Issuu

WEDNESDAY 15th August, 2018

Gov't No.105367

commits to hiking PAGE

teachers’ pay

… says GTU actions not consistent with initial agreement

Telecoms roadmap 17 PAGE

–– wider, faster connectivity for citizens as telecoms sector charts way forward

Ukrainian

guards 05 remanded PAGE

New York-based Guyanese and third-year Harvard Medical student, Ms. Kelly Hyles on Tuesday paid a courtesy call on First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger at her State House office. The meeting served as an opportunity for Ms. Hyles to familiarise the First Lady with the work of her organisation, Gears for Success, is involved in as well as to identify areas of possible collaboration. Hyles had made the headlines when she was accepted by 21 colleges, including all eight Ivy League schools in the United States. (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

Guyana in solidarity with Italy over collapse of Morandi Bridge HIS Excellency, President David Granger and the Government and the people of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Italy and express sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives and those who were injured in the collapse of the Morandi Bridge in the City of Genoa. In a statement President Granger said he stands with Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte as his Government deals with the rising death toll and work to restore normalcy after this tragic incident, the deadliest of its kind on the European Continent since 2001.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Civilians giving damning statements –– against cops implicated in Brazilian miner’s murder

A NUMBER of civilians were up to late Monday evening said to be “cooperating fully” with police investigating the murder at Puruni on Saturday of Brazilian national, Estevao Marques Costa. This was confirmed by Crime Chief Paul Williams when contacted by the Guyana Chronicle. The paper was also reliably informed that from what is being said in those statements, things are not looking well for the policemen involved in the shooting. Word is that the pair of lawmen, a constable and a corporal, have already been transferred to the city and are under close arrest at the Tactical Service Unit where their movements are restricted. It is unclear at what point

they may be put under full arrest, or if the police will seek to keep them under close arrest until they receive word on how to proceed with the matter from legal minds upon whom the police force usually rely for legal guidance. The cops who were stationed at Kurupung, reportedly shut shop and went about their own business, singling out particular mining camps along the Puruni River on which to carry out raids, which is what happened when the shooting occurred. The Guyana Chronicle has been reliably informed that diplomatic channels have already been opened between Guyana and Brazil on the matter, as the uncle of the dead young man is said to be a mayor in that country and has been paying close

attention to the handling of the investigations and developments in the case. On the day in question, the subordinate officer otherwise referred to as a corporal reportedly remained in a boat and allowed the constable to go and confront civilians without supervision. It was during that period that loud explosions were heard, and when the corporal reached the location, he found the man lying on the ground motionless. The constable reportedly told the corporal that the man discharged a weapon at him, and all he did was return fire, hitting him in the process. Persons in the area dispute this, saying that the man did not shoot at the police; that it is the police who attempted to shake him down

and opened fire on him when he did not comply with his demands. Persons have long complained about the highhandedness of the police and even GGMC officials in the mining communities who would carry out illegal raids on foreign nationals and even small miners. They say that persons are often threatened with either deportation or being charged if the officers do not get what they demand. The investigation into this latest matter continues, even as the Public Security Minister has already added his voice to the situation and called for a proper probe, and again repeated his call for rogue elements to be rooted out of the Guyana Police Force.

Sinking bridge in Lethem threatening lives THE Manari Bridge in Lethem, Region Nine, is reportedly becoming more and more perilous. It was reported by residents that crossing the bridge is life-threatening, since it has started to sink

Top view of the bridge, leaning more to the left which is the side sinking when heavy vehicles pass. This newspaper spoke with the Regional Chairman of the said region, Brian Allicock, who confirmed that the bridge is indeed a danger to persons crossing. He stated that this was observed over four months ago and was reported to the engineer attached to the region from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. “When I was made aware of this I informed the engineer attached here. That was four months ago and we’re still awaiting the works to proceed on the bridge. Ev-

ery time a vehicle passes, you feel it sinking a little bit more, but the use of the bridge cannot be avoided,” Allicock said. He further stated that a few men in the region who use the bridge to transport goods had volunteered to fix the bridge, but permission wasn’t granted by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. Allicock explained that the bridge is 15 feet high and runs over the Manari River, so should this bridge collapse, it will take lives. “We are hoping that the

engineer returns soon to start working on this bridge, because we have already lost a life late last year, but that was because the driver didn’t know the bridge and he drove off. However, we do not want to have to lose any more lives, and I am hoping they are not waiting for a death, to fix the bridge” Allicock said. The residents and heads of the region are calling on the relevant authorities to look into this matter to aid the safety of travellers who cross the Manari River.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Gov’t commits to hiking teachers’ pay

…says GTU actions not consistent with initial agreement

MINISTER of Education, Ms. Nicolette Henry, said talks between the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) held last Thursday were not concluded but rather, some aspects of the union’s terms were agreed and a decision was taken for another meeting to be held to iron out the outstanding issues. However, she noted that the government remains committed to paying teachers their increases. The union has called on its members to go on strike and has since notified the Ministry of Education of its intention. In an invited comment with the Ministry of the Presidency’s Public Information and Press Services Unit, Minister Henry said that coming out of last week’s meeting, the two sides agreed to some recommendations, but noted that some could not be agreed, while others were completely withdrawn by the union. “I want to point out that some were agreed on in part, because it required much more than one area. For instance, [on] the issue related to duty-free concessions, we agreed entirely on what was proposed; when it came to the issue of housing and the Revolving Fund, we agreed also. However, [on] the issue of salary and debunching, we did not agree on [sic] at all [since] the government proposed a ball park figure.

In the case of debunching, we are looking at $200 million to address debunching for the year 2018. The union suggested that they believe that it should be retroactive and therefore they were not in agreement with looking at just 2018. In addition to that, the issue of salary also, for which we had allocated the sum of $700 million, they felt that should also be retroactive,” she explained. Minister Henry said given the difference of opinions and the number of issues that had to be addressed, the union and the government’s side “agreed in principle that we will meet subsequently to address the issues that were not resolved at that first meeting. So, my understanding and at least the agreement that came out of that meeting, is that we will meet subsequently; and it is my intention to invite the union to continue to have meetings as was agreed [to] at our initial meeting.” BREACH OF AGREEMENT The Minister of Education said that based on this agreement therefore, the actions of the union are not in keeping with the position that was taken at the first meeting. However, she noted that she is prepared to invite the union back to the table before the week is through. “I’m looking at a meeting

this week, because it’s both urgent and important and therefore we need to ensure that we continue to address and resolve these issues in the most effective way and with also some amount of expediency,” Ms Henry said. The Education Minister further explained that the reason the government’s side proposed a ball park figure had to do specifically with the process involved in debunching and salary increases. She noted that the union was asking for a 40 per cent increase across the board, which the ministry felt would have further compounded the issue related to debunching. “So we needed to address that issue and so we gave a figure on what is available in terms of financing to address the debunching issue. Once the debunching issue is addressed and teachers in this instance can be categorised and put into scales, then it will give you an opportunity to give what is allocated to salary increases in the respective categories… There is certainly nothing sinister or there is certainly no ulterior motive in awarding the ball park figure, because that did come up in the discussion. I just wanted to provide that clarity, because I believe that teachers and the Guyanese people need to understand what was proposed and why it was proposed,” Minister Henry said.

Good Hope shooting ...

Relatives fear teen may lose hearing –– and that justice will never be served FAMILY members of a teenager who was shot in the face on Saturday while trying to avert an armed robbery at his Good Hope, East Coast Demerara home, are now concerned about whether justice will ever be served. And the reason they have come to this conclusion is because the men who tried to rob them but instead shot the teen, have been since seen in the com-

munity. According to the injured lad’s father, the two men were spotted at a wedding house in the area as recently as Sunday night.The lad is still hospitalised and may lose hearing in his left ear. The man said that several calls were made to the Vigilance Police Station, just about a 10-minute drive from where he lives and where the shooting oc-

PRO-WORKING CLASS With the union calling for a countrywide strike, the minister noted that the David Granger- led administration is a pro-working class government and therefore believes that engagements for mutual satisfaction must be achieved. She also made it clear that remuneration will be given in keeping with what can be afforded at this time. “We first and foremost believe that we need to engage, that we need to make teachers aware of where we are, what the government is doing and appeal to them that we are doing the best we can in the circumstances. We will ensure that the teachers are given increases in keeping, of course, with what we can afford,” she said. The Education Minister noted that it was agreed in the initial meeting that a consultant will be hired to determine how these monies are going to be allocated in the case of the teachers, regarding both debunching and salaries. She noted that the government, over the past three years, has invested heavily in improving the education system to create a more conducive environment for teaching. Firstly, she noted that notwithstanding the absence of a multi-year agreement, the government provided salary increases in 2016 and 2017 for teachers in accor-

dance with what was given to public servants. “In order to improve the conditions of teachers, we have taken several decisions. One is that we have offered to provide grants to schools that have Science labs. There is the National Endowment for Science and Technology (NEST) programme, which is managed by the Ministry of the Presidency and that is to ensure that the environment the beneficiaries operate in are the best of what we can offer. In addition to that, we have increased stipends for teachers who are in training at the Cyril Potter College of Education by more than 50 percent. In addition to that, the Remote Area Incentive (RAI) for teachers who work in the hinterland has seen an 80 per cent increase in 2018,” she reminded. Further to this, Minister Henry said that in an effort to make work less onerous and demanding on teachers, the ministry has been exploring support mechanisms, particularly through Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and by strengthening the human resource capacity. “Let me say that we recruited monitors and coordinators to assist teachers in the classroom and so all of those things come with a cost, but it’s towards the development of the best interest of the people. I understand that teachers, like many other categories, feel

curred, to pass on the information, but to date they are still waiting for the police to act on it. The man said the police who took the first call at around 22:30hrs and gave his name as McDonald, had indicated that a patrol was on its way. This was after he was thrice given directions on how to find the wedding-house. And when by 23:15hrs the police had not yet arrived, another call was placed to the station, and the same police rank took the call and again indicated that the patrol was on its way. A third call placed a few hours later, and again the response was, “The police are on their way.” A check on the police station found the station locked tight, and the gate secured with a handcuff. On a hunch, he called the 911 hotline and was advised to call the Vigilance station, and again Constable McDonald

Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry that they should be given an increase and it is my intention to ensure that we give them an increase in keeping with what we can afford, in the best interest of the teachers and the people of this country. I would also like to point out that notwithstanding my responsibilities as Minister of Education, I believe that whenever we take a decision as government we have to look at the best interest of all of our people. I would want to ensure that what we offer to teachers is what we can afford, but also what we’re going to offer to other categories will be in keeping with the prevailing financial resources and it must operate within that context,” Minister Henry said.

assured him that help was on the way. The man said he eventually called a police friend all the way at Mahaica, who arrived around 01:30hrs, but by then the suspects had already left the area. Meanwhile, the injured teen is reportedly still in hospital, and according to his father, he is not doing so well. The police are said to be investigating the matter, and have already visited the home and took possession of the CCTV footage which they hope may aid in their probe and the suspects capture. On the night in question, the suspects were seen circling the area and the family who was outside of their yard at the time, took evasive measures, but it was too late and by then the bandits had already pounced on them. The teenager attempted to fight them off, and it was at that point that he was shot in the face.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Gov’t to hire specialist to determine pay hike for teachers MINISTER of Education, Nicolette Henry said the government will retain a specialist to determine the percentage increase per category of teachers. The ministry took the decision during a meeting on Thursday, August 9, between a delegation headed by Minister Henry and representatives of the Guyana Teacher’s Union to discuss proposals by the union for a multi-year agreement with

the government on salaries and conditions of service for teachers. According to a release, while there are some difficulties honouring all the requests put forward by the Teachers Union, Minister Henry implored representatives to be responsible enough to ensure that as many as possible benefits from the new approach be carefully considered and accepted.

It was agreed too that both teams would carefully consider what was discussed at the meeting and agree to an early date for further discussions. The ministry said it listened to the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) and expressed hope that equally, the union pays close attention to the counterproposal offered. The GTU had proposed an across-the-board increase in salary of forty per cent

(40%) for 2016, forty-five per cent in (2017), fifty per cent (50%) in 2018, fifty per cent (50%) in 2019 and fifty per cent (50%) in 2020, be granted to all categories of teachers/teacher educators for the years 2016-2020. The counterproposal by the ministry stated that the government will make available a ballpark figure to facilitate an increase in salaries for all teachers based on the current salary scale.

