Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_12_12_2019 by Guyana Chronicle

THURSDAY 12th December, 2019

' No.105849

No foreign service shake-up

SEE STORY ON PAGE 03

…President says changes aimed at professionalising foreign service

…determined to reduce political appointees as diplomats

Waddell to head foreign mission …President says reassignment is 11 promotion, not demotion PAGE

Natural Resource Fund agreement signed PAGE

DISTASTEFUL CONTENT 08 PAGE

…GNBA recorded 129 infractions against TV, radio stations in the last 4 months

Guyana Times to pay millions to Ceres for libel PAGE

Finance Minister, Winton Jordan, and Governor of Central Bank, Dr Gobind Ganga following the signing of the agreement (Adrian Narine photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Cummingsburg Accord draft being reviewed

…to be handed over to the AFC for input this week THE revised Cummingsburg Accord is in its draft stage and the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) is hoping to conduct a final examination of the document this week before it is handed over to the Alliance for Change (AFC) for input. This was the update provided by President David Granger, on Wednesday, on the sidelines of a Letter of Credence ceremony at the Ministry of the Presidency. “It has been revised…the APNU Executive Council, hopefully, will be scrutinising the revised draft this week, hopefully by Friday. It has been written already and, as soon as that is done, we’ll submit it to the AFC for their consideration,” the President said. The APNU and AFC will be contesting the 2020 General and Regional Elections as a single unit and will soon sign a new Cummingsburg Accord---the document which brought the two political parties together as a coalition in 2015. Under the new accord, the AFC will

President David Granger swears in Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, to perform the duties of Prime Minister on a previous occasion.

retain certain Cabinet posts. However, in the National Assembly, it will only get 30 per cent of the seats secured by the coalition based on a new 70:30 ratio agreed upon with APNU. The formula will also guide the allocation of seats at the level of the Regional Democratic Councils

(RDCs). AFC and the APNU reached a consensus in November during a high-level meeting with AFC’s Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan and APNU’s Chairman, President David Granger. APNU’s Chief Negotiator Volda Lawrence and her counterpart, David Patterson were also part of the negotiating teams.

The Guyana Chronicle had reported, in September, that the parties had committed to upholding the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and to ensure that no agreement or action collided with or contradicted articles of the Constitution. As part of the core prin-

ciples, the parties agreed and committed to the establishment of a system of inclusionary democracy and the advancement of the country’s Green State Development Strategy, Vision 2040. They also committed to seeking electoral majorities at the general and regional elections and local government elections and agreed to select candidates for the aforementioned elections, through participatory and transparent processes, which guarantee that candidates enjoy the majority of their respective constituencies and satisfy all legal criteria for election. On the issue of allocation of seats in the National Assembly, the Cabinet, Regional Democratic Councils, Municipal and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils, the sides agreed that this would be done on the basis of a formula. The sides agreed, too, that the prerogative of the President to appoint members of cabinet and ministers and to assign specific ministerial portfolios is explicitly embodied in the Constitution and is inviolable. Meanwhile, other aspects of the core principles include the cultivation of respectful

relations and, at all times, the parties will act collectively in the best interest of the coalition. They also agreed to speak with one voice on issues of public policy, to support a common manifesto and to issue joint media bulletins and releases on electoral matters. Additionally, the parties agreed to abide by the principle of collective responsibility in respect of decisions emanating from Cabinet and to holding common positions on bills, motions and resolutions in the National Assembly. Each party also pledged to inform the other, in advance, of its inability, at any time, to support any measure in the National Assembly. Other areas covered in the core principles are that of the publishing of a joint manifesto comprising 12 broad fields: constitutional reform, good governance, economic growth and development, education improvement, energy sector, environmental protection, indigenous peoples, infrastructural development, international relations, social protection and social cohesion, security and human safety, women, gender equality and youth.

More coordinated approach to fighting TIP expected …as IOM, Government launch SOPs for probe, prosecution of TIP cases

…eight convictions for TIP so far for this year By Navendra Seoraj TRAFFICKING in Persons (TIP) continues to be a global scourge which has proven to be difficult to arrest, but Guyana has taken a step further towards reducing and eradicating cases of TIP by launching the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for investigation and prosecution of such cases.

These SOPs are expected to provide the basic guidelines for police officers, prosecutors and other key stakeholders on local procedures to interview victims and suspects, and to investigate and prosecute cases of TIP in Guyana. The SOPs, which were compiled by the Ministerial Task Force on TIP in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration

(IOM), were launched at the Police Training College, on Wednesday. “SOPs are part of a greater effort to build capacity among the key stakeholders to ensure the rights of the victim and the accused are emphasised…The SOPs will ensure that all persons involved in the investigation and prosecution will be guided by best practices,” said Minister of Public Security,

Khemraj Ramjattan, during his remarks at the launch of the procedures. He said the creation of the SOPs would not have been possible without funding from the United States Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. Consultations on the SOPs commenced in December 2017. From the inception, workshops were TURN TO PAGE

Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan (Adrian Narine photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

No foreign service shake-up …President says changes aimed at professionalising foreign service …determined to reduce political appointees as diplomats

By Lisa Hamilton PRESIDENT David Granger has asserted that the move to recall some of the foreign diplomats is part of the administration’s vision to professionalise the Foreign Service by reducing or removing political appointees and to allow career officers who had been recruited to take up their rightful role. Speaking to reporters at the Ministry of the Presidency on Wednesday, President Granger said that his government has long made it clear that ambassadors would be appointed on a three-year limit and it was only for the initial uncertainty as to when elections would be held that delayed the announcement. “At the start of my Presidency I had made it clear that the ambassadors who are being appointed would be there for only three years and that it was my government’s intention to professionalise the Foreign Service. That is to say to reduce or remove political appointees and to allow career officers who had been recruited to become diplomats and have been trained and educated as diplomats to become diplomats,” the President said. “It so happened that the contracts of many of the ambassadors and High Commissioners expired during the time there was some uncertainty about when elections would be held and as a result of that uncertainty some of the changes were not made but, when it became certain that elections would not be held until March 2020, a decision

country as this is the typical modus operandi in most countries.

President David Granger speaks with members of the media at the Ministry of the Presidency (MoTP photo)

was taken to proceed with those changes.” Last week the Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the announcement that a decision was taken to bring to an end the services of a number of Heads of Missions. It stated in release: “As it is well known, the tenure of an ambassador runs to approximately three to five years. However, for a variety of reasons and factors, some of our ambassadors have been abroad for as long as two decades. This situation has become an impediment to other younger and rising foreign service officers whose performance and professional competence might require that they be appointed to the summit of the Foreign Service.” The President reminded that it has always been his intention to reduce the appointment of persons

who did not come through the Foreign Service and while this may be unavoidable in some cases, the professionalisation of the foreign service remains the goal. He also noted that special consideration will be given to the appointment of heads of missions who speak the language of the country to which they are appointed. Also, on Wednesday, the President stated that Former Director General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Audrey Waddell, has been selected to serve as a foreign diplomat for Guyana, a higher post for which she meets the qualifications. One of these qualifications is being able to speak the language for the country to which she will be assigned. “It’s not a shake-up, it is a planned change and the ambassa-

dors and high commissioners knew that the intention of the Government has always been to professionalise the service and that is being done. It is a plan that has been laid down and understood by people inside the Foreign Service,” he said. “The benefits are that we’ll now have a cadre or a core of High Commissioners and Ambassadors who have been in service, in most cases, over 20 years. They’re very experienced and the persons who will be taking over the missions of Guyana overseas are experienced persons. They’re not novices, they’re not apprentices and recruits, these are experienced persons. So, I think the benefits will all be in favor of Guyana’s national interest.” The Head of the State said that he does not anticipate that the change will have any negative impact for the

CHANGES AT PUBLIC SERVICE DEPT. Meanwhile, the President also expounded on the appointment of Ms. Soyinka Grogan as the new Permanent Secretary of the Department of Public Service, Ministry of the Presidency replacing Ms. Karen Vansluytman-Corbin. The President said that Vansluytman-Corbin has been chosen to serve as Permanent Secretary at the recently established Department of Energy which is gearing itself up for the management of Guyana’s energy sector. “We have, in the Ministry of the Presidency, several departments and each one of those departments has a personal permanent secretary rank. They’re most important…we felt that she’d be better suited for the Department of Energy,” he said, adding: “There are several very important, very large departments within the Ministry of the Presidency and it is best to have persons that are Permanent Secretary rank helping to administer those departments.” Grogan holds a Masters’ Degree in Social Work. She joined the Public Service as a Student Affairs Officer in 1997 and held a number of other senior positions prior to being appointed Manager, Scholarships Administration in 2014, where she worked until her current appointment.

Guyana Times to pay millions to Ceres for libel JUSTICE Fidela Corbin-Lincoln on Wednesday awarded judgement in default against privately owned Guyana Times Inc and Tusika Martin, Editor-in-Chief. Martin and the publication had a $200M lawsuit levelled against them by Managing-Director of Ground Structure Engineering Consultants (GSEC) and his wife Ndibi Schwiers for defamation of character. Ceres and his wife Schwiers, Director of the Department of Environment at the Ministry of the Presidency, are seeking to prevent Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo, Kaieteur News, and the Guyana Times from publishing/ making further defama-

tory statements against them. The couple are seeking damages in excess of $200M from Jagdeo for the publishing of the unsubstantiated and defamatory statements via the People’s Progressive Party’s social media channels. Additionally, the claimants are also seeking another $200M each from the two news outlets for publishing articles based on Jagdeo’s claims, that the couple had obtained the said lands by immoral, improper, illegal and criminal means. The two parties are also asking the court to consider granting an injunction against the newspapers to prevent them or their servants from publishing further defamatory statements. In addition to the

Director of the Department of Environment at the Ministry of the Presidency, Ndibi Schwiers

millions worth in damages, the claimants are also seeking retractions and apologies from the two news outlets. The couple is represented by attorney-at-law Darren Wade.

