FRIDAY 10th May, 2019
‘Charrandass was a ‘usurper’ No.105633
… CCJ told constitution contains strong anti-defection 03 provisions PAGE
… Belizean SC says dual citizen Persaud ‘was never elected’ to House
“The system in Guyana provides for an election of parties. Parties are given seats. There are lists submitted by the parties. The Constitution of Guyana, Article 156, says, if you intend to not support your list, you must make a declaration to the Speaker (of the National Assembly) in writing,” the Belizean Senior Counsel, Eamon Courtenay submitted to the Caribbean Court of Justice
Magda Pollard passes away PAGE
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Early elections 19 possible in November PAGE
… GECOM attorney tells CCJ house-to-house registration crucial
PPP blamed for crisis at Chinese Landing 02 PAGE
Belizean Senior Counsel Eamon Courtenay
… Gov’t to address issues surrounding miners
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
PPP blamed for crisis at Chinese Landing … Gov’t to address issues surrounding miners
–– villagers call for revocation of Wayne Vieira’s miner’s licence A MINING crisis, which was created when the PPP Government granted permission to a miner to operate on the titled village lands at the North West District community of Chinese Landing/Tassawini
without the community’s consent, has ignited once again and government is working feverishly to address the issue before it further escalates. The issue came to the fore once more last week
when officials of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), who were accompanied by armed police ranks, entered the community and destroyed the villagers’ equipment on four mining blocks. The GGMC officials
Leaders from the village of Chinese Landing/Tassawini and other village leaders from the Moruca sub-district at Thursday’s press conference (Samuel Maughn photo) told the villagers that they were working illegally. The issue dates back to 1995 when miner, Wayne Vieira, was granted prospecting and later in 1998, mining permits, to mine on the village lands of the Carib community, by the authorities. The village wants the GGMC and the government to revoke the permit of the miner, citing its devastating impact on their village economy. Ministerial Adviser at the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Mervyn Williams, told the Guyana Chronicle on Thursday that ministry is aware of the issue. He told the Guyana Chronicle that he met with members of the village council last Friday, at the ministry, to discuss the issue. He said that the villagers aired their concerns and after listening to them, he dispatched two correspondences, one addressed to the Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, and another to Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, with the aim of having the matter addressed.
Williams said he found it strange that the village council chose to vent its concerns with the media on Thursday, even though the matter is being addressed at the level of the relevant ministries. On Thursday, village leader of Chinese Landing/Tassawini, Orin Fernandes, told reporters at a press briefing, at the Regency Suites, that the issue is affecting the economic livelihoods of the residents of the remote village, as well as persons within the Moruca sub-district who benefitted from the spin-offs associated with the mining activities at Chinese Landing. Fernandes recounted that last week, several GGMC officials accompanied by police ranks, visited the village without prior notice and proceeded to dismantle the equipment and other structures on the village land where villagers were operating. He said the officials informed that they were acting on the instructions of the GGMC and a court ruling made by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) which ruled in Vieira’s favour in De-
cember 2017. In December 2017, the CCJ overturned a ruling of the Guyana Court of Appeal and ruled that the GGMC had no authority to order Wayne Vieira, in November 2010, to cease all work at his Chinese Landing operation in spite of having a mining permit to do so. According to the ruling, the CCJ’s decision rests on the fact that Vieira had no agreement with the Chinese Landing-Tassawini Village Council at the time the Cease Work Order (CWO) was issued by the GGMC. As such, what the CCJ’s ruling did, was effectively restore the High Court’s decision and awarded Vieira costs to this effect. NO RIGHTS On Thursday, the village leader noted that the ruling of the CCJ did not give Vieira the authority to continue mining within the village lands. He said neither did that ruling order the GGMC to destroy the residents’ See page 4
‘Charrandass was a ‘usurper’
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
… CCJ told constitution contains strong anti-defection provisions … Belizean SC says dual citizen Persaud ‘was never elected’ to House
By Svetlana Marshall in Port of Spain BELIZEAN Senior Counsel, Eamon Courtenay told the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), on Thursday, that Guyana’s Constitution is embedded with an ‘Anti-defection’ provision that prevents Members of Parliament from voting against the lists from which their names were extracted. He also called expelled MP, Charrandass Persaud, a ‘usurper’ owing to his dual citizenship status, contending that he was never an elected member of the House and that his vote should be rendered null and void. The Senior Counsel, who is representing Attorney General Basil Williams, S.C in the consolidated appeals challenging the decision of the Court of Appeal to invalidate the Vote of No-Confidence Motion, made the comments in a courtroom filled with attorneys and Guyana’s ministers of Government. CROSSING THE FLOOR Courtenay, in addressing the issue of ‘crossing the floor,’ on day one of the hearing into the no-confidence motion at the regional court, stated that: “The system in Guyana provides for an election of parties. Parties are given seats. There are lists submitted by the parties. The Constitution of Guyana, Article 156, says, if you intend to not support your list, you must make a declaration to the Speaker (of the National Assembly) in writing,” the Belizean Senior Counsel submitted to the court. He asked the judges of Guyana’s highest court to consider the intent of Article 156 (A), and compare its requirements, with the action of Charrandass Persaud, who, while as a Government Member of Parliament, used his seat to vote against the Government and the list from which his name was extracted without issuing a declaration. He said MPs are required to vote in favour of their party in keeping with policy decisions, in the case of Government, made at the level of Cabinet. He said once a member no longer supports a list, he must declare same to the Speaker or the Leader of the List in keeping with Article 156. Is this system a charade or Government a rubber stamp? “No!” The Senior Counsel said as he responded to questions
Trinidadian Attorney-at-Law Douglas Mendes posed by the judges. “The debate, the differences take place in the Cabinet, in the political caucus. It is resolved by the party that has been elected by the country, to govern the country. They have that mandate, they are implementing. They have drawn up their motions, they have drawn up their acts and legislation, they debate it internally in Cabinet, they reshape it, they reform it, they go to the political caucus, if you have back benchers, you get them on board, argue about it, agree, then go to parliament and we implement,” he explained. IMPOSTER In his more than one hour long oral submission, the Belizean Senior Counsel also shot down arguments made by PPP lawyer, Trinidadian Douglas Mendes, who upon representing the Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo, told the Court that the Charrandass Persaud’s vote in the National Assembly was saved by the De Facto Doctrine, though he was a dual citizen in the House, in total breach of the Constitution. The de facto doctrine validates an action on the basis that the person in question did not know that a provision was breached. But, Senior Counsel Courtenay, in debunking the arguments made by Mendes, provided evidence that Persaud took an oath to be elected a Member of Parliament, knowing that he is a dual citizen. Describing Persaud as an imposter and usurper, Senior Counsel Courtenay pointed out he (Charrandass Persaud) signed a Statutory Declaration, prior to the 2015 Regional and General Elections, that he was aware of Article 53 and Article 155 – of which the latter pro-
hibits Members of Parliament from being dual citizens. In support of his position, the Belizean Senior Counsel noted that not only is Persaud an attorney-at-law, but also just before and after signing the declaration, he travelled on his Canadian passport. He concluded that Persaud was fully aware that he was not eligible to be a Member of Parliament but, nonetheless, took up a seat in the National Assembly, in total breach of the Constitution. Asked by the court what would be the implications of all the votes Persaud cast for the government which helped it pass bills and budgets, Courtenay responded that the court would have to issue temporary orders out of necessity to save approved budgets, tax measures after which Parliament would have to legitimise what has been temporarily made legal. SERIAL VIOLATOR “The matter before this court arises from a person who is a serial violator of the Constitution of Guyana and who the Leader of the Opposition is seeking to benefit from Constitutional violations by Mr. Persaud in order to bring down the Government of Guyana that is led by a party that Mr. Persaud is elected on,” Courtenay told the court. Senior Counsel Courtenay, therefore, asked the CCJ to affirm the decision of the Court of Appeal and rule that the No-Confidence Motion was invalid. CONFIDENCE VOTE Meanwhile, Courtenay also argued that the Opposition could not have tabled a Motion of No-Confidence against the Government because it simply is not provided for in the Constitution of Guyana. He told the panel of five judges led by President of the CCJ, Justice Adrian Saunders that there are three types of motion. Referencing the submission made by Richard Kelly to the House of Commons Library, the Belizean Senior Counsel explained that there are ‘Confidence Motions’ initiated by the Government; ‘No-Confidence Motions’ initiated by the Opposition; and other Motions, which, because of the particular circumstances, can be regarded as motions of censure or confidence. Guyana’s Constitution, he pointed out, only creates provision for a Motion of Confidence as provided for in Arti-
cle 106 (6) and not a Motion of No-Confidence. He said while it is a fact that the 1966 Constitution of Guyana had made provision for a Motion of No-Confidence, the 1980 Constitution did not include such a provision. It was pointed out that the Constitution, by way of an amendment in 2000, included provisions for a Vote of Confidence under Article 106 (6) and (7). Underscoring that there is clear difference be-
Motion of Confidence to test the House’s confidence in the Government. “If you have a Coalition Government, and the Coalition partner says, we entered into Government with you under an agreement that you were going to do certain things, we are now half way through the term and you have not done these things, when are you going to do it? Give me two months, and they don’t, it is entirely
was intended to be a Vote of No-Confidence intended to bring down the government. He questioned the rationale behind a Government, submitting to the House a Motion of Confidence, when it would be at risk of being defeated. While he agreed with the Belizean Senior Counsel that the Section 37 (1) of the 1966 Constitution only provided a No-Confidence Motion, Mendes rejected the
Showing support: Government ministers showed up at the Caribbean Court of Justice on Thursday for the hearing of the no-confidence vote case. From Left are: Minister of Public Service Tabitha Sarabo-Halley; Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton; Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry and Minister of Business, Haimraj Rajkumar. tween a Motion of Confidence and a Motion of No-Confidence, the Belizean Senior Counsel submitted to the CJJ that Guyana’s Constitution, as it is now, does not cater for a Motion of No-Confidence, and such a motion, should not have been entertained in the National Assembly on the night of December 21, 2018 or on any other day. Article 106 (6) states: “The Cabinet including the President shall resign if the Government is defeated by the vote of a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence.” With the Constitution limiting the Parliament of Guyana to only a Motion of Confidence, the Senior Counsel said only the Government can table a Motion of Confidence in the National Assembly. In the current construct, he submitted that it is possible for a partner within the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition Government to move a
opened through Article 171 for that Coalition partner to move a motion of Confidence,” Senior Counsel Courtenay said as he presented the CCJ with a scenario in which a Motion of Confidence could be brought by a Government or its partner. In absence of a coalition government in power, the Belizean Senior Counsel submitted to the court that there would be no room for Article 106 (6) and (7) to be activated – maintaining that only the framers of the Constitution of Guyana did not make provision for the Opposition to table a Motion of No-Confidence against the Government. RISK OF DEFEAT Mendes, who appeared in association with Anil Nandlall, Marcia Nadir, Chandratesh Satram, Manoj Narayan, Kandace Bharath and Devesh Maharaj, told the court that because “Vote of Confidence” is not defined or characterised in the Constitution of Guyana, it could only mean that it
notion that the current Motion of Confidence embedded in the Constitution is intended only for the Government. He argued that both the Government and Opposition can move a Motion of Confidence or No-Confidence with the intention of testing the House’s Confidence in the Government. On the issue of crossing the floor, Mendes told the Court that Article 156 laid out clear steps for a person to cease to be a Member of Parliament. On the night of December 21, none of the steps were taken. He submitted that Charrandass Persaud never made a declaration, and as such, he remained a member at that point. He also submitted that the former MP, before being recalled, had no knowledge that it was unconstitutional to be a MP with dual citizenship. On that basis, Mendes said Charrandass Persaud was no usurper, and his vote was validated by Article 165 (2) of the Constitution.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
PPP blamed for crisis at Chinese ... From page 2
equipment and evict them from their legally-recognised lands. It was pointed out too, that at no time, was the village council a party
to the CCJ’s deliberations and as such, the village is reiterating that the ruling does not give rights to the miner to operate within their
titled lands. While giving a background into the history of the issue, it was noted by the village that in 1976, Chinese Landing received its land title from the government and in 1991, the village received an absolute
Ministerial Adviser at the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Mervyn Williams
Friday, MAY 10, 2019
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grant over its lands.
SAM HINDS’ DECISION Vieira entered the fray in 1995 when the mining, which fell under the purview of former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, granted permission to the miner to prospect and later mine at the village without the village’s consent.” GGMC converted those prospecting permits to mining permits, again without any notice to the community and violating the Free, Prior and Informed Consent mechanism. The village council said that since 1998, it has been trying to solve the problem and even came to an agreement
with Vieira, but it was noted that the miner managed to manipulate and coerce the village council to his benefit. In 2004 , the village council decided to cut ties with the miner and since then it has been nightmarish gaining the attention of
permission. In 2018, the village raised the issue at the National Toshaos Conference with Minister Trotman, who noted that a miner cannot mine at a community without its consent. Williams told the Guyana Chronicle that the issue could have been better handled by the previous government, whom he noted left the village in the cold, including through the judicial process when the matter was before the courts. He reiterated that the matter will be addressed by the coalition administration. Meanwhile, in response to suggestions that Chinese Landing has not been benefitting from government’s interventions, Williams noted that the village has been receiving funding for various projects under the Presidential grants. Last year, under a capital project, the village received a sum of $1M for a school hot meal project. Funds over the past three years were also directed towards other aspects of education delivery in the village.