A specialist will have to be contracted to work with the GTU (if agreed) to determine the percentage of increase per category. Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally who was also present at the meeting said that while the GTU’s demands are not unreasonable, consideration should be given to the economic status of the government. The minister noted that this is not the end, but rather

a continuous process in which both parties should be planning and preparing for better times. The High-level Committee consisting of government officials and representatives of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) was appointed to discuss the proposals by the union for a multiyear agreement with the government in relation to salaries and conditions of service for teachers.

Land identified for humanitarian centre at Mabaruma MINISTER of Citizenship, Winston Felix, on Monday announced that government in collaboration with the Mayor and Town Council of Mabaruma have identified a plot of land in the township for the establishment of a homestead settlement area or humanitarian centre for the registered Venezuelans, who are occupying areas in Barima-Waini (Region One). The minister made the announcement at the conclusion of the fifth multi-agency coordinating committee meeting held at the Ministry of Citizenship, Shiv Chanderpaul

Drive, Georgetown. Minister Felix said the resettlement area, which will allow the Venezuelans to be self-reliant, is privately owned and that the government will now have to initiate efforts to determine what arrangements can be put in place to acquire the land for the establishment of the centre. The minister also said that while this process is being undertaken, he has tasked the regional administration to set up a Regional Coordinating Sub-committee, which can take charge of the situation on the ground, even as the agencies on the national com-

mittee continue to lend the necessary assistance to those in the region. Additionally, the Ministry of Public Health has established health posts in the affected areas, including at Mabaruma and Morawhanna and will, by the end of next week, establish one at Imbotero Village from which migrants and residents are being screened and vaccinated, while it is bolstering its presence in CuyuniMazaruni (Region Seven). Refrigerators for the storage of vaccines at the locations have already been procured and will be dispatched and set up by the

end of next week. “[The Department of] Immigration is continuing the registration and support work… The police [are] also following through with the support work to this committee. So, all agencies, locally, are locked into this committee to provide services and support for the Venezuelans in Guyana. We are also [examining] the situation in Region Seven [in order] to find out where [the Venezuelans] are and what numbers we have to [cater for],” he said. Meanwhile, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has committed its support to addressing the migration of the Venezuelans and to help boost Guyana’s capacity to deal with such sit-

uations in the event of future occurrences. Currently, the IOM is conducting work in gathering data on the migrants and observed trends through a Displacement Tracking Matrix in Regions One, Two, Four and Seven and has committed to developing Terms of Reference (ToR) for a consultant, who will review the various sectors’ current policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for dealing with migrants. The consultant will also be tasked with the updating and/or development of these, as well as the guidelines for emergencies, which can guide responses in the future. The organisation will also be coordinating a capacity-building session in

‘Migrants and Countries in Crisis’ for members of the National Coordinating Committee as early as possible and capacity-building in ‘Camp Coordination’ will be done after the details for the humanitarian centre are finalised. This training will target individuals who will be responsible for managing the centre. Additionally, the Immigration Department has been tasked with providing a list of equipment that is needed and can be procured for migrant registration and issuing of documents, while a Migrant Support Centre will be established in Region One to be housed at the Regional Democratic Council’s office. (Ministry of the Presidency)

Charged for shooting money-changer THREE weeks after a money-changer was shot to his leg during a robbery along America and Longden Streets, Georgetown, a 23-year-old man was on Tuesday charged for the crime. Akeem Sinclair of Lodge appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and denied that on July 29 at

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America Street while being in the company of others and armed with a gun he robbed Rickford Richardson of $120,000 cash. The unrepresented man told the court that he was employed at August Beverages and was the sole breadwinner of his family. Police Prosecutor, Gordon Mansfield objected to the accused being released on bail on the grounds that a gun was used and the victim was shot to his left leg. According to the facts presented by the prosecution, on the day in question, the

accused, along with another person rode up to the victim at America and Longden Streets. The accused, who was the pillion rider, allegedly drew a gun from his waist and demanded that Richardson hand over the money he had in his hands. The victim handed over the money and was shot to his leg. His attacker made good his escape on the motor cycle. The Chief Magistrate ruled in favour of the prosecution and remanded Sinclair to prison until August 31.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Ukrainian security men remanded TWO Ukrainian men who are employed at the West Bank Demerara Gold Inc. were on Tuesday remanded to prison after they appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court charged for allegedly assaulting and making use of threatening behaviour towards two Guyanese miners. The men, Maksym Furtak, a 33-year-old manager and Vitaly Paraschuck, a 38-year-old security officer, were firstly made to answer to the charge of failure to wear their uniforms while on duty. The men where separately charged for the allegation, which read that on August 3, 2018 at Quartz Stone Backdam, Cuyuni River, they, while being employed as their respective designations by the West Bank Demerara Gold Inc., failed to wear their prescribed uniforms. Furtak was further charged for allegedly making use of threatening behaviour towards Randolph Deane, a Guyanese, on August 3, 2018 at Quartz Stone Bankdam.

Vitaly Paraschuck

Paraschuck was charged for the alleged unlawful assault of Charles Clarke, along with making use of threatening behaviour on same day in question. The men, with the aid of an interrupter, pleaded not guilty to the respective charges while their attorney Keoma Griffith made an application for their release. Griffith noted that his clients were removed from the company’s Cuyuni River location and relocated to its head office in Georgetown. However, Police Prosecutor Inspector Gordon Mansfield noted that the two defendants before the court were not nationals of

Maksym Furtak

Charles Clarke

Guyana and did not have sufficient ties to the country. The magistrate ruled in favour of the prosecutor’s objections and remanded both the Ukrainian men to prison. Also, making an appearance before the chief magistrate was 33-year-old security officer Charles Clarke, who is charged for not wearing his Hopkinson Mining Security Uniform while on duty on the same day. He pleaded not guilty to

the charge and was released on $20,000 bail. The chief magistrate transferred all of the matters to the Bartica Magistrate’s Court to be called again on August 23. The two foreign nationals at the centre of allegations that they tortured two Guyanese miners, were arrested last week and police said they were in breach of their uniform dress code since, as supernumerary constables, they ought to have been attired in the prescribed manner approved by the force’s administra-

tion for that company and not as seen outfitted in a video. In a statement issued last Wednesday, the police said a thorough investigation was launched into the incident. A police investigative team from CID headquarters received much-needed assistance from a miner who ferried the ranks to Quartz Stone, Cuyuni, on a mining claim operated by miner Shawn Hopkinson and where the incident allegedly occurred. On Wednesday, the National Mining Syndicate called on the authorities to address the issue with a view of ensuring justice prevails in the interest of the local miners. The body said the incident brought to the fore the need for dialogue, between key agencies and expatriates who seek to do business in Guyana, either individually or as a company. The two Ukrainians, who are employed by West Bank Demerara Gold Inc. which is licensed to operate in Guyana, are sworn supernumerary constables and authorised to carry firearms.

Footballer on nine counts of armed robbery charge

Omalla Williams

A 26-year-old local footballer found himself on the wrong side of the field when he appeared before the Chief Magistrate on Tuesday charged for several armed robberies in the Leopold Street area. Omalla Williams appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan charged with nine counts of armed robbery. The first charge alleged that on April 24 at Smyth Street, Williams, while being in the company of others and armed with a gun, robbed Doctor Guy Low of $40,000. The second charge alleged that on March 28 at Leopold Street, while

in the company of others and armed with a gun, the accused robbed Dennis Grant of a quantity of items valued $1.8M. The third charge alleged that Williams discharged a loaded firearm at Damion Elliot on April 30, 2018 at Leopold Street with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. It is further alleged that during the same ordeal, Williams, while being in the company of others and armed with guns, robbed Rodwell Maynard of $89,000, property of Damion Elliot. Meanwhile on April 30, 2018 at Cross Street, Werken-Rust, it is also alleged that Williams, while being in the company of others and armed with a gun, robbed Avil Crowther of $185,000. Williams was further slapped with four charges for armed robbery committed on US nationals. Particulars of the charges allege that on on April 30, 2018 at Leopold Street, while being in the company of others, Williams robbed Daisy Gaines-Sluss of a MP3 player valued $5,000, Joe Hughes of $800US, Darlene Gaines of a $140,000 cellphone and Christina Gaines-Sluss of $1,300 US.

The last charge read that on April 27, 2018 at Cross Street, Werk-en-Rust, Williams, while being in the company of others and armed with a gun, robbed Jannel Walters of jewellery worth $340,000, one

Samsung phone valued $ 50,000 and $60,000 cash. Wi l l i a m s , a l s o o f Leopold Street, denied the charges while his attorney, Siand Dhurjon made an application for reasonable bail.

P o l i c e P r o s e c u t o r, Inspector Gordon Mansfield objected to Williams being released on bail. Williams was remanded to prison until August 27 by the Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Reposing faith in our own capacity THE discovery of oil in any nation is always greeted with excitement and euphoria, because of the numerous great possibilities that such a find will have for the social and economic development of that country. For the citizens, it means an expected improvement in the quality of life, since the revenues derived from the oil sales, will of necessity usher in rapid development, with better social infrastructure and amenities, for their well-being. Of course, since the economy is expected to be impacted positively, the critical aspect of employment opportunities, for example, is expected to expand. So, it is only fair to say that citizens in any such country look forward to a new and improved life. Guyana is now on this great trajectory, where finally the well-known statement that, “We are a rich country with poor people,” is about to change, come 2020, when first-oil is due to flow. Such a moment will have enormous socio-economic implications for this country, since it is slated to become the most important economic project ever undertaken in its history.

Most naturally, there are high expectations on the part of the citizenry, as to what the expected oil-and-gas revenues will do for them as individuals and their families. But it has set off a storm of public debate, with avalanches of views/opinions, implicit in which there have been criticisms of all kinds, regarding government’s contractual arrangement with the ExxonMobil oil giant, the main and largest of the companies drilling and other aspects that go into Guyana’s preparation for oil. Of course, this is to be expected, because of the ramifications involved and the presumed understanding that there are social commentators and other types, Guyanese all, who are supposedly patriotic enough in wanting to ensure their country’s proper preparedness for this auspicious beginning of a new chapter in Guyana’s economic history. The criticisms have been interesting for what they have purported to hold as advice for the government. There have been those of an unmistakable political content, which criticisms reek of unmistakable vituper-

ation, because they are not the ones in authority that are spearheading the preparatory process. Then there is another category which opinions, although subtly masked, betray sentiments that are concerned only about what they will receive as a result of say, the local content policy and other avenues. For this group, it is about the oil-andgas industry through their eyes – a position of seeking to dictate to the government, rather than making suggestions for the national good. The other group consists of a collective that are of the view that every aspect of the government’s preparations have been wrong. And of course, there have been also, the numerous views via the letters columns, especially, that segment which mixes nasty racism with so-called advice. These are a daily constant. It needs not be repeated that preparing for oil presents very critical challenges for any discoverer country, in terms of laying down legislation; regulatory structures; procuring advisors, and competently skilled personnel to build management and skills capacity for the many

components which comprise the oil industry. But one wonders whether these many “experts”, with obvious socio-political agendas, do remember such, when they purport to give advice. For them, the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) should have done all and everything right within these three years, since the first discovery from LIZA- 1 of the Stabroek block was announced in 2015. How fair and rational such an expectation is, is perhaps best explained by these critics. The enlightening aspect of the coalition is that they have been listening and have been constantly reviewing, seeking to have the very best advice and guidance. It explains why the administration has had experts in the oil-and-gas industry visit Guyana to advise, while guiding the process, as well as holding public seminars and encounters for the exchange of views. This is an on–going process that has been instrumental in fostering a better understanding of the oil-and-gas industry, while educating the public. There have been also

Give the citizens oil money Dear Editor, I AM awestruck by the insulting declarations by some senior politicians to the citizens of this country, emanating from discussions of annual domestic payouts from anticipated oil revenues. It would appear that Professor Clive Thomas’ recent proposition for direct annual payments (of US$5,000) to families from a small percentage of the oil money caught many by surprise, especially those plagued by initiative-bankruptcy and greed.