Managing-Director of Ground Structures Engineering Consultants (GSEC), Charles Ceres (Delano Williams photo)

On Wednesday, since no defence was filed by Guyana Times and its editor-in-chief, the judge awarded judgement in default of defence, in an amount to be determined

by the court. The assessment-of-damages hearing is fixed for April 15, 2020. The lawsuit against Jagdeo and Kaieteur News is still ongoing. At a June 27, 2019 press conference, Jagdeo accused Ceres of being one of several involved in a massive “land-grabbing” scheme facilitated by the government following the December 21, 2018 no-confidence motion. Ceres, along with others such as Deputy Director of the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA), Aubrey Heath-Retemeyer and Head of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC), Trevor Benn, have debunked Jagdeo’s claims with documented proof.

Jagdeo, at his weekly press conference, had challenged Ceres to do his worst. “He could sue me because what I state is factual,” Jagdeo said. “I am awaiting the lawsuit and the police investigation…I’m daring him to do this.” While Ceres has stated that he does indeed have 4.5 acres of land in Liliendaal, this was received since 2017 for which he paid G$4M per acre and is paying $200,000 per acre yearly for the lease. Meanwhile, he has rejected Jagdeo’s remarks once again that he owns or leases any land at Bohemia, Corentyne, Berbice.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 12, 2019

UK votes today LONDON (Reuters) - Voters go to the polls on Thursday in an election that will pave the way for Brexit under Prime Minister Boris Johnson or propel Britain toward another referendum that could ultimately reverse the decision to leave the European Union. After failing to deliver Brexit by an Oct. 31 deadline, Johnson called the Dec. 12 election to break what he cast as political paralysis that had thwarted Britain’s departure and sapped confidence in the economy. The face of the “Leave” campaign in the 2016 referendum, 55-year-old Johnson fought the election under the slogan of “Get Brexit Done”, promising to end the deadlock and spend more on health, education and

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson and opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn face each other in a head-to-head debate on the BBC in London, Britain December 6, 2019. Jeff Overs/BBC/Handout via REUTERS

the police. His main opponent, Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, 70, promised higher public spend-

ing, nationalization of key services, taxes on the wealthy and another referendum on Brexit.

All major opinion polls suggest Johnson will win, though pollsters got the 2016 referendum wrong and their models predict outcomes ranging from a hung parliament to the biggest Conservative landslide since the era of Margaret Thatcher. “We could have a Conservative majority government which will get Brexit done and unleash Britain’s potential,” Johnson told campaigners. “This election is our chance to end the gridlock but the result is on a knife-edge.” Corbyn said the Conservatives were the party of “billionaires” while Labour represented the many. “You can vote for despair and vote for the dishonesty of this government, or you can vote

12 December, 2019 - 05:00hrs ~ 06:30hrs

Labour and get a government that can bring hope to the future,” he said. Polls open at 0700 GMT and close at 2200 GMT when an exit poll will give the first indications of the result. Official results from the bulk of United Kingdom’s 650 different constituencies begin to come in from 2300 GMT to 0500 GMT. While Brexit framed the United Kingdom’s first December election since 1923, the tortuous exit from the EU has variously fatigued, enthused and enraged voters while eroding loyalties to the two major parties. A majority would allow Johnson to lead the country out of the club it first joined in 1973, but Brexit would still be far from over. He faces the daunting task of negotiating a trade agreement with the EU in a self-imposed deadline of 11 months. After Jan. 31, Britain would enter a transition period during which it would negotiate a new relationship with the EU27. He has pledged to do that by the end of 2020. BREXIT AND BORIS Sterling markets are pricing in a Johnson win. But a five-year flurry of two historic referendums - on Scottish independence in 2014 and Brexit in 2016 - and two national elections in 2015 and 2017 have delivered often unexpected results that ushered in political crises. The election pitches two of the most unconventional British politicians of recent years against each other. Both have been repeatedly written off by opponents and both offer starkly different visions for the world’s fifth largest economy. Johnson’s pitch is Brexit but he shrank from anything more radical in a heavily choreographed campaign. Corbyn pitched what he calls a radical transformation for a country long wedded to free-market liberalism. Johnson, the New York-born former mayor of London, won the top job in July. His predecessor, Theresa May, resigned after failing to get parliamentary backing for her Brexit deal with the EU and

then losing her party’s majority in a snap election. Johnson defied critics by striking a new deal with the EU but was unable to navigate the maze of a divided British parliament and was defeated by opponents whom he portrayed as traitors subverting the will of the people. The United Kingdom voted by 52%-48% in 2016 to quit the EU. But parliament has been deadlocked since May’s failed bet on a 2017 snap election over how, when and even whether to leave. MISSTEPS Corbyn, once an opponent of the EU who now says he would remain neutral if he was a prime minister overseeing another referendum, was repeatedly grilled over his Brexit plans. He pledged to overthrow a “rigged system” he said was run by billionaires and tax dodgers. Both made missteps during the campaign. Johnson in one interview refused to look at a picture of a sick four-year-old boy forced to lie on the floor of a hospital and then inexplicably took the phone from a reporter and pocketed it. He later apologized. Corbyn, a veteran campaigner for Palestinian rights, repeatedly avoided apologizing for what some party members, lawmakers and Jewish leaders say is his failure to tackle anti-Semitism from some elements within the party. He apologized eventually. Johnson’s strategy was to breach Labour’s so called “Red Wall” of seats across the Brexit-supporting areas of the Midlands and northern England where he described his political opponents as the out-of-touch enemies of Brexit. “If I’m honest with you, there’s no choice,” said voter Andrew Davis, from Kent in southern England. “I don’t like any of the main candidates, so I’m struggling.”

Wednesday December 11, 2019

04 12 16 17 25 27 15

December 6 2019 06, 10, 14, 22, 26

0, 1, 1

2, 9, 6

2, 3, 4, 8, 13

12 13 14

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 12, 2019

Natural Resource Fund agreement signed

FINANCE Minister Winston Jordan and the Governor of the Bank of Guyana (BoG), Dr. Gobind Ganga, on Wednesday, entered into an Operational Agreement for the management of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF). The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was handed over to the governor at the Ministry of Finance in accordance with sections 11 and 12 of the NRF Act 2019. According to the finance minister, as part of government’s preparations towards becoming a petroleum-producing country and in anticipation of first oil in 2020, work commenced in earnest in 2017 on the drafting and consultations regarding the development of a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) legislation for Guyana. The finance minister noted that different countries which are fortunate enough to have such funds determine the scope and objectives based on national development priorities and the Santiago Principles. He said that the better managed of these funds have benefited from a core of competent professionals, effective and robust institutional mechanisms and transparent management and reporting mechanisms.

this type of legislation ahead of first oil!” he said.

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan and Governor of BOG, Dr. Gobind Ganga signes the agreement (Adrian Narine photo)

“In Guyana’s case, after several rounds of internal consultations, international expert consultations, examination of other countries experiences and drafting support, particularly from the Commonwealth Secretariat, an initial draft legislation was developed,” he noted. In an effort to ensure awareness and secure public feedback on the content of a potential SWF, the minister said President David Granger requested the development of a green paper to be laid in Parliament. A green paper titled Managing Future Petroleum Revenues and Establishment of a Fiscal Rule and a Sovereign

Wealth Fund was developed and published in August 2018. This, he said, was supported through wider stakeholder consultations with the private sector and civil society as well as international agencies and experts. “Based on the feedback and comments received for our private sector groups and civil society engagements, the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Bill No. 14 of 2018 was tabled in Parliament on November 15, 2018, and assented to on January 23rd, 2019 – making the Cooperative Republic of Guyana one of the few countries in the world to have developed

NOTABLE FEATURES Notable features of this landmark legislation includes: the Natural Resource Fund Act – include (i) A withdrawal rule that permits a flow of funds from the NRF into the national budget that is formula based; and, (ii) A design to achieve multiple objectives of – a) reducing the transfer of the volatility of oil prices and production into the economy, b) Meeting the immediate and urgent development expenditure needs of our country and, in turn, benefits to our people, and c) Intergenerational savings to ensure that the benefits of the extraction of this resource are shared across both current and future generations, recognising that oil is finite. He explained that in order to ensure those savings are wisely and safely held and invested, the NRF Act of 2019 stipulates the mechanisms under which revenues will be deposited and how investments are to be conducted, including the eligible investments allowable. “The Bank of Guyana has been mandated by the NRF Act to ensure that the NRF is man-

aged prudently. Other countries that have similar funds managed by their Central Banks include Norway, Chile and Botswana. The inflows to the NRF will be in United States of America dollars which will be deposited in US bank accounts held by the Bank of Guyana,” the finance minister stated. He continued: “It is important to note that most central banks and SWFs manage reserves by holding them in foreign-denominated currencies outside of their jurisdiction. In preparation for its role as operational manager of the NRF, the Bank of Guyana has begun building additional capacity, supported by the World Bank’s Reserves Advisory and Management Programme (RAMP), with whom an agreement was signed on October 1, 2019.” OBLIGATIONS This agreement sets forth the obligations of the Bank of Guyana as the operational manager of the NRF, which include: 1) Receiving and accounting for all deposits into the NRF; 2) Investing the NRF In eligible asset classes; 3) Appointing private managers and custodians; 4) Reporting on the performance of the NRF on a monthly, quarterly and

annual basis; 5) Implementing management systems, procedures and risk management arrangements in accordance with international standards; and, 6) providing the public with information on the NRF as required by law, among others. The agreement, the minister noted, will be published on the ministry’s website in accordance with section 42 of the NRF Act. It also includes the obligations of the minister of finance as the overall manager of the NRF that will allow for the effective operational management of the NRF by the Bank of Guyana. Additionally, he said the agreement identifies certain principles for the operational management of the NRF to ensure transparency and accountability. Other important aspects of the agreement include the fees to be charged by the Bank of Guyana, procedures for the appointment of private managers and custodians, and the liability for losses that may occur. The finance minister noted that the signing is a significant next step in establishing strong institutional arrangements to support the effective management of the country’s petroleum revenues.