Toshao of Chinese Landing/Tassawini, Orin Fernandes (Samuel Maughn photo) the then PPP-Administration to address their concerns. In 2010 the GGMC issued the cease work order to the miner on the grounds that he was violating the Amerindian Act by mining on the village lands without
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GUYANA CHRONICLE friDay, MAY 10, 2019
US ambassador calls on new Miner charged for stealing batteries and plantain Foreign Affairs Minister
AMBASSADOR of the United States of America to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, congratulated newly-appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings, on her appointment, during a courtesy call on Thursday. D r. C u m m i n g s w a s sworn in on May 2, 2019, replacing her former National Assembly colleague, Carl Greenidge, following his resignation, in accordance with the Constitution as it relates to a dual citizenship holder. A release from the Ministry stated that, during the meeting, Ambassador Lynch discussed with the Minister areas of on-going cooperation and of mutual interest. Guyana and the United
KEVON Lawrence, a 36-year-old miner was, on Thursday May 9, 2019, fined at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for stealing 2 batteries and plantain from a businessman. Lawrence of 55 Linden Housing Scheme, Wismar, pleaded guilty to the charge which read that, on May 8, 2019, he stole two batteries valued $42,000. However, he denied that he also stole
Ambassador of the United States of America to the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Her Excellency Sarah-Ann Lynch calls on Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Dr. Karen Cummings States have continued to maintain a high level of bilateral cooperation since
the establishment of diplomatic relations on August 15, 1966.
Man accused of drug possession on $100,000 bail MARVIN John has been placed on $100 000.00 bail after pleading not guilty for having in his possession 157.6 grams of narcotics. Marvin John made his appearance before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman
at the Providence Magistrate Court on Wednesday May 8, 2019. The Court was told that Marvin John of Lot 4 Public Road, Grove East Bank Demerara, was found in possession of the drugs on Sunday October 28, 2018,
at the same address. Marvin sat in Court unrepresented by his Lawyer who was unable to attend Court. However, John will have to return to Court on May 13, 2019, for the continuation of his case
four pounds of plantain worth $12,000. Both items were the property of Quacy Bowen. According to Prosecutor Tracy-May Gittens, on the day in question, Bowen was conducting business as usual when he secured the items in his bus. He was reportedly going to Georgetown to buy goods, when he left the bus for a few minutes. It was during that period that the defendant went into the bus and took the said items, then
escaped. The matter was reported and an investigation was launched which led to the arrest of the defendant. He was later told of the allegation and admitted to committing the offence. The accused begged the Magistrate for forgiveness. However, reports showed that he was a regular offender in the community. The Magistrate fined him $10,000 or a default of 21 days in prison.
Man to stand trial for murder of stepfather A 20-year-old man was, on Thursday, May 09, 2019 arraigned before the Suddie Magistrate’s Court for the murder of his step-father, Eyon Williams, who was killed at their Grant Bethany home in Lower Pomeroon, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) John Alberts appeared before Magistrate Esther Sam and was not required to plead to the capital offence
of murder. It was alleged that, on May 5,2019, at Grant Bethany in Lower Pomeroon, he murdered his step-father, Eyon Williams. The matter was adjourned until June 6, 2019, and transferred to the Charity Magistrate court. According to reports, on the day in question, Alberts was imbibing with his cousin when an argument and a fight ensued between them.
Wi l l i a m s , w h o w a s around at the time, intervened. It is alleged that he (Williams) took the frame of an old generator and dealt his stepson a lash to his left hand. Alberts, who was armed with a knife, whipped it out and stabbed his stepfather to the side of his abdomen. Williams was rushed to the Oscar Joseph Hospital at Charity, where doctors pronounced him dead.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Gender-based abuse
GUYANESE are well aware of the fact that gender-based abuse against women is a major problem in our country. Also, persons, particularly those in urban communities, will have noticed the proliferation of music, comments by DJs and other public, predominantly male figures that are nothing short of vulgar. The relationship between those two issues, though well established, may be less obvious. The crass, distasteful noise that passes for entertainment in some mini-buses is of particular note. Passengers, including children, are bombarded with the most obnoxious lyrics imaginable, and, inexplicably, some people appear to enjoy it. Many advertisements for parties and other money-making ventures on the social and mainstream media fall within a similar category. Such gatherings are increasingly being marketed under more and more indecent themes; It appears as though the authors and promoters of such events are trying to outdo each other
in a perverse competition to present the most obscene content imaginable. The fact that the majority of Guyanese remain silent as our society’s values are eroded is more than unfortunate. And the undeniable truth that increasing numbers of our youth are now joining the ranks of the ‘uncultured’ is even more saddening. Perhaps, most disheartening of all is the fact that the overwhelming mass of objectionable music, advertisements, and utterances by “popular” personalities are directly, and unabashedly directed against women, or, are otherwise demeaning and contemptuous towards females, and downright disrespectful. Inexplicably, many women — particularly younger Guyanese — seem to simply love it. Unbelievable! It is generally accepted by experts that gender-based abuse, most frequently directed against women, originate with disrespect for the female gender. American researcher, Dr. Justin Coulson, a father of six daughters, the author of ’21 Days to a Happier Family’ and the holder
of a PhD in psychology, posits that there is a direct relationship between disrespect for women, which often begins in youth, and violence. Dr. Coulson wrote, “Domestic and family violence are increasingly being recognised as a problem in our communities, and awareness is increasing – which is good. But we still have a long way to go. But what is poorly understood is the hidden signals and messages that appear in our words and conversations around gender and respect, and expectations for what is appropriate or inappropriate behaviour for girls and boys. As parents and adults, we must pause and ask ourselves whether the things we say to our kids (or the things that teachers, or coaches or community leaders say) could be influencing the way they see relationships?” It is understood too, that for persons, including women, to be respected by others, they must first respect themselves. Two thinkers expressed it as follows: Confucius said, “Respect yourself and others will respect you.” Dostoevsky said, “If
you want to be respected by others, the great thing is to respect yourself. Only by that, only by self-respect will you compel others to respect you.” The line of reasoning is clear, a person must respect himself or, in this particular case, herself, first. The result will be that respect will be earned from others. If that course of action is not taken, the inevitable outcome is disrespect, dysfunctional relationships, and, probably, domestic abuse including the possibility of violence. President Granger, himself a father of two daughters, recognises the problem; in 2018 he said, “We need to deal with this problem of violence against girls and women. It is not easy. It is not just sexual violence, it is physical violence as well. It is chopping and killing, murder…It is the daily subjugation and suppression of women…” When we accept the undeniable postulate that lack of self-respect is a major cause of gender-based abuse, the solution to the problem becomes obvious, though no
easier to implement. Relationships researcher, Laura Forting wrote, “Many things go into gaining respect from a man. Men respect the women they love. Most men do not love women they cannot respect. The definition of respect in Merriam Webster’s dictionary is to consider worthy of high or special regard.” In her widely cited article, ‘What Makes a Man Respect a Woman,’ the expert gives advice to her fellow women. She states that, in order to earn the respect of others, women should respect themselves, be truthful and authentic, set boundaries, and respect others. Other scientists have emphasised the need for self-confidence, firmness, a sense of responsibility, and the nurturing of a culture of self-assurance. One can hardly argue against such advice. While it must be stated, unequivocally, that under no circumstance is abuse or other forms of violence acceptable, including against women, it must be underscored too that women, as well as men, have parts to
play in fostering healthy, meaningful, and rewarding relationships. And, playing into a decadent, indecent, and immoral culture is certainly not the way to earn respect. One can easily imagine that the same young girls who are today revelling in immoral conduct, and frolicking in the indecent atmospheres of less-reputable forms of entertainment, may probably be the women who, tomorrow, could be the victims of abuse because their sense of self-worth would have been distorted from an early age. Having identified a problem, it is up to society to take action. Publications such as this one, other media outlets, parents, family members, students, teachers, faith-based leaders, organisations, clubs, the police, and government officials all have a part to play. Our sons and daughters must be taught to respect themselves and others, and social institutions must reinforce those lessons. The question is: will we, collectively, take appropriate and timely action?
National Printers responds to KN reckless reports Dear Editor, WITH reference to Kaieteur News (KN) articles dated May 1, May 3, May 5 and May 8, 2019, we -- the Board of Directors, Management and Staff of Guyana National Printers Limited (GNPL)-- find these articles dishonest, malicious, reckless and to some extent, libellous on the part of the KN. For several years, GNPL was operating in the red. In 2015, when a new dynamic Board
of Directors was appointed, they took this albatross and steered the course of this once flourishing state entity back to its glory days. For many years also, GNPL was contracted by the Ministry of Education to supply exercise books for use by public schools in Guyana. In 2018, after the new board ramped up its marketing and sales opportunities, the company received a contract to supply textbooks to the Ministry of Education (MOE) for the first time in decades. All textbooks were ordered directly by the MOE, either from
the printers in Trinidad, or local suppliers –many of whom order the supplies from Port of Spain. This was obvious, as most or all of the local printers did not have the capacity to supply the large orders. GNPL, over the years, has always supplied exercise books to the Ministry of Education. As part of the exercise books contract, GNPL received orders to supply checkered-line books as well. Because of old equipment and consistent delays, the company, in an effort to meet the deadline of
providing the books to schools, ordered the checkered-line books on a sub-contractual basis from Trinidad. This arrangement continued up until 2017. In 2017, Kaieteur Books Inc., a sister company of Kaieteur News, which by now had the capacity to print the checkered-line books, was given the orders by GNPL to print the books locally, even though this was at a higher cost than if the order was sub-contracted to Trinidad. TURN TO PAGE 7
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
National Printers responds...
FROM PAGE 6
This decision was taken in spite [of] being done at a cost to GNPL. The decision, however, was based on the fact that a local company had developed the capacity to do the job, and the Board of Directors wanted to ensure that the printing was done locally, since the ability to have it printed here was now available. Editor, to date, GNPL continues to share the printing of the checkered-line books with Kaieteur Books Inc. However, they are unable to provide a complete product (inclusive of Quality Control and Packaging) to hand over to the Ministry of Education. GNPL has to complete the job before delivery to the Ministry of Education. There is no doubt, therefore, that the Kaieteur
Books Inc. is a sub-contractor for GNPL. In 2017, GNPL received a loan from the government to purchase and enhance its capacity to provide a reliable and efficient service to its customers, including its biggest one -- the Ministry of Education. It is no secret that the Ministry of Education, in the past, did contract a Trinidadian company to print [the] majority of their textbooks because the capacity to do it locally was not available. Therefore, there was great excitement and expectations to have that business come back to Guyana since we were on the verge of having our press up and running. Unfortunately, we encountered some early electrical issues and were faced with
the challenge of meeting our deadline for the Ministry of Education. In our efforts to salvage any disruptions of the delivery of the books, GNPL contacted the local companies we felt had the capacity to print the books including Kaieteur Books Inc. Many of the large local printers did not have the capacity. Those that did express interest to print were unable to commit to competitive prices and suggested that we were underpricing the Ministry of Education. Therefore, in order to meet the 2018 deadline as requested by the Ministry of Education, and since we could not print locally, GNPL reverted to the Trinidad company for the printing of the textbooks. We at GNPL were
saddened in having to make this decision. But as a business, and in order to maintain our responsibility to the Ministry of Education and, by extension, the schoolchildren around the country, we were forced to go that route. Since these developments, GNPL has continued to produce and satisfy the orders for exercise books for the Ministry of Education and all of our customers, and are also putting systems in place to correct the challenges we had and can assure [that] we will be ready to print the orders for books for the upcoming academic year.
Finally, Editor, one wonders what has motivated Kaieteur News’ committed and continuous efforts to tarnish the integrity and hard work of the GNPL team to turn the company around. Rather than focus on sensationalizing and peddling miss-information, Kaieteur News should focus on how state-owned printers have turned itself around and returned to a position of prosperity, providing competitive products and services. This would be a truly inspirational story for many struggling companies in Guyana. We are very grateful to
the Government of Guyana for the much-needed loan which afforded us the opportunity to turn the company around and we have already commenced repayment of that loan. We are also thankful for the Government of Guyana’s commitment and continued support in the form of print business. We, the Board of Directors, Management and Staff, are committed to moving GNPL to it once respected and productive state. Regards Guyana National Printers Limited
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President Granger saddened at passing of Magda Pollard
HIS Excellency, David Granger, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana is saddened at the death of Magda Lois Muriel Pollard, AA, CCH former Principal of the Carnegie School of Home Economics and Women’s Affairs Officer at the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat. Magda Pollard was born in 1931 at Buxton, East Coast Demerara. Ms. Pollard taught Home Economics at the Bishops’ High School before transitioning to serve as Teacher
and Principal at the Carnegie School of Home Economics from 1957 to 1978. Between 1980 and 1991, she served as Women’s Affairs Officer at the Caribbean Community Secretariat. To celebrate her work in women’s advocacy and empowerment, in 1992 she was bestowed with the Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) Award for Women. She has also received two national awards, the Cacique Crown of Honour and the Golden Arrowed of Achievement. Ms. Pollard was also bestowed
the honour of the fourth CARICOM Triennial Award for Women in 1993. During her tenure at CARICOM, she strived for the creation of Women’s Bureaus in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and spearheaded a three-year programme, ‘Management for Development: Effecting Change’ whose target included senior women administrators. She has to her credit also, two publications on Home Economics which she has co-authored. Over the years, Ms. Pollard served in
many capacities, including as President of the Guyana Girl Guides Association, Director at Republic Bank Guyana, Secretary to the Anne Blue Scholarship Programme, the Women and Gender Equality Commission and as Chairperson of the National Commission for Women and Chairperson of the National Task Force on Domestic Violence. President Granger extends heartfelt condolences to her immediate family members, other relatives and friends. (Ministry of Presidency)
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Brazilian naval contingent conducting CARIBEX THREE vessels of the B r a z i l i a n N a v y, o n Wednesday, docked in Port Georgetown at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard Headquarters, Ruimveldt. The patrol vessels, the NPa BRACUI, the NPa GUANABARA, and the
The mission’s objective is to carry out military drills at sea, in order to increase training and operational readiness among the ships involved, as well as to contribute to closer ties of friendship with the countries visited. War and Sea Captain, Robledo de Lemos Costa e
Demerara Bank records $821M after-tax profit DEMERARA Bank Limited has recorded a profit of $821M after tax for the first quarter of 2019. According to the bank’s interim financial statements for March 31, 2019, the profit was less than what was recorded for the corresponding period in 2018. Chairman of the Bank, Dr. Yesu Persaud, in his review of the financial institution’s performance, said the company had recorded a profit of $907M for the same period last year. Despite the decrease, he said the bank’s deposits increased from $59.4 billion to $62.6 billion, an increase of five per cent. In addition, loans and advances moved from $25B to $30B. Based on the financial
performance of the first six months of the year, the Board of Directors of the bank has recommended an interim dividend of $0.35 per share. Last year the company paid $0.35 per share as interim dividend. “The performance of the bank is good considering the challenges we have in the local operating environment,” said Persaud. Global growth is projected around 3.9 per cent in 2019. Guyana’s real growth was 4.1 per cent in 2018 and it may remain in the vicinity of 4 per cent in 2019, said Persaud. Demerara Bank Limited was incorporated on January 20, 1992 as a private limited liability company under the provisions of the Companies
Act, Chapter 89:01 and was licensed to carry on the business of banking on October 31,1994. The bank obtained its Certificate of Continuance on April 2, 1997 in accordance with the Companies Act 1991. The bank offers a complete range of banking and financial services and operates under the Provisions of the Financial Institution Act (Act 1 of 1995). According to the company’s website, the bank remains committed to Dr. Yesu Persaud’s vision and takes pride in providing innovative and superior banking services, which includes savings and term deposit accounts, loans, money transfer services, cambio services and Internet
banking services. Additionally, Demerara Bank offers a special loan scheme geared towards Guyana’s ‘Go Green Initiative’ and is the first commercial institution to operate its corporate office solely on solar energy and has converted most of its locations to solar energy to reduce its carbon footprint. Demerara Bank is the only principal member of VISA in Guyana and offers VISA credit, and soon, VISA debit, cards. Demerara Ban0k is also committed to supporting causes related to sports, education, health and safety, as well as other areas of community development in keeping with its corporate social responsibilities.