In the aftermath of Prof’s comments, there has been a whirlwind of reactions and comments; some supportive and others opposing. Prof Thomas’ suggestion was exclusive of an intended sovereign wealth fund being set up by government! Please bear that in mind. Surprisingly, some of our once financially constrained politicians -- now made filthy rich from our tax dollars – have been insinuating that small and middle-class families will squander any materialised cash payouts. Such politicians are bitter reminders of the colonialists.

They have suddenly arrived, with expert knowledge on how only they can spend ‘big-money’. Many of them have conveniently forgotten their origins, from the fulcrum of survival struggle. When a politician can refer to working-class citizens of this country as parasites, it speaks volumes about political mindsets in this country. It tells me we are in serious trouble with those who lead and seek to lead our country. No one has been more parasitic than those who live lavish lifestyles on the backs of the working class. I am

presently constrained from mentioning certain things in this article, but many of the real parasites should beware that they are merely soaring on clouds of luck. The proposition by Professor Thomas is an excellent one, particularly in Guyana’s context. Our history is clear testimony that the masses seldom enjoy even fractional, benefits of this country’s resources. The cream always seems to be exported legally or illegally, or is exclusively possessed by a few oligarchs. Revenues derived from mineral resources invariably

key inputs from the wellknown multilaterals of the World Bank and the IMF, on seminal aspects of building capacity for managing such a challenging industry, and this must extend to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Commonwealth. For it is government’s intention to have a national oil administration that will manage this national patrimony in the national interest. Of course, Guyana does not have the skilled category that is relevant to the oiland-gas industry; but it is a preparatory work that has just commenced with the appointment of the young economist, Dr. Mark Bynoe, who will head the fledgling Department of Energy (DoE). Those who have criticised this appointment should be reminded that there are few persons with all the ready, requisite skills that can be found to lead such a department. Such a combination, is honed over the passage of time, with exposure in the day-to-day operations, coupled with academic training. In fact, one can have a legal expert

in oil and gas, but there is the absence of management and technical skills; or the latter two, but with an absence of the former. For Guyana, it is an important observation which President Granger has recognised, when he stated quite clearly that Dr. Bynoe will be tasked with recruiting the appropriate skills. This should not be a problem, given his eminent academic background, professional exposure and experience, which would have brought him many professional contacts. We are certain that there are many Guyanese who possess excellent multi-academic skills, who can be recruited from their overseas domicile for this monumental undertaking of establishing the DoE. And though they may not be a Rex Tillerson -- as a former adviser seems to suggest that the Head of the DoE ought to be -- they can combine their total talents for the effective management of our oil-and-gas industry. We must repose confidence in our own capacity, which no doubt will grow and come of age.

go directly from extracting companies to the government, never passing through the hands of the citizens whose patrimony they are. This process excludes citizens from scrutinising the actual revenues, expenditures and taxes. Direct cash payouts to citizens empowers and enables them to decide how to spend on their own personal development. If there are concerns surrounding spending indiscipline, the government can undertake to provide guidance and education on how citizens can prioritise. The country is already poised to surrender over 50% of derived revenues from oil to the investors and costs, so what is the noise about a mere one

per cent direct payment to citizens? Government projects and spending for public goods -- such as infrastructure, health care, national security and defence – can be derived from specific taxes and other revenue gains. That is for the policy-makers to engineer. As a native citizen of Guyana, I am very concerned by the current posturing by some of our politicians. Their sordid comments and attitudes are synonymous with the greed and corruption seen in resource-cursed countries. I am sure that many other citizens are similarly concerned! Regards Orette Cutting

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

The burgeoning democratic culture in the PNCR augurs well for Guyana’s future Dear Editor THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR’s) 20th biennial congress commences this week. It will culminate with the election of new office-holders. Intensely competitive races for party chairman, vice-chairmen and central executive members have therefore emerged. As one of the governing parties of our emerging oil-producing country, the eyes of the world are on this event. So long as the candidates respect the electoral process, each other, the party they represent, and the people of Guyana and conduct themselves with integrity and the highest standards of decency, the party will emerge stronger, more democratic and united to commence the November 12, 2018 local government elections campaign and launch forward confidently to the 2020

general elections. Make no mistake about it: the end-ofcongress rally is undoubtedly the commencement of the 2020 elections campaign. All national positions within the party structure are open for elections. These include party leader, chairman, vice-chairman and central executive committee member. As a ruling party, the entire leadership of the party is aging and has been dominated by the same faces for the past two decades. This is hardly a succession plan. Consequently, the faces of the newly elected office-holders will telegraph to the world the direction and vision of the party for the next decade. Will there be stagnation or progression? Will the membership give the younger generation an opportunity to take up leadership roles in the party, and ultimately parliament and government? Time will tell. With the exception of

Dr. Mark Bynoe, recent appointments to party and governmental positions, including the recently appointed service commissions, have been frustratingly uninspiring. I stand at the top of the mountain, shouting to the leadership of the PNCR, and ringing the alarm bells loudly. You have walked away from the young people of Guyana, whose determination, vitality, energy and vote propelled you into office in 2015. It is time to move back, lest they move away from you in 2020. I know what it is like to be given an opportunity to lead at a young age. At age 17 I was a leader in the party’s youth arm. By age 21 I was national secretary of the YSM, technical assistant to a minister of government and special assistant to the President of Guyana. These are the same opportunities the PNCR must now provide today’s youth.

I am heartened to see Christopher Jones, Thandi McAllister and others run for vice-chairman and other leadership positions in the party. It is refreshing and uplifting. The success of their candidature will inspire young professionals to join the party and help it grow and develop, and broaden the current governing coalition. Politics is incongruous with stagnation. Its essence is winning, governing and implementing contemporary visions for the development of modern societies and advancement of our people. If the party as a governing political entity cannot enact genuine reforms to effect social transformation, as well as economic and infrastructural development that engender prosperity for all, then its politics lack progression. Has the PNCR done so? How will the people judge its performance? The time for new faces,

fresh ideas and a bold new vision has come for the PNCR. The party cannot achieve a progressive politics to improve human conditions and take a giant leap into developed-nation status with the same exhausted faces from the last two or three decades. It must now marshal new, experienced leaders and the brightest of our young professionals and prepare them to lead the party and country into the new decade. It is time for change. New faces, new ideas and a new vision will help realise the change the PNCR must have and that Guyana needs. New, experienced leaders, coupled with bright, young minds will provide greater intellectual depth to design a new vision for the party and country. This must be the charge to this 20th biennial congress. The competitive races for office in the PNCR are healthy for democracy. The

unprecedented, organised campaigning for office, with candidates meeting delegates to lay out their vision for the office they seek, is necessary and impressive. We must congratulate the PNCR for fostering this genuine, democratic culture. The fruits of this democratic culture augur well for the party’s future. The party must therefore manage its elections professionally and with integrity. Give youth a chance. Harness new, experienced faces and articulate a bold new vision to take Guyana and its people to developed-nation status. This political renaissance will inspire confidence in the party, and fire up the electorate to entrust it with a continuous mandate to lead the country for decades to come. Regards Rickford Burke

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Berbice is where I belong

FOR many of you who may not know, I am a Berbician. I grew up in the smallest town of Guyana, Rose Hall. Urbanisation is present in my town, with persons from neighbouring villages moving to Rose Hall Town for a better life. However, that is not the point of me writing on this topic. Urbanisation is an increase in the population in cities and towns versus the rural areas. As populated as Berbice may be, compared to Georgetown, many parts of Berbice are rural areas. Georgetown is 68 kilometres away from Berbice; the drive is approximately 90 minutes. Yet, upon entering the capital city, it feels as if one is entering a neighbouring and new country. The two counties (Berbice and Demerara, preferably the capital Georgetown) are not separated by borders or by brick walls and heavy security camps but by a difference in development, opportunities as well as culture. Berbice is home to me and that will never change. However, the urge to seek betterment and to breathe freely away from the stifling setbacks that home has to offer, leaves an

impression in my mind that one day I would have to pack my bags and start over. Start over and turn over a new leaf, just as countless Berbicians have in the past, and there’s no doubt that the internal migration would not continue. Lingering in my mind is the story of when I was writing the National Grade Nine Assessment at the New Amsterdam Multilateral. One of our Social Studies topics was based on ‘A tourist destination closest to where you live.’ Believe it or not, more than half of the students wrote about the obvious, The # 63 Beach. Note, the word ‘closest’ and the fact that my high school is located in New Amsterdam-The beach is 61 kilometres away. Maybe, we were all clichés in high school or maybe, there’s not much to see and do up here. I’ll leave that for you to decide. Many will argue that we have much more to offer and I would agree. Nonetheless, there are many ways in which the youth in Berbice are faced with disadvantages. The lack of jobs, limited educational programmes as well as youth clubs, recreational facilities, lack of inclusion

GRA rectifies impediments at container scanner site THE Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) said it has been working to improve operations at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) scanner site in wake of concerns raised by businesses in the vicinity of Lombard Street being impeded. In a statement, GRA apologised to the many stakeholders for the inconvenience while noting that it is presently in discussion with its sister agencies to alleviate and or resolve the concerns expeditiously while at the same time, meet its mandate and obligations with international maritime agreements and trade. In addition to traffic congestion relief utilising wardens, the GRA staff at the scanning facility will be working beyond official hours each day and between traffic lag and lead times. A booking system will also be introduced to complete scanning of containers, thereby lending to some immediate relief, GRA said. “GRA also wishes to assure the general public

that the radiation levels of the present “NUCTECH MT1213LT” scanner are well in conformity with the standards recommended by international organisations, including the International Automatic Energy Agency (IAEA), the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the World Health Organisation (WHO). Additionally, the components and shielding facilities of the scanner, and the system boundaries allow for the maximum dose of less than 2.5uSv/h within those boundaries.” Radiation dose devices will be in place to allow for constant monitoring. Moreover, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will be actively involved to ensure that the said levels are and remain safe. The present site is therefore appropriate for scanning with no immediate threat to the health and safety of persons living and traversing in the area. The general public can be assured that the GRA will do its utmost to enable a “win win” situation for all parties.

with activities being held in Georgetown and many more, can be added onto that list. Twenty-eight per cent of the total population lives in urban communities; that leaves a staggering per cent of 72, on the downside. If you are from Georgetown and you are reading this feel no sympathy, but rather, empathy. How would it make you feel if you had to leave behind your childhood home, friends and family, moving to another county, just to find a job? Or to excel in a career choice that is deadlocked in your hometown? What’s the point in having a university closest to you and yet still, you have to move because your major is not offered there? It is very disheartening. It is not a fact that Berbicians are not willing and able to achieve and do things, No! Many of the young people who live here, like me, are willing to do so much but how can we with little to no resources? No wonder there is a lacklustre approach amongst our mindsets. No resources, inclusion and opportunity is equal to motivation.