Chile missing C-130 plane: Floating debris found

(BBC) Chilean officials say they have located debris believed to be from an air force plane that went missing on Monday. They said the wreckage was found floating 30km (19 miles) from where the C-130 Hercules cargo plane with 38 people on board last made contact. The wreckage was spotted in a body of water known as the Drake Passage. The plane was en route from Chile’s southern city of Punta Arenas to the country’s Presidente Eduardo Frei Montalva base in the Antarctic. Contact was lost at 18:13 local time (21:13 GMT) on Monday, shortly after the C-130 took off from Punta

The C-130 is used to transport people and goods to the base in Antarctica

Arenas. The Chilean air force released a map of the plane’s flight path and a timeline showing it had been due to land at 19:17 on Monday at Presidente

Eduardo Frei Montalva. A massive air and sea search was launched soon after the plane went missing. Argentina, Brazil, the UK and Uruguay have sent planes

to help with the search in the icy waters, while the US and Israel have been providing satellite images. Who was on board? Three of the passengers were Chilean soldiers, two were civilians employed by engineering and construction firm Inproser going to carry out work on the military base, one was a student and the remaining 15 passengers were members of the air force, an official said. Ignacio Parada had been studying civil chemical engineering at Magallanes University and was headed to the Antarctic base for an internship. His professors described the 24-year-old as “an excellent student”. He was particularly

interested in renewable energy, he said in an interview he gave to the university recently. Inproser employees Leonel Cabrera and Jacob Pizarro were going to carry out work on the military base. The three soldiers who boarded the Hercules plane on Monday were Col Christian Astorquiza, Lt Col Oscar Saavedra and Maj Gen Daniel Ortiz. There was only one woman on board: 37-yearold geographer Claudia Manzo

joined the air force in 2008 and was passionate about remote sensing - obtaining information about areas from a distance by aircraft or satellites. Also among those travelling to the base were two brothers, Luis and Jeremías Mancilla. Jeremías, 27, had been hired by the air force to carry out work on the electrical circuits on the base. His older brother Luis is sergeant in the air force.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 12, 2019

A legacy of division The opposition last week took umbrage with statements by President David Granger that under the Bharrat Jagdeo administration the nation was divided into red and green-red being the PPP supporters who were favoured with massive development in their communities and green those of the then opposition (PNCR) whose villages were virtually abandoned and starved of resources. Apart from these discriminatory acts the Bharrat Jagdeo regime will be remembered— apart from the rampant crime — as a period of devious political patronage that saw him decide which of his loyal subjects should be rewarded and which ones punished. This extended from the lowly sugar worker up to the country’s corporate boardrooms. It resulted in the loss of billions of dollars in tax revenue and led to a distrust of government as a force for good that this current coalition has done much to restore. Jagdeo for all his current talk about public servants deserving decent salaries never gave them a proper salary in-

crease. 5% to 8% was his preferred gift, handed down from on high days before Christmas. As a cheap election gimmick, Jagdeo also approved acrossthe-board increases in salaries for all government employees retroactive to January 2011 and payable a few days before the 2011 election. Instead, as was the case with the teachers, he created various intangible benefits such as annual clothing allowances and limited duty-free concessions for cars that could be taken away or renegotiated at any time. This government has given genuine increases in salaries in order to put money in the workers’ pockets. Arguably no other group was treated as shabbily by Jagdeo as Guyana’s indigenous communities. This culminated in what was a naked vote-buying operation ahead of the 2011 election. A Commonwealth Observer report stated that “opposition parties accused the government of expedient timing and the misuse of public funds by handing out GUY$20,000 each to hundreds of Lethem residents from the PPP/C's Region Nine headquarters.” The

dismissive, paternalistic attitude towards Indigenous peoples can be seen in two incidents: one where first Nigel Dharamlall, the then permanent secretary of the Amerindian Affairs Ministry was recorded threatening to bar access to his office and withhold stipends from Amerindian leaders. And secondly, where the country’s own president Donald Ramotar was caught on tape telling a young Indigenous man in Aishalton that if Jagdeo had “been here, he might have slap you, cause you stupid.” In contrast, this government has taken a genuine and respectful approach to development in the hinterland regions, including the provision of healthcare, infrastructural and educational facilities and several modern radio stations. The Petro-Caribe rice deal, on the face of it, was a win-win for Guyana: cheaply financed petroleum products paid for by high-priced rice. Indeed, it made many favoured millers fabulously wealthy, but it was also a creation of debt that transferred billions to the rice sector. The accumulated debt

amounted to US$184M as of December 2014. Also, Guyanese commuters and drivers did not benefit from cheaper fuel at the pump as could have been the case. Instead, as prices for fuel dropped, the government raised the excise tax, thus passing on none of the savings to the average Guyanese. The use of the Guyana Rice Development Board to apportion rice contracts to Venezuela among millers was an opaque form of political patronage open to influence and corruption. The sugar industry is the most blatant example of the abuse of state resources for political gain. Through his own blunders, Jagdeo personally botched the Skeldon sugar project so badly that it sent GuySuCo into a financial tailspin. However, instead of having the courage to fix an industry already declining due to mismanagement and external factors, he took a cowardly approach and simply used taxpayers’ funds to put the industry on life support. This government is fixing the industry through rationalisation, right-sizing and a goal to create a corporation that

can produce sugar sustainably. It may not be popular with everyone, but that is fit and proper leadership and governance. In the area of business corporations also fell in and out of favour with Jagdeo. In favour always was Bobby Ramroop, whose Queens Atlantic II was given dubious tax concessions for its site in Ruimveldt that had to be hurriedly made legal via legislation in Parliament. GRA Chief Godfrey Statia has been reeling in these and subsequent concessions. Land was also handed out like gifts to friends and family. Odinga Lumumba was sold a tract of land on Mandela Avenue for $1.5M and sold it four years later for $38M. Even criminals got into the action: Roger Khan, when not having his goons kill young Guyanese and exporting drugs, was building houses at an East Bank scheme, while the Guyana Forestry Commission granted a State Forest Exploratory Permit for a large tract of land in Guyana’s interior to Aurelius Inc., a company controlled by Khan. A convicted real estate

fraudster, Ed Ahmad, was sold GuySuco land at Leonora on the cheap under the pretense of setting up a woodworking facility. A radio licence was bestowed upon Jagdeo’s niece Kamini Persaud, husband of then Minister Robert Persaud, with which they did nothing for years and then turned around and sold to a Trinidad company. House lots by the sea to those in favour; well paid jobs for the sons and daughters of party apparatchiks; the former Chief Executive Officer of Guyana Power and Light, Bharat Dindyal, being paid an annual salary of over $73M. We could go on and on…At every turn, Jagdeo in his malicious and petty practices schemed to please his supporters and punish his enemies. It was a despotic rule. This government will ensure we create a new Guyana from the ruins of his kingdom.

Guyana’s public healthcare service offers unrestricted, free healthcare to all Dear Editor, A CLOSE friend of mine, who is a Guyanese national living legally in Trinidad and Tobago, contacted me a few days ago informing me that she was denied medical treatment at the Mount Hope Hospital in Trinidad. She was told by an attendant that the influx of Venezuelans into Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) has placed a strain on the T&T health

care system, and only holders of T&T ID cards are being allowed access to free healthcare. I subsequently contacted another friend who has been a practising attorney for over a decade in T&T, and was advised that the denial of medical attention to a legal resident was indeed a violation. It must be noted that the person who was denied medical treatment at Mount Hope Hospital is the holder of a

valid CSME Skills Certificate, a legal, tax-paying resident in T&T since 2006, a T&T NI contributing member and presented her bona fide T&T driver’s licence. This matter is currently being addressed and investigated in Trinidad. Some months ago, in a previous article, I cited some disturbing trends here at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation Out-Patients facility, where at least two foreign doctors

were encouraging certain Latin American patients to breach the hospital’s protocols by granting them preferential access and attention ahead of locals. Since then, one of those foreign doctors has departed, but the practice continues, even with the assistance of security personnel allegedly taking inducements from non-nationals. Guyana’s public healthcare service offers unrestricted, free healthcare to

all citizens and non-Guyanese alike without discrimination. Although it often goes unnoticed, this is a commendable accomplishment by a country that scored 123, compared to T&T at 63, on the recently released UN Global Human Development report for 2019. I am not xenophobic, but if T&T, with an annual GDP of USD$22.4 Billion, can take austere measures to protect its healthcare

system, maybe Guyana with an annual GDP of USD$3.9 Billion needs to revisit its local healthcare policy for non-nationals, some of whom are unreserved abusers of our system. They do not bear the brunt of taxation like many of us, born, bred Guyanese often maligned when visiting other countries. Regards Orette Cutting

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 12, 2019

GAWU AND PPP want TO USE YOU THE SUGAR WORKERS Dear editor, AS the time draws closer to elections 2020, promises and protests will be the hallmarks of the PPP/C’s campaign. They will use all their affiliates to ensure that they have the people out on the streets to join their protests and ensure that they continue to peddle lies and mostly to star in their deceptive ways. For 23 years GAWU lost its voice for the workers in the sugar industry, all because they have to do what the PPP wants and that is to undermine and fool the sugar workers, so that they can have the support when elections come. GAWU should tell this nation as to why it joins with the PPP by never calling any protest when the doctor of doom closed down two sugar estates and left those workers and their families to suffer?. GAWU must also tell the nation and sugar workers that were robbed of their NIS contributions and pensions under PPP, where their monies went while no investigations were done and why they never called a major strike in this robbery case?.

