladesh suddenly tottering on 259 for eight, West Indies had their tails up but were then frustrated by an unbroken 56run, ninth-wicket stand between Taijul and 17-year-old debutant Nayeem Hasan (24 not out). Taijul, who has struck three fours and a six in a 57-ball stay at the crease, was handed a life late in the day when he was given out lbw to Bishoo but reprieved via DRS.

In happier times – Guyana’s senior men’s national football team, more popularly known as the ‘Gold Jaguars’ (Samuel Maughn photo)

Guyana are positioned behind French Guiana (11), their next opponents Belize (12), El Salvador (13) and Montserrat (14) who are all on six points and the results from their next game will determine Johnson’s future. Meanwhile, in a frank and honest assessment of the performance in Cayenne, Johnson singled out a poor start to the match, stating “we were not at the races in the first half and we conceded poor goals. “We didn’t start playing until an hour into the game. The fitness level of players is a real concern. My experiences as an international player for Jamaica put me in a unique position to understand how players feel and how it impacts them.” However, he picked out battling performances from 18-yearold Dagenham & Redbridge midfielder Elliot Bonds and skipper Neil Danns as “a credit to the team” and expressed sympathy for the squad. Wayne Forde, president of the GFF, thanked the players and coaching staff for “giving their all and doing their best. It was a heart-breaking and disappointing result that leaves our Gold Cup dreams in the balance. However, while we still have a slim chance of qualifying, we must remain positive.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday November 23, 2018

VIVA/GPA Inter-Media Domino tournament set for tomorrow THE Guyana Beverage Inc.-sponsored, Guyana Press Association (GPA) Inter-Media Domino tournament, will take place tomorrow at the Everest Cricket Club from 19:00hrs. Under their VIVA Sparkling Flavoured Water brand, the company handed over a cheque for an undisclosed sum to the GPA yesterday at their Diamond, East Bank Demerara location for the tournament which is being held in conjunction with SannSports. According to Rawle Toney, executive member of the GPA, the tournament is expected to be fun-filled and competitive, since a $100 000 cash prize is up for grabs for the winners and the teams finishing second and third. There will also be a ‘Queen Domino’ prize. “The GPA believes that the domino tournament is another way to foster a closer working relationship among the Media houses, because, we hardly get a chance to socialise or better yet compete and have fun while doing so.

Guyana Beverage Inc.’s Shaundel Haripersad makes a presentation to GPA executive member Rawle Toney to mark her company’s sponsorship of the VIVA Inter-Media Domino Tournament. Also in photo, Raymond Gavinda, VIVA Brand Manager (first from left) and SannSports’ Esan Griffith.

The cash prize we’re offering is simply to encourage mass participation and to give them something to play for, apart from the trophies,” Toney said. The GPA executive member thanked the Guyana Beverage Inc. for supporting the initiative and stated that he’s looking forward to more support from the

company. Raymond Gavinda, VIVA Sparkling Flavoured Water Brand Manager, expressed Guyana Beverage Inc.’s delight at being on board, and stated that his entity is looking forward to working closely with the GPA to pull off more activities, especially in the area of sports, that will see competition among the vari-

ous media houses. No entrance fee is required and while several teams have already registered through the GPA, Media houses can also enter on the day of the competition at the venue. However, teams are being encouraged to register by sending their list to GPA via: guyanapressexecutive1954@gmail.com

BCB/Magic Moments 20/20 Tournament

Fyrish Cricket ground to host first-ever final today HISTORY will be created today when the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) hosts a cricket final at the Fyrish cricket ground for the first time ever. The final will be contested by Rose Hall Town Bakewell and Fyrish cricket teams. President of the BCB, Hilbert Foster, stated that the Board is passionate about taking cricket to every corner of Berbice. The final is the third to be hosted by the board under the Magic Moments brand. R o s e H a l l To w n Bakewell team is expected to start as strong favourites. They would be led by Kevin Sinclair and will be supported by a strong batting lineup, that includes Kevlon Anderson, Surendra Kissoonlall, Ju-

nior Sinclair, Chanderpaul Govindan, Jonathan Rampersaud, Vidal Crandon, Keith Simpson and Damien Vantull. Pacers Vantull, Simon Lawson and Sylus Tyndall would spearhead the bowing along with off-spinners Junior and Kevin Sinclair, Jonathan Rampersuad and leftarm spinner Keith Simpson. Much is not known of Fyrish but the fact that they defeated second division powerhouse Chesney by five wickets in the semi-finals means that they cannot be underestimated. They will be spearheaded by Javed Mohamed, Imran Ally, Avinash Deonarine, A. Srikissoon, V. Goordial and Munilall Shirdyal.

Australia celebrate their sem-final win last night in Antigua. They are aiming to win the tournament for a fourth time, after successes in 2010, 2012 and 2014.

Page

Dominant Aussies crush Windies to make World T20 final

FIFA president Infantino pledges best-ever World Cup in Qatar FIFA president Gianni Infantino predicts the 2022 World Cup will be the “best ever” despite a continuing lack of clarity over the number of teams involved and where matches will be played. Qatar’s awarding of the tournament was controversial due to the country’s lack of football heritage, poor human rights record and hot weather that resulted in a switch from the typical June-July dates to November and December. In August, Qatar’s World Cup bid team denied allegations it conducted a smear campaign to increase their chances of hosting the 2022 tournament, having succeeded ahead of competing bids from the United States and Australia. But Infantino, who has proposed expanding the tournament from 32 teams to 48 nations, feels the first-ever World Cup in the Middle East will be a positive experience. “I think that all the ingredients are there to make the World Cup in 2022 an unforgettable event,” Infantino told FIFA.com in an interview to mark four years to the start of the tournament. “It will be a very compact World Cup, all the stadiums are within a one-hour maxi-

mum distance from each other. “It will be a World Cup hosted by a country, which has all the infrastructure and possibilities ready to welcome the world to Qatar.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino “The climate will be great as well in November-December – it’s between 15-25 degrees Celsius in Doha and this is ideal conditions for such a sporting event.” The European football season will be strongly disrupted by the next World Cup, which will be held in the middle of the typical domestic schedule on the continent, but Infantino feels Qatar has everything required to put on a superb show for the world to see. “I’m sure the experience of anyone going to Qatar will be amazing,” he added. “They will discover an amazing coun-

try, not only for the sunshine, the beaches and the sand, but also because of the football and because of the possibility to celebrate the best event ever. “The only message I can really give to everyone in the world who loves football is come to Qatar, come to the Middle East, to the Gulf in 2022 and enjoy the best World Cup ever.” Infantino has led the push to expand the World Cup, a move that has been confirmed for a 2026 tournament that will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. And although he remains keen on the idea for 2022, Infantino accepted in an interview with the Guardian that a 48-team World Cup could not be held in Qatar alone. “Qatar is having eight stadiums and preparing for the World Cup of 32 teams; of course you don’t need to be Einstein to find out that it might be difficult to organise in eight stadiums in one country,” he said. “So you probably have to look to share some of the additional games outside of that country. That brings some additional complications and difficulties of course, and they will be looked at.” (Omnisport)

Knight’s spinners shine as England join Australia in final Page

Any Jones (53) and Natalie Sciver (52) combined for an unbroken 92-run partnership to see England past India’s target of 113 with 17 balls to spare.(ICC photo)

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018