Asif Khan, a fellow Berbician friend of mine, moved to Georgetown a few years back, with the hope of seeking better educational opportunities. Here’s his story: “Many people love to visit the capital city of Georgetown. Whether it’s business or just a pleasure trip, there is always much to see and do. But for many others it’s also a place for a new start, for furthering your studies or a new job with the hope of improving your life. As a native Berbician, I can attest to these being just a few of the many reasons Berbicians move to Georgetown. I personally moved to further my studies because the University of Guyana’s Berbice Campus did not offer the courses I was interested in pursuing. As such, I had to relocate to Georgetown for that opportunity, but I have also had many friends and family who moved up for the same reason, hoping to find a better job or any job for that matter. They had no luck landing a job that could actually sustain them financially back home. Without the security of home or a place of your own

to stay, most Berbicians turn to renting houses or apartments as their place of dwelling; coupled with whatever bills they might have and their own personal expenses - it can be a challenge. More so, is the fact that there is so much more to do here as compared to Berbice. From the malls, to the movie theatres, the many diverse restaurants, the historical and cultural sites spread all over, the gardens and zoo, and so much more, there is always something to be done when one has a little free time and money to spend, as opposed to Berbice, where many find it lacking so many basic recreational, cultural and educational stimulants to entice visitors and its residents to stay. Before I had moved, I would find any excuse to make a visit to Georgetown just to enjoy the experience (mostly the night life) because where I am from in Berbice, I could not stay out late as transportation was hard to come by after certain hours, which is not the case here. Maybe I, and along with many of my fellow Berbicians would have stayed if

there had been more to offer in Berbice. For example: making the courses that are not offered at the Berbice Campus available, sprucing up the parks and cultural sites we already have, providing better and more worthwhile jobs for workers and students who are new to the field of work, investing in our youth, getting more clubs or organisations for them to be more involved in what’s going on in their communities and the country at large, or providing opportunities for them to be exposed to their areas of interest. Berbice as we know it is the ancient county. In my defence, not only in infrastructure but also in some ways through our mental capacity and culture, some by choice, others by the suffocating lack of opportunities. With the help of our policymakers and recognition of the given issues, I do hope together, we can all work together to make Berbice a better place for us to call home. The idea is not to degrade my county but to shine light on the darker, ‘not so talked about’ sides of it.

Discrimination against communities kills dreams

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

MEET Felicia. Felicia is a 19-year-old University of Guyana second-year communication student, who resides in ‘C’ Field Sophia. She is a disciplined and decent citizen who respects all societal rules and norms, even though she wakes every day to the smell of cannabis sativa wafting past her unconcerned nose, she remains resolute in her determination not to succumb to the trappings of her community. Among the mixture of tenement and big houses,

Felicia resides in a small, partially constructed abode with her single-parent mom, who is a security guard. On a calm, but hot day, while Felicia was watching television, her mom solemnly laboured into their home and informed her that she lost her job. Mommy made it clear that she could no longer support Felicia financially to attend UG. This news almost closed the curtains on a dream to become a journalist, but this determined student decided

to do something about it. She devised a two-fold plan: to sell ice and icicles to members of her community and find a job. Her mother reminded her that the house has an illegal connection and if the power company comes by, there would be no electricity to sustain the business. Felicia insisted that she would get a job by this time. Felicia proceeded to send out applications to several private media companies. After 10 applica-

tions, there was no positive response. One evening, she sat in her chair completely dejected and fed up and decided to try another strategy. She dropped her Sophia address from her applications and listed the address of a family member from an ‘accepted community.’ To her little surprise, five out five applications from the new addresses received favourable responses. She was called to several interviews, but did not receive a job. The interviewers expressed

tacit concerns about the fact that she was from this community. This disciplined, church-going student left her last interview with a sense of doom and waited on a bus with her last GY$100. While waiting for a bus, a black SUV rolled up, the windows came down and grey-bearded gentleman offered her a ride home. She told this stranger all her problems and he offered to help, but his help came with excessive harassment and

FIFTY women in Charity, Region Two, will benefit from a Women’s Empowerment Seminar series which commences on Wednesday (today). The seminar, is part of

the Women’s Empowerment and Development Strengthening Project, an initiative organised by Pomeroon Trading and will be held at the NAREI Nursery Conference Room, in Charity. The

workshop will promote the socio-economic development of women by building an environment for social change in targeted rural areas and will include presentations on general equality,

entrepreneurship and accessing finance. John Quelch, Pomeroon Trading’s Community Development Manager, explained that sustained empowerment of women in

rural areas combined with community leadership will ultimately lead to meaningful reductions in gender inequality, fairer access to jobs and financial independence. Ms. Hymawattie Lagan, Senior Gender Specialist, will present on behalf of the Ministry of Social Protection. In addition, there will be a presentation on cervical cancer awareness with optional (and free) screening services, held in conjunction with the Cancer Association of Guyana, Rural women and children are some of the most disadvantaged segments of the Guyanese society. There are very few opportunities for women to receive formal training on entrepreneurship or leadership, yet the promise of women in rural communities is immense. The programme will establish self-help-groups for women in the Pomeroon, and link them to development agencies or lending institutions so they can accelerate their businesses. The project is being coordinated and funded by Pomeroon Trading, a Guyanese company that is funded by investors from across North America and Europe. The company is the Caribbean’s socially responsible grower and processor of coconuts and spices, and operates from their base in the Pomeroon region of Guyana. Duncan Turnbull, Chief Executive Officer of Pomeroon Trading says: “This seminar series is the

misery. In the end, Felicia became pregnant and was forced to drop out of the university and became a victim of a patriarchal society. The socio-economic pressures reduced her to dependence on men for survival. In her middle age, Felicia constantly regaled her kids of different “child fathers” about her dream to become a journalist. Community discrimination or community profiling is real. #endcommunityprofiling

Pomeroon Trading facilitates women’s empowerment seminar in Essequibo

CEO of Pomeroon Trading, Duncan Turnbull first step to building the next generation of strong, independent women in the Pomeroon.” In February 2018, Pomeroon Trading built and opened a new dining room at Hackney Primary School in the Pomeroon. Over 100 guests from across the world attended the ceremony, which included representatives of the government, the Director of NAREI and CARDI, and 20 international visitors from England, America and New Zealand. CEO of Pomeroon Trading Duncan Turnbull says: “We chose the Pomeroon because of its fertile land, stunning natural beauty and unique communities. We believe a productive coconut estate will tackle rural unemployment, bring practical skills training, and stimulate the local economy”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

M&CC gives vendors two more weeks –– despite concerns about Stabroek Market wharf

By Telesha Ramnarine EVEN though Chief Engineer Colvern Venture provided a graphic demonstration of the dire state of the Stabroek Market Wharf and called for the immediate removal of the vendors there, City Councillors on Monday voted by majority to give the sellers two weeks more to remain there. But Venture was not the only one who called for immediate evacuation, as Town Clerk Royston King and a number of councillors pleaded with Mayor Patricia Chase-Green to have the area cleared right away. The setting was the fortnightly statutory meeting at

tice of speedboat operators to tie their boats to the said dilapidated wharf while loading them with passengers. Venture said his recommendation was for persons to be evacuated immediately, and that arrangements were being made to have this done within another week or so. “I’m not sleeping at nights at all,” the town clerk said, while trying to persuade the council to act swiftly. He said it is the town clerk who could be sued or jailed in the event someone dies as a result of the existing situation at the wharf. “This is a council facility, so we are responsible in full for what happens there,” he noted.

City Engineer Colvern Venture (standing) called for immediate action to be taken regarding the evacuation of vendors at the Stabroek wharf City Hall. But Chase-Green would not budge, as she explained that the City Council met with the vendors just recently and had promised to let them know what action will be taken. To send them a 24hour notice to vacate the area would be out of the question, she reasoned. The argument by King, however, was that the right to life must come before the vendors’ right to earn, a view supported by several councillors. An area west of the Public Buildings has been identified to house the 99 vendors who are affected by the situation at the wharf, but it has not yet been prepared by the City Council for persons to occupy. Venture, by means of a PowerPoint presentation, showed councillors pictures of the wharf in an effort to underscore the gravity of the situation there following the recent collapse of another section of it. The photos, some obtained with the aid of a drone, showed rotting beams and flimsy structures that could come down at any time. The photos also attest to the prac-

“Even as we speak, those vendors are in danger,” King said, adding that the decision to allow them to remain at the site since the last collapse was not a very responsible one on the part of the City Council. King said he wrote to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure to obtain a status report on the project, since it is that agency that will be repairing the wharf. Although he did not receive a response, he said he was informed by Venture that the ministry is likely to sign a contract with the contractor sometime next week for works to start. The mayor observed that no one--including the vendors--wants to make any sacrifice as far as relocation is concerned. None of them,

for instance, would be willing to cease vending for a few days to facilitate the relocation process, she said. They are only concerned about being provided a spot to do business; even the tailors and seamstresses, she noted. Chase-Green called for caution signs to be erected, and for the entire area to be taped off so that any person vending or shopping there would do so at their own risk. But the town clerk has advised that in the event a life is lost, the signs will not suffice in court to make a case for the City Council. Councillor Philip Smith questioned why the City Council was not already moving to tear down the dilapidated structures that are remaining on the wharf. “Sometimes we have to be cruel to be kind. Should we wait for something to happen? Why are we waiting to take down the structures? I am really appalled that we still have activities in those areas.” Smith called on the City Council to act decisively and to set a definite time by which the vendors should remove. “We have to be decisive. We’re protecting lives here.” Councillor Welton Clarke offered that after viewing the photos from Venture, he wondered how it was that the City Council allowed the situation to reach that level. “The stain of our ineptitude will be long-lasting,” he said, in the event someone loses their life at the wharf. “Lives are at stake. Instant action has to be taken. Procrastination is a waste of time,” Clarke urged. After listening to several other councillors on the issue, Chase-Green took a vote which saw 13 councillors voting to give the vendors two more weeks there before complete removal; one voting against, and two in abstention. As soon as Venture issues a ‘cease order,’ King will proceed to send written notices to the vendors informing them of their remaining time at the wharf. Just recently, another section of the Stabroek Wharf collapsed, but no one was reported injured.

Town Clerk Royston King is concerned about the loss of life at the facility

A video presentation was made to help city councillors understand the gravity of the situation at the Stabroek Market Wharf

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

GTU begins lobbying teachers to strike THE Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) executive plans to go out to the various regions and meet with teachers to lobby their support for the planned strike action for better salaries. The industrial action is to begin on August 27. The GTU officially began notifying the teachers of the strike by way of a letter on Monday, appealing to them not to “listen to threats which will come from high offices.

You have a right to strike as an employee”. The letter also called on head teachers to “take school keys to the respective Education Departments from Friday, 21st August 2018”. “Even though the union has called a strike it’s on the individuals to follow through,” explained the GTU president, Mark Lyte. “So we are working to ensure our teachers are convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt that this is what

we need to do. We intend to visit different (Administrative) regions during this time, to meet our teachers on the ground and further convince those who may be indecisive.” In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Lyte noted that the union will be using every means possible to ensure not only that all teachers are notified of the strike action, but that they are also on board and will support the action.

GTU President Mark Lyte, (left) addressing his members last Thursday outside of the MoE building, after negotiations with the MoE fell through (Delano Williams photo) “The process only started [yesterday] and we will be rigorously pursuing it, using every channel possible to garner support. We’ve prepared official letters that are being sent out, and we have put some notices on social media,” Lyte informed. “Guyana is a vast array so it’s going to take us a while to reach every corner, but the process has officially commenced and it will continue until every teacher has been made aware of the strike. We can’t reach every teacher by letter so we will use as much as possible social media, television, and whatever other means is available to us.” Calls in the past for strike action has been met with some amount of non-compliance of some members, however, Lyte said he is confident that

this time around this call for a strike will see massive support, simply because the teachers have finally had enough. “It’s more likely to have more of a support coming from our members this time because the time of waiting has been long, three years, and everyone is so agitated. I did say to the minister that this government created an expectation, every forum you hear: teachers are… teachers are… teachers are… every forum, you hear: something good is going to happen. We waited; we gave them every opportunity and now for this? [The] government cannot be upset when the union takes industrial action. The teachers are very upset,” Lyte noted. It was last Thursday that

a decision was taken by the GTU, on the insistence of its members, to call strike action due to failed talks between the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the GTU. The teachers asked for the strike to begin from the pre-term activities in the week, prior to school reopening, and a continued absence of teachers in the first week of school. School is expected to resume on September 3. The GTU/MoE meeting marked the last of several that the two bodies have been having over the years as they continue to fail to come to an agreement on a way forward, as it pertains to several issues facing the teachers, most pressing of those being salary negotiations and the teachers' debauching monies.