GAWU should or must tell this nation and the sugar workers why the workers were misrepresented for 23 years and yet they were charged union dues for misrepresentation?. GAWU should or must come clean and say under the PPP/C’s years in office, how many sugar workers’ cases it took up and how many it won?. They should also come clean and tell the nation, how many cases they sold out because they were commanded to stay quiet?. GAWU should or must tell the nation, why only Komal Chand is being chosen to lead GAWU as a PPP MP, but yet never once represented the workers in the sugar industry in the PPP’s 23-year-rule?. Brothers and sisters, let’s not blame the PPP too much for those things; that’s all part of their planning, to undermine and fool the sugar workers in this country and have them work as slaves in ensuring that when elections come around, they all support the PPP. I think the workers should be blamed for listening and believing the lies and deception of the PPP. The sugar workers should demand

from GAWU refund of their dues for all the years of misrepresentation and very poor management of their affairs, or if I am to put it “SELLING OUT OF THEIR CASES.” The PPP has a major role to play in all that happened to the sugar workers over the years because they are part and parcel with GAWU in ensuring that the workers suffer, no matter what. Today this very PPP is telling the nation and the world that they will re-open the estates that were closed down under this APNU+AFC government or educated words to be used for the PPP “DOWNSIZED” instead, because the sugar industry is alive and not shut down. Who will believe those words coming from the PPP? The only people who will believe that the statement of re-opening the estates are the people that are being brain- washed and cannot think for themselves. But the story didn’t end there, because if the PPP is saying they will re-open the estates that this government closed down, it must also tell the nation if they are going to re-open the two estates they shut down when they were

in government. So, it’s all a gimmick, but I won’t blame Irfaan Ali because his string holder who is directing the puppet and pulling its strings is saying that re-opening the sugar industry is not viable financially, but economically it will be. (Please note - I did not say doctor because the man is yet to prove his qualifications to this nation). So, in other words, the PPP is telling the nation, especially the sugar workers listen, those things (estates) are not going to bring in money and can be shut down anytime, “BUT” we want to fool you because elections coming and economically (big words) we will take lots of monies from the treasury like what we uses to do for ensuring the structure is there to fool you and we make profits for ourselves, families, friends, and cronies. So, the PPP re-opening of the estates is sheer nonsense, because they failed to manage the said estates and industry for 23 years and now want to tell this nation that they have learnt how to manage the said industry better. How can they learn in the last five years to manage the

sugar industry better when they cannot even produce the transcripts and prove the qualifications of their presidential candidate? The only thing they can prove for Ali is the charges against him to date. Brothers and sisters in Guyana, especially. Sugar workers, don’t be fooled again by the PPP; you were fooled too many times in the 23 years of the PPP and please sit and think for yourself as to the nonsense the PPP is telling you. Sugar workers are educated people and don’t allow the PPP to enslave you again by them now coming around and promising you things. Think for yourself that in 23 years when sugar was making a profit, the PPP never gave you raises of pay yearly, but rather a handout and you all deserve better in those 23 years. Today the PPP & GAWU are taking you from your day’s earnings to protest for raise of pay when the sugar industry is falling apart because of their bad management of the industry for 23 years. GAWU AND the PPP want TO USE YOU THE SUGAR WORKERS AND

THEN DROP YOU LIKE BOMBS as THEY DID IN 23 YEARS. Brothers and sisters, let’s not be fooled. Let’s continue to support this APNU+AFC government in ensuring that progress continues. Let’s continue to show our support for this government because it did a lot more, especially making the sugar industry viable by making the right decisions and didn’t fool you, because one day it would fall and never rise again. Let’s support this unity government and come 2 March, 2020, vote APNU+AFC, because it’s a government for all; and please look around and not only at sugar, but in the other sectors such infrastructure, education, security, social services, agriculture, health, etc as to the vast developments that took place since 2015 to date under this government. Regards Abel Seetaram RDC Councillor Region Five

Another example of media immorality Dear Editor I AM happy and sufficiently satisfied that the coalition government has finally exposed the Demerarawaves news site for what it is and continues to be: a filthy piece of news rag, which has been shamelessly a part of the media plot in the larger PPP/C propaganda fabric of attempting to foment national strife through misinformation, distortions, and fake news. In fact, this particular news site is noticeably the first on any PPP/C public protest. And this is in ad-

dition to ensconcing PPP/C bloggers, such as “Ex-PPP man”, expressing some of the nastiest racist sentiments against a section of the nation’s populace. That there has been a swift counter to yet another disgraceful and perverted example of opposition- affiliated reporting, is a satisfying indication that the government’s PR is in full alert mode, as it should be for counter response. This same site has been cited in your columns for deliberately slanted news headlines in a few letters; and this was as recent as last

month, in a letter, in which its identity had been stated, but removed in the eventual printed piece. And though one may perhaps understand the reluctance to publish letters which may be critical of a media house in a sister print medium, it is only right that when there is good cause to do so that such be done in the interest of truth and probity, which must never be sacrificed for sentimental reasons. The Demerarawaves report smelled from the moment it came on line. There was never a doubt that the author of this most dishonest piece of attempted white-

washing on behalf of the PPP/C, could have written and published such a document while in the employ of the State Department. Further, there was no doubt that he was operating on behalf of a desperate PPP/C, seeking to re-create its image. But up to now there has not been a formula for such specie of political leopards to change their spots! The editorial manager of Demerarawaves is one of the local media’s most experienced operators, who had led the Guyana Press Association on a number of occasions and gave public

statements about the media from time to time. So there can be no claim to not being cognisant of the disingenuous tactic of cherry-picking for such a particular publication, and what such is intended to convey and achieve at this time, in this kind of society. But this is what such news sites have been doing since 2015, in the true mould of bedding with known, highly corrupted and desperately dishonest politicians for the licentious purposes of assisting in their rehabilitation, while whitewashing their shameful, shocking and venal

history of criminal governance, well chronicled. One wonders what price have such a category been offered to abandon professional journalism. But, is it worth whatever price for such an immoral practice, which can do no good for fair and balanced journalism and young journalists, as examples? Regards Earl Hamilton

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

DISTASTEFUL CONTENT

…GNBA recorded 129 infractions against TV, radio stations in the last 4 months -majority a fundamental breach of the Broadcasting Act

-chairman warns of tough actions against errant broadcasters By Svetlana Marshall WARNING that errant broadcasters will face the full force of the law, Chairman of the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA), Leslie Sobers, said the listening public is growing tired of the distasteful content aired by some operators. Between August 2019 and November 2019, GNBA recorded a total of 129 infractions on the local airwaves – majority a fundamental breach of the Broadcast Licence and the Broadcasting Act. In his address during GNBA’s fifth Stakeholder Engagement at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Wednesday, Sobers said despite the efforts of the broadcasting authority to prevent infractions, delinquent broadcasters continue to breach the Broadcasting Act. Broadcasters are prohibit-

ed from airing certain types of material, including indecent language, sexually suggestive acts, gruesome or violent scenes, during certain periods of the day, particularly prime time. Notwithstanding restrictions, many broadcasters continue to be in violation of this. Though not scientifically

preference. “I personally have received several complaints from persons of all walks of life against certain broadcasters. The areas of concern were those broadcasters’ departure from good taste, their apparent penchant for airing lewd music, imitating foreign accents, DJ’s sounding like

Chairman of the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA), Leslie Sobers, addressing broadcasters during Wednesday’s engagement

The broadcasters in attendance at GNBA’s 5th Stakeholders Engagement

assessed, Sobers said reactions from the listening public suggest that broadcasters are not fully aware of their audience’s listening and viewing

‘wanna be’ Jamaicans, announcers sounding like ‘wanna be’ Americans, nudity, vulgar language and the list goes on,” the GNBA Chairman told the

More coordinated approach ...

FROM PAGE

held with technical anti-trafficking stakeholders including members of the Task Force, TIP Units and civil society. Consultation meetings were also held with the Chancellor of the Judiciary, Ministry of Public Security, the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Crime Chief and the Ministry of Social Protection. Minister Ramjattan believes the SOPs are crucial now more than ever because Guyana is on the cusp of development with its new oil and gas sector, which is expected to attract people from all over the world. “We are going to have more of this kind of TIP with the oil and gas industry…the sector is going to be a magnet for people all across Latin America and the Caribbean…so if we do not set up the preparatory work then we are not going to be that successful,” said Ramjattan, adding that TIP has a “polluting effect” on law enforcement officers and even on law enforcement in general. The public security minister said TIP is synonymous to modern-day slavery since it creates big empires and profits from the exploitation of people. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and

broadcasters present. GNBA, he disclosed, will be conducting audience surveys to have a better understanding of their preference. The results will be made public. “Sponsors love numbers and would want to know who has wider listenership and

Crime (UNODC): “TIP shall mean the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons, by

to slavery, servitude or the removal of human organs. “That is why having SOPs are important…what

viewership, and whose programming is preferred and whose attract public angst or perturbation,” Sobers told the broadcasters. He said by holders have been working to ensure that cases of TIP do not go undetected. Minister Ramjattan made reference to statistics which showed that there were 18 suspected cases of TIP be-

continually breaching the Act, errant broadcasters are casting doubt as to their ability and fitness to be holders of Broadcasters Licences. In painting a vivid picture of the situation, Chair of the Monitoring and Compliance Committee Jocelyne Josiah pointed out that the number of infractions jumped from 18 in August to 41 in October.

The number of infractions decreased by 10 in November but the situation, she said, is a cause for concern. The Monitoring and Compliance Department uses colour codes to categorise infractions. Yellow represents minor infractions which can be easily rectified; Orange,

Minister Ramjattan said a glaring similarity in the statistics for both years was the fact that most of the cases were recorded in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and involved a lot of Venezuelans.

ed States State Department for three consecutive years. Chief Justice (ag) Roxanne George-Wiltshire said Guyana will continue to do more to end the scourge of TIP and evidence of the continued effort are the SOPs. Attorney-at-Law and Legal Consultant, Diana Shaw, who aided in crafting the SOPs, said the compilation is not an external document which is being imposed on Guyana. Instead, she said the SOPs were created to standardise existing best practices which were used to get Guyana to a Tier one ranking. She said the Caribbean and the rest of the world will now look to Guyana and observe how the SOPs are implemented, so that they can replicate it in their country. Regional Coordinating Officer for the Caribbean and Chief of Mission for IOM, Robert Natiello, said while the stakeholders move to implement the current SOPs, work has commenced on the finalisation of another set of SOPs which will govern the protection of victims of TIP. “We believe SOPs are important additions to the local framework to responding to TIP… but now that those SOPs have been established, the hard work begins and we have to work together for the implementation of the SOPs,” said Natiello.

Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan; Chief Justice (ag), Justice Roxanne George-Wiltshire; Commissioner of Police, Leslie James, along with other stakeholders who are driving the anti-TIP initiatives locally (Adrian Narine photo)

means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation.” The UN authority said exploitation shall include at a minimum the exploitation of prostitution of others or other forms of sexual exploitation, forced labour or services, slavery or practices similar

they do primarily is ensure that we all know that there is a hymnbook that we are singing from,” said Minister Ramjattan. He said the procedures and other anti-TIP initiatives will help Guyana to have a society which is not damaged by traffickers. The procedures will allow officers to be sharp in their investigations and even encourage them to look beyond the immediate pieces of information. Over the past few years, there has been evidence that the police and other stake-

tween January and November this year. There were 138 victims of TIP, all of whom were females. About 115 victims were below the age of 30 years old and seven were below the age of 18 years. According to additional statistics, which were presented by the minister, there were 50 suspects and eight convictions. Meanwhile, in 2018 there were 32 suspected cases of TIP, 245 victims of TIP of which 224 were females. There were 58 suspects and 17 charges.

He also alluded to the fact that the primary purposes of most of those cases were sexual and labour exploitation. “The ministry has been catering for victims of TIP… we have established victim care facilities outside of the capital city… we even have children spaces and we are doing spaces for adult males,” said Minister Ramjattan, noting that more needs to be and will be done in the area of victim services. Guyana’s efforts toward combatting TIP earned it a Tier one ranking by the Unit-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Guyana reaffirms commitment to strengthening relations with Brazil …as newly-accredited Brazil envoy presents Letters of Credence GUYANA and Brazil, being continental neighbours, must seize the opportunities for collaboration, capacity-building, infrastructural development, security, language and the environment. These were the sentiments shared between President David Granger and newly accredited Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil to Guyana, Maria Clara Duclos Carisio. Ambassador Carisio presented her Letter of Credence to the President at a simple ceremony at the Ministry of the Presidency on Wednesday. The Head of State said that Guyana and Brazil share a common vision of a peaceful continent; he assured the newly accredited envoy that Guyana will continue to work with Brazil to advance the greater cause of the Regional infrastructure integration of South America. Soon there will be a paved road from Guyana to Brazil, as Guyana has secured funding from the British Government through the United Kingdom (UK) Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (UKCIF) to construct the road. Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, has stated that Guyana has long cherished a usable land link between the two countries, having seen the mutually beneficial opportunities for business. Meanwhile, the President said that Guyana and Brazil share a common interest in preserving the Guiana Shield as their natural patrimony; he added that he hopes that future collaboration could see the advancement of Guyana’s “green state” initiative.

President David Granger greets Her Excellency Maria Clara Duclos Carisio, Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana (centre), as Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Karen Cummings (left) looks on. (MoTP photo)

Through the Complementary Agreement to the Basic Agreement on Technical Cooperation signed in 2017, Guyana saw the successful drilling of eight artesian wells by the Brazilian Army’s 6th Construction Engineering Battalion in the Rupununi. The Complementary Agreement of the Joint Commission for the Development of Infrastructure Projects signed in 2017 established a Transportation Technical Committee tasked with assessing the modalities for pavement of the Mabura-Lethem phase of the Linden-Lethem-Port Georgetown Link project.

He said: “Guyana looks forward to future collaboration with Brazil in the fields of the environment and the preservation of the Guiana Shield, and as we seek to strengthen our collaboration in institutions such as the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organisation.” President Granger stated that Guyana appreciates the assistance received from Brazil in the form of civilian and military technical cooperation projects aimed at building capacity in several fields. These he listed as the ‘Brazilian Cooperation Agency’s Technical Cooperation (BCATC) Project: Capacity Building in Institutional and Policy Structures for Water Resources Management’ in Guyana in 2019, which provided training for Guyanese technicians by the National Water Agency of Brazil. He also noted the BCATC training in phytosanitary methods and the harmonisation of procedures and legislation related to the

Meanwhile, the Guyana-Brazil Joint Commission on Police Cooperation and Drugs builds capacity and enhances cooperation

between the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Federal Police of Brazil to combat trans-border crimes. “Guyana reaffirms its commitment to strengthening relations with Brazil and advancing bilateral cooperation in the fields of defence, education, health, infrastructure, petroleum and security,” the President said. “Guyana and Brazil are both continental neighbours and collaborators in security and development. Your accreditation is a consolidation of our cordial relations and commitment to our common ideals.” He noted that Guyana’s

President David Granger (centre) with Her Excellency Maria Clara Duclos Carisio, Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana (second left); Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Karen Cummings; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms Charlene Phoenix (second right) and a representative of the Brazilian Ambassador (right). (MOTP photo)

Control and Eradication of the Carambola Fruit Fly, offered to Guyanese personnel of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).

relations with Brazil are founded on respect for treaties and international law; the maintenance of international peace and security; mutual

Wanted man turns self in

Doodnauth Bissoondyal

DOODNAUTH Bissoondyal, called ‘Lil Budhan’, for whom a wanted bulletin was issued, turned himself in at the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam, on Monday, a little after noon. The 28-year-old from Lot 81 Coburg Street, Cumberland, East Canje, was wanted by the Police for Robbery Under Arms, after surveillance cameras cap-

tured footage from a robbery at the China Town Supermarket, at Number Two Village, East Canje. According to reports, Bissoondyal and three others, armed with cutlasses and guns, allegedly stormed the Chinese supermarket, on November 2 and made off with over $300,000 in cash and two cellular phones, after holding the patrons and owners at gunpoint.

Following the review of the surveillance tape, wanted bulletins were subsequently issued for Jason Isaacs, 30 of 18 Bristol Street, East Canje Berbice; Ravindra Punwansie, 36, of 12 Palmyra, East Canje, Berbice and Doodauth Bissoondyal. The police, acting on intelligence, also managed to capture 30-year-old Maryo Bissoondyall of Lot 141 Main Street, Cumberland,

East Canje, Berbice; he confessed to the crime and was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment. He appeared before Magistrate Renita Singh at Whim Magistrates Court on November 8, 2019 having been ‘slapped’ with three counts of Robbery Under Arms. He was sentenced to two years in prison for each of the three counts. The sentences will, however, run concurrently.

respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty; mutual non-interference in each other’s internal affairs and cooperation for mutual benefit. He also requested that his best wishes for personal well-being be conveyed to Brazilian President, Jair Messias Bolsonaro. The two countries established diplomatic ties in Guyana on August 26, 1968. In her remarks, Ambassador Carisio said that since the two countries established ties, there have developed through the provision of technical assistance, information exchange and collaboration in the areas of culture and education. “The government’s decision to introduce the Portuguese language in secondary schools is a source of satisfaction for Brazil and an important step in the integration of our region,” she said. She said that, in turn, the Brazil-Guyana Cultural Centre will continue to offer its services in the form of Portuguese classes. Carisio established that Brazil looks forward to the transformation of Guyana through its oil industry and the expansion of collaboration in order to meet the aspirations of the peoples of both countries. "I endeavour, during my term as ambassador, to address the potential of the relations between our two neighbouring counties,” the ambassador said. Likewise, the President assured her of the full support of his government in the discharge of her duties. Isaacs subsequently turned himself in on November 7 while Doodnauth followed suit on Monday last in the presence of family members. Ravindra Punwansie is still wanted. Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 3335564, 333-2151, 3332152, 226-6978, 225-8196, 2262870, 226-7065, 227-1149, 226-7065, 911 or the nearest police station.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 12, 2019

Mocha residents to 'tap' water closer to home …after years of neglect, walking miles to access

By Tamica Garnett AFTER years of having to walk miles to retrieve water to do everyday tasks, a privilege many of us take for granted, hundreds of residents of Barnwell North Mocha are relieved to soon be able to access potable water in their homes, in one of many new developments to come to the once neglected community. Minister with responsibility for Youth Affairs, within the Ministry of the Presidency, Simona Broomes, on Wednesday, accompanied Guyana Water Incorporated officials, as she assessed the progress being made in the community. GWI is currently installing interim stand pipes at the head of each of the 19 streets in the community, to mitigate the situation, even as officials visited the community on Wednesday assisting residents with application to have the service taken to their homes. “It was really difficult. People living way down in the field used to have to come ‘til in front to get water,” described 38 year old Fiona Harris, who lives in the community with her husband and three children. She has been residing in the village for some six years. “The standpipes are really good because when the kids come out for school walking in the mud they could wash their feet. Some people in front have water in their homes already, I would really glad if everybody could get the water in their house. It would be really good.” GWI is currently extending water to the homes of some residents, budgeting in 2020 for the service to ultimately be extended to all of the homes. “We have the transmission line running all the way down to the back, [but] we have water only up to Ninth Field in the streets,” explained GWI Regional Head, Nehaul Samaroo. “So we took the initiative to install to each corner, after the Ninth Field, some stand pipes. We’ve budgeted in 2020 to add distribution lines to the additional fields from

Minister Simona Broomes ‘tests’ one of the stand pipes installed in Barnwell North, Mocha (Elvin Croker photo)

GWI Regional Head, Nehaul Samaroo, checks on one of the stand pipes installed in Barnwell North, Mocha (Elvin Croker photo)