IRF honours local engineer
THE International Road Federation (IRF), on Wednesday, honoured the late Terence Fletcher, who was a local engineer who worked to bolster infrastructure in Guyana and the Caribbean. Fletcher was born in Guyana and was a student of Queen’s College. He later migrated to pursue studies abroad, before returning to work in his country of birth. On Wednesday, as the Eight International Road Federation (IRF) Caribbean Congress was declared open, the Guyanese man was honoured. “Upon graduating, he embarked on a professional career spanning 50 years – continuing literally to the day of his passing,” Board Member of the IRF, Dr. Kamil Kaloush, said. “Throughout, he main-
Carol Fletcher, the daughter of late engineer, Terence Fletcher, receives the International Road Federation (IRF) Lifetime Achievement award from Board Member of the IRF, Dr. Kamil Kaloush, on behalf of her father
tained strong connections with the IRF and was in fact, one of the professionals who inspired us to launch a cycle of regional congresses for the Caribbean.” At the opening of the congress, he was bestowed with the IRF Lifetime Achievement award, “in recognition of his unwavering commitment and effective contribution to the propensity and socioeconomic development of the Caribbean.” Terence’s daughter, Carol, received the award in his memory at the opening of the congress. “I just want to thank the IRF for recognising my dad,” Carol said. “My entire lifetime, he has always been passionate about the work he has done… I feel very grateful for the recognition he received today.”
The Brazilian naval contingent which is conducting the 2019 edition of CARIBEX. NPa GUAIBA, form the Brazilian naval contingent which is conducting the 2019 edition of CARIBEX. CARIBEX is an annual Operation conducted by the Brazilian Navy, which sends a task force to navigate Caribbean waters and to visit ports of friendly nations in the region.
Sa, commands the Brazilian military seafarers who number 121 in total. As is customary, Captain Coata e Sa, along with his senior naval officers, are scheduled to pay a Courtesy Call on Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Patrick West, prior to his contingent’s departure on Saturday morning.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Sam Hinds’ son in court for assaulting cop SAMUEL Hinds Jr, the son of former President and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, was, on Thursday, May 09, 2019, arraigned before a City Magistrate for assaulting a traffic officer and committing other traffic-related offences. Samuel Hinds Junior, 38-year-old miner of Evan Phillips Park, Agricola, East Bank Demerara, was hauled before Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. The first two charges alleged that, on May 9, 2019, at Main Street, Georgetown, Hinds Jr. assaulted police officer Canterberry and resisted arrest by the officer who was acting in the execution of his duties. The last three charges alleged that, on the same date and location, he (Hinds) drove his motor car when the identification mark was not visible and resisted being subjected to a breathalyzer test from Police Lance corporal Thom. Hinds Jr. was represented by attorney-at-law Latchmi Rahamat, who made an application for bail. Police Prosecutor Arwin Moore made no objection to Hinds Jr. being released on bail. Magistrate Nurse released Hinds on $10,000 bail for each of the charges and adjourned the matter until June 12, 2019. According to reports,
Samuel Hinds Jr about 02:00hrs on Thursday, traffic officer Canterberry pulled over Hinds Jr. during a Driving Under Influence (DUI) exercise. Police Lance corporal Thom attempted to conduct a breathalyzer test on Hinds Jr. and he resisted. Officer Canterberry attempted to arrest Hinds Jr. and he resisted. The accused began behaving in a disorderly matter and assaulted officer Canterberry and also allegedly pointed a gun at him. The reinforcement came and arrested Hinds Jr. and took him to the Brickdam Police Station. Hinds Jr, who is no stranger to the law when it comes to assault charges was convicted in 2015 for assaulting his sister-in-law. He was subsequently sentenced to two months imprisonment but was later released on $50,000 bail pending appeal.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Stiffer penalties for reckless road users … traffic safety coordinator urges
PROJECT Coordinator of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s Traffic and Safety Maintenance Department, Kester Hinds, has called for
higher fines to be charged to road users who disregard the proper usage of roadways. According to statistics published by the Pan Amer-
ican Health Organisation and the World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), deaths from traffic crashes are among one of the top 10 causes of fatalities in Guy-
Seated at the panel discussion on Road Safety Risk are: Project Coordinator of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s Traffic and Safety Maintenance Department, Kester Hinds (third left), and Guyana Police Force (GPF) Traffic Chief, Linden Isles (sixth left), along with other experts in the Region (Adrian Narine photo) ana. At breakout session of the Eighth International Road Federation (IRF) Caribbean Regional Congress in Guyana, Hinds put forward that education and enforcement, complimented with higher fines, must be viewed as a possible deterrent to improper road usage. He made the remarks on Wednesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), on the first day of the three-day congress, where infrastructure and engineering experts from the Region assembled. “Often times you find that persons would continuously violate traffic laws and regulations because the penalties are not severe. Education [alone] sometimes doesn’t work, it needs to be complemented with stiff penalties via enforcement,” Hinds said, adding: “If you’re going to educate persons on how they should use the roads, whenever they break those laws they should be sanctioned with stiff penalties that will give the deterrent in the future for others who might have the intention of breaking those laws.” Hinds was among a panel of several other experts, which included Guyana Police Force (GPF) Traffic Chief, Linden Isles, who discussed ‘Diagnosing Road Safety Risk’ in the Region They all spoke to a number of road improvements they believe are necessary in their country and the Region at large, to deal with transportation challenges. The project coordinator also presented the need for improved speed-calming measures in Guyana to
guard against speeding. “We are very good at installing speed humps and many persons are in support of it and, of course, some are not in support of speed humps. That’s a measure that can work when you’re dealing with city streets but if we’re building a large highway we must put some necessary speed-calming measures in place,” he said. Coupled with this is the need for old vehicles to be replaced by new ones in which Hinds said come with enhanced safety features which are geared towards protecting all categories of road users. On another point, he told the audience of the need for greater emphasis to be placed on separating and protecting pedestrians and vehicle users while in transit. He recommended raised sidewalks separated from the road with guard rails in order to prevent pedestrians from being injured during a road accident. Hinds also recommended overpasses much like the ones the government has begun to construct on busy roadways in Georgetown, but he was not too keen on the idea of underpasses. “For a country like Guyana, which is below sea level and there is the existence of a high water table, underpasses may be challenge. Of course, money is not an object but we must take into consideration heavy rainfall and [the fact] that it may become flooded,” he said. In his contribution on the panel, Traffic Chief Linden Isles informed those attending that most of the motor vehicle accidents in Guyana are caused by
speeding. One way in which he recommended that the trend could be addressed is through enforced lane-driving in accordance to specific speed limits. “We must look at separating the different speed limits through lane driving,” Isles stated. “Most times, what you find is that persons in the outer lane are driving slow; not to the speed limit but below the speed limit and the person driving behind would try to overtake that person. But, if there is a speed for the specific lane it means that that driver will have to observe the speed limit of the lane.” Making another contribution on how Guyana can address the issues, the traffic chief expressed the need for More Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Cameras to be strategically placed on roadways. “With a lack of these cameras you would find that persons commit offences but if at each and every intersection there’s a camera being monitored by the police, I think we’ll have better road users,” he reasoned. But even as these needs are being pushed for by the GPF, the traffic chief also stressed the need for road users to be regularly educated about the responsibilities regarding road use. He stated: “What you find is that we have educational programmes but it is not getting to the targeted people but if we have money to spend on those programmes we’ll design it so that it can reach the targeted group.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Chabrol rails against censorship, propaganda … says politicians conveniently praise, criticise local media AT the a panel discussion on press freedom hosted by the Guyana Peace Council (GPC) on Wednesday, stalwart journalists presented their positions on what is needed for the local press to truly fulfil its mandate. The panel discussion took place at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (CJRC)/ Red House and saw remarks coming from former President of the Guyana Press Association (GPA), Neil Marks; National Communication Network (NCN) Chairman, Enrico Woolford; and Demerara Waves Publisher, Denis Chabrol. World Press Freedom Day was celebrated on May 3, 2019 and, this year, takes on the theme: ‘Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation.’ In his presentation to the audience, Chabrol first acknowledged that throughout Guyana’s history, the press has been conveniently praised and criticised by political parties for political or personal gain. Such actions, he stated, rob the Guyanese public of the right to make well-informed decisions. Public-owned media houses which are considered credible, non-biased and unaligned to political parties, are what Chabrol listed as the greatest need today for the press in Guyana. He stated that these needs transcend traditional media and must also be applied to social media platforms which have become a main source of information sharing. “In this era of fast-paced movement of audio, video and text, Guyana and Guyanese cannot just confine themselves to traditional
Demerara Waves Publisher, Denis Chabrol, speaks to the audience on the needs of the press (Adrian Narine photo) channels of radio, television and newspapers. What we can and ought to do is apply the same globally-accepted rules of journalism in disseminating and consuming journalism products. Failing to do so, will result in us as a nation pandering to rumour, gossip and even chaos,” Chabrol cautioned. The publisher spoke against censorship, propaganda and called for recognition by politicians that the press is crucial to democracy and ought not to be intimidated into subjection. Meanwhile, in his remarks, Marks reminisced on his career in the media and the many experiences of “racial fermentation” which have affected the press. He pinpointed the election period in Guyana as a time in which racism consistently shows its ugly head and stated that it was not until the 2006 elections that the media was able to turn the tide of high violence during the period. “I think that marked the beginning of the first non-vi-
olent election in Guyana’s history and, thankfully, that has continued. Much of that was a result of the work that the media did in a very large part,” he said. Marks explained that earlier, in 2001, the general media had agreed to sign on to a Code of Conduct which would see them practicing self-regulation and producing content free of racial hostility. Stating that he does not believe that Guyana has been completely freed of “racial fermentation” during the elections period, he called on the private sector to invest in funding training for journalists for the improvement of the local profession. In his remarks, Woolford stressed the need for journalists to report on investigated facts rather than simply regurgitating information. He stated that in order to make informed decisions, journalists must first be informed and must transfer this knowledge to the public so that they can make informed decisions. “The media ought to be pursuing facts where we investigate,” he advised. “We have to look at the portrayals, the position and the perceptions that are driven by the concerns of those who want to be heard.” Making brief remarks was United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative to Guyana, Mikiko Tanaka, who reminded the attendees of the role and ethical responsibilities of the press. With the election period in mind, she acknowledged that one of the greatest challenges of the media was figuring out how to report on inflammatory language
Members of the audience at the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (CJRC)/ Red House (Adrian Narine photo)
during political campaigns. As such, Tanaka advised that journalists must decline to report on anything that is dis-
criminatory, inflammatory or to be considered hate speech. She also called on political parties to remember
their roles and to create an environment which enables the media to fulfil its mandate.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Stalwart Magda Pollard passes away
STALWART women’s activist and honoree of the fourth CARICOM Triennial Award for Women, Magda Lois Muriel Pollard C.C.H; A.A has died. Confirmation of her passing was given on May 9, 2019, by her first cousin, former Judge of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Professor Duke Pollard. Magda Pollard was born in 1931in Buxton, East Coast Demerara (EDC), to parents Fitzgerald and Muriel Pollard, both of whom were teachers. In her teenage years, she attended The Bishops’ High School where she excelled academically actively participating in music, drama and community service. Before leaving school Magda Lois she was awarded the FiMuriel Pollard dele Collier Medal for her significant contribution to the school’s ethos. Pollard later moved on to write the Oxford and Cambridge Examinations in 5th form and the London Higher School Certificate, deciding to enter the field of teaching. Four years later, she left for London to attend the Glasgow and West of Scotland College of Domestic Science where she received training as a Grade One teacher. She eventually went on to gain a distinction in her Postgraduate Certificate Course at the Queen Elizabeth College, London University, in Home Economics in relation to Community Development. Pollard later returned to Guyana and worked in the public education system and eventually became the principal of Carnegie School of Home Economics in 1962 where she promoted an increased emphasis on specialized training in food preparation. This led her, some 16 years later, to be invited by CARICOM to help formulate a regional food and nutrition project. Her eventual appointment as the first Women’s Affairs Officer (WAO) at the CARICOM Secretariat led her to play a greater role in the representation of women’s rights in Guyana and the Region. She lobbied for the governments in the Caribbean to sign on to and ratify the International Bill Of Rights for Women. Her invaluable contributions over the years led to her receiving two national awards in Guyana: The Cacique Crown of Honour and the Arrow of Achievement. She also received the 1992 CARIFESTA Award for Women and the special award of the Caribbean Association of Home Economists of which she was a founding member. Pollard served as the Chairperson of the Guyana National Commission on Women and, during her tenure, organised for the creation of Women’s Bureaus in the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OCES). Her active engagement towards the well-being and representation of women’s rights have garnered her much respect and gratitude even as several public figures have since expressed sadness due to her passing.