Lawyer asks for more time in Daby case MAGISTRATE Leron Daly yesterday deferred the commencement of trial for Maryann Daby, the businesswoman who is charged for attempting to murder a Police Constable. Daby appeared yesterday before Magistrate Leron Daly to commence trial. However, her attorney, Mark Waldron asked the magistrate for a little more time and the date was put to August 23, 2018. The 25-year-old businesswoman is accused of discharging several rounds in the compound of the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) at Thomas Lands and allegedly pointed her firearm at a police officer. She was charged and remanded to prison on a string of charges including attempted murder. Daby appeared before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for discharging a firearm to commit murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Particulars of the first charge allege that on May 13, 2018 at Albert Street, Thomas

Lands, Daby discharged a firearm at Police Constable Christopher Kissoon with intent to commit murder. This charge was laid indictable. The court further heard on the same day in question, Daby had a .32 pistol in her possession along with six rounds of .32 ammunition to which she had no licence to carry. Her attorney, Mark Waldron explained that his client was a licenced firearm holder since 2014. However she had up-dated her licence to a 9mm pistol in 2018 to which she is still to attain. Waldron further stressed that his client was tested for gunshot residue and no spent shells were found in the compound of the GMRSC. Police Prosecutor, Inspector Arwin Moore told the court that on the day in question, Constable Kissoon approached Daby after she was seen firing several shots in the air. When the officer approached Daby, she allegedly placed the gun to his forehead and pulled the trigger, but the gun was empty.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

STEM Guyana receives donation from US-based youth organisation

FIRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger on Tuesday, on behalf of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Guyana, received a US$2,300 cheque from Ms. Beryl James, Secretary of the Guyana United Youth Development Association (GUYDA). GUYDA is a New York-based organ-

isation, which raises funds for youth development in Guyana and throughout the Caribbean. The organisation is impressed by the First Lady’s work with STEM Guyana and the impact that work has made on Guyana’s youth. The meeting was held at the Office of the First Lady, State House.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger accepts the cheque from Beryl James, Secretary of the Guyana United Youth Development Association (GUYDA)

Businessman told he was not cautious on the road AFTER months of trial, a businessman was Tuesday sentenced to two years’ imprisonment after he was found guilty by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for causing death by dangerous driving. The charge alleged that on February 22, 2018, at Peter’s Hall Public Road, East Bank Demerara, Ramanand Jagdeo drove motorcar PRR 4395 in a manner dangerous to the public, causing the death of Alexander Appiah. The 44-year-old man of 3036 Section ‘C’ Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charge when he first appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman. Police Prosecutor Arvin Moore, stated that the defendant who was the driver of motorcar PRR 4395 was proceeding south along the eastern carriageway of Peter’s Hall Public Road, when he collided with the pedal cyclist who was riding in the same direction. The court heard that the car hit the cyclist, hurling him from his bike to fall onto the roadway. The prosecutor added that because of the collision, the cyclist’s right leg was severed. He was then picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was admitted a patient. Appiah died one week later at the institution and as a result, the defendant was arrested and charged for the offence. On Tuesday, Jagdeo was found guilty by the chief magistrate before sentence was passed. She told the court that enough evidence was shown that the defendant did drive in a dangerous manner to the public, which caused the death of Appiah and that he was cautious and was not paying attention to the road. Attorney Paul Fung -A –fat, who represented the defendant, asked the magistrate to fine the defendant and take away his driver’s licence rather than sentencing him to imprisonment, because he was the only breadwinner for his family. Jagdeo also showed remorse by saying: “Ma’am, I am very sorry for what I did and I will never let something like that happen again.’’ However, the magistrate proceeded to sentence Jagdeo to two years’ imprisonment.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Forum charts roadmap for telecoms sector By Lisa Hamilton

Members of the audience at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) (Delano Williams photos)

him to discuss what those recommendations are. Depending on how significant they are or not, decisions at the ministerial level and at our level at the NFMU would be taken,” he said. Singh noted that over the years, there has been an increase in the number of persons using the Internet which, in turn, has intensified calls for faster mobile connectivity. However, the radio spectrum is a limited resource and with competing demands, he added, the country must look at how it can best legalise usage. “As you get more bandwidths you actually demand more, so there’s an insatiable appetite for connectivity and speed and everything else, because 20 years ago the kinds of services and devices we had, it might have been inadequate, but as we keep moving on we need more and more speed,” Singh said. He added: “At the end of the day the cycle is that the mobile operators provide the service; as more users come on stream, they demand more services and as the devices improve, they actually demand more bandwidth, so the

operators want more bandwidth. As more bandwidth is being demanded, the spectrum is finite, so there is always this competition. You have to make trade-offs and there is a constant cycle where it has to be reviewed periodically.” Singh elaborated that this review takes place at the World Radio Conference which convenes every three years and, there, demands are made for additional spectrums, which is later allocated to various countries.

Today, the seminar continues on the topic of “Broadcast Technologies/Plat forms-Transitions and Global Trends” and will take place from 14:30hrs to 17:00hrs at the same location. The NFMU is tasked with managing the electromagnetic frequency spectrum of Guyana, while the ITU is the United Nations (UN) specialised agency for information and communication technologies.

THE organisers of the annual Nereid Yacht Rally might exclude Guyana from the list of destinations this year because of the gruesome pirate attack in Suriname which claimed the lives of several Guyanese fishermen in April. Although it has not yet been confirmed, Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin has said that the organisers of the activity had raised concerns about safety and security of Guyana’s waters. It has been more than four months since what is described as one of the deadliest piracy attacks, within recent times, occurred. The incident gained international attention and placed tremendous pressure on the law enforcement authorities of both Guyana and Suriname. “It is not confirmed so

Two of the biggest yachts to grace the rally in 2014 ricane-free international ism in Guyana and the yachting destination and Mayor of Saint Laurent in Matelicani saw the po- French Guiana, Matelicani tential. launched the first RalWith the full support ly sailing from Trinidad of the Ministry of Tour- & Tobago in September

2013. The rallies have successfully grown each year to become a feature on Guyana’s tourism calendar.

LOCAL mobile network operators, broadcasters and members of the public were sensitised about Guyana’s telecommunication sector and its plans for the future during a seminar hosted by the Public Telecommunication Ministry. The two-day seminar, which began on Tuesday at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), is being hosted in collaboration with the National Frequency Management Unit (NFMU). Also present at the event were representatives of the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) and

the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU), Dr. Andres Navarro Cadavid, a Colombian expert in spectrum management and broadcasting, is providing technical assistance to the forum. Navarro spoke to the audience on regulatory issues, spectrum management, spectrum in Guyana and worldwide, Public Protection and Disaster Relief (PPDR) and third and fourth-generation data technology for cellular networks. Addressing the media on the sidelines, NFMU Managing-Director Valmiki Singh, explained that the event is

also aimed at informing NFMU stakeholders about their roles in improving mobile connectivity. He outlined a number of steps which will be taken subsequent to the seminars, which may include adopting advice provided by Dr. Cadavid. “We will get to hear from members of the public in terms of what their views are, but discussions with regard to liberalisation will continue. In terms of the spectrum plans, of course we will look on the recommendations that Dr. Navarro makes to us and take them on board if they’re acceptable. “We will be working with

Expert in spectrum management and broadcasting, Dr Andres Navarro Cadavid

Suriname piracy attack can affect yacht rally there is still a bit of hope that it can be salvaged, so I must have a discussion with the persons who are actively involved in organising the activity locally,” he said in an invited comment. The rally has been a major tourism activity over the years and in order to persuade the organisers to come, the minister believes that there needs to be less sensationalism. While he is aware that news must be reported, Gaskin suggested that the media should refrain from practising speculative reporting and get the facts. “We cannot stop crime from happening but we can be responsible when reporting on it,” said the minister. The Nereid’s Rally was the brain child of Italian sailor, David Matelicani, who had met Kit Nascimento, his wife Gem, owners of Hurak-

abra River Resort whilst sailing up the Essequibo River in 2011. Nascimento had been actively involved in working to promote Guyana as a hur-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Sri Lanka PM: “China never pressurised us to handover H’tota port”

PRIME Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe refuted claims made by the New York Times story that the present government was under heavy pressure from China to handover the Hambantota Port to them after it was struggling to settle the debts borrowed during the previous regime. Mr Wickremesinghe refuted claims made by the New York Times report during a special statement he made in Parliament in July. “I must say that the Chinese government never pressurised Sri Lanka on this matter. What the Chinese government wanted us to do was to get proposals from Chinese companies to come

up with proposals to run the Port initially. The proposal from China Merchant Port was most beneficial for Sri Lanka. China Merchant Port agreed to invest USD 1,080 million on the port. Chinese President and the government as a whole was agreeable for this proposal. Accordingly, the Chinese Company and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority entered into an agreement following the cabinet approval. China Merchant paid USD 293 million on December 2017 and USD 97 million in January 2018. The company has paid the remaining USD 589 million as of today. This is a victory as far as the people in this country are concerned. Rajapaksa government borrowed funds and

constructed a port without ships. Our government had been able to settle the debts and to convert the port into a profit making one. It has not been sold out. What we did was to set up a joint venture to run the Port. Hambantota would be a developed port in the future,” the Prime Minister said while highlighting that the Sri Lankan government never struggled to settle what it owed to China. Prime minister Wickremesinghe also refuted the suggestion made in the New York Times story that the transfer of Hambantota Port had given China the control of territory just a few hundred miles off the shores of a rival India and strategic foothold along a critical and military

Ten interesting things to learn about tea 1. TEA HAS A 3,000-YEAR HISTORY IN CHINA China is the homeland of tea. Wild tea trees from over 3,000 years ago, where tea was once farmed, and extant cultivated tea areas dating back to 800 years ago, can still be

cuisine) and improved eyesight. 4. TEA IS CHINA’S OLDEST EXPORTED PRODUCT China was the first and still is the largest exporter of tea. Near the end of the Ming Dy-

found in Southwest China. It was exported to Middle East and Europe through the ancient Silk Road.

nasty (1368-1644 AD), British merchants set up trading posts in Xiamen, Fujian Province and first started to trade in Chinese tea.

2. TEA IS THE SECOND MOST CONSUMED BEVERAGE IN CHINA Nowadays, tea is consumed around the world more than any other beverage except for water. You can find lots of teahouses in China easily, especially in the top tea culture cities.

5. TEA GROWN IN DIFFERENT AREAS HAS DIFFERENT FLAVORS Tea is the national drink in China, but the production and consumption of tea is distinctive in different regions.

3. TEA WAS FIRST USED AS MEDICINE Before the 8th century BC, tea in China was primarily used as a medicine. Ancient Chinese people often boiled fresh tea leaves and drank the infusion. They believed that tea reduced “heat” (see Chinese medicinal

6. THE LONGER SOME TEAS ARE STORED THE MORE EXPENSIVE THEY ARE There’s a saying among Chinese tea-lovers: a brick of good Pu’er tea is more valuable than a gram of gold. Some regard tea as an investment commodity rather than just something to put in a cup to drink.

waterway. “The Port will not be used for any military activity and that a clause to this effect is included in the agreement with China Merchant Port. We have highlighted this fact during the discussion with the Chinese government. Previous government borrowed $1,320 million for the Port project from China. The port became an issue during the 2015 presidential elections. Repayment became an issue as the government at that time had no means to settle the debt. It was running at a loss. The losses suffered by the Hambantota Port from 2011 to date is Rs. 47 billion. The Yahapalana government pledged to resolve the issue during 2015 elections. The

present government had two options with regard to the Port when it came to power. First is to declare the borrowing agreement illegal and abolish it. Second option is to have a dialogue with the Chinese Government. We chose to have a dialogue with China. Present government went into a dialogue. We discussed on how to make use of the Port which was a white elephant at that time. President discussed with China initially and then I discussed it together with a group of ministers. Our government was of the opinion that the Port should be run as a public private partnership and to convert it into a profit making venture,” he added. There is an airport in Mattala without airplanes

Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe just like the Hambantoa Port which has no ships. This was a result of the debt created by the Rajapaksa regime. We discussed about the Mattala Airport with the Chinese government but did not get a positive response. Therefore we got into a dialogue with the Indian government. Sri Lankan government will be relieved from the burden of Mattala Airport soon. It will also become a profit making venture in the future,”he also said. (Daily Mirror)

Tea was first discovered by the Chinese and used as medicine. Then it evolved into a type of beverage, and became an integral part of Chinese culture. Here are 10 interesting facts about Chinese tea to help you learn more about it. 7. SERVING TEA TO ELDERS OR GUESTS IS A SIGN OF RESPECT In traditional Chinese culture, serving tea to a guest is a sign of respect. A younger person can show respect and gratitude to an older person by offering a cup of tea. This is especially common during big celebrations, such as birthdays or the Spring Festival.

effects.

