Issuu

SATURDAY 10th August, 2019

' No.105725

‘Everything hangs on GECOM’

…President maintains elections body must advise him on its readiness SEE STORY ON PAGE 03 ►

…as Jagdeo softens stance on extension of timeframe for polls

No Haitian involvement …in 67 TIP cases reported for the year

… majority are Venezuelans

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PNCR hammers 10 PPP's Gunraj for distasteful remarks PAGE

Over 40 rogue cops dismissed -Min Ramjattan

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President David Granger welcomes Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo to their meeting at the Ministry of the Presidency on Friday (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

PNC/R recommits to helping preserve Indigenous languages threatened. When a language is lost, identity is being lost and people remain without an identity,” Hastings-Williams said. She added: “Without information there would be no development. Radio broadcasts in the hinterland provides an opportunity for indigenous peoples to connect and preserve their languages while informing the population. We believe an informed population is an educated population.” Last year September, the Ministry of Education implemented a programme where Indigenous students are being taught in Indigenous languages at three nursery schools. The ministry introduced the language course at three pilot schools in Region Nine – Maruranau, Sawariwau and Karaudarnau Nursery Schools. Hastings-Williams said that while the immediate aim is to preserve the Indigenous language by having it more widely used, the possibility of having the languages being used nationally and one day be considered a secondary language of Guyana is also something being hoped for. She noted that the language barrier created when coast landers go into the hinterland villages could be bridged if Indigenous

languages are more widely taught in schools on the coastland as well.

was the PNC in government that initiated a progressive education policy for the In-

tain, partly through self-help. Eleven government-aided, all-age schools were built in Konashen, Maruranau, St Ignatius, Sand Creek, Toka and Yakarinta in the Rupununi, and Kamarang in the Cuyuni Mazaruni Region, as well as Matthew’s Ridge, Port Kaituma, Kwebanna and Waramuri in the Barima Waini Region '

THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), the largest partner of the coalition APNU/AFC government, has a longstanding history of service to the Indigenous people of Guyana, and most recently much advocacy has been placed on the preservation, revitalisation and promotion of Indigenous languages in Guyana. This was emphasised on Friday at the party’s weekly press conference, which was hosted by executive member and Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams, and Adviser to the Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Mervyn Williams – both Indigenous Guyanese. Minister Hastings-Williams stressed the great emphasis that the APNU/AFC government has placed on preserving the Indigenous languages over the last few years through the incorporation of Indigenous language into the school curriculum, and broadcasts in Indigenous languages across a number of radio stations transmitting in indigenous regions. In Aishalton, Hastings-Williams pointed out, advertisements for contracts are being done in Indigenous languages. “Indigenous languages across the world are being

PNC/R Executive and Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams, (left) and Adviser to the Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Mervyn Williams (Delano Williams photo)

THE United Nations (UN) has designated 2019 as The Year of Indigenous Languages, while the theme of this year’s IDWIP is “Indigenous Languages”. Hastings-Williams noted that the government’s preservation of the Indigenous languages is just a fraction of the wider developments in the Indigenous communities over the years, particularly in the area of education. “The PNCR has a proud history in and out of government of service to our Indigenous communities. It

digenous People of Guyana. It was the PNC government that established the policy of taking secondary education to the hinterland and the Indigenous People, rather than forcing them to study on the coastland. The administration expanded primary education by building schools,” Hastings-Williams noted. In terms of infrastructural developments, Hastings-Williams pointed out that primary education was expanded by the building of schools in the Aranaputa Valley and Monkey Moun-

It was the PNC in government that established the five-year Hinterland Scholarship programme, which funded tuition, allowances to buy books and clothing and return passages to their homes. The PNCR is proud of the progress and development that is taking place in our Indigenous communities, especially in the area of education and public health' –– Dawn Hastings-Williams

and Orealla in the East-Berbice-Corentyne Region. “It was the PNC in government that established the five-year Hinterland Scholarship programme, which funded tuition, allowances to buy books and clothing and return passages to their homes. The PNCR is proud of the progress and development that is taking place in our Indigenous communities, especially in the area of education and public health,”

she said. Adding to her remarks, Mervyn Williams noted that much money has also been invested into the communities over the past few years. “The coalition government continues to fulfil its mandate for the development of Indigenous communities,” Williams said. “The presidential grant, which this government has more than doubled, is one of the major interventions being undertaken and managed for better outcomes throughout Indigenous communities by the government. In 2016 the Jubilee Grant saw $280.5M disbursed to 212 villages, satellites and communities. In 2017 another $215M was approved for 215 Indigenous people’s villages, satellites and communities.” Also towards hinterland development, the government has paved some 80 per cent of Madhia’s roads with reinforced concrete, which is expected to last some 30 years. Also in Madhia, some $27M went to the extension of the Madhia Primary School. A $33M expansion is scheduled for Chinapow Primary School.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

‘Everything hangs on GECOM’ …President maintains elections body must advise him on its readiness …as Jagdeo softens stance on extension of timeframe for polls

IN his meeting with the Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo on Friday, President David Granger maintained that he will not proclaim a date for General and Regional Elections until and unless the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) advises him that it is in a state of readiness to conduct credible elections. The President met with the opposition leader at State House, one day after he had engaged the Chairman of GECOM, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, S.C, CCH; its Commissioners; and Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield at the Ministry of the Presidency. Moments after exiting the high-level meeting on Friday, the President, during an on-camera interview, said both sides have maintained their existing positions. “I will continue to abide by the Constitution and pay attention to the Chairman of the Elections Commission who will advise me,” the Head of State said. He noted that during the meeting, reference was made to the Consequential Orders of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and their respective interpretations. In the case of government, it maintained that the CCJ did not issue any coercive orders. “I made it clear that it is impossible if not impractical for me, even though in the final analysis I have to proclaim a date, I could not do so without the advice of the Elections Commission,”

he said. The President is hopeful that the chairman of the Elections Commission would communicate the commission’s position to him in a week’s time. The Elections Commission’s Chairman is set to meet with the full Commission on Thursday August 15, one day after the High Court hands down its ruling on the legality of the ongoing house-to-house registration exercise. For the President and his government, they will respect and be guided by the advice of the commission. “We agreed that it is the Elections Commission which is central to this process; it is an electoral process; it is not a governmental process or parliamentary process. It is an electoral process which is entirely in the hands of the Elections Commission,” the President stated. While dates and timelines are circulating in the local press, he reminded that it is the Elections Commission that has to advise him before he proclaims a date. The opposition has been pushing for elections to be held on or before September 18, 2019 but to date, GECOM has not indicated that it is in a position to facilitate elections. “Everything hangs on what we are told by the chairman speaking on behalf of the commission,” the President said while remaining optimistic that the commission will communicate with him next week.

He said, however, it is only fair that the GECOM Chair be allowed to hear the judgment of the High Court, and meet with the full commission before communicating the Elections Commission’s position to him.

are working towards a consensual outcome. “ We a r e p u r s u i n g a course that can guarantee a credible list and can be the basis of credible elections… We are working towards seeking common ground

President David Granger greeting Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo on his arrival at State House on Friday (MoTP Photo)

“ We a r e l o o k i n g t o hear something, maybe in a week’s time. At the same time, I would like to assure the public that the meeting today with the leader of the opposition was important and beneficial. It helped to clarify issues which still exist within the two sides. There has been no agreement but greater clarity on the positions of the two sides,” President Granger said. He noted that both sides

so that the Guyanese people can be assured that we would have credible elections in the shortest possible time,” he said. Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, who accompanied the President to the meeting, made it clear that no agreement was made between the two sides with respect to a date for elections. “It is clear that the opposition had their views on how they see the activities with

respect to having credible elections…but the President has made it clear that he will not be naming a date which can in fact become impractical for the commission to accomplish,” he said. In the meeting, the President also maintained that the Official List of Electors (OLE) has to be credible. The director-general iterated too that the government will ensure that the commission has all its resources to facilitate elections. “The President made it clear that he would like to see early elections and that he has provided all of the resources that the Elections Commission required for them to work…it would not be in our interest to super-impose any coercive measures on the commission that they cannot meet,” Harmon added. Outside of State House, the opposition leader said during the meeting the two sides exchanged views on the pending General and Regional Elections, the stipulations of the Constitution and the ruling and consequential orders of the CCJ. “I am not going to speak about what we agreed to and what we didn’t agree to,” Jagdeo told reporters while reiterating that his position remains the same for the timeline for elections and the ongoing house-to-house registration. He said now that the Elections Commission is fully constituted, it is his hope that elections would be held soonest. Jagdeo, however, expressed concern that the

compilation of the National Register of Registrants (NRR), due to the national registration exercise, would be completed until 2020. It is from that database that the Official List of Electors would be produced, however, the opposition leader has been pushing for the old NRR and the now expired List of Electors to be used. According to him, during a period of claims and objections, the list could be cleansed and eligible persons added. Asked by the Guyana Chronicle whether the opposition is prepared to move to the National Assembly to extend the timeframe for elections if certain conditions are met, Jagdeo, in response, said that decision is still pending. “Right now we have not made a decision on that because right now there is no date and there is no reasonableness on the part of the government,” he explained, noting that he has heard positive statements made by the government representatives that would encourage the opposition towards a solution but in other instances, there are hardline positions that could be very discouraging. Jagdeo was accompanied to the meeting by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Presidential Candidate, Irfaan Ali. The two sides have agreed to meet again after both the Chief Justice’s ruling scheduled for August 14 and the meeting of the full commission.

National Mining Syndicate launches constitution HIGHLIGHTING the importance of mining to Guyana’s economy, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, on Friday, handed over to the National Mining Syndicate (NMS) its constitution at a launching ceremony held at the Umana Yana, Kingston. “Mining is a part of the socioeconomic fabric of Guyana, and its tapestry. Miners, mining and the resources extracted are, in our view, the cradle of this economy,” Trotman said as he delivered remarks at the launch. He encouraged the members to stay focused and continue to abide by the law. “I encourage you always, members of the syndicate, to focus on the original intent of those who brought it into being. What will you intend to achieve from it in the future? We expect to engage well with you, and with the national body, we ask as you abide as you have been doing with the laws and regulations of the land. We ask that you make your contributions to

the national reserves by selling your gold to the Gold Board and not to any of the other enti-

ties,” Trotman said. NMS President, Cheryl Williams, commended the doc-

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman (left) hands over a copy of the NMS Constitution to NMS President, Cheryl Williams (Delano Williams photo)

ument as a big stride in the development of mining. “This ensures that we are effectively and meaningfully represented in all mining districts. [We are] working towards a safer and more efficient and sustainable industry focusing on sound environmental practices that will assist in preserving Guyana’s rich biodiversity and ecological corridors, which includes wildlife, waterways and forestry,” she said. She took the opportunity

to implore for equality in the industry. “Today on behalf of all miners of the syndicate, I humbly ask that you treat us equally. Please consider that we are all member of the syndicate. The syndicate is a government pilot project that will serve and benefit all of Guyana,” Williams noted. The NMS Constitution regulates the operations of the NMS outlining the body’s objections, policies, and duties. It also speaks to the role

of members, the privileges and responsibilities of NMS and the roles and functions of the executives. The National Mining Syndicate comprises 16 smaller syndicates from different parts of the country. 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, even though many of them are still at the prospecting stage.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

China bans Cathay Pacific staff seen to support protests China has ordered the Hong Kong-based airline Cathay Pacific to suspend any staff who support pro-democracy protests in the territory. Beijing’s demand coincided with a peaceful rally at Hong Kong’s airport, where thousands occupied a terminal. Cathay also faced pressure

online after China’s state-run press fuelled a #BoycottCathayPacific hashtag, which trended on Chinese social media. Hong Kong has seen weeks of protests over China’s control of the territory. The protests began about nine weeks ago over a pro-

posed extradition bill between Hong Kong and mainland China and evolved into demands for greater freedoms.

two systems” approach - freedoms activists fear are being increasingly eroded. China fuels boycott cam-

(REUTERS image) Hong Kong is part of China but its citizens have more autonomy than those on the mainland. It has a free press and judicial independence under the so-called “one country,

paigns Earlier this week China warned the pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong not to “underestimate the firm resolve of the central government”.