Two arrested in Karasabai resident’s death probe
TWO men were arrested and placed in police custody, following the murder of Elton Leonard, 23, formerly of Karasabai Village, Region Nine, police confirmed. Reports indicate that Leonard left home at about 19:00hrs on May 2, 2019, while under the influence of alcohol, and, just after midnight, he was in a heated argument with three men. It is alleged that Leonard was stabbed to the left side of his chest and collapsed and died and the suspects fled the scene. The body was taken to the Karasabai Hospital. Police are looking for a third suspect as investigations continue.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
MARAD warns mariners of drill ships in Stabroek Block By Rabindra Rooplall
ALL mariners are required to stay clear of Oil and Gas exploration vessels and navigate with caution in the vicinity within the Stabroek Block as Esso Exploration and production Guyana Ltd commenced survey operations. This is according to the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD). MARAD, in a public notice published in the media, stated that the activities will be in support of drilling activities at the Hammerhed, Liza Phase 2, and Payara Well site within the Stabroek Block of the Guyana Maritime Zone that commenced on May, 5, 2019. MARAD stated that this operation will incorporate the use of a vessel that will display the international signal for vessels engaged in such activities. The Hammerhead survey area is approximately 81 nautical miles from the coast of Guyana and covers an area of 81 square kilometers while Liza Phase 2 survey is approximately 96 nautical miles from the coast of Guyana and covers six square kilometers. Additionally, the Payara survey area is approximately 98 nautical miles from the coast of Guyana and covers an area of 205 square kilometers. MARAD noted that communication for mariners can be made on VHF Ch. 16 or via the Georgetown Light House. ExxonMobil earlier this month said it has funded the Liza Phase 2 development offshore Guyana after it received government and regulatory approvals. Liza Phase 2 will produce up to 220,000 barrels of oil per day and further capitalize on the significant development potential of the Stabroek Block, where ExxonMobil estimates producing more than 750,000 barrels of oil per day by 2025. According to Exxon, a total of six drill centers are planned as well as approximately 30 wells, including 15 productions, nine water injection and six gas injection wells. Phase 2 startup is expected in mid-2022 and will develop approximately 600 million barrels of oil. Liza Phase 2 is expected to cost $6 billion, including a lease capitalization cost of
approximately $1.6 billion, for the Liza Unity floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel. “With the government of Guyana and our partners, ExxonMobil is bringing industry-leading upstream capabilities to build upon Phase 1 and further develop the shared value of Guyana’s resources,” said Liam Mallon, president of ExxonMobil Upstream Oil & Gas Company. “We are actively pursuing significant development potential from numerous discoveries in the Stabroek Block.” Liza Phase 1 remains on track to achieve first oil by the first quarter of 2020. It will produce up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day at peak rates utilizing the Liza Destiny FPSO, which is expected to arrive offshore Guyana in the third quarter of 2019. Pending government and regulatory approvals, a final investment decision is expected later this year for a third phase of development, Payara, which is expected to produce between 180,000 and 220,000 barrels per day with startup as early as 2023. ExxonMobil is evaluating additional development potential in other areas of the Stabroek Block, including at the Turbot area and Hammerhead. By the end of 2019 ExxonMobil will have four drillships operating offshore Guyana. Following well-completion activities at the recently-announced Yellowtail discovery, the Noble Tom Madden will move to the Hammerhead-2 well. The Stena Carron is completing a well test at the Longtail-1 discovery, and will then move to the Hammerhead-3 well. Later in 2019, the Stena Carron will drill a second well at the Ranger discovery. The Noble Bob Douglas drillship is completing development drilling operations for Liza Phase 1. ExxonMobil will add another exploration drillship, the Noble Don Taylor, in the fourth quarter of 2019. As the projects proceed, the partners’ investment in the Guyanese economy continues to increase. The number of Guyanese nationals supporting project activities more than doubled in 2018 to more than 1,000. ExxonMobil and its co-venturers spent nearly
$60 million with more than 500 Guyanese vendors in 2018. More than 1,500 Guyanese companies are registered with the Centre for Local Business Development, which was founded by ExxonMobil and its co-venturers in 2017 with the mission of supporting local businesses to become globally competitive.
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As with Liza Phase 1, the second phase will utilize a floating production, storage, and offloading (FPSO) vessel. (Getty Images).
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Youth floats initiative to light up Main Street Ave.
IMAGINE a beautiful boulevard similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame but embedded with the names of noteworthy Guyanese who have made invaluable contributions to their country and you would have visualised the vision of Guyanese Author Jamall Adams. Social media blew up with support for Adams on Tuesday when he created a Facebook page to give the public his artistic impression of what the boulevard he dubbed ‘The Avenue of Honors’ could look like. The site pinpointed for the possible project is the median stretch along Main Street, Georgetown from its entry point at the Church Street intersection to the Lamaha Street intersection. The design, thus far, that he shared with the public showed a glistening terrazzo floor much like Hollywood Walk of Fame but instead of the embedded brass stars, Adams depicted the Cacique’s Crown of Honour. If developed, the Avenue of Honors would feature the likes of Guyana’s first President Arthur Chung; Guyana’s first Executive President
Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham; President Cheddi Jagan; Cricketer Shivnarine Chanderpaul and many more across various fields. Speaking to the newspaper on Thursday, Adams said that he intends to pitch the idea to the Ministry of the Presidency; the Ministry of Public Infrastructure; the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) and the Mayor and City Council (M&CC). Adams, a 33-year old, has written and published eights books and is credited with the creation of the Guyanese Alphabet Chart which depicts historic landmarks and places of interest in the country. He stated that his idea for the development came from the Hollywood Walk of Fame which led him to realise that Guyana does not have many physical monuments which recognise the contributions of past and present individuals. After two weeks of brainstorming, he came up with a visual outline for the project which he believes will create jobs; attract tourists and educate, especially young Guyanese, on local role models they can look up to.
“I think it will bring a sense of pride as not only will we be showcasing Guyanese but we’ll also be bringing tourists. I’m certain it’s going to be a tourist attraction,” he said. “A lot of people don’t know of the people that would have contributed. We know of what is being taught in schools but there are tons of people that would have been behind the scenes that would have contributed. This is going to be a chance to give those persons a chance to live forever because, with the right maintenance, this can last forever.” Off the top of his head, he mentioned other additional figures which he believes should be featured on the Avenue of Honors which included notable women in Government; sports personalities and more. However, Adams says that the plan he has is that a Committee will be set up which will be the deciding body, through a stipulated process of public engagement, on which personalities are inducted to the Avenue of Honor. He chose the Main Street location as it is one of the most significant and beautiful avenues in
Guyana. In the design of the project, Adams ensures that trees aligning with avenue would remain as well as the seating arrangements and the aspect of cleanliness. When Adams completes his proposal, hopefully by the month’s end, he will have an estimate of how much the project would cost. In an interview with the newspaper on the same day, Director of Sports, Christopher Jones, who also shared the concept of the Avenue of Honors on his Facebook page, stated that he is optimistic about the idea. “I like the idea. But one thing we must emphasize is that it’s just an artist’s impression because I saw some comments with persons speaking about the negative effects in terms of drainage but that is just an impression. Obviously, we will have to take into consideration the draining system that is currently there so it wouldn’t disrupt that,” he said, adding: “In terms of the actual idea, I love it. I think it’s most fitting to have such a Avenue of Honor in which we chronicle those persons, as Adams has put
An example of one of the Cacique’s Crown of Honour plaques which could be engraved with the name of Guyana’s first Executive President Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham. it, who have made signif- novative ideas geared toicant contribution to the wards the development of development of Guyana.” their country. Jones said that there He stated: “For me, are so many unsung Guy- young people have a lot anese heroes who deserve of innovative ideas and to have people know their that is why, when I saw names and their contribu- Jamall’s post, I jumped on tions. it. I would want to encourHe also emphasized age those young people to that the greenery in the put their expressions out location should be taken there. into consideration should You give young peothe project be given a ple the opportunity to stamp of approval. share you would be The Director of Sports amazed in terms of what took the opportunity to they have but are just commend Adams and to waiting for the right foencourage other young rum or place to put their people to put forward in- ideas out there.”
Author’s Jamall Adams’ artistic impression of what an Avenue of Honours on Main Street, Georgetown could look like
Jamaica cuts ties with Fly Jamaica
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
THE Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA) has suspended the air operating certificate of Fly Jamaica Airways further increasing the general uncertainty of the company’s future in the Caribbean. The report came out of the Real Jamaican Radio (RJR) on Tuesday which stated that it received confirmation of same from JCAA Director General Nari Williams Singh. Singh told the agency that the decision was taken as a result of Fly Jamaica’s stalemate since it closed operations in March, 2019 following the crash of the airline’s lone aircraft. On November 9, 2018, Flight No OJ 256 departed the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) for Toronto, Canada, but after encountering hydraulic issues minutes later was forced to return to the airport. The aircraft crash-landed and skidded off the runway. Several persons were injured, while one 86-year-old woman died as a result of injuries sustained during the landing. Months later and some
persons are still awaiting word regarding refunds for tickets purchased in advance and the GCAA has been assisting as the medium of direct communication to the airline. At the beginning of the month it was reported in the media that Fly Jamaica had committed to processing the backlog of refunds by July 1, 2019. In justifying the JCAA’s move, Singh stated that reg-
ulations stipulate that if an airline does not operate for a certain period of time, its air operating certificate can be suspended. “The JCAA Director General told RJR News that, in the event that Fly Jamaica wants to restart operations, it will have to go through a process to be issued a new certificate to provide air services,” RJR reported. Even as Fly Jamaica Airways announced that it
intends to restart flight operations in a few months in Guyana, in March 2019, the company issued redundancy letters to its staff members, an indication that the airline may fold. The company informed its employees that due to the lack of aircraft and the impact this has had on the company’s financial position, it had no other alternative but to make all employees redundant.
Junior Anthony Henry
Henry denied the charge when it was read to him at the Demerara High Court. He is represented by attorneys-at-law, Lyndon Amsterdam and Latoya Roberts, while the State is represented by prosecutors Tiffini Lyken and Sarah Martin. According to the police, at about 17:30 hrs, on the day in question, 22-year-old Hamilton, of Sparendaam Housing Scheme, ECD, was allegedly shot and killed by the suspect, Henry. It was also stated that investigations had revealed
that Hamilton’s sister was at home when she heard an explosion and, when she looked outside, she saw her brother running after Henry. The police said that as Hamilton got closer, Henry turned around and shot him in the chest, before making good his escape, leaving the aggressor to be taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The men reportedly had an ongoing feud over a woman, said to have been Henry’s girlfriend.
Drug trafficker sentenced to four years’ imprisonment CITY Magistrate Leron Daly, on Thursday, May 09, 2019, sentenced a 29-year-old miner to serve four years’ imprisonment, after he was found guilty of drug trafficking. Tishan Heywood of Third and Albert Streets, Alberttown, Georgetown, was on trial at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court
Jagdeo backs retention of Greenidge
… says party awaiting CCJ ruling to decide on return to Parliament
Junior Anthony Henry to know his fate today TODAY, May 10, 2019, Justice James Bovell-Drakes is expected to sum up the evidence in the trial of Junior Anthony Henry, who is alleged to have murdered Michael Hamilton at Sparendaam Squatting Area, East Coast Demerara. Henry, called ‘Oswald’, 28, formerly of Third Street, Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara, was charged and is currently on remand. The indictment alleged that Henry, on October 7, 2013, at Sparendaam Squatting Area, killed Hamilton.
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and was found guilty of having 56 kilograms 700 grams of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking on December 6, 2017, at his home. Heywood was represented by attorney-at-law Glenn Hanoman while police prosecutor Richard Harris led evidence. Magistrate Daly ruled that prosecutor Harris had proved his case beyond
reasonable doubt. Prosecutor Harris had told the court that Heywood was long suspected to be a drug trafficker, and that the police, during a stakeout on the day in question, saw him removing three ‘salt bags’ from a car. They moved in just as Heywood was ‘stashing’ the bags with the drugs inside a chicken pen in his yard.
Tishan Heywood
LEADER of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, said he has welcomed Government’s decision to retain former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge at the ministry. “I do not have a problem with Carl Greenidge remaining there,” said Jagdeo during a press conference at his office on Thursday. Greenidge and three other ministers of Government had resigned from their posts after the Court of Appeal confirmed a High Court decision that persons with dual citizenship are constitutionally barred from being elected to the National Assembly. “With all due respect, with our border case before the International Court of Justice, you need someone who has in-depth knowledge about the issue…he should be retained because of that concern,” said Jagdeo. The leader of the opposition was F o r m e r M i n i s t e r o f referring to the on-goForeign Affairs, Carl ing border controversy case between Guyana Greenidge and Venezuela. Dr. Karen Cummings, who has served for four years as Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, was recently appointed as Minister of Foreign Affairs. President David Granger had recently explained that he had several meetings with Greenidge who agreed to remain in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to lend support to Minister Cummings. “He (Greenidge) is engaged with the team and as you know, Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo the case is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and there are certain aspects of the economic and international relations of Guyana with other countries that I will ask him to accept responsibility for,” said the President. Meanwhile, Jagdeo said his party will decide if it will return to Parliament after the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) rules on the validity of the no-confidence motion which was passed in the National Assembly in December. The validity of the motion was challenged and deemed valid by the High Court but, the matter was appealed and the Court of Appeal ruled that 34 votes and not 33 were needed to pass the no-confidence motion. The CCJ began hearing the matter on Thursday. “We are hoping that the CCJ’s ruling would come out before the next sitting of the National Assembly,” said Jagdeo during the news conference. Jagdeo said if the ruling is favourable to the government, the opposition will attend the next sitting of the National Assembly which is scheduled for next week. “If it is not in favour of the government, we will not be attending the sitting,” said Jagdeo.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Opportunity knocks for local artistes −to earn a living, and access the global market
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By Gabriella Chapman
N the absence of copyright laws here, local artistes continue to be at a grave disadvantage when it comes to earning a living. This has long been their cry; to have the laws enforced in Guyana so as to provide them with more opportunities, and more income. But all is not lost, as opportunities seem to be coming their way, copyright laws or not. ‘The Buzz Magazine’ caught up last weekend with a Canadian artiste with Guyanese roots, who said he came to Guyana to restore hope in the local artistes. Dwayne Lespoir, who goes by the alias ‘Salez’ [pronounced SALES], says he has his own record label, ‘HLR (Hustle, Loyalty, Respect) Records’, and he has been working tirelessly with local artistes in the hope of creating what he’d like to call “an income stream” for them. “After coming here multiple times for the past few years, I felt that I can play a part in filling that gap that exists between artistes and the business side of the industry. So I have been here since February, and I have been trying to educate local artistes on the business side of things,” Salez said, adding: “The talent that I see and believe in them, I feel like they can be international artistes. So it’s really reinforcing that hope in them that I feel
they are lacking, to really give them that belief that they can actually be something more than local.” He said he came with five ‘riddims’ that will be ‘reeled out’ throughout the year, well into February of next year. With the aid of these ‘riddims’, he said, local artistes
will be given the opportunity to record songs, and have them songs registered and distributed through HLR Records, so that they can earn from the international market.