Barnwell North or the other half, this is Guyana we’re talking equality. The same facilities you’re getting in Kitty, South, Bel Air Park is the same as to the residents here in Barnwell North. We’re here to serve the people of Guyana and people all over

When we took office Guyana roads were a problem, electricity was a problem. The problems were all over. Why am I here? We’re fixing it, because that is the type of governance that we are delivering to the people.” The community has approximately 400 residents. Works are also in the pipeline for electricity to be taken to the community, where many children brave dark nights to study, in pursuing their education. “GPL was already here, they’re going to be planting posts, so they’re asking persons to have their wiring done and come in. I want to encourage all those persons in Barnwell North get your house certified, GPL is doing their work. All these houses all along here GPL is

An excavator at work for another stand pipe to be installed in Barnwell North, Mocha (Elvin Croker photo)

Tenth to Nineteenth. For First to Ninth Fields we’re taking their applications presently right now. My staff is out, we’re mobile. We did an announcement yesterday, so we’re going to facilitate that process today, and additionally they can visit the office and we will deal with the applications.” At Fifteenth Field young mother Avril France, walked the muddy road with her infant daughter, eager for an application, desperate for water services to her home. With the mud road in a deplorable condition during the rainy season, the task of getting water is all the more burdensome on the residents. Nonetheless, they have gotten by as best they could over the years. “Some people used to go down to the ‘Blacka’, at the back it got the black water, or some people does go out, ‘til

out by the stand pipe by the shop corner [at First Field]. Otherwise to that nobody getting water. If rain ain’t fall you can’t catch water to even drink,” shared 55-year-old Sandra John, her feet covered in mud from the slushy road. She too braved the terrain to engage with the officials. A farmer, John resides in the community with her husband and 14-year-old granddaughter. Notwithstanding the challenges John has been persevering in the village since 1993. A mother of five, she shares her hopes of seeing her children return to the community. However, she said they had all migrated and refused to return due to the lack of infrastructure. Development in the community has seen some incremental progress, but the extent of neglect the community has endured, means there

remains much to be done. “This is an area that was well neglected, while you have persons living here, infrastructure – water, electricity, roads – everything was a problem. So now the government is doing everything, titling, water, electricity, roads, you name it, we have to do it. A lot, a lot of work has been done in here but so much more still needs to be done. I was sent by his Excellency the President [David Granger], so I’m in here doing a review as to what is happening here in Barnwell North,” Broomes related. Minister Broomes said bringing water to every home is a fundamental right, the residents of Barnwell North being just as entitled as other residents in central communities. “We are going to put water to every home, be it in

Avril France came out with her young daughter to meet with officials and apply for water to her home in Barnwell North, Mocha (Elvin Croker photo)

Guyana is a priority so this is one of the areas I was sent to as the Minister,” Broomes explained. “We’re saying every Guyanese must have water, every Guyanese must have roads, every Guyanese must have electricity. These are basic utilities at least any good government should provide. So it’s not a service that any resident should be crying for.

already asking them to come. For all those persons who don’t have, we’re encouraging them to go in,” Broomes noted. Even as they celebrated having water closer to their homes, the residents were optimistic in relation to electricity to each home, and a better road, one day, being realised for the community.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Waddell to head foreign mission …President says reassignment is promotion, not demotion

FORMER Director-General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Audrey Waddell has been selected to serve as a foreign diplomat for Guyana which President David Granger said is a higher post for which she meets the qualifications. Amidst rumours that government’s recent scrapping of the Ministry’s Director-General post had to do with its displeasure with Waddell, the President confirmed on Wednesday that her reassignment is a promotion rather than a demotion. On December 2, 2019, the Foreign Affairs Ministry announced that the designation of Director-General will be replaced by that of Permanent Secretary in the person

of Charlene Phoenix, who has served as Director of the Department of the Americas since 2016 and as Guyana’s Ambassador to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) since November 2017. Meanwhile, it assured that Waddell would be reassigned upon completion of her annual leave which she has proceeded on. “Ambassador Waddell is one of the persons who have been earmarked for foreign posting and we have laid down certain criteria and there are certain-- for example – language qualifications and Ambassador Waddell speaks foreign languages and that’s one of the criteria that was laid down that, as far as possible, Ambassadors and High

Former Director-General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Audrey Waddell

Commissioners should speak the language of the capital to which they are posted,” the President said on Wednesday. “She’s qualified for a higher post and, on vacating the post of Director-General,

it was my decision to appoint a Permanent Secretary who will continue the Administration’s [work]. It is not a demotion, it is actually a promotion.” The Ministry of Foreign

Affairs has stated that it has recognised and expressed its appreciation to Ambassador Waddell for her service as Director-General. Waddell joined the Foreign Service in 1985, and has served both home and on overseas assignments. She was previously attached to the Embassy of Guyana in Caracas as First Secretary and also served in the same capacity in Brazilia. Years later, she was assigned Director of the Department of the Americas and Asia, and served in that position until she was posted to the Embassy of Guyana in Havana, Cuba, as Minister/Counsellor and Head of Chancery. Upon her return to Guyana, she served as Head

to the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) Pro Tempore Secretariat, established at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during Guyana’s Chairmanship. In 2012, she was appointed as Ambassador to UNASUR. Waddell holds a Bachelor’s in Sociology and a Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies from the University, in addition to completing post-graduate studies in Development Diplomacy in Berlin with the German Foundation for Development and Cooperation (Entwicklung und Zusammenarbeit) and in Language and Diplomacy, University of Malta.

GECOM to conduct sample Man found guilty of series of offences to be sentenced December 30 survey of new registrants …to ensure no duplicates among new registrants THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has decided to conduct a sample survey within the population of citizens who participated in houseto-house registration to ensure that there are no duplicates amongst new registrants. The survey will be conducted through random house-to-house visits countrywide by the commission’s office staff and scrutineers with a proposed sample size of 10 per cent. “We decided that we will do a sample survey of some of the “hits” that they said they did not find,” Commissioner Vincent Alexander said. “There was an issue with some of the duplicates. [Gemalto] sent a report and we thought that some of what they said were not duplicates were duplicates and so what we decided to do is a sample survey of the new registrants and to make sure that there are no duplicates.” The commission has decided that the sample size ought not to be too large to the extent that it inhibits the commission from meeting its deadlines. On December 3, 2019,

Commissioner Vincent Alexander

commissioners had updated the media with the following information: the 370,000 transactions from the houseto-house exercise crossmatched by international digital security company, Gemalto, showed that some 60,000 forms did not “attract a hit” ; this means that they were new names not on the National Register of Registrants Database (NRRDB). However, through its own efforts, the commission found that some 17,000 persons who were presumed to be new, were already on the database. From the approximately 43,000 persons remaining, the Guyana Chronicle was informed that some 23,000 were persons under age 18,

while the remaining 20,000 are being checked. At a previous meeting, Alexander had said that GECOM must follow the normal process of conducting field work based on the information sent back by the cross-matching firm. He said that there were about 1,600 duplicates found from cross-matching between the Preliminary List of Electors (PLE) and the house-to-house data. “We have to do field work, we have to investigate in the fields,” he said. Furthermore, the country’s laws state that GECOM shall decide on the form of verification of the list.

MAGISTRATE Sherdel Isaac-Marcus, on Wednesday December 11, 2019, remanded a 21-year-old man to prison, on a series of charges. Daquan Robinson appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was ‘slapped’ with four charges. It is alleged that, on December 7, 2019, at church Street, while armed with a gun, he robbed Keon Crandon of $600 cash. It is also alleged that, on December 8, 2019, at Merriman’s Mall, while armed with a gun, he robbed Gary Hartman of two spectacles valued at $30,000, a battery power pack valued at $1000, a wallet valued at $2000 and $10,000 cash. It is further alleged that, on December 8, 2019, at Orange Walk, he stole a phone valued at $5000, property of Desmond Daniels. The last charge stated that, on December 8, 2019, at Orange Walk, he was in possession of two IPhones suspected to be stolen or unlawfully obtained. Robinson pleaded guilty to the second charge and pleaded not guilty to the other three charges. “I saw Hartman walking and I pull out a fake gun and I tell him to stop and he

Daquan Robinson

empty out his bag so I pick up the spectacles and the wallet and rode away. The officer attack me at Bourda market and take them things from me,” Robinson told the court. Police Prosecutor Goodman told the court that, on the day in question, Hartman was walking in Merriman’s Mall with a haversack containing the items mention in the charge. Robinson approached him and said ‘I am a police officer,’ Hartman then requested to see his police badge.