This week China appeared to turn its attention to companies it sees as connected to the protests. Cathay was targeted after one of its pilots was arrested among protesters, and the airline’s flight attendants union signed a joint statement with other aviation industry employees backing the protesters. “The four sins of Cathay Pacific Airlines,” read a headline in Chinese state newspaper the People’s Daily, which detailed actions by the carrier it said were supportive of the pro-democracy movement. Cathay chairman John Slosar defended his staff. “We employ 27,000 staff in Hong Kong doing all sorts of different jobs... we certainly wouldn’t dream of telling them what they have to think about something,” he said. A Taiwanese bubble tea franchise - Yifang - and a popular Japanese sports drink were also targeted by boycott campaigns. One of Yifang’s

branches in Hong Kong had reportedly hung a sign cheering on the protesters. The branch was later vandalised, Taiwanese broadcaster TVBS reported. Japanese sports drink Pocari Sweat pulled advertising from Hong Kong television station TVB, which protesters accuse of pro-Beijing coverage. Under pressure of a boycott, the firm’s mainland China office issued a statement saying it operated separately from the Hong Kong division and upheld China’s “one country, two systems” rule. What happened at the airport? The boycotts came as protesters gathered at Hong Kong airport for three days of peaceful demonstrations. Activists waved banners written in different languages denouncing Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s chief executive, and the police, and handed out leaflets with artwork explaining the recent protests.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

‘Vote whoever you want, but get registered first’ –GECOM Chair tells countrymen at opening of new offices in Berbice

“In order to vote, you must be registered,” she reasoned. “That is your first task; you must be registered before you exercise your constitutional right to vote,” said newly- appointed Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, SC, CCH. The occasion was the commissioning of two spanking new offices with every conceivable modern convenience at Corriverton and Whim respectively in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), to serve residents in the Central and Upper Corentyne catchment areas. A Berbician by birth and the first woman in annals of Guyana’s history to have ever held that position, Justice Singh said it gave her immense pleasure to have been able to perform her first engagement in her home County. Having thus established that they share a common bond, she seized the opportunity to drive home in the minds of those of her countrymen present at the commissioning of the facilities, which cost GECOM a combined total of $51M, that while the Constitution,

which is the Supreme Law of the land, gives them the right to vote, exercising that right comes with a catch.

that there was very good reason why GECOM has gone the extra mile to ensure that there was not just

New GECOM Chairman, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, SC, CCH

GECOM Chief Elections Officer, Mr. Keith Lowenfield

“It is a democratic right. You are free to exercise that right to vote; you are free to exercise that right for any party and candidate of your choice,” Justice Singh said, adding: “But that very Constitution says something else: It says that in order to vote, you must be registered. So you must be registered before you exercise your constitutional right.” She also made the point

one but two offices to serve them in Central and Upper Corentyne. “We are providing the service to all persons to get registered, so, you will urge your friends, family and relatives, so they can exercise their democratic right to vote by the Constitution,” Justice Singh said. “No law can be inconsistent with it; any law inconsistent with the Constitution will be struck

down by the courts. That is the Supreme Law, and we are governed by the Constitution. So you will be obeying

sponsible for the supervision of general, regional and local elections; that is our mission,” he stressed, adding:

who is a resident in Guyana must be registered in keeping with the particular Order...” Parliament in 2005, by

The newly-constructed GECOM registration office at Whim

the Constitution when you register, and when you do your voting,” she added. Chief Elections Officer, Mr. Keith Lowenfield went one better. He seized the opportunity to remind his audience of the mission statement and the vision of GECOM. “We are constitutionally responsible for the conduct of all elections in Guyana, and our Commission is re-

“Our presence is to ensure that the Mission, which is enshrined in the Commission and all our offices and officers across Guyana understand fundamentally what that mission is. “We have a vision, and that is to maintain and further develop the capacity for us, as GECOM permanent staffers, to conduct credible registration. That is to say, every Tom, Dick and Harry

way of an ammendment to the National Registration Act, provided for the establishment of registration offices such as the two that were commissioned on Friday, so that persons in the areas they’re located can be registered, once eligible. Regional Chairman David Armogan, who was was slated to speak at the commissioning, was a ‘no show’.

Prince Charles renews patronage to Iwokrama BRITAIN’S Prince Charles has extended his patronage of the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development (IIC) for another term.

Charles became IIC’s patron in 2000 after visiting Guyana and the Iwokrama Forest in the Essequibo. He has been a strong supporter of the work of the centre to develop modern rain-

Prince Charles

According to a release from the centre, the Prince of Wales will be patron of the centre for another term to support further the centre’s work to advance sustainable rainforest management. The centre said Prince

forest conservation practices and innovative approaches to valuing the ecosystem services which tropical forests generate for the benefit of mankind. According to Iwokrama, while the centre continues

to receive support from donors and corporate support programmes, in recent years it has relied heavily on the Government of Guyana to support its core costs. It stated that President David Granger has charted Guyana’s ‘green’ development agenda through the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) of which the centre is an integral part. The centre noted that with the country’s anticipated oil boom, conservation remains a top priority. Therefore, the centre said, it is seeking support for programmatic activity from CSR programmes of multinational and other companies operating in Guyana. According to the centre, the news of Prince Charles renewed patronage is warmly welcomed by its trustees, management and staff, its community partners including the communities of the North Rupununi District Development Board (NRDDB). “Iwokrama’s models of sustainable forest management are intended to contribute to rainforest conservation by delivering not only climate protection and environmental balance, but also real guidelines for poverty reduction and the creation of wealth, in particular for the local communities whose livelihoods have, and continue to be de-

pendent on the rainforest. The Prince of Wales’ strong personal support and continued commitment mean so much to the Centre,” the centre said.

The Iwokrama International Centre (IIC) was established in 1996 under a joint mandate from the Government of Guyana

and the Commonwealth Secretariat to manage the Iwokrama Forest, a unique reserve of 371,000 hectares of rainforest.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

Celebrating Indigenous Peoples heritage

N Friday, the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs launched its programme of activities to mark Indigenous Heritage Month 2019, which will be celebrated next month. The year’s activities will be held under the theme, “Maintaining our traditional practices while promoting a ‘green’ economy”. At the launch, Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe also said August 9 coincided with celebrations around the world for International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, noting that the date also marks the inaugural session of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations at the United Nations in 1982. This year’s activities will be celebrated internationally under the theme, “Indigenous Languages”, and will focus on the current situation of indigenous languages around the world, within the framework of the 2019 International Year of Indigenous Languages. Heritage Month provides numerous opportunities for our diverse society to know more about the Indigenous community, and ways in which our common interests can be pursued to the collective growth and development of all the peoples and the nation. For it is only through understanding, appreciation and respect for the other, accompanied by requisite institutional protection, can people in a multicultural society co-exist in peace and harmony. To this country’s credit and that of its various administrations, there remains continuous efforts on the part of

the government to ensure the Indigenous Peoples’ culture gets its deserving space and respect in the national culture. Such augurs well for our national motto, “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”. The foundation of this society, as we know it, was laid on exploitation and discrimination, and ensnared the group as the first casualty. Thus today, this oneness of experience, though groups have been affected to varying degrees, requires of us seeking understanding of the heritage of the other, to do so with open, enquiring and receptive minds. It is to this nation’s benefit to learn how the Indigenous Peoples who primarily occupy the hinterland regions, have been able to co-exist with nature through the centuries. Also, when the world is also looking at alternative medicine, foods and other merchandise, including those organically grown and preserved, lessons can be learnt and economic and employment opportunities obtained from and within this community. Where emphases are placed on Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, which entail good environmental practices and the use and proper management of indigenous resources, those on the coastland can be empowered with knowledge from their hinterland counterparts. With the fascination and fierce loyalty to modern technology, it should be borne in mind that over the ages, this would have evolved from Earliest Man’s intuition and wisdom in understanding the environment and developing

the tools to enhance his well-being. In architecture, persons can witness the marvel of the ingenuity of the Wai Wai nation in the construction of the Umana Yana (a Wai Wai term for “meeting place of the people”) without nails, in 1972, during the Forbes Burnham administration for Guyana’s hosting of the Non-Aligned Foreign Ministers Conference. The building was used as the VIP Lounge and Recreation Centre for the dignitaries, and has retained its pre-eminence for hosting events. Moreover, evidence can readily be seen in the country’s name, Guyana (i.e. Land of Many Waters) the National Flag (the Golden Arrowhead, which pays homage to the potency of the arrow), the National Honours (Cacique Crown of Honour (CCH), and Arrow of Achievement (AA)) and Coat of Arms (the crest is an Amerindian head-dress). In foods, there are the renowned pepper-pot and cassava bread; the airport (Timehri), and for relaxation the hammock, to name some. Our Indigenous brothers and sisters have contributed to every facet of this nation’s growth and development, and space will not allow the recounting of every aspect of it. Neither will one month suffice in recounting this proud heritage. And though the children of independent Guyana have had the benefit of learning of the Indigenous Peoples’ heritage to varying degrees, creating more opportunities for deeper knowledge can only work to the holistic development of all Guyanese.

Gov’t, Opposition must work towards common protocol –for governance in post no-confidence environment

Dear Editor,

HE Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) notes media report that the APNU+AFC Government has established modalities on how it will function in the post no-confidence environment. This is consistent with the July 12 written ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice that government is in a “caretaker” status. While this effort to set parameters for government in this period is encouraging, we await a consensus from both Government and the Opposition, for it is clear by now to all that consensus is difficult for both parties to agree to. And whereas the government is demonstrating it is prepared to govern, albeit with limitations, the Opposition seems opposed to the least action taken by government. This standoff leaves many to speculate whether some would rather the opportunity for a conflict of sorts than work together towards determining a common position on the way forward. Regardless of our views, and which side of the divide we support, we must recognise that government has to function; the business of governing Guyana cannot be placed at a standstill. GTUC therefore calls on both Government and the Opposition to establish a common position on the issue of resignation. This remains a matter of contention for the Opposition, citing consti-

tutional dictates as per Article 106 (6). It does not help to bring resolution to this standoff by President David Granger declaring he will not resign. Rather, one expects a clear and definitive position or layout on how a resigned President and ministers are legally and constitutionally sworn in immediately after resignation to continue functioning in keeping with Article 106 (7). The latter concern is seen in a context where the President is aided in day-to-day functioning by ministers who make up the government; and for government to function, the President and his supporting ministers must be constitutionally sworn in. Whereas we understand the dictates of Article 106(7) that government will continue to function, given the reality of a resignation, the pertinent question must be the restoration of said resigned Members of the Executive who have a responsibility for governance until a new President is elected. None of the courts was asked to deliberate specifically on the means by which the resigned president and minsters will be returned to function legally and constitutionally in order to realise Article 106(7). Both parties must eschew the thinking of sticking to their guns. We are seeing a meeting of irrational aggression versus stoic defiance. It seems more about grandstanding in the media than engaging in good faith, for which both parties must be held accountable. The absence of meaningful dialogue between the two political forces does not create an environment for progres-

sive deliberations. Whereas the Opposition Leader behaves in a manner to lay full responsibility on the Government, the Leader of the Opposition is himself held equally responsible to help Guyana out of this crisis and not just be concentrated on political mileage. As a former President for 12 years, leader of a mass-based political party and Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo has a responsibility to the nation, and could cull from all his experiences to put forward a menu of measures that is meaningful and progressive to commence talks on how best these positions can become deliverables. It would serve the nation well to see Mr. Jagdeo performing in this role, and not just playing to the media gallery or his base. The Rule of Law still remains our best guideline and recourse in navigating through this testy period, for we are a nation founded on Principles and Laws, and there comes a time when we must put aside political differences for the common good as defined and agreed to by both sides. If our politicians cannot do it, then we the people must provide credible leadership from different quarters to bring them to the table of reasoning. Regards, Guyana Trades Union Congress

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

OP-ED By Margaret Burke

Education, the pillar for Social Cohesion

“EDUCATION is the surest and swiftest way to reduce inequality…Education is a great equaliser. It is the key to unlocking increased economic opportunities for citizens. It is the surest path to empowering and lifting persons out of poverty and marginalization. “The country (Guyana) has to reduce the disparities in education between the coastland and the hinterland if it is to become a more equal society. Education is the single most important factor likely to have the greatest impact on hinterland development.” President David Granger in his recent address at the commissioning ceremony of the dormitory for tertiary hinterland students recently. The President explained that although the hinterland of Guyana ‘occupies over three quarters of our country’, yet the Indigenous population, who are the major occupants of this area is only about 10 per cent. With geographical and historical factors existing, inequality of income distribution, infrastructural development and delivery of public services are still occurring, he added. ‘Land of the Six Peoples’, Guyana has always been a diverse country. However, back in 2015, the APNU+AFC promised a ‘good life for all Guyanese’, regardless of gender, ethnicity or class. The record continues to show the APNU+AFC coalition government as a one that promotes unity and social cohesion between all groups in the country. Ethnic Relations The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), which was dysfunctional since 2011, was re-established with a different mandate in February, 2018. Headed by Dr. John Smith from the Christian community; Mr. Rajkumarie Singh from the Hindu community and Mr. Roshan Khan from the Muslim community, among other social organisations and groups. The ERC continues to make significant headway in working towards furtherance of peace and unity in Guyana.