“These artistes can get income through my streams,” Salez said, adding: “I feel with the funnel I have, I will be able to add to the talent they have in terms of distributing it to the world, and really showcasing what Guyana has. Because Guyana is an untapped market on the outside.”
The first project has started with the ‘top 10 riddim’, which was tailored for Guyana Carnival. And on this ‘top 10 riddim’, 10 artistes will be shortlisted, and their songs
will be registered, released and promoted for Carnival. ‘A SOUND WE CAN CALL OURS’ “I have been working with a lot of local artistes in terms of pushing out the project to really represent the country and give us a sound that we can call ours, because, right now, we are just a little bit of everybody,” Salez said. “When we bring our element to what Soca is, it’s just something totally different to what person may classify as Soca. And I have collaborated with Malcolm Ferreira, and we are making something that I feel will create a legacy in Guyana,” he added. Only 10 persons will make the cut for this first project, but this, he said, will force artistes to think outside the box and elevate their writing skills, and come up with a concept that is original, and one that will stand out to be chosen. After this Carnival project is completed, he said, there are four others that will be ‘reeled out’ from funding from Salez’s label and the collaboration of Ferreira. Artistes who are interested in the projects can email salez@hlrmusicgroup.com. ‘SALEZ’ THE ARTISTE Apart from owning his own record label and helping other artistes, ‘Salez’ also pushes his individual singing career.
Personality of The Week: W
HILE some people develop one talent or skill, and commit themselves to that one area of contribution, there are others who are multi-faceted and refuse to confine themselves, but rather, spread their wings and contribute to various areas. Twenty-nine-year-old Abigail James Nelson is a singer, song writer, dancer, and television and radio personality, who uses her platforms to showcase local talents and promote the history of Guyanese music. She told ‘The Buzz’ that her passion has always been dance, but with both her parents being singers, she ended up falling in love with music. Sharing more of her story, Nelson said that her mom would always tell her about something that happened when she was two years old. And that, she believes, is what sparked her passion for dance.
He told ‘The Buzz’ he has been singing since he was 13, but it wasn’t until he was 20 that he started taking it seriously. Actually, he started out as a ghost writer in his native Montreal, Canada, which helped create a path where he got exposed to the music industry. “But as a ghost writer,” he said, “you don’t get the credits for what you have really done, so I had to slow down on being a ghost writer, because when that money is done, so are you. I feel that I have given enough to the music industry, where I can now say anything I do moving forward, I need my credits for. Because I need to be recognised as an artiste as well.” Though versatile, ‘Salez’ said, his preferences are R&B and Hip Hop. He already has an album out, and it’s called ‘Canada Cole’, with10 songs that give diverse sound of who ‘Salez’ really is; from the struggles to the lifestyle. The young artiste explained that where he comes from is a city with a lot of hatred. “People don’t really come together and work,” he said. As such, he got into promotion, so as to create opportunities for himself. “I started my independent career as a promoter; doing shows. That was really my avenue of creating that path to getting exposure as an
artiste. So most of the shows I did, I opened for them. Because nobody is going to give you that opportunity back home, but yourself. So I had to create that lane for me to promote myself,” ‘Salez’ said, adding: “I spent most of my time bouncing around different States, just working with a lot of different artistes to get the exposure. I find joy in helping other artistes, so I feel that has always been my best guidance. Now I am at a point where I feel Guyana is a place where I can come in and really show my skills, and show them that we can really do something here. There are opportunities here.” There are still a lot of hurdles and challenges to overcome, the young artiste said, adding: “But I’m still pushing. I’m someone that doesn’t give up; the journey isn’t easy, but you have to make up your mind on what you really want, and you have to dedicate yourself and make sacrifices to achieve what you want.”
The multi-talented Abigail James Nelson
“My father took me out about 12 one night because I was crying and couldn’t sleep, and there was a shop about two doors down from where we were living, and as soon as I heard the music, I started one dancing,” she said. I went back home with $800 dollars, and those days, $800 was big money. And so they (her parents) tied to make me continue down that path,” Abigail recalled. However, despite this deep-rooted passion for dance, Nelson has always been a family person who was big on carrying on legacies. Her father was a Calypsonian ‘The Mighty Intruder’, and her mother was also a Calypsonian. “I can dance forever, but my father, being the performer that he was, and knowing how passionate he was about music, I want to continue that and make him proud. I would always listen to him when he is writing songs and practising for
competitions, so I wanted to be a part of that, and I did venture into it, starting with the School’s Calypso Competition,” she said. Today, she holds the fourth place title for the 2019 Senior Calypso Monarch. Venturing into another aspect of her capabilities, she has now started her own television and radio programme, both of which she uses to promote local talent. She believes that because people fail to try, they lose out on many opportunities. She’s not one of those people, she said. She refuses to turn away from any opportunity that comes her way. “I aspire to be whatever God wants me to be. Whatever direction he guides me in, that’s where I’ll go. A year ago, if you’d told me I’ll have my own TV and radio show, I would have said, ‘Oh! Okay!’ But God has been making a way, and I’m going in that direction,” Abigail said. She now has three pro-
grammes: One on 96.1FM every Monday called ‘The Guyanese Buzzz’, with DJ Reality. She also did a pilot for a TV show with NCN called, ‘Behind the Music’, and the series for that starts soon. And also in the making is a radio show for ‘Behind the Music’ on 100.1FM. Nelson said she had an unpleasant experience with a fellow artiste and a promoter, which made her realise the wealth of knowledge she has about the history of Guyanese music. “I want every artiste that has gone through something to be able to have a voice and finally speak up. And I also wanted to create a show that goes all year round; a show that showcases artistes and their new work or life stories. I expect the programmes to edify the public about their favourite artistes, and even some they didn’t even know exist,” she explained.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Director Simone Dowding
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Dowding promises ‘satisfaction guaranteed’ −this edition of ‘A Treat for my Mother’
IMONE Dowding, director of ‘A Treat for my Mother’, is excited that her guest performer this time around is Guyanese musical artist Kenneth Oswald, better known as ‘Small Man’, who has been residing in Canada for many years now. Oswald, who made a name for himelf on the front lines of Yoruba Singers and Mingles Sound Machine Bands, will be performing the song, ‘Only for one night’ at the show, which is billed to be held this Sunday at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) here in Georgetown. “Preparation is at its high!” Dowding told The Buzz recently, and that her audience is guaranteed satisfaction. “The show is designed not only for the matured audience, but for the younger generation who are lovers of the classics and fashion of the now,” the veteran producer-director said. Calypso is also on the cards, featuring the likes of Winfield James, who is no stranger to that genre of music. Dowding, owner of Purple Arts Productions, is directing the production, which will commence at 20h00 sharp. What is different about the show this time around, however, is that it will feature new and different performers. Some of the entertainers billed to perform include Calvin Burnett, Colin Ambrose, Daria Barrow, Timothy Bourne, Delisha Wright, Sheron Cadogan-Taylor, and Donald Wallerson. Dowding is also excited to have on board the granddaugh-
ter of oral historian and promoter of Guyanese Literature, Petamber Persaud, the young songstress, Gabriella Trotman, who is just about eight years old but can hold her own with the best of the lot. Mark Hall, one of the top local musicians, will also be on hand to sing and play the piano. According to Dowding, she has also made place for a fashion segment, which will feature displays from young and talented local designers. Just as in previous years, this year’s show will also feature door prizes, with the best dressed mother in purple walking away with gold jewellery from L. Seepersaud Maraj and Sons. A graduate of the Burrowes School of Art and other institutions, Dowding has ended up with a total of 13 certificates, and won the Theatre Guild’s Best Actress Award in 2012 for the play, ‘Old Story Times’. Having joined the Theatre Guild more than 30 years ago, she works primarily with children through her production house, providing them with opportunities she never had as a child. Having worked on the popular Link Shows, Dowding has also done House of Pressure, Miriamy, Eleventh Finger, and Jezebel, just to name a few. Tickets for the May 12 show cost $2,000 and $1,500, and are available at the NCC.
Making his ‘Mark’ on the international scene
HOW time flies! It’s that time of the week already people; time to keep you in the loop with what’s ‘buzzing’ in and around Guyana! TODAY
► And to start the ball rolling, as usual, Escape Fridays presents ‘Soca Touchdown’ at District Ultra Lounge, where live entertainment by Guyana’s top DJs, Gully Ras and Diamond, DJ Energy, DJ Country Boy, and DJ Venom awaits. As always, it’s ladies free before 23h00! ► Next on the agenda is ‘High Tea & Hard Truths’ at the GT Motorsports Club, courtesy of ‘Business Women Brunch Club. ► It’s going to be an afternoon of tea and open mic discussions, encouraging younger women to take up entrepreneurship, **and telling what it's like for young and mature women in business. Tickets: $1000. ► You know that Fridays and Saturdays belong to Ignite Bar and Grill, so head on down to the Pegasus poolside tonight and tomorrow for fun, food, and entertainment! ► And if that doesn’t tickle your fancy, there’s always the Vintage Wine Bar, Restaurant and Lounge’s Latin Night to fall back on, where two Desperados Tequila Beers are just $1000.
TOMORROW
► Well! Whadd’ya know! It’s Carnival Countdown at District Ultra Lounge, featuring live mix vibes by DJs Shizzle and Country Boy. Come enjoy bottle specials. Buy four shots ah tequila; get one free. Ladies free before
It’s shaping up to be a relatively eventful year for Guyanese designer Mark Junor who just recently participated in Island Fashion Week in Trinidad and Tobago, following his display of pieces at the Brooklyn Fashion Week last month. At both events Junor showcased pieces from his newest collection “Remember Me” which he describes as a continuation of his last collection “She Killed Death”, and contains some 14 pieces. Starting last year with Suriname Fashion Week, Junor has been on a campaign to market his Kramronuj brand as far and wide as possible, and so far for 2019 he’s been actively meeting his goal. Encompassing skirts and pants two pieces, dresses and swim wear the collection is a romance with a mint green floral print and black velvet. “Remember Me, is my take on summer spring royalty, using the floral and bright colors were my way of incorporating the garden city in to this creation I have a love for silhouettes from the 60s and 70s dramatic sleeves, capes and trains were the only thing in my head when this collection was on the drawing board,” Junor explained. “It’s a continuation of my previous collection I presented at Suriname Fashion Week 2018. It shows that the human body is a beautiful piece of canvas ready to create memorable wearable art.” Notwithstanding having already done well at Suriname Fashion Week, Junor was all nerves going into Fashion Week Brooklyn and wasn’t sure what to expect, but in the end the applause and great response to his pieces was enough to calm
those nerves. Junor had his collection displayed at one of the event on April 12. “I was nervous, afraid, I even had second thoughts I’m not going to lie, but when the models stepped out and the crowd’s reaction was just great applause that was a relief for me,” Junor said “That was my first big international show and I was a bit worried about what the audience would think about my work, especially being how I’m not from over there. But after presenting my collection and I got some really great review and I was pleased to know that I was a little nervous about my work but then people loved it.” Junor said his focus is now moving to designing the outfits for the Guyanese representative of the Miss Venus Caribbean Pageant in June. Junor is the national franchise holder of the pageant. He’s also looking to return to the Suriname Fashion Week in October. On whether he’ll be doing another collection this year he says keep your eyes peeled. “Won't say now, just look out though,” Junor says.
21h00! ► And for a little something on the cultural side, there’s the 2019 Mother and Daughter Pageant takes place at the National Cultural Centre from 8pm. Come out and enjoy a red Carpet affair as the 22 mother daughter pairs compete in three categories – the junior, middle and senior. Tickets: $2000, $3000, $3500. ► Enjoy Bingo with a bling twist! Global Shapers Community (Georgetown Hub) presents “Blingo” at the Queens College Auditorium from 17:30hrs. Come out in your BLING, dress to impress, enjoy the music and the food and get a chance to win a grand cash prize, household appliances, grocery hampers, smart phones and much more! Tickets: $1500 ► It’s time to show off your talent. Aracari Resort presents Karaoke and Dance this and every Saturday. Enjoy karaoke, dance and dinner, featuring Reyaz Rafeek and Group ► Aura Sky Lounge presents Seductive Saturdays! Doors open at 8pm!
Sunday
► Pegasus Hotel presents it’s “Mother's Day Lunch Buffet”. Enjoy complimentary mimosas and chocolates, and live entertainment. Lunch will be ready from 11:30am. Cost: $8000 per person ► The Vintage Wine Bar, Restaurant and Lounge presents “Dinner with 70s ad 80s music. Sundays were meant for 70’s & 80’s!