8. CHINESE PEOPLE BELIEVE TEA IS GOOD FOR WEIGHT LOSS Tea is said to provide a lot of health benefits and is believed to be a healthy beverage by Chinese people. The most common belief is that it contributes to slimming, although there is no conclusive evidence that green tea aids weight loss, or has any beneficial health

10. CHINESE PEOPLE THINK A TEA SET IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR A GOOD CUP OF TEA Chinese people are usually really finicky about the teaware they use for brewing or drinking tea. They believe that different tea sets affect the tea’s flavor.

9. TEA IS A GREAT SOCIAL MEDIA Tea is a great social media in China. A teahouse is the by-product of Chinese tea culture. Chinese people generally consider meeting in a teahouse to be a good opportunity to socialize or discuss business matters.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Buxtonians agree to form mining syndicate to develop village the form of direct money in their pockets, since the data shows that cash transfers have had positive impacts on nutrition and school attendance, which in turn has helped to reduce poverty. The provision of syndi-

Minister Simona Broomes addressing a section of the gathering on the benefits of a syndicate at the Friendship Primary School

OVER three dozen Buxtonians, including miners, on Monday evening agreed to form a mining syndicate to assist in the revitalisation and empowerment of villagers, particularly those in the mining sector. Giving the feature address and the proposal at the Friendship Primary School was Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes who called on Buxtonians to educate themselves on opportunities, and invest the time and energy to become economically empowered. The minister said that the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) has a library that can be accessed by persons from the syndicate, to educate themselves regarding opportunities and lands that are available for small scale

miners. Minister Broomes who has lead responsibility on the allocation of lands for syndicates encouraged the Buxtonians to mobilise into syndicates, to increase their benefits on mining claims. She told the gathering that the opportunity provides a chance for improving their lives. “That money that the syndicate gets, you can take that same money to empower yourself and empower each other, you can even access loans within the syndicate,” she said. She pointed out that the syndicates are expected to follow safe mining practices. “The syndicates I believe are well placed to receive government’s support in improved mining techniques,”

Minister Broomes noted. Minister Broomes told the miners that they will be afforded the chance to choose their location from the approved Closed Area Committee (CAC) map of available mining lands in the area. Chairman of the Society for African Guyanese Empowerment—Buxton (SAGE-Buxton) David Hinds, said the meeting is part of a larger initiative by SAGE, a recently-formed organisation, to engage government and other stakeholders along with Buxtonians in tackling the structural problems in the village and coming up with programmes aimed at empowering villagers, economically, culturally and socially. Hinds said that he supports giving people a small portion of the oil revenue in

Bandits beat, hijack taxi driver’s car in Garden of Eden

An injured and hospitalised Terry Persaud

BANDITS robbed a Diamond Cab Taxi Service driver of his valuables and hijacked his car on Monday at Garden of Eden on the East Bank of Demerara

(EBD). The driver was identified as 30-year-old Terry Persaud of Section ‘B’ Block ‘X’ Diamond, EBD. Reports indicate that Persaud

was operating in Diamond Housing Scheme when two persons solicited his service; a man and woman, who sat in the rear passengers’ seat and requested to be taken to Friendship, EBD. During the journey, a man was picked up at Friendship and sat in the front seat. Persaud said while driving in the vicinity of Garden of Eden, EBD, he felt a cold object behind his neck. He said the male in the back seat of the car demanded that he stopped the car or else he would be shot. Fearful for his life, Persaud complied while the passenger in the front seat grabbed his hand and began beating him in the head while seizing his cell phone and cash. The taxi driver then exited the car and ran away as the hijackers escaped with his vehicle.

cates was an initiative introduced by the government to address the need for lands for small miners while dealing with the challenge of available lands. Each syndicate is mandated to pay two per cent of

their earnings to the National Syndicate, which in turn is used for the benefit of all. Minister Broomes has been meeting with small miners across the country to push the creation of syndicates.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Bel West Primary wins inaugural spelling bee contest THE Bel West Primary School, West Bank Demerara (WBD), came out on top of the inaugural

Young Pioneers Spelling Bee competition on Friday. Although it was a friend-

ly match, the students who participated in the competition were competitive and did their best to win.

Children who participated in the spelling bee flanked by members of the WCD/WBD branch of the Young Pioneers

Kawall Primary and Crane Primary competed against Bel West for the prize. Each school was represented by four pupils. The competition, which was organised by the West Coast Demerara (WCD) branch of Young Pioneers, received support from not just fellow pupils but also teachers and parents who were enthused by the spelling bee. Head Pioneer for the WCD/WCB branch, Sasha Rawof said the competition was a success, and that they will be looking to make it

part of the group’s calendar of activities every year. Although the Bel West Primary School won, every child who participated in the contest was given a medal and stationery. Young Pioneers is a charitable organisation that focuses on youth development and community work. The organisation was founded in 2013, and aims to expose youth to capacity building opportunities while reminding them of their duties towards society through engaging in chari-

table projects. It has conducted numerous Online awareness campaigns in areas of suicide prevention, body shaming, and the importance of the Sustainable Development Goals, gender equality. It has also hosted numerous food, clothing and books distribution exercises as well as training sessions and workshops, visits to elderly homes and orphanages, and fundraisers for patients in need of medical care and surgeries.

Man sets house on fire over jeans

The scene of the fire on Tuesday

A DISPUTE between two siblings has led to a house at ‘A’ Field, Sophia being razed around midday on Tuesday. Reports are that the house, which was unoccupied at the time of the blaze, was allegedly set alight by a man who was experiencing problems with his elder sibling over clothing. The suspect was once placed before the courts for murder which resulted from a similar situation. In February 2012, Leroy Kennedy was charged with the murder of his elder brother, Sherwin Kennedy, who was stabbed during a dispute over a pair

of pants. Reports are that recently, the suspect and another brother were experiencing problems ever since he was released from prison. The house in question stood on a lot close to the scene of the murder in 2012. The suspect’s brother owns the house which adjoins a family home. The man’s partner told the Guyana Chronicle that beds, a television set as well as clothing were among the articles which were destroyed by the fire allegedly set by her brother-in-law. She said her son was in the house at the time

but fortunately, he was taken to safety by persons who rushed to the scene. She said that the suspect told relatives that he “can murder again,” during an argument with his sibling on Monday night. Reports are that the suspect wore his brother’s clothing and the latter made objections to the practice recently. When members of the Guyana Fire Service arrived at the scene on Tuesday, the house was already gutted. Several police officers were also at the scene and they took statements from eyewitnesses and the suspect’s relatives.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

Golden Jaguars head coach unveils ‘Project 100’

HE Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins with qualifying for the CONCACAF Gold Cup, for which the Caribbean Nations League is the gateway, began yesterday in Rio de Janeiro with Project 100. Project 100, according to newly appointed head coach Michael Johnson who is leading the largest technical staff ever put together in the history of the GFF, is aimed at breaking into the FIFA Rankings below 100. The core of the player-pool is Guyana-based and involves mostly Under-23 players, as the focus of this new project is to give the young players an opportunity to

show that they have what it takes to be a part of this programme, Johnson stated. “This Project 100 is pretty simple; while we are here we have a lot of young players who are given an opportunity to try and be involved in the qualification campaign for the CONCACAF Gold Cup starting in September. So this is a great chance for them to showcase themselves and to show that they really mean business.” The former Jamaican national player noted that this is not just a camp to improve players, “It’s a camp that we’re saying to them, go and make yourself visible, make yourself known to the staff that you are capable of meeting the demands necessary to go and play or be part of this squad, come September.” The programme in Rio at the Estadio Municipal Jose Maria De Brito Barros would be intense, Johnson posited, referring to the fact that yesterday

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saw the players involved in three sessions, two on the field (morning and afternoon) and one classroom session last evening at the team hotel. “They’ll be down time of course. We can’t go at this pace all the time, but what we want to showcase from the very first stage is that we are here to work; yes we want to have fun at the same time but we want to be doing things the right and proper way. That means we want to take them out of their comfort zone. We want to make them uncomfortable and see how they handle the training. “We’ve also got some interesting runs for them just to see the character of them without the ball. So this camp is really about challenging them physically, mentally, tactically and technically,” said Johnson. The first day’s session was summed up by Johnson: “I think it was really good for us to get an insight into some of the

players, the staff as well, the intensity and what they want to play at. They’re a good group. What we’ve seen today is that they’re an honest group, they gave you everything, technically they are okay and also physically, you know the players can move. “I think where we really need to work is tactically and that’s why we did a session this afternoon based upon where should you be when somebody’s got the ball, what’s your movements off the ball, how do you receive it.” The head coach believes that if significant gains are made without the players having the ball, their composure, technical ability, physicality - which some of the players already have - Guyana can be in an interesting place in the next few years. The sessions will continue today with a game between the players, as they prepare themselves for the first of several matches here in Rio de Janeiro.

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Dant prevail in Caribbean Sensation 10/10 final … Cougars take B Conference title

By Frederick Halley

ORONTO, Canada – It was billed as the clash of the Titans when the two top teams in Conference A of the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) battled last Saturday in the Caribbean Sensation 10/10 final at the Ashtonbnee Number one ground, Scarborough, Toronto.

victory, after Dant had reached a respectable 91 for seven in their allotted 10 overs, Sunshine could muster only 79 for five in their turn at the crease, as the opposition bowlers kept a tight rein on proceedings. Dant’s victory was engineered by a brilliant batting display from former Guyana and West Indies One-day player Royston Crandonm who lashed a top-score of 41 after Sunshine opted to chase

OSCL president Albert Ramcharran (right) hands over the winning trophy to Dant’s Riaz Kadir.

Cougars skipper Naresh Budhram (right) collects the winning Conference B trophy from OSCL’s assistant registrar/ statistician Ranjan Persaud.

When the dust settled, Dant once again proved their superiority with an easy 12run victory over nemesis and archrivals Sunshine to claim their third consecutive title. While the Damodar Daesrath-led Dant were celebrating their triumph, Cougars defied the odds with a nail-biting last over win over GTA Storm to capture the B Conference championship on the adjoining ground in what promised to be an enthralling affair and certainly lived up to its billing. The Conference A consolation final saw Rems making light work of Enmore, whipping them by 55 runs while Wakenaam turned back the challenge of Carr Tec to claim the B Conference consolation title. Set a challenging 92 for

after winning the toss. The eventual winners were shakily placed at 32 for three before Crandon, whose knock was spiced with three sixes and a four and skipper Daesrath (14 with two sixes) added a valuable 39 for the fourth wicket. Mahendranauth ‘Bobby’ Parasnauth bowled beautifully to claim two for four from his two overs while skipper Anil Mahadeo took two for 29. There was also one wicket each for Avinash Sookdeo and Wally Bacchus. Sunshine were undermined early by the evergreen Satrohan ‘Blade’ Balkarran who sent back the prolific Hemnarine Chattergoon without scoring. They never recovered from this early setback as only Azam Haniff with 21 and

Imran Ali (18) showed any resistance. Balkarran finished with the impressive figures of two for six while Bholanuth Sukhu had one for nine. Two run-outs did little to help their cause. It took the last over to decide the B Conference winners with Cougars holding their nerves to come out top. Needing to score nine in the final over, which was entrusted to Sheldon Burnett, Cougars achieved the target with three deliveries to spare in the low-scoring affair. Asked to take first strike, GTA Storm huffed and puffed their way to 65 for six in the allotted 10 overs, thanks mainly to Khemraj Dhanpaul’s 17 towards the end. Kevin Budhram was the standout bowler for Cougars with three for six. GTA Storm tried desperately to keep the batsmen in check while Cougars lost early wickets. However, attacking knocks of 17 each from skipper Naresh Budhram and Ganesh Budhram who was undefeated when victory was achieved ensured them a well-deserved victory as they reached 75 for five in 9.3 overs. Shiv Shiwram took two for 10. In the Conference A consolation final, Rems batted first and reached a challenging 96 for five with Krishna Deosarran slamming three sixes in a top-score of 27 while Surujpaul Deosaran supported with 26 (two sixes and a four). Zaheer Mohamed took two for 11. Enmore never threatened and at the end of their allotted 10 overs were 41 for seven with Steve Ramdas hitting 13. Andy Persaud, hero of Berbice’s win in the recent Inter-county tournament, was once again in the limelight with the impressive figures of three for four while Narendra Mandolall chipped in with three for six. The B Conference consolation final saw Wakenaam thrashing Carr Tec by 12 runs with opener Rabindra Persaud blasting three fours and two sixes Wakenaam’s 72 for four. Carr Tec reached 60 for eight with Raja Pooran (three for 12) and skipper Ravin Babulall (two for five) being the main destroyers. The respective MVPs were Royston Crandon (Dant), Mahendranauth ‘Bobby’ Parasnauth (Sunshine), Kevin Budhram (Cougars), Dhanpaul (GTA Storm), Krishna Deosaran (Rems), Zaheer Mohamed (Enmore), Rabindra Persaud (Wakenaam) and Mahendra Monilall (Carr Tec). OSCL president Albert Ramcharran, in his address at the presentation ceremony, complimented sponsor Harri Sukhu of Caribbean Sensation on his wonderful gesture and also congratulated the participating teams.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

GKC Karatekas visit First Lady ahead of IKD World Cup

GKC Karatekas and officials pose with First Lady, Sandra Granger ahead of their IKD World Cup in Barbados.

IRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger, Monday received a courtesy call from members of the Guyana Karate College, who are preparing to depart Guyana for the International Karate Daigaku World Cup to be

held in Barbados from August 16-19. Mrs. Granger urged the youngsters to give of their best and “to do Guyana proud.” The team has been preparing for the World Cup since the beginning of 2018 through intense training in

all areas of the discipline, even underwater training at the National Aquatic Centre. Guyana finished second overall at the last World Cup in 2015 and Shihan Jeffrey Wong (7th Dan Black Belt) is confident that his GKC karatekas can go one better

and win the World Cup this time around. Over 20 countries including Canada, Mexico, South Africa, the Philippines and the entire Caribbean is expected to participate at this year’s World Cup.

Chan takes top spot in LGC championship

HE race for the title of 2018 Annual Club Champion continued at the Lusignan Golf Club last weekend, with Wayne Chan defying the rain and wind to take the top Best Net honours with a score of 69. Pur Persaud continued to make a statement as he shot a net 72 to come in second, while Guillermo Escarraga made his return to the course felt, with a net 74, to finish in third position. In the Best Gross category, it was Club president Aleem Hussain who took first place with two-time Guyana Open champion Mike Mangal in second and Pur Persaud in the third spot. The winner of the annual points-competition gets a variety of prizes along with a full year of bragging rights. However, after winning the first four events, Hussain

Alan Chung (left) and Wayne Chan

is well on course for the Best Net champion title. There is still a battle for the Best Gross title, as Mangal refus-

es to quit and with just two matches left to play, it will come down to very end. The Lusignan Golf

Club has seen an increased number of tournaments this year and as more major companies join the sponsorship ranks, the game is becoming more popular, drawing the attention of all ages and both genders. The 2018 Guyana Open promises to be a major event with golfers from more than 12 countries expected to participate. Only 100 spots are available for this year’s event and golfers are urged to register early to ensure that they have a spot to contend. Non-members are eligible to play in the two-day tournament and the fee of US$200 covers all expenses for the entire event. Tickets for the Guyana Open will be available from October 1. Please contact the club at 2205660 or visit the Facebook lusignangolfclub for more information.

Liverpool refer Salah to police over alleged phone use while driving

(REUTERS) - Liverpool have referred forward Mohamed Salah to the Merseyside Police over a video which appears to show the Egyptian using his mobile phone while driving. No specific details have been released about when or where the video was taken, or by whom. “The club, after discussion with the player, have

Mohamed Salah

made Merseyside Police aware of the footage and the circumstances surrounding its capture,” an LFC spokesman told British media. “We have spoken to the player also and will deal with any follow-up internally. “Neither the club nor player will be making any further comment on this matter.”

Merseyside Police confirmed they were aware of the footage. “We have been made aware of a video believed to show a footballer using a mobile phone whilst driving,” the Merseyside Police Contact Centre said on their official Twitter account. “This has been passed to the relevant department.”

Spin trio condemn South Africa to their lowest total in one-off T20

(REUTERS) - Sri Lanka beat South Africa by three wickets in the one-off Twenty20 international at Colombo yesterday, after restricting the tourists to their lowest total in the shortest format of the game. After electing to bat first, South Africa were bowled out for 98 in the 17th over, with spin trio Lakshan Sandakan, Dhananjaya de Silva and Akila Dananjaya combining to take seven wickets. Quinton de Kock scored three boundaries in the first over but, for the second time in the space of two days, his opening partner Hashim Amla departed for a duck. de Kock was run-out with 30 on the board before left-arm wrist-spinner Sandakan swept aside the Proteas middle order with three wickets in the 11th over of the innings. The visitors finished two runs short of their previous low score of 100 against Pakistan in 2013. Proteas fast bowler Kagiso Rabada responded by removing openers Kusal Perera and Kusal Mendis in the first over before Dinesh Chandimal, who was returning from a six-match suspension, steadied the innings alongside de Silva. Seamer Junior Dala broke a 53-run partnership with the wicket of de Silva but Chandimal’s unbeaten 36 ensured the hosts finished the tour with a third consecutive victory.

Smith, Warner set to make Sydney club return in September

Australia’s Steve Smith (L) and David Warner during nets. (Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers Livepic)

(REUTERS) - Banned Australian batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner are expected to return to Sydney firstgrade cricket for their respective clubs’ opening fixtures on September 22. Smith plays for Sutherland, who host Mosman in their first Premier Cricket fixture, while Warner represents Randwick-Petersham, who will face St George, according to a report on Cricket Australia’s website (www.cricket.com.au). An enticing showdown between former Australia captain Smith and vice-captain Warner could take place on November 10, when Sutherland and Randwick-Petersham face off in a one-day match at an undecided venue. The duo, along with opener Cameron Bancroft, were handed lengthy bans by Cricket Australia (CA) following a ball-tampering scandal during the South Africa Test series in March. Following the ban, the trio have played in various domestic competitions, with Smith scoring 41 on his debut for the Barbados Tridents in the Twenty20 Caribbean Premier League (CPL) competition last Sunday. The 29-year-old also regained the world number one Test batting ranking earlier this week despite being out of action for Australia since March. Warner is also playing in the CPL for the St Lucia Stars, while Bancroft participated in the domestic Darwin’s Strike League last month.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

BV/Triumph 8th of May Junior Shield (U-20) Football League kicks off today

HE BV/Triumph 8th of May Movement’s Junior Shield (U-20) Football tournament kicks off today from 17:30hrs at the BV Playground, which is situated on Republic Drive, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara. The league will feature seven teams who will be vying for supremacy, as they engage each other in two rounds of preliminary matches, before the determination of the semi-finalists. The majority of the second round matches will be played on Saturday while the semi-finals will be played on Sunday from 15:15hrs before the semi-finals of the Movement’s Senior Cup Emancipation Cohesion Football League, which will be played from 19:00hrs on the same day. The third place play-off and the final of the Junior Shield will be played on the same day the Senior Cup final is being held and will commence at 15:15hrs on Saturday (August 25). All matches will be played at the BV Play-

ground. The chairperson of the BV/Triumph 8th of May Movement, Latecia Stuart, in a release to media noted; “I am elated that a number of the communities have bought into the concept of youth development. Our youths are the future of tomorrow, and one way of empowering them is to pass on our experiences, so that they begin the task to achieve their set goals from an empowered position – from a platform that has a well set foundation.” She posited, that the BV/ Triumph 8th of May Movement is serious about youth development, the enhancement of the socio-economic and spiritual growth of all in society and the transformation of communities, so that they become more suitable to the needs of individuals who live therein. Stuart further stated, “I am delighted to announce that at the conclusion of the Junior Shield League, three players would be identified to benefit from Academic/ Vocational Awards, where

each of the selected players would, under specified guidelines and purposeful guidance from our Movement, receive the value of $180 000 ($15 000 per month) for the period September, 2018 to December, 2019.

Latecia Stuart

These awards will include expenditure allocations such as school equipment (e.g text books and calculators), lessons/courses (e.g woodwork and Information Technology), transportation to school/classes

and the likes.” She indicated that Restoration Opportunities through Christ (ROC) has made the commitment to finance the three Academic/Vocational Awards, with payments being made to the BV/Triumph 8th of May Movement every four months, starting next month. The Junior Shield (U-20) match schedule for today is as follows: Eastveldt against St John Basco Orphanage from 17:30hrs, Mahaicony opposing Tucville from 18:35hrs, Mahaica versus Eastveldt (Eastveldt play both preliminary matches on the said day) from 19:40hrs and Plaisance will face home team BV from 20:40hrs. All preliminary Junior Shield matches will be played for 50 minutes, while the matches from the semi-final stage will run for 90 minutes. The BV/Triumph 8th of May Movement encourages the general public to come out and support the players and the Movement, as they both seek to realise growth. Entrance fee is $500 for adults, $300 for children.

Sixteen local boxing referees/judges benefiting from three-day seminar … before third Caribbean Juniors and Schoolboys tourney

IXTEEN local boxing referees and judges are benefiting from a three-day seminar, leading up to the third annual Caribbean Juniors and Schoolboys tournament, scheduled for the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, beginning at 18:00hrs on Friday and concluding on Sunday evening. The three-day seminar which began on Monday is being conducted by the Caribbean’s highest-ranked referee/ judge International Boxing Association (AIBA) threestar-ranked James Beckles, of Trinidad and Tobago, at the Andrew `Six Head’ Lewis Boxing Gym. The 57-year-old Beckles, who has held similar seminars in Guyana over the past years, is updating the referees/ judges on a few AIBA rule changes since his last visit to Guyana and according to Guyana Boxing Association’s (GBA) president, Steve Ninvalle, the seminar will serve as a precursor to the upcoming Caribbean championships. Beckles has officiated in over 300 international bouts during his 21 years as an amateur boxing referee. On Monday when the seminar commenced, the local officials were updated on judging and scoring amateur boxing matches, while today, practical sessions will be conducted as well as discussions on the safety of boxers, the basics, handling of cuts and controlling the fight.

Archer leads Caribbean trio’s crushing of Glamorgan

Guyana to participate in 2018 CONCACAF Men’s U-20 Championship

The centralised competition will qualify the top four finishers to the FIFA U-20 World Cup Poland 2019

UYANA will participate in the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) 2018 Men’s Under-20 Championship, scheduled to be played November 1 -21, at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida. The official draw, which will sort the 35 participating teams into six groups, for the first round of the competition, will be broadcast Thursday, September 13 at 10:00hrs. Teams will be divided into six groups, five groups of six teams and one group of five, for the first-round group phase. After round-robin play,

the six group winners will advance to the qualification stage, where they will be divided into two groups of three teams.