For example, just two months ago the organisation held a capacity-building exercise for its employees in an effort to help promote harmony and goodwill among Guyanese. It was reported that such training is very much needed to make them much more conscious, tactical and strategic in fostering better unity amongst the people. Plan of Action In 2015, at the National Toshaos’ Council, President Granger laid out a Plan of Action for Hinterland Development, which he has been promoting ever since through the various ministries and agencies. The Plan, he stated, “…aims at reducing inequality between residents of the hinterland and the rest of country by eradicating poverty, promoting employment and economic prosperity and by enhancing access to public services.” In an effort at a more “inclusive and cohesive nation”, he noted that “closing the educational gap” is needed if there is to be a reduction in poverty and the reversal of underdevelopment and unemployment, while lessening migration in the hinterland. The President noted, that while government await the outcome of the long-term plans, they are “also making shortterm interventions… aimed at boosting overall educational attainment and reducing the educational disparities between hinterland and coastal areas.” On August 1, in his Emancipation address, the President promised, “Our expected petroleum revenues, apart from what would be devoted to our Sovereign Wealth Fund, will help us to restore education in accordance with our Constitution. Those resources belong to future generations and future generations will benefit and profit from being educated. This would be an educated nation… [Guyana] must not be a nation of a few rich people and very poor.” Even as the coalition government presses onward to the

Responsible governmental actions Dear Editor,

COMMENDABLE aspect of the A Partnership for Unity+Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) administration at this time of our nation’s juncture has been its openness and willingness in engaging the country at large on the many issues surrounding the development of the nation, inclusive of the No-Confidence Motion. It is a requirement of which any political administration that is cognisant of its mandated stewardship, and the resultant responsibilities which undoubtedly must flow from such, must adhere to and understand. For it is always a given that governments are expected to communicate regularly with the people, for and on whose behalf it governs, since its authority to do so is derived from them. It is a cardinal principle of governance which must guide all governments, irrespective of the socio-political environment that exists. But regardless of the prevailing challenges, a government is expected to lead, and to give leadership. For such is their given authority and expectation as expressed by the people in their given mandate, who expect no more or less from such a mandated government. As a government, the ‘Coalition’ has underlined responsibility of its stewardship by engaging not only its supporters and immediate communities, but the entire nation, irrespective of political affiliation/race, or geographic locale, because of, or despite the latter. For this government, its mandate of governance has not been about special interests and partisanship; instead, it is about Guyana, its peoples, all stakeholders and all those who have a genuine and patriotic interest in making Guyana a better place, where all Guyanese, of whatever ethnicity, must have an equal say in the affairs of their country because it is their patrimony. But it is well known that Guyana, with its historical problems of race and disunity, continues to be a prime example of the challenges of governance, as experienced by this current administration which, despite such a socio-political milieu, has continued its policy of national engagement in every form; whether by outreaches such as its innovative “Taking the Government to the people”, which engagement has been instructive

for the instant and prompt solutions that have been given to so many who would have accessed such exercises; ministerial visits to communities, that have served for a better understanding of problems at the local or grass root level, while appraising citizens of government’s socio development plans and policies. Most important has been government’s willingness to engage the diplomatic community, private sector and civil society for an understanding of its current position on the CCJ, matters relating to national and regional elections, and the general socio-environment that exists. As recent as last Monday, there was another engagement, which included the American Chamber of Commerce in Guyana (AmCHAM) and members of the diplomatic corps, which gathering had been addressed by the Attorney-General and two members of their respective political opposition parties. In fact, the government has even had several discussions with the Parliamentary Opposition on matters relating to the NCM, and GECOM, despite its game of grudge politics. As an aside, the AG very ably addressed issues from the CCJ, while successfully illustrating the case of Guyana recently scoring as the country with the highest economic growth rate in the world, apart from an IMF country assessment which reported positive growth for the past four years, with 2018 having such growth at 4.1% “across all sectors”; and a projected rate of 16.3% for the period 2018-2021. Such could not have emerged out of a “doom and gloom” milieu as candidly espoused by the AG. It is such engagements that are very critical in giving clarity to government’s position of the critical issues at this time, apart from its intention of dispelling fake news and misinformation that are pervasive in many quarters of this country. Even though the ‘Coalition’ government has been confronted by the challenges of a dubious NCM, it has not abandoned or given up, or withdrawn from its stewardship of a country; giving leadership, and above all, engaging with all concerned for a better understanding of the way forward. Such is the government of President David Arthur Granger.

path of uniting the nation, the PPP continues to play the politics of the past, attempting to turn Indo-Guyanese, Afro-Guyanese, Indigenous, Mixed Race and all others against one another. It is a cynical tactic that will only weaken us as a country. This is while they get rich on the mistrust and the disunity of the people. The fact is that the PPP failed to deliver for all Guyanese in respect to stability and economic progress. There are countless examples where infrastructure crumbled, education system collapsed, and crime spiraled out of control are just a few testimonies of the previous administration. The ‘Troubles’ or ‘Dark Hour’ Guyana has had its past – some very difficult years of racial disturbances. 1964 is marked as a year when this country went through some very sad times, which most people who lived through that period will never hope to ever be repeated in their life time. Guyana was divided along racial lines and none felt safe, no one could have been comfortable. ‘A type’ of that 1964 situation again raised its ugly head in the more recent past, one which President David Granger refers to as the “Troubles” and also the “darkest hour.” This period was under Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s presidency – 1999 to 2011. The ‘troubles’ spanned the period 2003 – 2010. It engendered fear, confusion, weeping and wailing, massacres, blood flowing in the streets and also in some homes. It was too much for many to handle – a miserable time! It was a time when more than 400 Afro-Guyanese sons, brothers and husbands were gunned down. Extra-judicial killings were the order of the day. Guyana cannot afford to have such experiences repeated. Therefore the coalition, being a government for all the people has started off with systems in place to help bring about healing, reparation and the opening of a new chapter in people’s lives. An educated people are well able to understand, appreciate and act in of what is best for them.

Country over partisanship

Dear Editor,

AM interested to know what drives our current crop of political leaders (from both major parties) when they make decisions on how their party will approach a national issue. Do they think of Guyana first? Or is it party over everything? According to a recent article, Mr. Joseph Harmon stated that President Granger and his Cabinet would not be resigning after being requested to do so in writing by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo. We are witnessing a battle of two clauses of our Constitution. Article 106 (6) states that the Cabinet and President of a sitting government must resign if defeated by a vote of No Confidence. This is Mr. Jagdeo’s main weapon, and it is a good one, since it is very clear. The government is, however, using the next clause, Article 106 (7) which states: “Notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office to hold an election within three months,” or for a longer period, supported by two-thirds of the national assembly. Three months from the vote of No-Confidence would have been on March 18, 2019. Then we had the CCJ Appeal, which pushed the timeline out to June 18, 2019. Therefore, elections should be held by September 18, Regards, 2018, three months after the CCJ Mark Da Costa. ruling. This does not look like a

reality, given that GECOM is still in preparation mode. Since Parliament has not met, there has been no official approval to extend the date for holding General Elections. The APNU government seems to dismiss the word ‘interim’, and interpret it as implying that the sitting government would still be in charge. Alluding to this, Harmon also added that the Government “will attend to matters which are considered urgent, and in the public’s interest.” I wonder what could be more urgent and in the public’s interest than national stability? While the government continues to run out the clock, and the PPP continues to protest and ‘rev up’ their base, we are starting to head into ‘silly season’. This time around, with so much at stake, given our incumbent oil revenue, it could be extra silly if our leaders do not put country over party. I am hoping to see the APNU government follow the Constitution and stay within the timeframe set to resign and hold elections, and also for the Opposition PPP to avoid riling up their base to oppose everything the government tries to do. If you cannot come together and do this for our country, then it is time for both sides to step aside and let new blood guide our nation forward. Regards, Shazaam Ally

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

No…in Haitian involvement 67 TIP cases reported for the year … majority are Venezuelans

DURING the first three months of 2019, local police questioned sixty-seven victims of Trafficking in Persons (TIP), the highest number being Venezuelans with a high concentration of the alleged victims being

from the Demerara-Mahaica Region. According to a report from the Ministerial Task Force on Trafficking in Persons, while there are Guyanese and nationals of the Dominican Republic included in

the reported cases, none were Haitians and the task force said it received no reports of the French-speaking nationals being trafficked. In a statement issued by the task force on Friday, the body said that from Janu-

ary-March, 2019, local police conducted a number of operations resulting in the investigations of the 67 alleged cases. It said that 53 of the alleged victims were Venezuelans, 10 Guyanese and four were from the Dominican Republic. The task force said that with the non- nationals, Venezuelans, accounted for the majority of alleged victims in Guyana for 2018 and the early parts of 2019. “The task force would also like to note that Region Four was the main area where trafficking humans was frequently perpetrated. This is the region which saw the highest incidence of alleged exploitation of Venezuelan Nationals and other foreigners,” the body said. The task force said it wishes the general public to be aware of the purported risk of a resultant spike in the incidence of TIP here as a result of an increased influx of foreigners, be they Haitian, Cubans, Americans, Canadians or other non-nationals. While giving a comparative analysis on the matter, the task force reminded that in 2018, the reported number of alleged victims of trafficking in persons’ occurrences in Guyana was 245. Of this total, 21 were from Guyana, 162 were from Venezuela, 10 from the Dominican Republic and 49 from Cuba. The remaining alleged victims were from Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and Brazil. The body said that, in collaboration with the Guyana Police Forces’ Central Immigration and Passport Office, it has conducted a number of trainings in victim identification and referral with immigration officers, who manage and operate at various ports of entry and

other locations in Guyana. “It is important to note that the Government of Guyana is committed to ensuring, Venezuelans, Haitians, Cubans and other non- nationals utilising various portsof-entry, will, upon entry, continue to be treated with the respect afforded to citizens and other visitors in accordance with our laws,” the task force said. It added that there will not be any

tolerance for attempts to perpetrate the “dreadful crime.” The body called on persons with information to communicate reports of alleged activities related to trafficking or suspected trafficking to task force members so that the perpetrators can be dealt with. The government has been making efforts to combat the instances of human trafficking here. The efforts of the APNU+AFC administration to increase funding for TIP victims, as well as its ability to identify and assist more victims for the third consecutive year, are among the reasons the State Department of the United States cited Guyana for demonstrating “serious and sustained efforts” in combating the issue. The State Department of the United States in its 2019 report which was released in June this year pointed out that the Government of Guyana fully meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking in persons. “The government contin-

ued to demonstrate serious and sustained efforts during the reporting period; therefore Guyana remained on Tier One,” the report stated. According to the report, the APNU+AFC government maintained law enforcement efforts during the reporting period and to this end, the report reminded that Combating Trafficking of Persons Act of 2005 criminalised sex trafficking and labor trafficking and prescribed penalties of three years to life imprisonment. In terms of the prevention of trafficking, the report said that government increased its efforts in this regard. As economic fortunes in neighbouring Venezuela hit rock bottom, large numbers of migrants from that country continue to cross over the border into Guyana seeking greener pastures. According to the 2019 TIP report, the Government of Guyana here acknowledged a large increase in the number of trafficking victims from Venezuela. It said that traffickers exploit victims in forced labor in the mining, agriculture, and forestry sectors, as well as in domestic service at shops. While both sex trafficking and forced labor occur in interior mining communities, limited government presence in the country’s interior renders the full extent of trafficking unknown, the report said. Recent articles in sections of the private media have suggested that Haitians are being trafficked here. However, government, through the Department of Citizenship of the Ministry of the Presidency, have refuted such reports, deeming them inaccurate.