Goodman stated that Robinson pulled out a black and gray gun from his waist and pointed it in the direction of Hartman saying ‘give me everything,’ and Robinson relieved him of his haversack, and told him (Hartman) to ‘run or I will shoot you’. The matter was reported to the police. Goodman also told the court that, on that same day, Daniels, who is a security guard, was asleep, on duty, when Robinson rode up, observed he was sleeping, pushed his hand in his pocket and relieved him of his phone and made good his escape. Goodman added that the matter was reported. A police was on patrol duty at Merriman’s Mall, when Robinson approached him saying ‘what are you doing in here, get out of here.’ The police then asked Robinson to subject himself to a search. During the search the stolen items were found. Robinson was arrested and later charged. Magistrate Isaac-Marcus, after listening to the prosecutor and Robinson remanded him (Robinson) to prison until December 30, 2019, for sentencing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 12, 2019

Chemical spill at GNIC wharf being cleaned up by authorities -EPA’s preliminary results show that the chemical is non-toxic

AUTHORITIES have moved in to clean up a chemical spill at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) wharf on Lombard Street. A chemical, which was purported to be a drilling fluid called Rheduce, had leaked out of a punctured container and was seen in the compound of GNIC, and some even ran onto the road and into the drain at Lombard Street. The Guyana Chronicle visited the wharf on Wednesday and observed the lime green substance at the entrance of the shipping company. The average passerby and even customers of GNIC were clearly curious to know what the substance was that greeted them at the entrance of the company. As a result of the growing concern about the substance, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was called in to assess the situation. The EPA, which spearheaded the assessment, was assisted by the Civil Defence Commission

An excavator can be seen pouring sand in the gutter which was contaminated by the chemical. This was part of the clean-up exercise (Adrian Narine photo)

(CDC), Tiger Tanks, the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) and even officials from GNIC. “The agency would have received notification this morning (Wednesday) after 9:00am…we came down and engaged representatives of GNIC who said the incident occurred yesterday (Tuesday) in the afternoon,” said, Senior Environmental Officer of the

Senior Environmental Officer of the EPA, Tashana Redmond (Adrian Narine photo)

EPA, Tashana Redmond, in an invited comment. Redmond said the spill occurred after a container, which contained the chemical which is allegedly owned by international oilfield services company, Schlumberger, got punctured. Approximately 1,000 litres of the chemical leaked out from the container. Although the chemical spill raised alarms, the EPA said the preliminary assessment indicated that the chemical was not highly toxic. A representative of the CDC also confirmed that the chemical was non-toxic, but said the authorities were still conducting further assessments to ensure that the chemical was not hazardous in any way. “The agencies are still investigating the matter and will continue to do their assessments, but we are working along with GNIC to have the compound cleaned up,” said Redmond. She pointed out to the Chronicle that a truck was

The area where the container was punctured (Adrian Narine photo)

already brought on site to begin the cleaning process. The EPA official said the cleanup exercise will not just focus on the street and compound, but will also include the waterways. “We want to ensure that the cleaning is done as fast as possible so as to reduce further movement of the chemical,” said Redmond, adding that the clean-up effort should take about 24

hours once there is favourable weather. When asked if the chemical affected human health, the EPA official said she was not aware of persons falling ill as a result of exposure to the chemical, but the EPA will further determine this when the full investigation concludes. The EPA is expected to release an official report on the matter within 24 hours.

Education Minister visits city schools as students attend Christmas Luncheons By Naomi Parris THE Minister of Education Dr Nicolette Henry, on Wednesday, visited several secondary schools in Georgetown to usher in the Christmas season. Secondary schools across the city are hosting Christmas Luncheons for students as school is scheduled to close on December 13, 2019, for the Christmas holiday. Some of the schools visited by Minister Henry included South Ruimveldt, Tucville and Charlestown Secondary Schools. Additionally, Dr Henry visited The Bishops’ High school, Queen’s College, North Georgetown and Cummings Lodge Secondary Schools. During the visits, the Education Minister shared light moments with students and teachers as they played games, watched movies and engaged in melodious carol singing in keeping with the season. Earlier this month, the

Ministry of Education had released a memo which stated that secondary schools, in Georgetown, will no longer be permitted to host school parties, but rather luncheons. “Christmas parties in many schools have moved away from the spirit of the season to one of inappropriate behaviour and activities by students,”

the memo read. Further it stated that: “Concerns were shared about the kind of music played, clothing worn by our students despite dress codes and also the large number of uninvited persons who attend these parties. As such, the decision was taken for all Secondary Schools in Georgetown to host Christmas luncheons and not

Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry, assisting students of The Bishops’ High School decorate their Christmas tree

Christmas parties.” Other guidelines for the luncheon included students being dismissed by

14.30hrs and not allowed to loiter around the school compound; checks will be expected to be made by

The minister watching a movie with the students of the North Georgetown Secondary School at their Luncheon

teachers of the students’ bags for alcohol, weapons and illegal drugs. No strangers or visitors will be allowed, and the security guards and teachers are to ensure those persons entering the schools are current students of the respective schools. The students had the choice of gift exchanges, but that was optional. Christmas parties were an annual feature at the end of the Christmas term where students were allowed to dress casual and socialize with their peers. However, over the years there were reports that out-of-school young adults attended these parties and weapons, drugs and alcohol found their way into the festive celebrations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Gov’t pledges to create safer roads for animals …as MoPI signs MoU with Paws for a Cause-Guyana Inc.

IN a bid to make the country’s roadways a much safer place for animals, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MoPI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Paws for a Cause-Guyana Inc. (PFAC-G) last Monday. The agreement seeks to create a healthy and safe environment for the animal population with specific emphasis on roadways across the country. To achieve this goal, the Public Infrastructure Ministry provided two locations – Den Amstel West Coast Demerara and Paradise East Coast Demerara – with applicable space for the shelter of these animals until they are adopted. In a statement on Wednesday, the Public Infrastructure Ministry explained that the move was triggered as a result of the constant killing of animals on the country’s roadways. It was noted that animals, at times, are the cause of

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson and Director of Paws for a Cause-Guyana, Marcia Tucker signing the MoU

minor and or fatal accidents. The MoPI along with its partner, PFAC-G, intends to minimise or at most, eradicate the death of humans and animals on the roadways by providing a place to shelter stray dogs and cats. The MoU is expected to last for a period of two years with the possibility of renewal. Paws For Cause-Guyana is a non-profit organisation that comprises five Directors – Marcia Tucker,

Alexandra Correia, Rabin Chandarpal, Indira Mattai and Steffi Denobrega. This organisation has adopted a mandate of promoting animal rights in Guyana through the dissemination of information and awareness aimed at decreasing animal cruelty and assisting in controlling the stray animal population through spay and neuter campaigns and establishment of animal rescue centres across Guyana.

Director of PFAC-G, Marcia Tucker, told Minister Patterson that the organisation is grateful for the opportunity to partner with his ministry to make the roadways safer. “We are really excited about this and it couldn’t have come at a better time. We have seen much carnage over the past months. The cause of this is beyond just smooth roads, drinking and

driving, there seems to be a really bad culture of driving on the road and we know that the animal issue is one that is seen as relatively small, but, we at PFAC-G really believe that there is a strong connection between humans and animals. People see animals being run over and we see it as the value of life for animals being reduced and hence, we are striving to make a differ-

ence,” Rabin Chandarpal said. Chandarpal, a PFAC-G director, was instrumental in the formation of the partnership. Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, said his ministry is happy to make a difference on the roadways, especially as it relates to the safety of lives of the citizens in Guyana.

From right: Chief Sea and River Defense Officer, Kevin Samad; Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson; Directors of Paws for a Cause-Guyana Marcia Tucker, Rabin Chandarpal, and Alexandra Correia respectively pose for a photo

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 12, 2019

Narine re-elected City mayor

Deputy Mayor, Alfred Mentore (left) and Mayor, Ubraj Narine were re-elected unanimously to their respective posts at City Hall on Wednesday (Elvin Croker photo)

By Tamica Garnett

RECEIVING resounding applause, 28-year-old People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member, Ubraj Narine, was, on Wednesday, unanimously re-elected as Mayor of Georgetown. Fellow party member, Alfred Mentore was also unanimously returned as deputy mayor at the elections held at City Hall. In the less than 20-minute nomination and election process, Councillor, Oscar Clarke was also re-elected chairman of the Council’s seven member Finance Committee, which includes Councilors Mentore, Trichia Richards, Yvonne Ferguson, Dawn Stewart, Ivelaw Henry and People’s Progressive Party Councillor, Bishram Kuppen. Former Mayor, Patricia Chase-Green was not re-elected to the committee. Narine, who first began his stint as mayor in January 2019, defined the past year as one of success and pledged that 2020 will be even better. “We have had a year of success: signing of MoUs, clearing of debts, negotiations of contracts, purchase of new equipment. We met other mayors across the globe, fostered new relationships and partnerships, and paid gratuity. The year

past, and come 2020, will be better than 2019. I urge us all to work together for a smooth flowing of 2020. To have more understanding, communication and dedication for the greater good and serve our people of this great City,” Narine said. Following the elections, Alliance for Change (AFC) Councillor, Ayodele Roach, rose to commend the mayor and thanked him for what he has done across the City for the past year. Narine first became a City Councilor after winning Constituency Two (Kitty north, Central & South & Subryanville), in the 2018 Local Government Elections, vying against four other candidates. On Wednesday, Narine thanked the councillors and his party and all those who contributed to the improvements of the City over the past year. “A year has passed already and I must say I could not have made it without my fellow councillors and officers who placed hand in hand to make this year what it was. We had our ups and downs, countless misunderstandings, disagreements and agreements. Yet we are here and yet we have had a year of success,” Narine expressed, before an audience that included PNCR Chairman, Volda Lawrence. “To my party, the PNCR,

Georgetown Mayor, Ubraj Narine, is embraced by PNCR Chairperson, Volda Lawrence, as she congratulates him on his re-election (Elvin Croker photo)

I must say I want to thank my Chairman, General Secretary, his Excellency [President David Granger], and all member of the PNCR to have had that faith in me to lead the journey for a great life for all Guyanese.” Also present for the proceedings was former Georgetown Mayor, Hamilton Green and Private Sector Commission Chairman, Gerry Gouveia. Green congratulated Ubraj on his re-election.