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Word on the street is: The vibe is beginning to reach fever pitch By Vishani Ragobeer
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ITH just about a week to go, persons are starting to feel the vibes for Guyana Carnival. For many, the events are a must-attend because of the hype they experienced last year, while for others, it’s because they missed the fun last year.
grand, especially the Kes show,” Huntley said, “It was an entirely new experience and it delivered.” And in delivering, he said, he believes that the cost for the events were moderate, and when it wasn’t; it was “worth it”. “For this year’s carnival,” he said, “I’d like a greater level of organisation and security, as well as more
Jomo Angus
Patrick Benjamin Huntley, a student at the University of Guyana (UG), shared that last year he went to Kes’ ‘Tuesday on the Rocks’; Machel Montano’s concert; the Touchdown cooler fete; the Cool-out cooler fete and Tribe ignite. “The experience was
opportunities to be given for the average person/student to be able to attend the fetes and enjoy themselves.” Of importance to him, too, is that the season attracted quite a few tourists, as evidenced at the few events he attended. And while that augured well for business, he
opined that it helps in promoting the Guyanese culture. This is something he hopes to see this year as well. Moving forward, he stressed: “We have to keep raising the bar as our country continues to develop.” Shaquille Cole is another youngster who made it his duty to attend quite a few of the events as well, and he
with them,” he told ‘the Buzz’. As he gets ready for carnival again, Cole noted that it would be nice if the organisers could lower the prices for the events that are held on the same day as others. “Yuh know, your pocket can’t ‘dang’ as you would want to where there are three events in one day,” he said.
Shaquille Cole
Patrick Benjamin Huntley
explained that of lot, ‘Shell Down Monday’ was just right, and Soca Rave was perhaps the best of them all. “Overall,” Shaquille said, “the vibe was nice. The music was amazing, and it was clean partying. I loved the Guyanese Carnival songs. Drew did a really good job
FWB countdown begins --tickets almost gone
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HE countdown to arguably the biggest fete in May has officially begun. FWB (Friends with Benefits), is slated for May 24 at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) Ground on Lance Gibbs Street, Queenstown. Marlon Jacobs, the ‘Freedom Boss’, continues to speak well of his party and his high expectations, despite the many ‘fight- downs’ he’s up against. He told ‘The Buzz’ that based on ticket sales thus far, he averages that about 10,000 patrons will be in attendance. However, the wellspring of support he’s been getting seems to be posing a threat, as many of the posters around town have been defaced, and there were occasions where persons were caught ripping them down. But this has not daunted his spirit nonetheless, because he continues to push and promote his endeavour, and has been getting immense support. Since the party is tailored to give his fans a treat for continuously supporting the parties thrown by Freedom Family, thousands have been flocking the ticket locations to secure their passes. And with only a few tickets left, Jacobs is urging persons to get them while they’re
still available, as the gate price is now $4000. “Also, the importance of seeking early-bird passes is because you can only bring a friend for free with those passes,” Jacobs said. In addition to the many giveaways and show of appreciation to his many supporters, the Freedom Boss is using the party to create a platform
for local DJs to showcase their skillset. He assured ‘The Buzz’ that security will not be an issue, as he has gotten the full support of the Guyana Police Force, and they will be surrounding the venue. FWB is an appreciation party in celebration of Freedom Family’s fifth anniversary.
Freedom Boss, Marlon Jacobs
“For me, Guyana Carnival is nice. The vibes was good; it had nice parties and so. It was overall good,” Aliyah Pompey said. Her only issue is that maybe, the organisers should take some more time to plan out the events and garner more local support.
Of course, what she is most excited about is the Buju Banton ‘Long Walk to Freedom’ concert, and intends on ‘licking out’. And the excitement for carnival is not just merely for the partygoers and ‘feters’ alone. Jomo Angus sells practically all the ladies’ clothes needed for the carnival at his ‘setup’ located
up,” Angus said. “I think the carnival is just a good idea, especially for me… I looking for the support again,” he added. Then there’s Delicia Lewis. She went to all of the events last year. That’s right! ALL! She said she thoroughly enjoyed herself. “For someone that’s never been to carnival out-
Delicia Lewis and Aliyah Pompey
at the corner of Camp and Robb Streets. Everything! From the j’ouvert clothes, to the fancier tops and pants, he has you covered! And that’s why he is all for the Guyana Carnival. “I bring in clothes for the ladies, and I’m hoping that by next week, sales gon’ pick
‘Frass Friday’:
side of Guyana, I think that it’s nice that they’re bringing it here for us to enjoy. And plus, you see them bringing a lot of tourists. So that’s good for us,” Delecia said. And in the most obvious of tones, she said: “Of course I’m going again this year! I can’t miss out!”
A dream come true for the underprivileged
--to help keep them off the streets
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Part of the regular crew at ‘Frass Friday’
E has but one burning ambition, and that is to provide a platform to showcase young local talent, and create the kind of burturing environment where the youths of Tiger Bay can be inspired to make something of their otherwise uneventful lives. He is Jahmai Charles, also known as ‘Jahie’, and to do it, he teamed up with Kevin Scott, better known as ‘Prodigy’, to host what is known as ‘Frass Friday’. In an interview with ‘The Buzz Magazine’, ‘Jahie’ said
that ‘Frass Friday’ started since last November, and is held every Friday at Sister P’s Ital shop on Rosemary Lane, one of the more popular streets in downtown Tiger Bay. ‘Frass Friday’ is an ‘open mic’ event that allows upcoming artistes, or persons with lyrical ability to take the floor and share their hidden talent. Since it began last year, ‘Jahie’ said, the youths and artistes continue to support and look forward to it every Friday.
“Only positive, conscious music is allowed on ‘Frass Friday’ to uplift the youths and motivate them to do well in life,” he said. He is the promoter, ‘Jahie’ said, while Scott is a young artiste. Together they decided to collaborate and use their influence for the greater good. They’re hoping to get as much support as they possibly can, so as to be able to expand and provide a bigger platform for the youths, and have started adding prizes to their showcase.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
‘Early elections possible in November’ …GECOM attorney tells CCJ house-to-house registration crucial …AG says gov’t committed to provide funding By Svetlana Marshall in Port of Spain ATTORNEY General Basil Williams assured the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) that funds would be made available to Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) if the court rules that early elections must be held. But even with that commitment, which is a reflection of a position long declared by President David Granger, GECOM’s Senior Counsel, Stanley Marcus, informed the Court that the Elections Commission could only facilitate General and Regional Elections after October, 2019. Initially, GECOM had indicated that it would respect the decision of the CCJ in the three consolidated appeals challenging the Court of Appeal’s decision that the No-Confidence Motion was of no effect. Those appeals are: Christopher Ram v The Attorney General, the Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon and the Guyana Elections Commission; Bharrat Jagdeo v The Attorney General, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Joseph Harmon and the Guyana Elections Commission; and Charrandass Persaud v Compton Reid, the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Attorney General, Bharrat Jagdeo, Joseph Harmon and the Guyana Elections Commission. On Thursday, when a panel of five judges led by President of the CCJ, Justice Adrian Saunders
commenced hearing oral arguments into the consolidated appeals, GECOM’s Attorney told the Court that the Elections Commission experienced difficulties facilitating General and Regional Elections within the three months’ timeframe laid out in Article 106 (7) of the Constitution.
Local Government Elections and General Elections, and the exercise of the commission was to update that List. “…a list that was compiled in 2008 by no stretch of the imagination could be valid for elections in 2018 or 2019,” Marcus told the CCJ judges. He invited the panel of
Senior Counsel, Stanley Marcus
The attorney informed the Court that the Elections Commission unanimously voted to revise the Official List of Voters through the conduct of National Registration. With the Official List of Voters, expiring on April 30, 2019, the process of House-to-House becomes even more critical. “I don’t think I have to belabour the point that funding is necessary to administer elections and it was pointed out that having regard to the programme of the elections commission, unanimously decided upon, there was the need for the revision of the list. List for
judges, which also included Justices David Hayton, Winston Anderson, Jacob Wit, Rajnauth-Lee, to take judicial notice of the fact that between 2008 and 2018, there were migration and remigration, deaths, and thousands of persons who became eligible to be a voter. Those factors, he posited, would require a revision of the list – a process the Elections Commission had concluded would take approximately six to nine months. Justice Saunders, while acknowledging the independence of the Elections Commission, pointed to the fact that the Constitution sets
a foundation for elections to be held within three months following a No-Confidence vote. “It seems to me that the Commission, must at every stage put itself in a position where within a three-month time frame it is able to handle an elections because that is always possible and if that situation were to accord then the normal strategic plan that you had…would have to be adjusted,” Justice Saunders suggested. In response, the Trinidad-based attorney said that the Commission developed its plan on the basis that General and Regional Elections is due every five years but Justice Saunders said GECOM should be ready for elections in an abnormal situation like a snap elections birthed out of a No-Confidence Motion. But Marcus turned the judges’ attention to the Constitution for a closer and holistic view. “Article 106 (7) should be read as a whole. We should not emphasise only that aspect that says, elections should be held within three months. The framers of the Constitution envisage that you may have these extra ordinary circumstances and therefore they went on to say, that you must have the elections within three months or at such other time, as the National Assembly may (see it fit by a twothird margin),” the Attorney admonished the court. According to him, the three months stated in the Constitution is directory and
not mandatory or absolute. He said it was expected that maturity would have prevailed in the National Assembly to allow for an extension of what was considered a constitutional timeline before the motion was invalidated by the Appeal Court, but that did not happen. The Parliamentary Opposition had refused to return to the National Assembly to extend the time. “If you cannot get the Members of the National Assembly to act in a responsible and mature manner to do what is necessary, then you are going to have a constitutional crisis,” he told the Court. He said the Court must be mindful of the independence and functions of the Elections Commission spelt out in Articles 62 and 162 of the Constitution. That aside, Marcus said GECOM cannot facilitate elections without the necessary funding. However, he noted that the President and GECOM have been engaging on the matter of funding. Once funding is provided, Marcus assured the Court that elections could be held by November once the process of revising the Official List of Voters is completed. Williams, during his deliberations, told the judges that in the event the Court rules that early election is required funding will be provided. “The President of Guyana has already given that commitment, and he has given that commitment to the nation, and he has given
it specifically to GECOM when they met with the President,” the Attorney General told the Court. Williams, in rebutting arguments put by Kamal Ramkarran and Devindra Kissoon – the attorneys representing Christopher Ram, the Attorney General said it is known in Guyana that in naming a date for the conduct of elections, the President must be first advised by the elections body. “The practice has always been that you consult GECOM, rather than getting up in the middle of the night and announce a date because what has happened before, names were announced but were not made and it led to a state of national emergency,” the Attorney General explained. Like Marcus, Williams said the Constitution is clear on the functions of GECOM, the president and the role of political parties in any elections. Notwithstanding the commitment given, the Attorney General asked the court to uphold the decision of the Court of Appeal. The oral arguments will continue today, with arguments from Senior Counsel Neil Boston and Attorney-at-Law Roydale Forde. Replies would also be made to the arguments put on Thursday. Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland, who was present during the arguments, has informed the court through his attorney, Senior Counsel Rafiq Khan that he will respect the decision of the Court.
AG maintains 34 votes required to topple gov’t …urges CCJ to affirm decision of Court of Appeal
ATTORNEY General, Basil William, in asking the Caribbean Court of Justice to affirm the decision of the Court of Appeal that the Opposition did not acquire the “high requirement” for the passage of a Motion of No-Confidence, maintaining that at least 34 votes were needed to defeat the Government and not 33. In setting the tone of his oral submissions in the consolidated appeals challenging the Court of Appeal’s decision in the Caribbean Court of Justice, Williams, from the onset, admitted that the provisions in Article 106 (6) and (7) have dire consequences for Government, explaining that if successful, the motion can lead to the premature
dissolution of the National Assembly, and an early end to Government. Williams told the Court that the No-Confidence Motion was laid and debated in the House at a time when the government was only in its third year in Office. Prior to the election of the Coalition Government, the country, he said, had endured 23 years of extra-judicial killings, corruption and hardship under the previous administration. Guyana, he posited, was deemed a narco-state. On that note, the Attorney General said it was important for the Court to strictly apply the provisions of Article 106 (6) and (7). He said Article 106 (6) mandates an absolute majority and not a
simple majority. “With such catastrophic consequences, the majority required could not be a simple majority,” Williams posited while point-
Attorney General, Basil Williams
ing the Court’s attention to pronouncements made by former President of the CCJ, Sir Denis Byron on Article 164 of the Constitution of Guyana. Williams said Sir Denis formulated three levels of entrenchments that ought to be pervasive, and cannot be restricted. Quoting Sir Denis, the Attorney General said that the shallowest level of entrenchment is an absolute majority which is determined by a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly. He was keen on pointing out that a simple majority is a majority of the Members of Parliament present and voting while an absolute majority is half of the
65-Member of Parliament plus one. Because a fraction would be derived due to the House having an uneven number of MPs, the Attorney General submitted to the court that the fraction must be ‘rounded up’ to become a whole number before one is added. Only then can an absolute majority be arrived at, he argued. The half plus one formula, as contended by Sir Francis Alexis in the Court of Appeal can be best described as a two-stage formula. “In the first stage, you determine what is half of 65, and when you do that, you get 32.5, which is a fraction. Since there is no half human being, you round up to 33. So 33 is half and therefore to get
a majority, you plus one to get 34, which is the second stage,” the Attorney General explained. He submitted that an absolute majority and simple majority cannot be the same. Sanjeev Datadin, the Attorney representing Charrandass Persaud and Douglas Mendes, the Leader of the Opposition Attorney, had rejected the twostage approach on the basis that the Constitution did not state that an “absolute majority” but rather a majority of all members of the National Assembly. They argued that 33 votes were needed, and 33 votes were acquired on the night the Motion of No-Confidence was put to a vote.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
BCB partners with Let’s Bet Sports for 100-Balls 2nd Division Inter-Zone tournament
THE Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has gained the support of Guyana Lottery Company through their Let’s Bet Sports brand. They have partnered to launch four Internal Zone 100-balls 2nd Division tournaments and an overall Berbice Championship which will see the respective Zone champions battle for the overall title. At the launch of the tournaments in the Guyana National Newspapers Ltd (GNNL) Boardroom, BCB president Hilbert Foster revealed that 90 teams will be participating in the West Berbice, New Amsterdam/Canje, Lower/Central Corentyne and Upper Corentyne Zones. Due to the nature of the sponsorship,, Foster noted that players under the age of 18 are debarred while teams would be allowed a maximum of three First Division players. “The BCB is quite good at organising tournaments of this nature and the Berbice cricketing public loves this version of the game. The main objectives of the 100 balls tournaments are to promote the game at the grassroots level, to develop inter-village rivalry and to allow older players the opportunity to play the game,” remarked Foster. He maintained; “I wish to reassure the management of the Lottery Company that all the tournaments would be well-organised and would achieve all of the objectives. The Lottery Company would also be well promoted in both Regions 5 and 6.” “On behalf of the BCB, I would like to express gratitude to the management and staff of the GLC/Let’s Bet Sports for coming on board with us. Your support would enable us to continue the remarkable transformation of Berbice cricket and for this we would be forever grateful.” Meanwhile, Let’s Bet Sports Brand Ambassador, Rawle Toney, pointed out the brand is not just here to facilitate betting but also aims to give back and assist in development of sports at all levels throughout Guyana. Some of the teams that will be competing across the four zones are as follows: West Berbice: Blairmont Community Centre, Achievers Cricket Club, D’Edward Cricket Club, Cotton Tree Die Hard. New Amsterdam/Canje: Rose Hall Canje, Young Warriors Cricket Club, Tucber Park Cricket Club, Guymine Cricket Club, Mt Sinai Cricket Club, Mental Hospital Cricket Club. Lower/Central Corentyne: Albion Community Centre, Rose Hall Town Bakewell, Kildonan Cricket Club, Fyrish Cricket Club, Courtland Cricket Club, Port Mourant Cricket Club. Upper Corentyne: Scottsburg Cricket Club, Skeldon Titans, No. 72 All Stars, Dukestown Warriors, No. 64 Fighting Marines.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Chelsea’s Hazard penalty sends team through to Europa final (BBC) - EDEN Hazard scored the winning penalty as Chelsea edged past
Eintracht Frankfurt 4-3 to set up an all-English Europa League final against
Arsenal. Hazard, who could have played his final game for the
Semi-final second-leg match between Chelsea FC and Eintracht Frankfurt at Stamford Bridge, yesterday, in London, England
(Photo by Chloe Knott - Danehouse/Getty Images)
Blues at Stamford Bridge, converted after Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga had saved, from both Martin Hinteregger and Goncalo Paciencia. Chelsea will now meet Arsenal in the final in Baku on May 29 and the result means both the Champions League and Europa League final will be played between English clubs this season the first time all four finalists in Europe’s top two competitions have come from one nation.