Bartica man on trial for dangerous driving SIXTY-YEAR-old Lennox Fredericks appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Providence Magistrates’ Court charged with dangerous driving. Fredericks pleaded not guilty to the offence. The court was told that Fredericks drove his motor vehicle, PKK 4047, along

the Coverden Public Road, East Bank Demerara, in a manner that endangered the lives of pedestrians, two of whom his car ‘struck down’. Fredericks who hails from Bartica was released on self- bail and will appear on September 17 at the Providence Magistrates’ Court for trial.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

PNC/R hammers PPP’s Gunraj for distasteful remarks

THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R) has labelled as “disrespectful” comments made by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Commissioner of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Sase Gunraj, following a meeting between GECOM and President David Granger at the Ministry of the Presidency on Thursday. The meeting was held to address the topic of General and Regional Elections, and was the first meeting between the government and Elections Commission since Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh took office as GECOM Chairperson on July 29, 2019. After exiting the meeting Gunraj reportedly called the gathering a “colossal waste of time”. “The People’s National Congress Reform condemns outright the attitude and approach by Sase Gunraj, PPP-appointed Commissioner of Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), following the meeting between President David Granger and GECOM [on Thursday],” a statement from the political party said. The statement further upbraided Gunraj for lacking appreciation and decency, noting that: “It is disrespectful as a person who holds constitutional office. Clearly Mr. Gunraj lacks the appreciation of decency and fails to recognise that President Granger was showing goodwill and ability to be consultative. It is rather unfortunate that the PPP Commissioner

cannot relate to those noble values.” Aside from Justice Singh and Gunraj attending the meeting, from GECOM, were other Commissioners: Vincent Alexander, Charles Corbin, Desmond Trotman, Robeson Benn and Bibi Shadick; and the Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield. The Head of State was accompanied by Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo; Minister of Public Security and Vice-President, Khemraj Ramjattan; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, SC; Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams; Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally; Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman and Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon. Prime Minister Nagamootoo has also since registered his displeasure with the statements made by Gunraj, calling him “rude and disrespectful to the executive”. “Even if it was the first formal meeting between His Excellency, President David Granger and the new Chairman, Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh, it was indecent of the opposition-appointed commissioner to consider such a meeting ‘a waste of time’ as Gunraj is reported to have said,” said Prime Minister Nagamootoo. “President Granger exercised his prerogative to have consultation with the new GECOM Chairman and

the commissioners, and I cannot see how the consultative process can be a deemed ‘a waste of time’. If the President hadn’t done so they would sing a different tune that he had ignored GECOM. That meeting with the new chairman shows that the President is paying due respect for the independent authority of the commission. This meeting provided an opportunity for the commission to advise the president if they were in a position to do so.” In Thursday’s meeting, the President assured the

PPP GECOM Commissioner, Sase Gunraj

ible, free and fair elections. GECOM has already been allocated close to $8B. As part

$5.546B – this sum, however, was supplemented with an additional $3.482B in May, 2019 after the commission indicated to the President that it lacked the financial resources to facilitate early elections. The chairman assured the President and his government that she will communicate the Elections Commission’s position after meeting with the full commission on Thursday August 15, 2019. The meeting of the full commission will take place one day after Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire

President David Granger in discussion with the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh; GECOM’s Commissioners and the Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield. The President was accompanied by Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo; Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, among other ministers and government officials

commission that government will provide all resources necessary to facilitate cred-

of the National Budget for 2019, GECOM was allocated

is expected to deliver her ruling in the High Court on the constitutionality of the

house-to-house registration embarked on by the Elections Commission. The opposition, through Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram, has challenged the legality of the national registration exercise, and has asked the court to compel GECOM to conduct elections within three months from June 18, 2019 – the day that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) validated the no-confidence motion against the government. Ultimately, they want elections to be held before September 18, 2019. However, Attorney General, Basil Williams, has informed the High Court that in delivering the landmark ruling and its subsequent consequential orders, the CCJ made it clear that it is not within its remit to issue coercive orders and detailed directives instructing the Elections Commission or the government to act. Guyana’s final appellate court, he argued, has made it clear that only the President, the National Assembly and implicitly GECOM, can set timelines and dates for elections. Added to that, he alluded to the fact that the Elections Commission has indicated that it is no position to facilitate elections by September 18, and has since (July 20) embarked on house-to-house registration in its quest to generate a credible list of electors.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

Cabinet will continue until elections are held – Ramjattan GOVERNMENT will remain in office and Cabinet meetings will continue until elections are held and the opposition’s People Progressive Party (PPP) can offer its views but the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has already ruled. This is according to Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan during an interview on Friday on INSIGHT a radio programme hosted on VOG 102.5FM where he discussed various topics. According to the PPP in a press statement “the APNU+AFC Coalition Government is currently illegal and Cabinet should have already resigned, consistent with Article 106 (6) of the Constitution and the recent ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). How then, is Cabinet meeting and making decisions?” However, Minister Ramjattan said Cabinet meetings will continue until elections are held. “I think the Attorney General has made every attempt to clarify it but it seems to have been in the mind of the opposition supporters that this is what is to be done,” Ramjattan noted. Quoting the constitution of Guyana, Minister Ramjattan stated “Article 106

Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan

(6) states that the Cabinet including the President shall resign if the government is defeated in a no-confidence motion, but the 106 (7) goes on to say, notwithstanding its defeat, a government shall remain in office until the holding of elections within three months or such longer periods as the National Assembly by a two-thirds majority shall vote on.” He explained that the CCJ ruling on the consequential orders makes this point, “in mandating that the government remains in office, notwithstanding its defeat and the resignation of the President and the Cabinet,

Article 106 envisages that the tenure in office of the cabinet including the President after the governments defeat is on a different footing from that which existed prior to the vote of no-confidence.” In offering an interpretation, Ramjattan said the President and Cabinet remains enacted but they are all on a different footing, which is on an interim or a caretaker status. In such a status, Ramjattan said that Cabinet is still held and the President continues in his capacity until elections. “We still have to run the country, not Bharrat Jagdeo and Irfaan Ali will run the country, who then will run the country if we have to completely resign, but who does President Granger tender his resignation to, and the article written in the term as it was stating, that you shall resign until such time that the next President is sworn in,” Ramjattan noted. He continued: “So the President is intact, Cabinet is intact, and the CCJ made it quite clear, but the intactness is under a new footing and status.” The public security minister explained that if there is a national emergency or a sea defence breach Cabinet must meet and decide on the

Jagdeo secretly telling

supporters to register ... Min. Ramjattan LEADER of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, is publicly saying that persons should not register in the house-to-house registration process but is secretly telling his supporters to get registered. This is according to Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, during an interview on Friday on INSIGHT a radio programme on VOG 102.5FM where he discussed various topics. The public security minister said registration of all Guyanese is mandatory and it is also desirable on the part of government and citizens since, if persons are not

Opposition leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

registered they cannot vote, which means persons will disenfranchise themselves. “As leader of the AFC we would want the house-tohouse registration to continue and as a senior member in the

government of APNU/AFC, everybody should vote… You will get your voting rights, a new ID card to the extent that so many things can be done with an ID card,” Ramjattan said. Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, says he is “reasonably confident” of securing an injunction against Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield to stop the house-to-house registration exercise. Jagdeo had said he will also push for the new Chair of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to stop the house-to-house registration as the PPP considers its legal options.

way forward and the amount to spend. “There is a doctrine in law that states that government must not be in a vacuum, you cannot have a void in governance and what it means then is that the President and Cabinet must be in existence,” he said. Meanwhile, Ramjattan said that Parliament

has not been dissolved or prorogued and as such Parliament can still be convened. He said that the next sitting of Parliament can be to seek a two-thirds majority support the extension of the life of the government. However, the PPP has repeatedly stated that it would not lend its

32 seats for the extension of the life of the governing APNU+AFC coalition because elections ought to have been held by March 21. A number of court challenges had been mounted all the way up to the Trinidad-headquartered regional appeal court.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

Claims of mismanagement at public service credit union to be investigated – GPSU - even as the union’s IMC maintains that there is no malpractice By Jared Liddell PRESIDENT David Granger has reportedly committed to launch an investigation into complaints of abuse and mismanagement lodged by the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) against the Guyana Public Service Co-operative

Credit Union (GPSCCU) Interim Management Committee (IMC). The matter has been referred to the Department of Public Service. GPSU was informed of this development in a letter dated Tuesday August 6, 2019. The Public Service Union, in a letter addressed to the President on July 17,

2019 had asked that an investigation be launched into the operations of the credit union under the management of the interim committee chaired by Trevor Benn. The Public Service Union has accused the IMC of making large unauthorised expenditure on the basis that it failed to meet the guidelines GPSCCU IMC Chairman Trevor Benn

that govern the allocation of monies for contracts. Though the letter from

dance, took the opportunity to voice their concerns. Two members of the credit union complained that they have been unable to withdraw monies from their GPSCCU accounts although they had savings of over $100,000. One of the members, however, explained that the issue of not being able to withdraw her funds is now two years old. NO MISMANAGEMENT HERE But GPSCCU IMC Chairman said since the

President Guyana Public Service Union Patrick Yarde (Samuel Maughn photo)

committee, in its 10-year

Members in attendance at the meeting at the GPSU (Samuel Maughn photo)

President Granger was not released to the members of the Credit Union during a meeting at GPSU Headquarters on Thursday, GPSU Administrative Officer, Vera Naughton, read excerpts of it. “I have noted your complaint about the alleged abuse of public servants saving at the Guyana Cooperative Credit Union. I have noted also, your claim that the discrepancies started after the installation of the interim management committee. Your claim that the committee has been making decisions and awarding contracts without proper justification is also noted. I shall have this now investigated,” Naughton said as she read excerpts of the letter. The President, according to GPSU, has referred the matter to the Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley. Minister Sarabo-Halley is expected to issue a response to the Public Service Union. During the meeting, GPSU President, Patrick Yarde, said the Public Service Union is satisfied with President Granger’s response. Members, in atten-

IMC took office, it has commenced the payment of the audit and supervision fees, and has made significant systemic changes that have benefitted both the members and staff of the GPSCCU. Additionally, Benn refuted allegations of mismanagement of the credit union’s funds and proceeded to explain the necessity for the changes that were made. In an interview on Wednesday, Trevor Benn was adamant that action taken by the IMC was in the interest of facilitating positive change in the overall performance of the GPSCCU. One major change, he explained, was the audit, which the previous management committee had neglected to do for some years. The IMC has started conducting retroactive audits and intends to complete same to date. Benn stated that the staff now benefit from an updated labour agreement with the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU); he explained that this was new for the staff of the GPSCCU as the previous management

reign had neglected to ensure that its staff was governed by a labour agreement. What baffles him, he said, was the fact that some of the previous management committee members served in a labour union and still made no effort to ensure that their staff members were covered by a labour agreement. The IMC has also made provision for there to be an overhaul in the way the employees are remunerated and asserted that it was clear that the staff were not being adequately remunerated. Since the IMC acceded to office, it has employed a human resource specialist who worked to review the payment system, and salaries have been adjusted according to the recommendations. The IMC, Benn disclosed, has not just focused its efforts on correcting structural shortcomings, but they have also sought to ensure that the building used to house the GPSCCU has undergone some remodelling and modernisation. Benn stated that members had TURN TO PAGE 14 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

First Lady urges children at bereavement camp to accept support to overcome loss FIRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger, on Friday morning, reassured 60 children ages four to 16, who participated in a five-day bereavement camp, that despite their losses and challenges, with the relevant support, they can overcome them and still accomplish their dreams. The First Lady made these statements at the closing ceremony of the camp, which was hosted by the Giving Hope Foundation under the theme “Miracles

begin with me; I can achieve my dreams”. Granger told the children that although they may have suffered a traumatic loss or event, they can access the support that they need to help them to cope with their grief and take the steps needed to lead productive lives. “I want you to believe in yourselves as little miracles that will grow into large successes…I think you have learnt some coping mechanisms over this week and I think you will go back home

a bit stronger because you have learnt how to deal up to a point, with the things you have to face… I want you to be assured that somebody is there to lean on…there are always people who are there to assist,” Mrs. Granger said. Meanwhile, referencing the theme in his remarks, PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow, encouraged the children to ‘think big’. “Don’t let negative thinking discourage you, dream of possibilities for yourself… if you work hard

30 students exposed to STEM training through Math camp

Participants of this year’s Queen’s College Summer Math Institute (QCSMI) at the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) [Lictor Live/Nathan Chinapen photo]