After a second-round robin play, the two group winners plus the second-place finishers will qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Additionally, the two group winners will advance to the tournament’s final to determine the regional

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday August 15, 2018)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Chadwick Walton (GAW) (2) 20 fours & 12 sixes Today’s Quiz: (1) Who has the distinction of facing the first ball in a CPL game? (2) Who delivered the first ball in a CPL game? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

champions. Unlike the previous format of the men’s Under-20 competition, which included regional qualifiers in the Caribbean and Central America and one final championship, the redesigned 2018 edition will ensure that all the participating teams have access to play more top-level football matches. The draw will be conducted using a single-blind system, involving five pots. Based on the CONCACAF Men’s Under-20 Ranking (to be published in the coming weeks), the top six-ranked teams will be seeded into position one of each group, while the remaining 29 teams will be sorted in five pots as follows: Seeded teams (group and position): United States (A1), Mexico (B1), Honduras (C1), Panama (D1) Costa Rica (E1) and El Salvador (F1) Pot 1: Cuba, Guatemala, Trinidad & Tobago, Haiti, Canada and Jamaica Pot 2: Antigua and Barbuda, Bermuda, St Kitts and Nevis, Curacao, Aruba and Suriname Pot 3: Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Guadeloupe, St Lucia and Guyana Pot 4: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Cayman Islands, Barbados, Belize and Dominica

Pot 5: US Virgin Islands, Martinique, Sint Maarten, Saint Martin and Montserrat The draw will begin by placing the seeded teams in their respective groups. Once they have been confirmed, the first team will be drawn from Pot 1 and placed in position A2. The same will be done for the remaining five teams of Pot 1, placing them in positions B2, C2, D2, E2 and F2 according to the order in which they are drawn. The procedure will be repeated for Pots 2, 3, 4 and 5, using group positions 3, 4, 5 and 6 respectively. Teams: Caribbean (25): Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, Puerto Rico, Saint Martin, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sint Maarten, St Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago and US Virgin Islands. Central America (7): Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama North America (3): Canada, Mexico and United States Number of teams to qualify for the World Cup: 4

Jofra Archer

ONDON, England (CMC) – Barbadian Jofra Archer’s late cameo, Bermudian Delay Rawlins’s crucial knock and Barbados-born England seamer Chris Jordan’s sharp spell combined to help Sussex crush Glamorgan by 98 runs in the England T20 Blast here yesterday. Sent in at Hove, Sussex piled up 186 for five, off their 20 overs, with Laurie Evans top-scoring with 63, Michael Burgess getting 39 and Rawlins, 35. They were struggling at 25 for two in the fourth over but Evans and Rawlins added 60 in an invaluable third-wicket stand to revive the innings. Evans faced 47 deliveries and counted four fours and three sixes while the left-handed Rawlins struck four fours and a six in an entertaining 20-ball innings. When Sussex lost their way at 89 for four in the

12th over, Burgess joined Evans to post 74 for the fifth wicket and ensured a competitive total. Archer then arrived at number seven to unleash a furious assault, belting three fours and two sixes in a six-ball 22 to floor Glamorgan. In reply, Aneurin Donald (27) and Craig Meschede (26) gave Glamorgan a solid start by adding 50 off 27 balls for the first wicket. However, once leg-spinner Rashid Khan bowled Meschede in the fifth over, Glamorgan lost 10 wickets for just 38 runs, to crumble for 88 in the 14th over. Archer knocked over captain Colin Ingram for two in the sixth over and Jordan, who finished with two for nine from two overs made key strikes to hurt the innings. Sussex have four wins from 11 outings and lie sixth in the South group.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, August 15, 2018

England star Ben Stokes found not guilty of affray

ONDON, England (Reuters) - England cricketer Ben Stokes was cleared of affray yesterday over a fight outside a nightclub last year which prosecutors said had left two men unconscious. The England Cricket Board said Stokes would now join the England squad for the third Test against India which starts on Saturday, and would at some point face a disciplinary process. Stokes, 27, was accused of knocking out Ryan Ali and Ryan Hale in a brawl in

Bristol, southwest England, just hours after he had played in a one-day international against the West Indies last September. Ali, 28, was also found not guilty of affray. Hale was acquitted of the same charge part way through the trial at Bristol Crown Court. Prosecutors said all-rounder Stokes, who helped England to victory in the first Test against India this month but missed the second match because of the trial, had lost control after drinking heavily earlier in the night.

By Stephan Sookram

quickly made his ground through the pack to one step shy of the final podium spot, overcoming a 15 second success penalty to do so. Race two saw the Guyanese battle hard to gain third but was under pressure to defend it. The earlier part of the race was marred by a yellow flag and on resumption, the rain graced the track. Switzerland’s Jerôme de Sadeleer

England cricketer Ben Stokes and his wife Clare leave Bristol Crown Court yesterday. (Reuters photo)

His lawyer Paul Lunt said in a statement after the verdict that the case had cost Stokes the England vice-captaincy, his place on an Ashes tour to Australia last winter and in other England matches. “The past 11 months have served to highlight to Ben just how highly he values his position as an England representative, both in terms of the privilege that role entails and the responsibilities that accompany it,” Lunt said. “Now that the trial is over, Ben is keen to get back to cricket being his sole focus,”

he added. Prosecutors had told the court that after being refused entry to the Mbargo nightclub, Stokes had abused the doorman and then mocked two openly gay men. The cricketer, who was with fellow England international Alex Hales, then got into a fight with Ali and Hale. Stokes, who had denied the charge of affray, told the jury he had been acting in self-defence after stepping in to defend the gay couple who had been on the receiving end of homophobic abuse.

He told radical media, “I had a mediocre start in race two, but we were four abreast into turn one! From there on it was a race with Jerôme, but he spun and we made slight contact. “After that it was Elliot Goodman and then a drag to the flag with Richard Baxter

so there was no rest, but that’s wheel-to-wheel racing for you! I had an incident at the end of race two, so kudos to the guys in the team to get me on to the grid. “We barely made it but I love this circuit and we got a podium, so it’s a great result.”

Two more podium spots for Jeffrey at Radical Championship

UYANESE Kristian Jeffrey was able to continue his podium-running form in the Radical Challenge series, picking up two podium spots from three races last weekend in Snetterton, England. After starting sixth in race one, the Guyanese

provided pressure for much of the time until he spun after which Elliot Goodman and Richard Baxter picked up the fight. Baxter managed to get by Goodman but was 0.3 second short of Jeffrey at the chequered flag. In race three, Jeffrey

continued his battle up the podium with Baxter who was fourth while frontrunners Jackson and Burgess traded the lead. Burgess pitted for a mandatory 20-second success penalty and emerged fourth leaving Jeffrey to run second unchallenged.

NSC commits to sponsorship of Caribbean Juniors and Schoolboys boxing championships

HE National Sports Commission (NSC) has committed to part sponsoring the third edition of the Caribbean juniors and schoolboys boxing championships set for the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, from Friday to Sunday, beginning at 18:00hrs each night. According to a reliable source, the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), which has been battling some financial challenges, is to benefit from a timely intervention from the NSC which has committed sponsorship towards the hosting of the tournament. The GBA has expressed gratitude to the NSC and noted that its contribution will definitely help make the championships a success. According to the information received NSC Director Christopher Jones explained that in addition to a significant cash donation, the GBA will also utilise the National Gymnasium free of cost for the three-night tournament. Meanwhile, the GBA has released the names and weight divisions of the boxers who will represent Guyana. Juniors – Richard Howard (44-46kg), Leon Moore (46-48kg), Christopher Romeo (45-57kg), Mark Crawfor5d (57-60kg), Jamal Mercer (60-64kg), Emanuel Pompey (64-69kg) and Devon Thomas (69-75kg). Schoolboys – Joel Anthony (44-46kg), Devon Williams (44-46kg), Patrick Harvey (52-54kg) and Kurt Beckles 54-59kg). Novices – Shemar Morrison (60-64kg) and Germain Williams (69-75kg). Females – 12-14 years Alesha Jackman, 15-16 years Jelica Rodney and 17-18 years Akea Lamazon. The technical director is Sebert Blake, while the coaches are Clifton Moore, James Walcott and Joseph Murray.

(L-R) Kristian Jeffrey, Dominik Jackson and Steve Burgess enjoy the podium celebrations.

Burgess leads from Jackson, Kristian Jeffrey and Jerôme de Sadeleer in the 20 minute sprint race.

Russell’s 121, definitely best I have ever seen - Ross Taylor “DEFINITELY the best T20 innings that I have ever seen.” That is how Jamaica Tallawahs middle-order batsman Ross Taylor described Andre Russell’s match-winning performance against the Trinbago Knight Riders last Friday night that propelled the Jamaica Tallawahs to victory in their opening match of the 2018 Hero CPL season. Russell scored 121 not out from just 49 balls. His 100 came up off just 40 balls, a CPL record and contained 13 sixes, another CPL record. His 161-run partnership for the sixth wicket with Kennar Lewis who made 51 from 35 balls was a T20

world record and was a CPL record for the highest partnership for any wicket. The 34-year-old former

New Zealand’s Ross Taylor believes Andre Russell’s century against the Knight Riders is the best he has ever seen.

New Zealand captain, who has seen his fair share of historic performances, believes Russell’s was the best. “I’ve been on the back of a few and had a few with players that I have played with but put the context of the game - first game as captain after just bowling, it’s a phenomenal innings and not only that, the bowlers that were bowling to him, it wasn’t a Mickey Mouse XI - Narine, Bravo, Fawad, Gabriel - it’s an experienced bowling line-up,” he said. “And not the smallest boundaries either, but the way he was hitting, it was clearing any boundary in the world, that’s for sure.”

He said the closest he has ever witnessed to Russell’s destruction of the Knight Riders, was Chris Gayle’s 175 in April 2013 in the Indian Premier League for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. The 175 was made from just 66 balls and contained 13 fours and 17 sixes. RCB scored 263 against the Pune Warriors. “I never played the game but I was there in the ground when Chris Gayle got 175 against Pune, that’s the only thing that has come close, I think, but then chasing a target makes (Russell’s) extra special, and he had a hat-trick, not a bad day,” Taylor said. (SportsMax)

Golden Jaguars head coach unveils ‘Project 100’ See Pag

e 27

The Golden Jaguars are seen in their first warm-up session yesterday as Project 100 kicked off in Rio, Brazil.

Chantoba Bright departs for ‘full ride’ scholarship at UTEP

Chantoba Bright displaying just some of her athletic and academic silverware (Rawle Toney photo)

ONSIDERED the ‘model of consistency’ for track and field in Guyana, 18-year-old Chantoba Bright departs Guyana today to begin her stint at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), after receiving a full scholarship from the NCAA Division One school. Bright could boast of being the best in the Caribbean in the long and triple jump, since her resumé would reflect her outstanding performances at the many re-

gional championships, including her dominance at the CARIFTA Games. The Victory Valley, Linden resident, at the 2016 CARIFTA Games, won silver in the triple and the long jump. In 2017 she won gold in the long jump and bronze in the triple jump. In 2018, she won gold in the long jump, bronze in the triple jump and silver in the 4x400 relay. At the IAAF World U-18 Championships last year, in Kenya, she finished fifth,

while at the South American U-20 Championships, she won gold in the long jump and bronze in the triple jump. Her personal best in the triple jump is 12.60 and in the long jump, 6.30. She also dabbled in high jump where her best height cleared was 1.65 metres. With several Nationals’ records to her name, Bright is noted to be one of Guyana’s brightest prospects ahead of the 2020 Olympic Games. (Rawle Toney)

Mahadeo cops gold at CrossFit event in T&T

Dillon Mahadeo stands on podium after copping gold at the T&T CrossFit Challenge over the weekend.

UYANA’S ‘King of CrossFit’, Dillon Mahadeo, further bolstered his reputation as a top athlete by winning gold in Trinidad and Tobago’s (T&T) CrossFit Challenge over the weekend. However, his teammates Christian McRae, Delice Adonis, Zalena Alli, Jessica Xavier and Shawn DeJesus (who is based in Toronto, Canada) did not secure any podium finish but they performed creditably. Zalena Alli and Jessica Xavier competed in the Scaled (Novice) category, while the

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remainder of the athletes contested the RX (Open) category. Delice Adonis had tied for third but her opponent won the tiebreaker after being better in three of the five workouts. Shawn DeJesus finished eighth, while the others didn’t make the top ten. The Novice athletes tried their best but were not as successful as previous years. There were five workouts for this event. All athletes competed in the first three events with the top 10 going forward to workout #4 and top five proceeding to workout #5 after which the respective

champions were crowned. At the same competition last year, Guyana was represented by ten athletes. Seasoned campaigners Mahadeo and Semonica Duke did not make the podium, debutants Stephen Fraser and Christina Rahman ended with bronze medals. At the inaugural competition in 2016, eight athletes represented Guyana when Mahadeo took the bronze medal in the RX (Open) Men’s category, while Angelina DeAbreu won gold in the Women’s Scaled (Novice) category. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15, 2018