With the score 1-1 after the first leg, Chelsea took the lead in the second when Ruben Loftus-Cheek coolly stroked into the far corner in the 28th minute, but the night was far from straightforward. Frankfurt levelled the tie four minutes after half-time when Luka Jovic slotted past Arrizabalaga after being played in by Mijat Gacinovic. Jovic’s goal punished Chelsea for a sloppy start to the second half and the Blues continued to be wasteful as Stamford Bridge became
increasingly restless. In extra-time the Germans twice had efforts cleared off the line with David Luiz first denying Sebastian Haller then Davide Zappacosta clearing Haller again at a corner. Chelsea thought they had won it late in extra-time but Cesar Azpilicueta, who later missed first in the penalty shootout, had a goal ruled out when the referee deemed he had bundled the ball out of Frankfurt keeper Kevin Trapp’s hands.
Aubameyang’s hat-trick sends Arsenal into Europa final
(BBC) PIERRE-Emerick Aubameyang’s hat-trick for Arsenal set up an all-English Europa League final against Chelsea as they won in Valencia for a 7-3 aggregate victory.
impetus. However, Aubameyang’s right-foot volley from 20 yards levelled matters before Alexandre Lacazette put Arsenal ahead with a placed effort into the right corner.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal takes on Piccini of Valencia CF (Photo by Ivan Arlandis/Action Plus via Getty Images)
The Gunners are now one win away from Champions League qualification while manager Unai Emery can make history by winning a record fourth Europa League crown. Trailing 3-1 from the first leg in London, Kevin Gameiro’s close-range effort had given the hosts the early
Gameiro, a four-time winner of the competition at Sevilla and Atletico Madrid, tapped in Valencia’s second of the night before Aubameyang rounded off the scoring. The Gabon forward slid in from Ainsley Maitland-Niles’ cross and then blasted emphatically into the top corner late on to
complete his hat-trick and a 4-2 win. It means Arsenal, whose first away game of this Europa League campaign was in Azerbaijan against FK Qarabag, will return to the country to face Maurizio Sarri’s side in the final on Wednesday, May 29 (20:00hrs BST). It will be the first all-English affair since Tottenham defeated Wolves over two legs in 1972, when the competition was known as the UEFA Cup - and the first time that all four finalists in Europe’s top two club competitions have come from one nation. Barring an unlikely combination of final-day results in the Premier League - Arsenal need to win and Tottenham to lose, with the Gunners making up an eight-goal swing in goal difference - Arsenal’s Champions League hopes now rest on winning the Europa League. Portugal, Ukraine, Belarus, France and Italy have been among the destinations that Emery’s side have visited, navigating 14 games to reach the final and while they have been unconvincing on occasions, this performance underlined their credentials as potential winners.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Reifer pegs Hope as ‘future batting star’ (CMC) – INTERIM head coach Floyd Reifer says Shai Hope will be one of the keys to West Indies’ batting in the future, following the right-hander’s backto-back hundreds in the ongoing Tri-Nations Series. Hope stroked 170 in last Sunday’s opener against Ireland in a world-record 365-run opening stand with John Campbell (179) before hitting 109 against Bangladesh in the second game on Tuesday which West Indies lost by eight wickets. The 25-year-old has now scored four of his six One-Day Internationals in his last eight innings, and averages 50 from 51 matches. “The last 12 of 14 games he has played he has batted really well and scored about four hundreds and about four half-centuries as well,” said Reifer. “To see him batting here is a dream and he played really well – he paced the innings really well, played some beautiful cricket shots and accelerated the innings at the end. I thought he read the game very, very well and he’s definitely one for the future in terms of scoring a lot of runs for West Indies cricket.” Reifer said what made Hope so important to the Windies lineup was his ability to dictate the pace of the innings while also batting deep. Hope batted nearly 48 overs against Ireland and 42 against Bangladesh, and kept the score ticking over throughout his innings with the use of strike rotation. Reifer pointed out that Hope’s patience early in both innings had eventually paid dividends for the side. “The first 10 overs of the game the pitch was very slow so it’s not a pitch where you can go out and try to get 60 runs in the first 10 overs,” Reifer explained. “We were happy to take 40 runs without a loss of wicket and what he (Hope) did was to pace the innings
very well … in the middle overs he rotated the strike very, very well. He ran aggressively between the wickets and at the back end of the game he really accelerated the innings and both innings were beautiful innings.” Hope’s position in the order has been a subject of discussion. Four of his six hundreds have come at the top of the order but with specialist openers Chris Gayle and Evin Lewis named in the 15-man World Cup squad, Hope is expected to drop down to number three as he did in the recent home series against England. Reifer said Hope would be used in either position depending on what was required at the time. “Hope is very versatile,” Reifer pointed out. “In some games he will open, in some games he can bat at three. That’s the versatility of our team. We have guys that can play in any position.” Campbell, who hit his maiden hundred in only his sixth ODI, also came in for praise from Reifer. “John batted very well. Again, he took his time early on in the innings and then he went on in the middle overs and rotated the strike very well,” Reifer said. “The communication between himself and Hope was very good along with the running between the wickets. John also played some beautiful cricket shots. He actually got over his hurdle where he usually gets to 30 and gets out. “When he got there, he really dug in and focussed on getting over that small hurdle. As soon as he did that he just accelerated the innings.” West Indies face Ireland again tomorrow in their third match. The series is their final audition before the ICC World Cup bowls off on May 30.
Essequibo skittled for 145, Select U-17 on 77-3 in reply … Hand-in-Hand U-19 3-Day Inter-County
DESPITE a late start on day two of their third round Handin-Hand U-19 3-Day Inter-County encounter at Everest Cricket Club ground, the Select U-17s turned in an impressive all-round bowling effort to skittle out Essequibo for 145 just before the lunch interval. In response, at stumps the U-17s were on 77-3 trailing by 68 runs with a couple of batsmen getting starts but failing to carry on. After Wednesday’s heavy rainfall washed out most of day one, play started yesterday at 12:40hrs. However, all of the Select U-17 bowlers chipped in and eventually bowled out the Essequibians for just 145 off 53.1 overs. Only opener Orlando Jailall (30), Ameer Singh (29) and Azim Mohamed with 24 managed any innings of substance.
The pick of the bowlers for the Select U-17 was once again off-spinner Chandrapaul Ramraj, who bagged an astonishing 3 for 6 from his 10 overs which included six maidens. He received support from Mervan Prashad who took 2 wickets without conceding a run from his 1.1 overs. When U-17 took strike, opener Rampertaub Ramnauth was run-out for just one. However, Matthew Nandu and Zeynul Ramsammy built a partnership of 42 before Nandu also fell victim to a run-out, for 24, which included two boundaries and a maximum. Ramsammy was next to walk back to the pavilion trapped lbw by spinner Lance Roberts for 28 (4x1). At the close Mavindra Dindyal was unbeaten on 21 with Andre Seepersaud not out on one. Play resumes today at 09:30hrs.
Bangladesh-Ireland match called off due to rain (ESPNCRICINFO) - THE ODI between Ireland and Bangladesh - the third of the tri-nation series, involving West Indies as the other team - was called off due to heavy rain in Malahide. The match officials waited till 14:15hrs local time before making the decision as the rain didn’t stop for much of the morning and afternoon. The toss also didn’t take place as the rain began soon after the teams arrived at the venue. There was also a lot of rain on Wednesday evening.
Umpires Aleem Dar and Mark Hawthorne take shelter from the rain. (Sportsfile via Getty Images)
Yesterday’s game would
have been the first meeting
between Bangladesh and Ireland in two years. The two teams now split points as Bangladesh go to the top of the table with six points, followed by West Indies who are now on five points from two games. They beat Ireland by 196 runs before getting trounced by eight wickets against Bangladesh. Ireland now face West Indies in the fourth game of the tri-series, also in Malahide, tomorrow. The weather forecast is much better for that game.
PM Mottley hails ‘Icon’ Seymour Nurse
Barbados Prime Minister, Mia Mottley
(CMC) – BARBADOS Prime Minister Mia Mottley has hailed late West Indies great, Seymour Nurse, as “a true cricket icon and gentleman” and has credited him with influencing successive generations of Barbadian cricketers. Nurse, who played 29 Tests for West Indies between 1960 and 169, passed away here last Monday at age 85, following a long battle with illness. Following his playing career, Nurse devoted much of his time as a youth coach at the National Sports Council, helping to shape the careers of several who went on to represent Barbados and West Indies. “Though Mr Nurse made a name for himself, his country and the whole Caribbean back in the 1960s as a batsman of immense class on the West Indies cricket team, he would have in more recent times endeared himself to countless younger Barbadians through his work as a cricket coach,” Mottley said in a statement. “Time’s journey being what it is, not one child he coached, as he visited schools around the country as an employee of the National Sports Council, would have had the opportunity to see him execute any of the exquisite batting shots for which he became a legend while wearing the West Indies cap. “However, the life lessons
he imparted to them while wearing his coach’s hat for so many years, I am sure would have positively impacted countless young minds on and off the field – and no doubt will continue to live on, even after his death.” Nurse gathered 2 523 runs at an average of 47.60, hitting six hundreds – the last of which was a monumental career-best 258 against New Zealand in Christchurch which signalled his international farewell and age 35. His maiden Test hundred was also a double – 201 against Bob Simpson’s Australia at Kensington Oval here in 1965. Legendary former skipper Sir Garry Sobers, who played alongside Nurse, described his fellow Barbadian as a player on whom any captain could depend. “He was always the kind of person that you wanted in your team because he could play so well – he was such a great player and you could rely on him,” Sir Garry, the country’s only living National Hero, told the Nation newspaper here. “It is very sad to hear of the passing of Seymour, who has given so much not only in cricket, but in football as well. “I never saw him play football, but the reports about him on the football field have been glowing. He was a tremendous goalscorer, so he was a good sportsman.”
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday May 10, 2019)
COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (a) Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderbaad & Delhi Capitals (b) Mumbai Indians & CSK or DC TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Which team won Qualifier #1 in this season’s IPL? (2) Who was Man of the Match?
ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Canal 6 cart off 13th annual Sash Sawh memorial dominoes CANAL 6 made it three years in a row when they carted off the 13th annual Satyadeow ‘Sash’ Sawh Memorial dominoes tournament, played on Monday (Indian Arrival Day) at Ernest Shop, Canal Number One, West Bank Demerara.
The tournament, organised and sponsored by Sash Secretariat, saw the eventual champions mark 78 games to win easily from International 6 with 73 and Cold Fusion who trailed on 71. The victory also marked the third consecutive year
MVP Shawn Singh (right) collects his trophy from Jagmohan.