THIRTY young students from five secondary schools across Georgetown were exposed to two weeks of practical training in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), as part of the Queen’s College Summer Math Institute (QCSMI). This year’s ‘Math camp’ was held from July 29 to August 9, at Queen's College. The camp, which is now in its fourth edition, aims to cultivate an understanding and appreciation for the subject area for young students in third and fourth forms. These students hailed from Queen’s College, Bishops’ High School, St. Roses High School, St. Joseph’s and Saint Stanislaus College. “We introduced them to Mathematics as a theory, to think critically, as opposed to them trying to solve problems,” facilitator and Mathematician, Dr. Cleveland Waddell said. The students were exposed to the subject through mathematical theories, while also engaging with professionals in the field of STEM. As such, Dr. Waddell further noted: “We wanted to expose

them to STEM within Guyana… so that they can realise that a lot of great things are happening at home.” He explained that subsequent to the camp, it is hoped that the teenagers would con-

This Math camp was initiated in 2016 by Queen’s College alumnus and member of the Queen’s College of Guyana Alumni Association New York Chapter (QCAANY), Dr. Terrence Blackman, aim-

Participants of this year’s Queen’s College Summer Math Institute (QCSMI)

tinue engaging STEM as they further their studies and as they progress into their professional lives. Additionally, he opined that with a greater crop of talent developed, Guyana – as a society – would then have to adapt and provide opportunities for young people to use their skills.

ing to place young, inquisitive minds on the career pathway of STEM. And over the course of the past two weeks, this year’s camp aimed to achieve just this. Member of the QCAANY and Co-coordinator of the TURN TO PAGE 14 ►

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger

enough, it is possible and it can be achieved,” he said. Additionally, in her remarks, President of the foundation,

Ms. Luan Gooding said over the five days, the children were taught coping mechanisms, arts and craft and had

one-on-one counselling sessions, among other activities. The camp was a collaboration among the foundation, the Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of the Presidency, Department of Social Cohesion and Muneshwers Limited. Representatives from these groups: Dr. Fiona Perry, Technical Officer, Ms. Pamela Nauth and Public Relations Officer, Ms. Kassandra Samaroo, also attended the ceremony. The ceremony was hosted at Camp Madewini, Timehri.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

LJP’s challenge to house-to-house registration adjourned to August 13 THE legal proceeding filed by the Liberty and Justice Party Leader, Lenox Shuman challenging the validity of the order to conduct house-to-house registration issued by former Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson, commenced on Friday, August 09, 2019. On Friday the matter came up before Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire at the Demerara High Court. Representing Shuman was attorney-at-law Attorney Sanjeev Datadin, while the State was represented by Attorney General Basil Williams, Solicitor General, Nigel Hawke and Attorney-at-Law Roysdale Forde. The matter was adjourned until August 13, 2019, for submissions. The Chief Justice remind-

ed the parties not to base their submission on the similar matter which was before her on the legal challenge against House-to-House Registration and related cases. Shuman is of the view that the appointment of the GECOM Chairman having been found to be void by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), effectively made ‘void’ any order made under his hands. The Party Leader moved to the court and filed an application for an order of certiorari quashing the decision of the then chairman of GECOM made on June 11, 2019, for house-to-house registration. The court was being asked to find the decision unlawful, null, void, irrational, unreasonable, ultra vires, contrary to the rules of natural justice, made in bad faith and made without

Former Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson

Liberty and Justice Party Leader, Lenox Shuman and his attorney Sanjeev Datadin

lawful authority. On October 19, 2017, Justice James Patterson was unilaterally appointed to the Chairman of GECOM. However, following his appointment, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Executive

Secretary, Zulfikar Mustapha, filed legal proceedings contending that Patterson’s appointment was illegal. The challenge by Mustapha was eventually heard by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and determined on July 18, 2019, with consequential orders made on July 12, 2019. The CCJ declared the unilateral appointment of Patterson to be void and it was whilst the appeal was pending to the superior court, the GECOM chairman purported to make and publish the National Registration (Residents) order 2019 (NRRO 2019) The NRRO 2019, had the effect of directing that house-to-house registration takes place for the purpose of identifying qualified electors to produce an Official List of Electors.

30 students exposed ... Queen’s College Summer Institute, Shifiera Surujballi highlighted that the students seemed very interested in the content that was being taught. She said that throughout the camp these children were asking questions, which was indicative of how interested they are in learning. “We have such really bright students, they’re such bulbs,” she said. The woman also related that as part of the camp, the students were taken to trips to the Hydrometeorological Service at Timehri, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards, and Demerara Distillers Limited. These field trips are intended to

demonstrate the use of mathematical principles in real-world scenarios. One participant, Destiny Simon from the St. Rose's High school, reflected: “This Maths camp was a great journey.... as it turned out to be that it was not Maths all the time, [instead] Incorporated various subject areas.” The young girl affirmed that the training she received over the two weeks even helped her learn more about herself and what she wanted to become, which, would be in STEM. And for her, this “journey” is one which she hopes that more students would be able

Claims of mismanagement at ... complained about the deplorable state of the GPSU headquarters and the fact that the condition of the building would deter them from actually going to the building when they would have need to. The Chairman of the IMC explained that this was not the only change the IMC had made to benefit the members, but that it has ensured accessibility throughout the country in the form of temporary credit union outreaches, so as to ensure that the union’s out-of-town members have access to its services, without having to travel long distances. He further stated that the IMC is moving to make permanent outposts within the various areas such as

Linden, Berbice and Essequibo, to ensure its members have easy access. In addition, the GPSCCU has increased the number of members’ children who receive bursaries. This year close to 100 bursaries were distributed. The IMC chairman also disclosed that when it comes to providing training opportunities, it is moving in the direction of facilitating change within the staff to ensure that they are best equipped to serve in their official capacities. Benn explained that this was a welcome change in the internal body of the company, since the previous management committee had not afforded its staff opportunities to participate in such initiatives

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to experience. Another participant, Bhedesh Persaud of Queen's College also noted that he wanted other students to participate in this camp, and that it should be held during other times of the year – not just during the summer. The math camp was organised by the Queen’s College of Guyana Alumni Association (NY), Inc. (QCAANY), and was sponsored by Mid Atlantic Oil and Gas, Guyana Logistics & Support Services Inc., and Banks D.I.H.

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“We just sent six staff members to the World Assembly in The Bahamas, and at least three of them have never travelled with the credit union before; one of them has 24 years of service, another one has 19 years of service and the third one has five, and if you look at the attendance history you would see that the committee members went every year,” Benn revealed. Finally, Benn stated that the IMC is working feverishly to organise the next AGM which will have the power to grant permission to specific projects to take effect and also to facilitate the election of a new management committee.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

80 benefit from self-development, life skills training EIGHTY youths from Region Four are now certified after completing training in a self-development and life skills programme. With these new achievements, they are better prepared to adjust to any environment. This year’s three-week programme was hosted by the Junior Chamber International (JCI), aimed at empowering young minds for business and innovation and was facilitated under the theme “be better”. On Wednesday, at Banks DIH Headquarters, Thirst Park, training manager of the beverage company, Sonya Forrester, congratulated the 2019 summer programme graduates. Forrester disclosed that the project objectives sought to engage, empower and inspire children to reach their full potential.

Throughout the exercise, participants were given support from the facilitators to make this possible. “Believing in the possibility of our children is something that is highly promoted and encouraged, especially as parents. The

success of the initiative is largely accredited to the passion and willingness of the organisers and parents who sent their children daily,” Forrester noted. JCI is a non-profit organisation of young active citizens, who are engaged

A summer camp participant receiving her certificate (DPI photo)

and committed to creating a positive impact in their communities. President of A view of the hand-crafted items by children who participated in the Summer Camp 2019 (DPI photo)

PSC lauds President’s assurances on elections

PSC Chairman, Capt. Gerry Gouveia

THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) says it is satisfied with President David Granger’s assurances of the APNU+AFC government’s support for the independence of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) regarding the holding of general elections. The PSC also noted that it was heartened at the appointment of Justice Claudette Singh to the post of Chairperson of GECOM and says that it looks forward to the body undertaking its functions as required by the Constitution and in accordance with the judgment rendered by the Caribbean Court of Justice on June 18, 2019 regarding the holding

of elections. The PSC, which is headed by Captain Gerry Gouveia, a former candidate on the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo’s list of candidates for the top GECOM post, explained in detail, its position on the issue of elections as it maintains that it opposes the ongoing houseto-house registration. Like the opposition, the PSC maintains that general elections should be held by September 18, 2019 and it pointed to its interpretation of Article 106 (6) of the constitution on the issue. The PSC made reference to Justice Singh’s 2001 ruling , when in her capacity as a High Court Justice, she

was required to rule on the 2001 elections and the status of the then PPP/C government and the caretaker role it played at the time following her ruling that the elections were null and void. The PSC listed the limitations under which the PPP/C was expected to operate following the ruling of Justice Singh. “We wish to repeat that it is very much the business of Guyana’s business community to engage the national political process to ensure electoral democracy and democratic governance,” the PSC said. It said political actors should understand the atmosphere under which businesses can operate as it noted its democratic right to partake in the political processes. In January 2001, Justice Singh gave her 77-page judgment on the contentious 1997 elections and made further oral orders on the January 26, 2001. Justice Singh ‘vitiated’ the 1997 General and Regional Elections and the country was plunged into uncharted constitutional waters. Despite the ruling of the court, Jagdeo, who was President at the time, declared that that it was business as usual.

the Junior Chamber International (JCI), Regina Cornette-Bunbury, disclosed

that the organisation comprises citizens from all sectors of society. It helps to develop skills, knowledge and understanding to inform better decisions-making. JCI Guyana focusses on several areas of opportunities such as individual, community and international development and business programmes. Parents and well-wishers, who all gathered at the ceremony, were amazed at the various hand-crafted items which were completed by the children during their three weeks of training. At the end of the ceremony, the audience was entertained by dances, songs and other cultural items. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

Over 40 rogue cops dismissed …Min. Ramjattan talks up higher level of professionalism in Police Force According to GPF sta- sector needs more resources tistics, Ramjattan said in in order to do their work 2012 serious crimes reports properly. stood at 3,760; in 2013 it Meanwhile, he said the was 4,204; in 2016 it was GPF now benefits from DNA 3,330 and in 2018 it was and residue testing being reduced to 2,681 reports. done at the Forensic LabFurther, he said: “Because what has happened over the oratory, “for 23 years this past four years, we have could not have been done under the opposition, within taken out rogue cops. Unprofessionalism is not People seem not to want tolerated in the Police Force, every complaint to believe crime is on must be investigated and the decrease because if there is merit, charges it is in the newspapers are laid departmentally and news everyday with or criminally through the robberies and murders, advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions or but the reliable statistics Police Legal adviser.” have shown that crime is Minister Ramjattan on the decline' said professionalism is growing in the GPF while –– Khemraj Ramjattan noting that the security

OVER 40 rogue and unprofessional policemen were charged and their services terminated within the last four years while the Guyana Police Force (GPF) statistics indicates that crime has decreased. This is the perspective shared by Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, when he appeared on the radio programme INSIGHT hosted on VOG 102.5FM. “People seem not to want to believe crime is on the decrease because it is in the newspapers and news everyday with robberies and murders, but the reliable statistics have shown that crime is on the decline,” the public security minister said while noting that from 2009 to 2018 crime has declined.

Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan

the past three years we have managed to get a DNA lab and so many other problems I dealt with, but now we have reached international standards.”

The public security minister said that now policemen are more comfortable with the rehabilitation and construction of several police stations countrywide. Further, Minister Ramjattan said a pilot project on two police stations will soon see the transition of paper-based reporting to a digital format where real-time data on incidents reported can produce more standardised and accurate crime data. He said the Police Records Management Information System (PRMIS) was materialised through collaborations between the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). “This will eventually go

to all the other police stations, once the pilot projects show us the difficulties at the police stations so we could correct it,” he said. Further, he said there is now enhanced security in the city with 104 mounted poles with four cameras each attached recording activities that will be monitored through a command centre. Minister Ramjattan said the system is crucial as he highlighted that statistics show that 53 per cent of serious crimes occurs in the city hence the decision to launch the pilot project in Georgetown. He explained that the CCTV cameras will aid in crime reduction since the capacities of the system is great in addition to upgrading the 911 systems.

Nine selected to represent Guyana at Robotics Competition in Dubai

The team that will be representing Guyana at the First Global Robotics competition which will be held in Dubai in October of this year

NINE young Guyanese will be representing Guyana at the First Global International Robotics Competition, which will be held in Dubai in October. The Guyanese contingent consists of: Maryam Bacchus, Michael Sampson, Ghwan Lynch, Ashley Adams, Dominic Budhan, Christopher Nelson, Stephanie Simon, Shawn Singh and Arianne Mahase. Mahase and Singh have been at the forefront of STEMGuyana activities since the body's conception in 2017. They were also part of the original contingent that represented Guyana at the First Global Robotics Olympics in Washington D.C. in 2017, and will be looking to lend the

expertise they have gathered over the years to the team this year. Guyana participated in this challenge in 2017 and 2018 and performed well. In fact, in 2017, the team was ranked first at the end of the first day and placed 10th overall at the end of the competition held in Washington, DC. Team Guyana, along with the other teams, worked to devise solutions, through the use of robotics, for issues facing the world. In 2017, the challenge focused on access to clean water, and in 2018, the focus was on sustainable energy-saving techniques. According to founder of FIRST Global, Dean Kamen, the competition aims to pro-

vide an opportunity for young people who are keen on creating a positive impact in the world through Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). To facilitate Team Guyana's journey to Dubai for the competition, the government of Dubai has agreed to fund the travel expenses of the Guyanese contingent. Guyana will be joining over 2,000 youth participants representing 193 countries. The organisation, however, said that the team still needs to raise funds to purchase the competition robot and pay for accommodation, food and other expenses.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

Indigenous language disappearing rapidly – Minister Garrido-Lowe - Indigenous Heritage Month activities underway THE United Nations estimates that every two weeks an indigenous language disappears; this worrying trend puts the respective indigenous cultures and knowledge systems at great risk. This was disclosed by Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, during the Media Launch for Indigenous Heritage Month Activities 2019 on Wednesday at Indigenous Village, Sophia Exhibition Site. Under the theme “Maintaining our traditional practices while promoting a green economy” Minister Garrido-Lowe said August 9 coincides with celebrations around the world for International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. She said that the date marked the inaugural session of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations at the United Nations in 1982.

The Junior Minister said this year’s activities will be celebrated internationally under the theme “Indigenous Languages” and will focus on the current situation of indigenous languages around the world within the framework of the 2019 International Year of Indigenous Languages. The Minister noted that the aim was to revitalize, preserve and promote indigenous languages. She added that the Ministry, through the Secretariat, has successfully hosted evenings of Beyuka Erikida (Arawak which means musical gathering) at the Indigenous Village, Sophia. During that event, she explained that persons are given an opportunity to share their talent through singing, dancing, storytelling and poems in Arawak, Carib, Warrau, Patamona, Akawio, Macushi, Wapichan, Wai wai or Arekuna. She explained that per-

sons also recite poems or tell stories about the Indigenous ways, hinterland life, the environment along with myths and legends. “The Ministry will continue other initiatives that will ensure indigenous languages are preserved,” the Minister said. She said one of the activities planned is the launching of a Patamona dictionary and a compilation of an Arekuna alphabet. “There will also be a composition of teachings of modules for Arawak, Carib and Warrau languages, storytelling and musical festival, tourist handbooks and academic debates on institutionalization of indigenous languages,” Minister Garrido-Lowe. Meanwhile, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock said the celebrations will allow persons to interact with the indigenous community and its history. “We need to carve and

Maley' remanded until September 6 THIRTY-SIX-year-old Marlon Bradley known as “Maley”, who is a suspect in the murder of Reginald ‘Reggie’ Atherly popularly known as “Diesel Boss”, was on Friday, August 09, 2019, charged for the possession of a gun and ammunition. Bradley, who is wanted for the murder of Atherly, who owned and operated a mechanic shop at his Guyhoc Park house, East La Penitence, Georgetown, appeared before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded not guilty to the two charges. Particulars of the first charge alleged that, on August 4, 2019, at Cornhill Street, Georgetown, he had in his possession a .32 Taurus pistol without being the holder of a firearm license. The second charge stated that, on the same day and place, he had eight live .32

rounds of ammunition, for which he was not the holder of a license. Attorney-at-law Dexter Todd, who represented Bradley, told the court that his client was wrongfully shot by the police and he was never found with any gun and ammunition. Todd also told the court that, when his client was at the Brickdam Police Station, he was not taken to the hospital for his gunshot wound to be treated, instead, he was given some methylated spirit to pour into the wound which caused it ‘to turn out more’. Police prosecutor denied bail and told the court that Bradley was a suspect in the murder of Atherly. Magistrate Leron Daly denied Bradley bail and remanded him to prison until September 6, 2019. According to a police release, on August 4, 2019, a group of policemen were on

patrol at the Stabroek Market Square when they saw Bradley walking on Cornhill Street towards a route 32 minibus. As a result, a detective corporal approached the suspect in an effort to arrest him when he whipped out a handgun from his crotch and pointed it in the constable’s direction. The police constable then drew his service pistol and discharged a round in Bradley’s direction. He fell to the ground and was apprehended. Police retrieved a .32 Taurus pistol with eight live .32 rounds of ammunition. The murder suspect was picked up and escorted to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted and later discharged as the investigation into Atherly’s murder is currently on-going.

(From Left) Ovid Williams, who submitted the theme that was chosen for Indigenous Heritage Month, with Minister Sydney Allicock and Minister Valerie Garrido-Lowe during the unveiling of the theme.

create our own style, our own identity which is blended in the Guyanese society, something that is special; we should be able to understand the value of what we have and not to give it up for anything else, we have so much knowledge and so much that is happening, but we take it for granted and we sort of leave it there and others are picking it up and running with it, and we can very well lose that value,” Minister Allicock said. Minister Allicock said the indigenous community should be encouraged to sustain its traditions and traditional knowledge to promote cultural information to a wider audience to foster a stronger sense of indigenous pride and cultural identity.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

Successful outreach by Food for the Poor HUNDREDS of residents of North Ruimveldt, Georgetown and its surrounding communities benefitted from an outreach that was carried out by Guyana’s largest charitable Non-Governmental Organization, Food for the Poor Guyana Inc. (FFP). The outreach was held

on Friday, at FFP’s office in North Ruimveldt, and saw the distribution of food and household items and clothing to persons. With the organisation placing emphasis on taking care of the elderly and persons with disabilities, provisions were made to accommodate the two groups. The outreach was in

keeping with FFP’s mission to provide relief to those who are in need. It is the vision of FFP to help the materially poor and to renew the poor in spirit. In an interview with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Food for the Poor, Kent Vincent, he said that helping residents of the area

where FFP is based, means a lot to the organisation. “It is our work to bring relief to those who are in need and today we are helping the people in the environs who are in need of help,” he added. According to the Chief, FFP receives over twenty requests for assistance by

(From left to right) Food for the Poor’s (FFP) Public Relations Manager Wayne Hamilton; Chief Executive Officer of FFP, Kent Vincent; FFP’s Public Relations Liaison, Akola Thompson, on Friday

A Resident being assisted by a member of FFP at the outreach

residents daily, and as such, the decision was made to host an outreach that will tackle a large number of persons at once. FFP aimed to target 700 persons on Friday, as mentioned by Vincent. The CEO noted that such an initiative may be held up to three times a year; however, FFP will be targeting communities in Berbice, East Bank, East Coast, “and areas that are vulnerable and in need of assistance.” He added that the organisation also receives requests

from other NGOs, groups, and churches, which it is trying to help as well. Recipient of the outreach, Shontel, said that the gesture has been a great help to her and she also expressed gratitude to the NGO for the good work that it is doing. Gloria is a fire victim that also benefitted from the outreach carried out on Friday. Shontel noted that it was her second time benefitting from the organisation which has helped her a lot.

Albouystown teen accused of burglary granted bail NINETEEN-year-old Kwesi Jordan found himself before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Providence Magistrates’ Courts on Friday. Jordan pleaded not guilty to the charge of burglary The court was told that, on Wednesday, August 7, 2019, Jordan broke into the property of Shreif Ali and stole $175, 000.00 worth of

items. Jordan, who hails from Hill Street Albouystown, told the court that it was his first time at court and he did not commit the offence. However, the police prosecutor did not object to bail and bail was granted in the sum of $80, 000. The matter has been adjourned to September 2 for trial.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

‘Girls in Tech’ launched IN an attempt to empower Guyanese girls and women who are passionate about technology, ‘Girls in Tech’ (GIT) has taken its place in the Guyanese society after launching its Guyana branch on Wednesday night, at GT Motorsports. GIT aims to accelerate the growth of innovative women entering into the high tech industry and building startups. The organisation achieves such through the creation of proprietary, innovative programming and strategic global partnership. GIT is a global non-profit

Evie Kanhai-Gurchuran GIT’s Managing Director during her remarks

Head of the Computer Science Department at the University of Guyana, Penelope DeFreitas

Merriana McPherson, Head of Cybersecurity Department, as she gave the keynote address

One section of the attendees at Wednesday night’s event

organization focused on the engagement, education and empowerment of girls and women who are passionate about technology. The organisation was founded by Adriana Gascoigne in 2007 to create a support framework to help women advance their careers in the STEM fields. GIT relies on volunteer efforts to lead chapters

like Guyana. The Guyana Chapter is led by Evie Kanhai-Gurchuran who is the Managing Director. Along with the Board of Directors, Evie hopes to not only gain support, but also explore possible collaborations and partnerships to secure the mission and success of programmes in Guyana. During her remarks, Kan-

hai-Gurchuran stated that there were 11 positions open on the organisation’s Advisory Board and she encouraged persons who are interested in technology to join the team in attempt to make a difference within society. She added that the organisation is not just for professional women, but for anyone with an interest in technol-

ogy, startups and providing women with a platform for growth. Giving the keynote address at the event was Cybersecurity Manager at National Data Management Authority, Muriana McPherson, who encouraged the attendees to be passionate, embrace change and to share their knowledge. “Anything worth accomplishing in life takes a lot of hard work so be passionate about what you do, always be

willing to embrace change, the field is dynamic and there is always going to be something new, and finally, pass on your knowledge, as you begin to help others to develop, you yourself will become developed,” McPherson stated. In a presentation, member of the Board of Directors, who is also Head of Department for the Computer Science Department at the University of Guyana, Penelope

DeFreitas, talked about programmes the organisation offers for its members. She noted that GIT offers programmes such as the following: ‘catalyst conference’ which offers attendees authentic networking opportunities and a platform to exchange ideas and connect with other inspiring women; ‘boot camps’ pertaining to technology, entrepreneurship, coding, design and professional skills and ‘global classroom’ which is an online learning platform designed to educate, empower and engage girls and women around the world. DeFreitas also noted that the organisation also offers programmes such as ‘Hacking for humanity’ which is a hack-a-thon where developers, designers, students, and educators gather to collaborate on projects including applications, data visualization and platforms solutions. She added that ‘Amplify’ is another programme that GIT bargains, “which is a must-attended startup competition for entrepreneurs, investors, engineers, and designers that explores up and coming trends in innovation, technology.” In addition, DeFreitas indicated that as of January 2019, GIT programmes have impacted a total of 230,000 women across the globe. Persons interested in the organisation can visit its website, ‘guyana.girlsintech. org’.

…Amercian Airlines forced to divert to Trinidad CJIA experiences runway light failure THE runway lighting system at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) failed on Thursday night, forcing an inbound American Airlines flight to divert to Piarco Airport in Trinidad and Tobago. The airport’s management stated, in a release, that portable lights were deployed for two international flights to operate during the light failure. The management of the airport noted, in a release on Friday, that at approximately 23:30 hours on Thursday, the Airport Runway Lighting System experienced a failure due to a slack cable connection. “This temporary cable was installed to facilitate the works currently taking place on the extended section of the north-eastern runway,” the airport’s management said. The portable runway lights were immediately deployed along the entire length of the runway and facilitated the departure of Suriname Airways at 12:12 hours. It was noted that a Caribbean Airlines flight, BW 605, arrived from Port- of- Spain, Trinidad. The American Airlines flight was diverted to Piarco , leaving many passengers clueless as to the diversion. The airline was making arrangements to transport the stranded passengers to the CJIA on Friday. The airport’s management noted that the portable lights comply with the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The main runway lighting system has since been repaired.

A view of the terminal and part of the runway at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri.