ExxonMobil refuels Pure Racing
ESSO Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, ExxonMobil, has returned to the side of the Pure Racing family ahead of this weekend’s season-opening GT Motorsports Grand Prix. The company yesterday handed over sponsorship to the team at its New Market Street, Georgetown office. ExxonMobil’s Nicholas Yearwood, who handed over the sponsorship, told the media that the company is more than willing to support the youths in sport. “Last year was a lot of fun; a lot of wins and a lot of excitement and we are committed to the development of sports locally. We want to continue working with activities to develop youths.” “We just want to wish them the best in the upcoming race meet and we want them to have fun and be safe.” Pure Racing’s Annalisa Phang stated that sponsors like Exxon have allowed the
younger generation of drivers to hone their skills. “Thank you, Exxon, thank you, Nick, for again sponsoring our young drivers. I know they are appreciative of your support and of Exxon’s support. Their skills have certainly surpassed our expectations.” The team includes Ben Phang in the Baby Cup, Justin Ten-Pow in the Sunburst 60cc Kids Cup, Jeremy TenPow and Paige Mendonca in the 125cc X30 Juniors and John Phang in the 125cc X30 Seniors. This weekend’s GT Motorsports Georgetown Grand Prix is billed for tomorrow and is expected to include drivers from Trinidad and Tobago as well as Jamaica. Trinidad’s Kristian Boodoosingh and Zachary Boodram are expected to feature in the 125cc X30 senior class, along with Jamaica’s Collin Daley. Daley’s countryman Tommi Gore is expected in the 125cc X30 junior class.
for Canal 6, who defeated Mixed Up and Sash Secretariat at the same venue last year. The game was evenly contested throughout the first five sittings with International 6 entering the final sitting with a slim four-game lead - the scores reading International 6 on 64, Canal 6 and Cold Fusion deadlocked on 60 each. A brilliant final sitting by Canal 6, which saw them register the maximum 18 games, sealed the deal for the winners as International 6 managed nine and Cold Fusion 11. Skipper Kedar Seopaul and Shawn Singh led the way for Canal 6 with maximum 18 games while Avinesh Persaud supported with 13. For International 6, Edmund Sammy marked 15 in his first three sittings and 11 in the next three after being chosen to play
YOU know him as ace footballer for the ‘Golden Jags’ or even as Bury FC midfield player, but Neil Danns is intent on showing his versatility by exploring the music scene. “I’ve been studying music production and engineering for the last couple of years,” Danns told the Chronicle Sport in an exclusive interview, adding “I’m still learning and progressing
but I’m only just starting to get the confidence to put it out.” Initially, the footballer connected with music as a pastime, even though he always had a passion for music and writing. “I started off playing guitar for a hobby when I was in my early 20s and I always liked to write poetry and melodies,” he reflected. And so his musical journey started off with him fiddling around and just writing simple chord
mencement of the tournament. Among those responsible for the staging of the tournament are United States-based Guyanese Mark Dookhan, who served as driver to the late minister, Sahadeo Mahabali, Vishnu
Persaud and Indra Jagmohan. The organisers also take the opportunity to express sincere thanks to the proprietor of Ernest Shop for allowing the venue to be used to host the tournaments over the years.
Satram Jagmohan (left) hands over the winning trophy to Basdeo Persaud in the presence of other team members.
NSC to sponsor circle tennis tournament THE NATIONAL Sports Commission will sponsor a one-day circle tennis tournament as part of Guyana’s 53rd Independence celebrations. The hope is to revive the game, which has lost its prominence. According to organiser of the event, Allister Munroe, “This programme was long in the making.” He said that Director of Sport Christopher Jones agreed to hold it in Georgetown so it will bring back memories of the Guyana Games. During the last two years, a number of circle tennis workshops were conducted in various regions in an effort to revive the sport. The programme will loop off on Sunday May 19, with a venue to be identified shortly. Teams from Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10 and Georgetown are set to compete. Drawing of the fixture was done at the NSC office under the watchful eyes of
Neil Danns explores music scene By Vishani Ragobeer
through in the five-man team. Manniram Shew and Claude Stuart made 13 each. The top players for Cold Fusion were Parmanand Jairam (14) and Ameer Khan who scored 25, playing through. The winners’ and first runners-up trophies plus prizes for the three top players in each team and the overall Most Valuable Player (MVP) were sponsored by Sash Secretariat. The MVP was Canal 6’s Shawn Singh who edged out his captain Kedar Seopaul, the latter giving away 20 games to Singh’s 19 while the three top players were Singh, Sammy (International 6) and Jairam (Cold Fusion). Sawh, a former Minister of Fisheries, Crops and Livestock, died under tragic circumstances on April 22, 2006. A minute’s silence was observed, prior to the com-
songs just for his own personal listening pleasure. He taught himself how to play the piano over the past few years – nothing too fancy – but just enough to help him create his own music and depth to his skills. His desire to develop his musical ambitions has been insatiable, however, and resultantly, he tried learning music engineering. “It’s just been gradual building,” he said modestly. It’s not his aim to be an
Mr Jones. Meanwhile, according to the Department of Public Information (DPI), the Minister of Social Co-
sequibo, Demerara and Berbice. The competition, which was initially scheduled to be played at Kortberaad
Minister Norton in a ceremonial start-off to the friendly competition last Sunday. (DPI photo)
hesion, with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr George Norton held a friendly circle tennis competition last Sunday featuring youths from Es-
Playfield on the East Bank of Berbice, was moved to the No.63 Beach, Corentyne, Berbice, due to heavy rains. The idea for a friendly ‘Arrival Day’ compe-
artiste, at least not for the most part. Instead, he is aiming to just write and produce music. “I hope to work with aspiring artistes in the future … and it would be amazing to collaborate with some top Guyanese artistes out there in the future,” Danns noted. But even so, he’s putting a few tracks out there, just so that people would know that he knows his stuff and he’s good at it. In fact, he’s currently making one of his tracks available on Spotify and iTunes; it’s called ‘What you thinking’ and will come under his alias: Melodix.
“When people hear my stuff it’s mostly a shock as a lot of people do not realise I play any instruments but I’m still a long way from where I want to get to; but I enjoy learning and improving in everything I have passion for,” he affirmed. “It takes a lot of hours and can be frustrating but that’s what makes it worth it when you make positive steps.” His endeavours in music, however, do not sidetrack from his finesse in football. He’s been involved in the game - professionally- for about 20 years, and that’s just not something he can stop
tition was conceived by Minister Norton, who had previously donated uniforms and circle tennis gear to all three youth clubs: Flying Stars Unity Force (Berbice), Houston Youth Group and Visionary Youth Group (Parika, East Bank Essequibo). In the competition, Houston Youth Group defeated Flying Stars Unity Force, but lost to Visionary Youth Group. According to the DPI, another friendly competition is scheduled for Parika later this month. Minister Norton was quoted by the DPI: “It was a very exciting game, and I believe the mingling and the camaraderie that was ignited among the teams was really wonderful. Many of them became friends and that’s what it’s about – creating friendships and fostering good relationships among different peoples.” being involved in. Moving into the music scene fulltime is a possibility, but only after he considers what options present themselves once he is retired. But Danns’ musical ambitions will be put on pause for a bit, as he prepares for Guyana’s historic showing at next month’s CONCACAF Gold Cup. Danns will be a key figure for Guyana, when they face defending champs USA on June 18, followed by last FIFA World Cup debutants Panama on June 22 then Trinidad and Tobago on June 26.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 10, 2019
Twenty-five wickets fall on Another Sawh joins the Karting fray shortened day 2 at Lusignan Hand-in-Hand Under-19 Inter-county three-day
IT IS oftentimes the father that paves the way for the son but in this case, the roles are reversed. Vishal Sawh will make his maiden entry to the GT Motorsports Grand Prix this weekend after being with the pit crew for his son Nicholas last year. Sawh, who will join the Easy Cup Masters class, disclosed, yesterday, when it was that he decided to get involved in the sport. “Well, my son Nicholas joined last year in the 60cc Baby Cup and I really saw how he was enjoying himself so I decided I would get involved too,” he said. He added, “It’s a great way of keeping my reflexes good and ready for circuit racing events. It’s also something I see a lot of international drivers doing as well.” Looking ahead to tomorrow, Sawh said that he is looking to get a feel of the track and the kart. “Come this weekend, I hope to see good weather first and foremost. I haven’t done that many laps in the kart just yet and to add rain, it might be difficult.” “I also have to add some weight to the kart to meet the requirements for that class I will be running, which is the Easy Cup Masters.” Sawh is sponsored by the Auto Toy Store on Sheriff Street. Apart from the Easy Cup Masters, there is competition in the Easy Cup Rookie, X30 Juniors, X30 Seniors, Sunburst 60cc Kids Cup and 60cc Baby Cup. In the X30 Junior class, Jamaican Tommi Gore is expected to bring the fight to the locals while in the Senior class, his countryman Collin Daley will have to contend with the Trinidad duo of Kristian Boodoosingh and Zachary Boodram.
DEMERARA finished an extraordinary day two on 12-5 in their second innings, 18 runs ahead of the defending champions Berbice after 25 wickets crashed at Lusignan in the final round of the Hand-inHand Under-19 Inter-county three-day encounter yesterday.
Kelvin Umroa
Vishal Sawh and his son Nicholas
Rose Ramdehol sponsors MVP motorcycle for Corona Futsal ROSE Ramdehol, the local agent for the Hero brand of motorcycles, has returned to the Petra organisation for the ongoing Corona Futsal tournament. The South Road-based company yesterday announced that it will be handing over one Hero Honda 150cc motorcycle to the MVP of the tournament. Joshua Ramdehol, speaking on behalf of the sponsor, noted that he was happy to see his company continue their support of the Petra Organisation event. Co-Director of Petra, Troy Mendonca, expressed appreciation to Rose Ramdehol for the support, before disclosing that the tournament continues tomorrow with the first five matches in the group round-robin stage. Twelve teams have been divided into three groups following two nights of elimination matches. Those teams are: Tucville, North 5/11/2019
From left, Petra’s Mark Alleyne, Joshua Ramdehol and Troy Mendonca pose with some of the Hero Honda motorcycles yesterday.
East La Penitence, Leopold Street, Back Circle, Sparta Boss, Bent Street, California Square, West Front Road, Mocha, Future Stars, Beacon and Tiger Bay. The teams that end atop
Round Robin Night 1
the group stages will be awarded as follows: first $40 000; second $30 000; third $15 000 and fourth $10 000, as an added incentive. In the grand finale, firstplace winners will receive
$500 000 while second-placers will pocket $250 000. Third-placers will cop $125 000, while fourth-placers will have to settle for $75 000. Please see tomorrow’s fixtures below.
Gymnasium
Match #
19:30hrs
Tucville
VS
North East La Penitence
13
20:15hrs
Bent Street
VS
Mocha
14
21:00hrs
Leopold Street
VS
Future Stars
15
21:45hrs
Sparta Boss
VS
Beacons
16
22:30hrs
West Front Road
VS
Tiger Bay
17
23:15hrs
Back Circle
VS
California Square
18
Because of overnight rain, play eventually commenced at 12:40hrs. Both teams struggled on a wicket which offered plenty of assistance for the bowlers on both sides, especially the spinners. Poor shot selection and the evidence of poor cricket proved to be the downfall
of both teams. First up, Berbice produced an excellent bowling effort to restrict Demerara to 60 in 30.3 overs. The hosts’ batting collapsed inexplicably with left-arm spinner Kelvin Umroa claiming 5-21 while Kevlon Anderson and spinner Nigel Deodat took two wickets apiece. Adrian Hinds (28) and Joel Spooner an unbeaten 12 were the only batsmen to score double. However, Berbice heroics were short-lived, as Demerara redeemed themselves with the ball to bowl out their opponents for 54 in 22.1 overs, Junior Sinclair was the only Berbice batsman, to offer any real resistance, with 27 off 44 balls. Spinners Joel Spooner and Ashmead Nedd were the main destroyers with figures of 4-9 and 3-7 respectively. With a slim lead of just six runs, Umroa created problems again for the hosts’ batsmen with three wickets when bails were lifted. Pradesh Balkishun and Dequan Bamfield remained undefeated. Anderson and Deodat each picked up one wicket.
Skerritt pleased with CWI progress despite finance difficulty CMC – CRICKET West Indies president, Ricky Skerritt, says he has had to make “difficult decisions” and contend with rocky finances during his short tenure in charge of the regional organisation but insists he has no regrets so far. The former St Kitts and Nevis Cabinet minister swept to power last March when he stunned three-time incumbent Dave Cameron in CWI elections staged in Jamaica. “Cricket is a never ending challenge. At the moment, [it is important] to get stability in a number of areas and to put ourselves into a position where we can build, just getting better and get improvements and growth in all the key areas,” he told the Mason and Guest cricket radio show here. “It’s going to take a while but I’m not going to complain. We’ve had to make some difficult decisions and we’re having to be careful with how we spend money until we can get a little more income flowing in. CWI president, Ricky Skerritt. “Apart from that I would say it’s coming together and we’re confident we’re moving in the right direction.” One of the major draw-
backs for Skerritt and Vice-president Dr Kishore Shallow has been the lack of funds at their disposal. CWI has navigated choppy financial waters over the last year and only recently Skerritt described the board’s finances as “worse than you think”. He said in some cases, key grassroots development programmes had been impact by the poor financial situation. “I would have enjoyed coming into a situation where we had some cash to spend and invest in some of the key areas especially in the grassroots and and youth cricket,” he pointed out. “There are some grassroots programmes that have either slowed down or just come to a halt because we haven’t been able to pay various vendors and suppliers. That has been the most troubling thing for me right now.” He added: “We knew the previous financial year …. was going to be a significant loss-making year. The deficit was always going to be in the region of US$20 million. To fund that gap, there were certain things which we had been told were in place – one of them was raising some from funds from the private sector in Jamaica.
Essequibo skittled for 145, Select U-17 on 77-3 in reply … Hand-in-Hand U-19 3-Day Inter-County Select U-17’s Matthew Nandu drives through the offside at the Everest ground. (Adrian Narine photo)
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ExxonMobil refuels Pure Racing Page
26
Neil Danns explores music scene Page
26
ExxonMobil’s Nicholas Yearwood hands over sponsorship to Pure Racing’s Paige Mendonca.
BCB partners with Let’s Bet Sports for 100-Balls 2nd Division Inter-Zone tournament Page
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Let’s Bet Sports Brand Manager, Ian De Barros (2nd right) hands over the sponsorship cheque to BCB president Hilbert Foster while Brand Ambassador Rawle Toney (left) and Assistant Brand Manager, Joel Lee look on. (Adrian Narine photo)
Guyana’s Neil Danns celebrates after scoring for recently promoted League One side Bury FC.
Twenty-five wickets fall on shortened day 2 27 at Lusignan
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FRIDAY, MAY 10, 2019