(Michael Charles photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

2019 Youth Parliament participants excited to get parliamentary experience By Gabriella Chapman MORE than 74 students from secondary and tertiary educational institutions in Guyana journeyed to the capital city – Georgetown – on Friday, to attend Youth Parliament 2019 – one of the country’s highly anticipated youth fora. Ahead of next week’s training sessions, which will prepare them to debate on the sovereign wealth fund, migration, governance and the proposed ban on single-use plastics among other topics, the students said they are excited to gain that parliamentary experience. Thirty-seven of them are secondary school students from the 10 administrative regions while the other 37 were drawn from the Uni-

Kriston Smith

versity of Guyana Tain and Turkeyen campuses. At the Public Buildings where they assembled on Friday, 15-year-old Kriston Smith, a student from Zeeburg Secondary School, told the Guyana Chronicle that

The secondary school participants of youth parliament assembled in the chambers waiting to be briefed

her participation in Youth Parliament 2019 is a realisation of her dream. “I hope to gain knowledge and wisdom and to be more open because I think

they will teach us how to be bold and brave, and I would like to be a bit more of that,” Smith told this newspaper. The aspiring lawyer pos-

ited that the experience will help to shape her career. Sixteen-year-old Ezra Gibson, in echoing similar sentiments, said he is pleased that his school – St. George’s Secondary – was given the opportunity to participate in Youth Parliament. “With the school that I go to, St. George’s, people got a lot of bad comments about our school, and to have a St. George’s student here, it’s a really good thing. I feel really good and proud to be here,” Gibson told this newspaper. The aspiring cadet officer said he is open to the parliamentary experience. “I’m not sure what I will learn pertaining to becoming a cadet officer, but at least I’m getting exposure on what happens among our leaders and maybe it can open my mind to some other area I can contribute to in Guyana,” he said. Meanwhile, Sherlyn Semple, a former youth parliamentarian, returned this year as a mentor. She told this newspaper that Youth Parliament 2017 was a life-changing experience. “I had no idea what I wanted to become. I studied arts, but I wasn’t sure as yet… However, from engaging in the debates and everything I was exposed to at youth parliament, I was able to have a clearer picture as to which area I should go into, and from then on, I went into law,” Semple explained. She added: “It’s not very often that a person from my region, Region Six, gets the opportunity to meet with youths from all parts of the country. So that opportunity provided me a means of meeting other youths that are intelligent and talented, and it also served as motivation for me because I started telling myself ‘if they can be this age, and performing at this level, then I can do the same too.’” Parliamentary Executive Officer and Coordinator of Youth Parliament, Carletta Charles said that with a competent team of young people in place, she is confident that Youth Parliament 2019 will be a success. Charles said the goal is to train the participants and to equip them with requisite skills and knowledge that

Ezra Gibson

can be used throughout their lives. “We are hoping that students will be able to express themselves on topical issues. It’s a wide platform for them to share their opinions on matters of national interest, and hopefully those opinions would influence the decisions of our lawmakers. We want them to develop their public-speaking and debating skills; there will be training to that effect too and it would be good for them to be able to interact with each other and learn from each other’s experiences and cultures because we never know where we may end up in life…,” Charles explained. Additionally, she said that they are aiming to mold leaders, who would not hesitate to take up leadership positions within their communities. Public Relations Assistant, Nadeila Allen, explained that several topics, in the form of motions, would be divided among the secondary and tertiary students. The use of sovereign wealth fund, migration policy, youth participation in governance, amendment of Article 155 1 (A) of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, will be tackled by the university students. The younger students will focus on the banning of single-use plastics, copyright law, discipline in school, and curbing substance abuse. Allen said that during the week they will partake in a series of activities including introduction, interaction and a session on the functions of parliament. Session would also be conducted on leadership, roles of members of parliament, parliamentary etiquette and decorum; parliamentary procedures and practices, introduction to motions and discussions; introduction to the mentors, drafting speeches and the art of public speaking among other topics. It was noted, that this time around, greater focus is being placed on youth mentorship. Past participants are now serving as mentors. The out-of-town students will also be taken on tours around Georgetown during the course of that time, Allen shared.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

Muslim scholar refused bail MUSLIM scholar, Nezaam Ali, who was earlier this year sentenced to 45-years imprisonment for raping a 9-year-old boy was, on Friday, August 09, 2019, refused bail, pending the hearing of his appeal.The application was made at the Demerara High Court by attorneys-at-law Latchmie Rahamat and Glen Hanoman. The attorneys in their application for bail were contending that Ali has a medical condition (which cannot be disclosed by this newspaper) and needed to see a doctor regularly. However, the Chief Justice rejected the application and reminded the attorneys that prison has medical facilities to care for Ali. On March 14, 2019, a 12-member mixed jury found Ali, age 38, also known as ‘Mufti,’ an Imam

of Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, guilty of rape and he was sentenced by Justice Navindra Singh. The charges alleged that between December 2011 and January 2012, Ali, being a teacher attached to the Turkeyen Masjid, engaged in sexual activity with the children. He was granted bail in the sum of $1.3M at the time. Ali had denied raping the victim and he also told the court that he suffered from erectile dysfunction. Justice Singh, in passing down his ruling, said that he considered the geographic of where the act was committed and that Ali took advantage of an under-privileged child. “There is nothing I can tell you that can mitigate these types of crime,” the judge said to the accused. The acts were allegedly committed while Ali was in a position of trust, being a religious teacher, and

Muslim scholar Nezaam Ali

knew, or could reasonably expect to have known, of the trust in relation to the boys. The boys had been attending Arabic and Koran classes at the time. Ali is still to be tried for eight additional counts of engaging in sexual activity with boys under the

age of 12, back in 2012. Less than two weeks after being sentenced, Ali, with the aid of his attorneys filed an appeal to set aside the verdict and sentence passed down on him. The attorneys are contending that Justice Singh failed to put Ali’s case adequately to the jury and misdirected the jury as it related to the medical evidence presented in the defence’s case. Additionally, another ground stated that, there was a possibility that bias from a member of the jury affected the impartiality of the jury, and the fairness of the trial, and the failure of a juror to disclose that he attempted to forcefully shut down the Masjid managed by Ali, shortly after his arrest.

Man remanded for stealing SENIOR Magistrate Leron Daly on Friday, August 9, 2019, remanded a man to prison for stealing. Seon Burch, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge. Particulars of the charge stated that, between August 2 and August 6, 2019, at 44 Public Road, Kitty, Georgetown, he stole a quantity of items valued at $111,000, property of National Congress of Women (NCW). Police prosecutor asked the court for Burch to be remanded to prison since he was under an investigation for a break and enter charge. Magistrate Leron Daly remanded Burch to prison and adjourned the matter for August 30, 2019.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday August 10, 2019

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

England drop Ali for Leach (BBC) - ENGLAND have dropped Moeen Ali and replaced him in the squad with slow left-armer Jack Leach for the second Ashes Test against Australia at Lord’s. Off-spinner Moeen returned match figures of 3-172 and scored only four runs in the 251-run defeat in the first Test at Edgbaston. Jofra Archer is likely to make his Test debut, with pace bowlers James Anderson and Olly Stone missing through injury. The second Test of the five-match series begins on August 14. Leach, who has played five Tests, was man-of-thematch when England beat Ireland at Lord’s in July after making 92 as a night-

Moeen Ali scored four runs in two innings at Edgbaston and finished with match figures of 3-172

watchman. Archer was named in the squad for the first Test but was left out of the team to give him more time to recover from a side strain. He took 6-27 and hit a 99-ball century for Sussex 2nd XI this week. Anderson bowled only four overs at Edgbaston after aggravating a right calf injury, while Stone will be out for two weeks with a lower back injury. England, who trail the series 1-0, have not lost a home Ashes series since 2001. Batsman Joe Denly, who made scores of 11 and 18 in the first Test, has kept his place in the 12-man squad, as have Jos Buttler and Jonny Bairstow, who scored a com-

bined 20 runs at Edgbaston. Moeen has struggled for form throughout the summer and was dropped by England in the decisive stages of their World Cup campaign. He has taken 181 wickets in 60 Tests and in the last 12 months he has taken more wickets - 48 in 10 Tests at 25.12 - than any other bowler in Test cricket. However, he has made just two half-centuries in his past 20 innings for England and has particularly struggled against Australian counterpart Nathan Lyon, who has dismissed him nine times in 11 matches. The left-hander has made four ducks in nine Test innings in 2019 for a total of

only 90 runs, 60 of which came in one innings in Antigua against West Indies. Moeen was unable to profit from a turning pitch at Edgbaston, while Lyon took 6-49 on the final day to bowl England out for 146. He has scored 476 runs at 25.05 in 11 Tests against Australia and taken 20 wickets, with a best of 3-59, at 64.65. Former Australia bowler Mitchell Johnson said on Monday that he “feels” for the all-rounder, adding: “His record against Australia isn’t that great. I can feel for him a bit but that’s part of playing professional sport.” Leach has taken 20 wickets in five Tests for England since making his debut against New Zealand in 2018.

More than 60 youngsters complete Malteenoes SC Cricket Academy OVER 60 youngsters completed the Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) Cricket Academy yesterday after two weeks of

learning the fundamentals of cricket, both on and off the field. The Academy, which began on July 29, aimed at nurturing and fostering the development of aspiring cricketers. It also focussed on realising the numerous opportunities the sport can offer professionally. The sessions were conducted at the club’s Thomas Lands facility. The participants were coached by Orin Bailey. They also had visits from a few other coaches such as Garvin Nedd and female coach Subrina Munroe. At the closing ceremony, Director of Sport Christopher Jones urged the youngsters to take the knowledge gained and run with it as well as to continue training. He also noted that it is

important for them to strike a balance between books and the field. However, he also pointed out that most importantly they should enjoy the sport they play, as they represent the future of Guyana. Jerimiah Kelvin was adjudged the Best Player-of-the-Academy. The sessions included classroom and field work which provided training to become cricketers, umpires, scorers, journalists and broadcasters. The Academy has produced Test players such as Ramnaresh Sarwan, Ryan Ramdass and Narsingh Deonarine, along with former USA captain Steve Massiah, who played two ODIs for the USA while Azeemul Haniff and Ricardo Mohamed played First-Class cricket.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday, August 10, 2019)

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

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (1) Queen’s Park Oval, Pot-of-Spain (1983) (2) Clive Lloyd & Kapil Dev TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Which WI has the distinction of scoring the first ODI century against India? (2) Which Indian has the honour of recording the first ODI hundred against the WI?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

English Racing Tips Ascot 08:05 hrs Danzeno 08:40 hrs What A American Racing Tips Welcome Saratoga 09:15 hrs Mandarin Race 1 Wicked Friend Race 2 The Jokes On You 09:50 hrs Via Serendipity 10:25 hrs Never Do Race 3 Decorated Invader Nothing Race 4 Wicked Truth 11:00 hrs Victory Day Race 5 Kittansett Race 6 Getmotherarose Chelmsford Race 7 Gozilla 08:35 hrs Global Storm Race 8 Green Light Go 09:10 hrs Alma Linda Race 9 Uni 09:45 hrs Encrypted 10:20 hrs Space Walk Canadian Racing Tips 10:55 hrs Lady Lawyer Woodbine 11:30 hrs Habub Race 1 Souper Suc cess 12:00 hrs Muraaqeb Race 2 Vinyasa Race 3 Ginger Sky Race 4 Aunt Tillie Race 5 Quality Heat Race 6 Tara Dawn Race 7 Street Zapper Race 8 Keep Going Race 9 Speedy Soul

South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:10 hrs Wilkes County 08:50 hrs The Bosbok 09:25 hrs Puget Sound 10:00 hrs African Adventure 10:35 hrs Hightail 11:10 hrs Excalibur Return

Newmarket 09:00 hrs Leafhopper 09:35 hrs Visable Charm 10:10 hrs Good Fortune 10:45 hrs Light Blush 11:20 hrs Nahaarr 11:55 hrs Howman 12:30 hrs Grenadier Guard Irish Racing Tips Kilbeggan 12:35 hrs Tara Dylan 13:05 hrs Tombstone 12:35 hrs Hard Bought 14:05 hrs Guiri 14:35 hrs Eamon High 15:05 hrs Rocky Court

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

Half ticket refund for washed out West Indies 1st ODI CRICKET West Indies (CWI) is advising spectators, who purchased tickets for the first MyTeam11 One-day International, that they can claim a 50% refund of the face value of their tickets, following the adverse weather on Thursday, August 8, when only 13 overs of cricket were possible. Fans will be able to claim their refunds from the ticket office at the Guyana Cricket

Board (GCB) in Bourda between 11:00hrs and 17:00hrs from Tuesday August 13 until Thursday August 15. Refunds can only be claimed for tickets purchased from official CWI ticket offices at the Guyana National Stadium, the Guyana Cricket Board office and the two retail outlets (Imran & Sons and The American Closet), against the presentation and exchange of the physical tick-

Consistency the key, says Estwick ASSISTANT coach Roderick Estwick says West Indies will be focussed on delivering a consistent performance when they face India in the remaining two One-Day Internationals (ODIs) in the Twin Island Republic tomorrow and Wednesday. The Caribbean side are battling for some turnaround results, having suffered a 3-0 whitewash in the preceding T20 series before the first ODI was washed out on Thursday here.

Roderick Estwick

With the Windies being somewhat erratic so far, Estwick hopes they can put that behind them as the series unfolds. “We are still looking to win the series. You’ve got to create a culture where you are winning. Obviously it didn’t go as planned in the T20s … we know India are a good side, but we still believe if we play our best cricket, we have a great chance to win,” Estwick stated on Thursday. He added, “It is all about consistency. If you look back at our history, you would know we would have been losing for quite a number of years, but we now got to put systems in place. Once we can start ticking the boxes in all the areas then we are sure we can

turn it around. It is not going to happen overnight.” “I know the people in the Caribbean are expecting us to win straightaway, but we want to build blocks. We want to make sure when we win, we can go on a decent run and we can be consistent for a number of years.” Meanwhile, Estwick confirmed that Guyanese Keemo Paul has recovered from the slight ankle injury he sustained during the final T201 on Tuesday. “Keemo is fit. Keemo is a very important member of this squad. He is a young man and a very talented cricketer. You got to make sure you can rest him at certain times. “I don’t know the selectors’ plans so I really cannot comment on that (his exclusion), but I am sure Keemo will be involved in all three formats and that takes a lot of stress on a young body.”

Keemo Paul

et/ticket stub of the August 8 West Indies v India ODI match. Fans will then need to complete a short claim form at the ticket office and present a form of identification to receive the 50% refund. The stub or whole ticket must be presented and surrendered in order to receive the refund. For tickets purchased on-

line through CWI’s authorised ticket provider,Zoonga (via the www.zoonga.com/ IndiaTour website), the 50% refund will be processed back to the credit or debit card used for the purchase of the ticket online. These refunds will be processed starting Tuesday, August 13. Fans also have the option of swapping their ticket(s) or ticket stub towards

a 50% discount for any one of the remaining matches in the ODI Series between West Indies and India at Queens Park, Trinidad. Fans who are unable to get to the ticket offices in Guyana should contact our ticketing customer service team to get further instructions, via email at customerservice@zoonga.com . Such requests must be sent in latest

by Thursday, August 15. Fans will then receive a refund claim form by email which will need to be filled in accompanied by a scan/ image of their ticket(s) and an image of relevant ID to prove that they are the fans who purchased the ticket(s). Any bank or currency charges from bank wire refunds will be borne by the ticket holder.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

New additions to drag strip ahead of 1320 Heat ADDED infrastructural works are ongoing ahead of the Guyana Motor Racing and

Sports Club’s (GMR&SC) International Race meet later this month.

According to photographs seen by Sportshubgy.com, the club earlier today began pour-

ing what is expected to be an additional piece of roadway to allow for cars which are entering the staging area. In addition to that, the club has begun work on private drag pit areas which will allow storage and fixing area for participants’ machines closer to the quarter-mile than the traditional pit area. According to GMR&SC president Rameez Mohamed, the need for such an addition is great, considering that cars would have had to cross the track in order to get to the staging area. “The last time out, we had to stop drag racing to allow cars to cross the

track and enter the staging area. This time, we have begun the pouring of an additional strip that will prevent this and allow cars to enter from the other side of the strip. “Like I said during the last drag race event, we were using it as a dress rehearsal for this international event because we want everything to be on stream. I believe in as little time-wasting as possible and having to stop races to allow other cars to enter the strip is time-consuming.” Some of the private pits are being done ahead of the Intentional drag race meet. “So far, we have Trinidad confirmed with approximate-

ly four cars and there is still interest from Suriname, but again, that is dependent on the restart of the Guyana/ Suriname ferry service.” Meanwhile, sponsorship for the event continues to grow with more clients coming on board. Sponsors include DEL CO ICE, R. Kission Contracting, Deryck Jaisingh Tr u c k i n g S e r v i c e a n d Machinery Rentals, Mohamed’s Enterprise, BM Soat, Prem Electrical, E-Networks, Trans-Pacific Auto Sales, Cyril’s Taxi, Blue Spring Water, Choke Gas Station, Miracle Optical, Tropical Shipping and Hand-in-Hand.

Annual Windies Kiddy Cricket attracts 100 boys and girls

ANNUALLY, over 100 primary school boys and girls between ages 9 and 11 years are given the opportunity to attend international home series and showcase their skills during the lunchtime interval in front of thousands of spectators. This year is no different. Despite the dampness, the enthusiastic boys and girls entertained the crowd briefly with their talent at the Guyana National Stadium, as West Indies and India competed in the first One-Day International game. They were all provided uniforms, transportation to the stadiums, lunch, refreshments and most of all, the opportunity to see their international cricket heroes play live at the highest level of organised cricket. It is CWI’s belief that giving children this opportunity allows the legacy of the game to continue, as the experience not only builds confidence, teamwork and camaraderie, but it allows them to take away many positive experiences which will last a lifetime. Mr Anand Sanasie, Director of Cricket West Indies and Secretary of the Guyana

Cricket Board, stated, “For over 20 years the Windies Kiddy Cricket programme has been operating and bringing the joy of cricket to thousands of children across the Caribbean. Guyana has been a part of this legacy, as GCB, in conjunction with CWI, continues to grow the game of cricket in more than 200 primary schools across our three counties. The programme provides cricket coaching services and other essential cricket resources (bats, balls, stumps, etc.), which benefit approximately 27 000 primary school boys and girls, allowing them to learn the basics of the game and moving them through the cricket development pathway with the prospect of becoming a professional cricketer.” Mr Sanasie mentioned that the programme has recently introduced an academic cricket manual for the classroom setting, that will be distributed to schools across the country in partnership with the Ministry of Education, introducing Mathematics, English, Social Studies, Science, HFLE and other core primary subjects in a relatable and fun cricket

context. The CWI director continued, “The programme lends to building strong foundations in cricket and vital personal development skills. “This is why GCB is partnering with the Ministry of Education and Sport to ensure that the recently introduced Chirpy Classroom Adventure – Academic Manual - is integrated into primary classrooms across Guyana. This relevant and funfilled academic manual will link the subjects Mathematics, English, Social Studies, Science, HFLE and other core primary subjects into a relatable context for children aged 6-12 years. “We believe that cricket should not only be the vehicle for building athletes, but a vehicle for building well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to the game of cricket and our Caribbean society.” Through the programme, these children have access to 24 qualified Foundation and Level Two coaches, who teach them the fundamentals of batting, bowling, fielding and wicket-keeping.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, August 10, 2019

Let’s Bet Sports rolls out ‘Fantasy Football league’ LET’S Bet Sports, the sports betting brand of the Guyana Lottery Company, yesterday launched their ‘Fantasy Football League’, catering to fans of the English Premier League. At a simple ceremony held at the company’s Robb Street location, Regional Office, General Manager Tracey Lewis, after exchanging pleasantries with the media and other officials from Let’s Bet Sports, stated that her entity is more than pleased to be once again rolling out an initiative that caters specifically to fans of the sport and more so the premier league, and more so she’s was happy

that they are able to ‘give back’ to their supporters since the brand came into the market six months ago. “Fantasy football is a game in which participants assemble an imaginary team of real life footballers and score points based on those players’ actual statistical performance or their perceived contribution on the field of play,” explained Let’s Bet Sports Brand Ambassador Rawle Toney, who was tasked with detailing what exactly is ‘Fantasy Football’ and how football-loving fans can get involved. “Fantasy football has

evolved in recent years, from a simple recreational activity into a significant business due to exposure via the internet, and this is where Let’s Bet Sports comes into play,” Toney said, with the initiative “offering our clients something that they can benefit, outside of their customary wagers on various sports”. In explaining the game, Toney added, “The task is simple, or at least it should be. Participants are asked to select 11 players within a price budget; in this case with the Premier League, it’s £100. There is a restriction on three players

per club; a typical selection would be to select 1 goalkeeper, 4 defenders, 4 or 3 midfielders and 2 or 3 forwards.” Points are then gained or deducted depending on players’ performances. Points systems vary between games but typically, points are awarded for: Scoring a goal, Making an assist, Keeping a clean sheet, Saving a penalty. Goalkeeper saves three shots or more and if a team wins. Points can be deducted for conceding a goal (goalkeepers and defenders only), Receiving a yellow or red card; Missing a penalty

NSC supports Caribbean Boxing Championship – Event will be renamed, switched to Sports Hall

THE National Sports Commission (NSC) has thrown its support behind the fourth annual Caribbean School Boys and Junior Boxing Championship, which is now scheduled for the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall next weekend. At a simple ceremony yesterday at the NSC Boardroom in Georgetown, Director of Sport Christopher Jones pledged the department and by extension, the government’s blessing of the tournament. He said that the NSC would continue to lend support to the event. “We recognised and we acknowledge in just three years the continued growth of it (the championship). We recognised that several countries are now coming to Guyana to have their boxers compete here. It provides opportunities for our young boxers to gain international exposure while being at home.” Jones added that the event gives our young boxers, some of whom are from humble backgrounds, opportunities, and the government has noticed. President of Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), Steve Ninvalle, spoke highly about the continued collaboration of the two bodies and addressed the new developments. “The National Sports Commission and by extension the government has supported most of the initiative that the GBA has had. We are very, very happy that they could have stepped on board this time, because it is much bigger. “We expect many more

countries than we have had in the past … Boxing can only get better, if we continue having the support of the government, the National Sports Commission, the Guyana Olympic Association and the private sector.”

viewers; we have countries coming to represent their respective jurisdictions, so essentially it is international. So the venue has to be up to international standard.” Next Friday the GBA will be renaming the event. “We

the quality of boxers in the lineup, he anticipates that Guyana would continue their dominance of the event, which started in 2016. So far, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Cayman

Director of Sport Christopher Jones (left) presents a cheque to president of the GBA, Steve Ninvalle

Along with the financial incentive by the NSC, which was undisclosed, high on the agenda was the change of the venue from the National Gymnasium to the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall and the renaming of the event. Jones said that the high calibre event needed an upgraded venue. “We moved it from the National Gymnasium because we have international

want to name this tournament after someone who would have done exceptionally well at the Amateur level,” Ninvalle pointed out.

CONFIDENCE The GBA head added that the national team would be named early next week, but he expects a number of the country’s best young boxers to be selected. Ninvalle said that with

Islands, Dominica, St. Lucia and Grenada have confirmed. Venezuela, on the other hand, informed the GBA that they are having flight problems. Ninvalle said that there is a 35% chance that our neighbours will attend. He is unsure about the participation of Puerto Rico and French Guiana who are still working out the kinks in order to make the trip.

kick; Scoring an own goal; Getting substituted and if your team loses. According to Toney, after you finish signing up on fantasy.premierleague.com, you will have to enter the code: HEA31M to join the Let’s Bet Sports League. The Rules of the league state that participants are only allowed one entry into the League and must be 18 years or older to play. The player with the most points at the end of the match week will win an authentic fan jersey of their favourite Premier League team. The player with the second-most points will win a

$500 voucher to either play online, or at any of our lottery/Let’s Bet Sports agents’ countrywide. “Remember, with Let’s Bet Sports, every ticket you purchase goes back into the development of Guyana. At Let’s Bet Sports, since its inception seven months ago, we’ve been supportive of sports in Guyana, doing so through our kind contributions to several associations and teams and with the sponsorship of various events, and now, with this promotion, we’re giving back to the football-loving fans,” Toney stated.

Half ticket refund for washed out West Indies 1st ODI Page

NSC supports Caribbean Boxing Championship

Let’s Bet Sports rolls out ‘Fantasy Football league’ Page

– Event will be renamed, switched to Sports Hall

Page

The Let’s Bet Sports team following the rolling-out of their Fantasy Football League

New additions to drag strip ahead of 1320 Heat Jerimiah Kelvin receives his award from Director of Sport Christopher Jones

Page

The new section of the access road, so cars will not have to cross Timehri drag strip to get to staging area.

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SATURDAY, AUGUST 10, 2019