Both Narine and Mentore received 22 votes each during their respective elections. There were no votes against while four councilors abstained, in each case. Those abstaining included PPP councillors, Dimitri Alli, Dwayne Adams and Bishram Kuppen. The voting took place by show off hands, as per motion successfully moved by Councillor Heston Bostwick at the beginning of the

proceedings. As per custom, the election of mayor was the first order of business when the meeting opened at 14:00hrs, chaired by acting Town Clerk, Sherry Gerrick. As nominations commenced, Narine was quickly nominated by Mentore. The nomination was seconded and a motion was swiftly moved, and successfully passed, for nominations to close. Gerrick then declared Narine mayor and he took up

his position at the head of the horse-shoe table. Successfully installed as mayor, Narine then took up his position as Chairman of the meeting and opened the floor for nominations of deputy mayor. Mentore was quickly nominated by Councillor Denroy Tudor. This was seconded and again a motion was then successfully passed for nominations to close.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

‘Be bold in fight against climate change’

...Guyana challenges world leaders at Madrid climate conference AMID increasing global temperature, world leaders must act now to reel back the effects of Climate Change, Guyana’s Director of the Multilateral and Global Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Troy Torrington, said when he addressed the 25th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP25) in Madrid, Spain. “There is still an opportunity with transformative, impactful action to succeed in achieving our common 1.5-degree goal. However, the time for action is Now!” Torrington told the world leaders on Wednesday as they respond to the global climate emergency. “We must act to limit greenhouse gas emissions

and to change wasteful patterns of consumption and production. We must embrace actions that are catalytic and synergistic for climate change and sustainable development. We must act to ensure that governments, along with business, youth, women, academia and all stakeholders, are fully empowered to contribute optimally,” the Director of Global Affairs underscored. As a low-lying coastal developing state, Guyana, like other Small Island Developing States (SIDS), is all too conscious of its extreme vulnerability to the increasing and intense impacts of climate change, Torrington told the global actors. Alluding to the constant overtopping of the country’s sea-

Troy Torrington, Director of Multilateral and Global Affairs

walls, widespread flooding of low-lying communities and the unprecedented and unpredictable drought conditions in hinterland communities,

he said the effects of climate change are being felt by the more than 700, 000 people living in Guyana. He said the theme ‘Time

for Action’ is therefore relevant. Guyana, Torrington said, has acted. “We have acted to articulate a Green State Development Strategy that will actualize a low-carbon growth trajectory in the medium term by pursuing cohesive national development that promotes prosperity, social inclusion and the protection of the environment,” he explained. As a high-forest cover, low deforestation country and net carbon sink, Guyana – with 87 per cent of its land area covered by forests, has acted to limit the deforestation of its pristine tropical Amazon forests to world leading levels, the Global Affairs Director reported. “We have acted, including through partnership with Norway, to ensure that REDD-Plus became one of the more prominent success stories of the Paris Agreement. Guyana has acted to advance its mitigation and adaptation actions in such priority sectors as agriculture and transport and to build greater coherence and synergies among the Rio Conventions,” he further pointed out. Added to that, Guyana has acted in accordance with its nationally determined contribution to pursue ambitious action to transition from high dependence on fossil fuels to near complete reliance on renewable energy, especially solar, by 2040. In conjunction with a wide range of partners, the Guyana Government is leading the way through such undertak-

ings as the Greening Towns Initiative, the Green Public Sector Programme and the Rural Energy Project. “In this context, we call on the international community to act urgently and decisively to complement and facilitate the ambitious actions of the Guyanas of our world who are on the frontlines of climate impacts and response. We call for renewed endeavours to scale up capacity to sustain such ambitious efforts. We call for the speedy conclusion of the Article 6 negotiations to enable small developing countries to better participate in carbon markets and to receive a fair share of all proceeds. We call for action to enable greater access to technology, the strengthening of capacity and determined action to facilitate simplified access to global climate finance in order to advance our adaptation and resilience-building initiatives,” Torrington said as he challenged the global actors to do more. While the need is great, Torrington said Guyana is confident that, together, countries can effectively respond to and reverse anthropogenic climate change. The United Nations Climate Change Con ference (COP25), which commenced on December 2, is being attended by Heads of State, climate officials, non-governmental organisations, and other non-state actors. The high-level climate change forum will come to an end on December 13.

Businessman accused of forging invoices at GRA granted bail MAGISTRATE Faith McGusty, on Wednesday, December 11, 2019, granted $140,000 bail to a Businessman who allegedly forged invoices at the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). 39-year-old Darwin David of Vlissingen Road, Georgetown, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded not guilty to the seven charges when they were read to him. Particulars of the charges stated that, on June 24, 2019, at Camp Street, Georgetown, with intent to defraud, he uttered to Candacy McGregor, a law enforcement officer at GRA, seven forged invoices valued at $22,441,903.15, dated for the period May 20, 2016 to September 24, 2018, purporting to show that they were issued by Giftland Office Max. Attorney-at-law Sase Gunraj, who represented David in the matter, asked the court to release his client on reasonable bail. Magistrate McGusty granted David $140,000 bail and adjourned the matted until January 8, 2020.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Chief of Staff visits Camp Kanuku on “Soldiers’ Day” CHIEF of Staff (CoS), Brigadier Patrick West, and several senior and junior officers of the Force joined the troops based at Camp Kanuku, Lethem, for the traditional “Soldiers’ Day” held recently at that location. The day’s activities saw the assemblage of villagers and several representatives from the other Disciplined Services. Customarily, the troops stationed at the location provide security for the country’s borders during the festive seasons and will be away from their families. As a result, CoS Patrick West thanked the ranks for their services and urged them to remain steadfast and diligent during the execution of

CoS, Patrick West addressing the ranks in Lethem on the traditional ‘Soldiers Day’

their duties. During the fun-filled day,

the ranks were treated to a special lunch served by the

CoS and fellow officers. The troops were allowed

the opportunity to perform Christmas songs, skits, and

poems in the spirit of the festive season.

Iwokrama, UG sign pact for PhD scholarship through ExxonMobil

THE Iwokrama International Centre and the University of Guyana (UG), on Wednesday, signed a Memorandum of Under-

some of the most pioneering work in this area, and Ms Harris’ research will continue to build on this, the Centre said in a release.

of a “legal field guide for natural resource practitioners” – Guyana’s first - and the development of Guyana’s first 3D map of community (Fair

From L: Dane Gobin - CEO of Iwokrama, Dr Guyanpriya Maharaj – Director of the Centre for Biological Diversity, UG and Calvin Bernard – Former Dean, Faculty of Natural Sciences and member of the Iwokrama Science Committee.

standing (MoU) to support a PhD scholarship at that institution under a science programme funded by ExxonMobil. The student, Arianne Harris, will work with the Centre under its science programme’s biodiversity project while completing work in fulfillment of the requirements for a PhD degree in biodiversity from the UG. Her research involves understanding how bird and bat species respond to forestry practices, and what role these animals play in helping the forest to regenerate, following commercial activities. To date, the Iwokrama Science Committee has done

She will be supervised by a UG team as well as scientists from the United Kingdom and United States who are on Iwokrama’s Science Committee. According to the centre, Exxon Mobil has been a significant supporter of the Iwokrama Science Programme, funding some US$600,000 since 2017. In addition to the biodiversity project, the Centre is also implementing a hydrology programme at Iwokrama and in the Rupununi Savannahs. Other outputs from the science programme include outreach activities, capacity building and awareness programmes for the local communities, the production

View village) lands. Iwokrama said it has had a long standing relationship with UG and collaborates on many areas including capacity building and scientific research. The Centre recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of the offer of the Iwokrama Forest for research into climate change and sustainable development, by the Government of Guyana to the international community, at the 1989 Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Malaysia. 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 “in a manner that will lead to lasting ecological, economic and social benefits to the people of

Guyana and to the world in general”. The Centre, guided by an international Board of Trustees is unique, providing a dedicated well managed and researched forest environment. The forest is zoned into a Sustain-

able Utilization Area (SUA) and a Wilderness Preserve (WP) in which to test the concept of a truly sustainable forest where conservation, environmental balance and economic use can be mutually reinforcing.

Trotman, GGDMA discuss initiative to phase out mercury use

MINISTER of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman and executive members of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) met on Tuesday during which they discussed an initiative to phase out the use of mercury in gold recovery. According to a release, the meeting was held with

the newly-elected Chairman of GGDMA, Mr. Andron Alphonso, and members of the body, to discuss areas of collaboration and issues to be addressed in Budget 2020. Trotman endorsed a proposal from the newly-elected GGDMA president for a pilot project that will support Guyana’s efforts towards the phasing out of mercury use

in keeping with the country’s commitments in the Minamata Convention. The project will integrate international recommendations for the reduction of mercury in the sector to test their viability in conditions resembling those encountered by small and medium scale miners at interior locations. Once completed,

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman and executive members of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) during their meeting on Tuesday

the findings of the pilot will be made public and used as a basis for further work towards the reduction of mercury use. Minister Trotman expressed his appreciation to the GGDMA for the initiative taken to address mercury use in the sector, and noted that the project proposed can potentially transform the sector, by helping miners to better understand and embrace improved techniques that support the use of alternatives to mercury in mining. As a next step, representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources and the GGDMA will work expeditiously on a framework that will incorporate the proposal shared. Additionally, the GGDMA executives thanked Gov-

ernment for the work done to date on hinterland roads and bridges, and called for stricter enforcement measures to prevent over-laden trucks from using roads to the detriment of all others. Minister Trotman, in turn, agreed, among others, to vigorously pursue initiatives to broaden tax concessions for mining equipment, to extend the current amnesty for payment of fees and penalties and for enhanced security in the hinterland, as new threats and challenges emerge. The two sides ended the meeting expressing satisfaction with its outcomes and look forward to continued engagements that are expected, as well, to include, a follow-up engagement with His Excellency President David Granger.

Man accused of a series of offences granted bail ONE week after Boutrim was released from prison, after spending six months, for escaping police custody, he was, on Wednesday December 11, 2019, granted $40,000 bail by Magistrate Faith McGusty. Daniel Boutrim of Guyhoc Park appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was slapped with four charges. Particulars of the first charge stated that, on December 9, 2019, at East La Penitence Police Station, he unlawfully assaulted Madessa Ajaday, a police officer, causing actual bodily harm. The second charge stated that, on the same day, and at the same place, he used threatening Language to the said officer. The third charge stated that, on December 9, 2019, at Stevedore Housing Scheme, Georgetown, he assaulted Shamain Lamzon.

The last charge stated that, on the same day at Stevedore Housing Scheme, he damaged six windows valued at $1200, property of Shamain Lamzon. Boutrim pleaded guilty to the first charge and not guilty to the other three charges. According to information, on the day in question, police received information that a man was trying to kill a woman at Stevedore Housing Scheme. A party of police men went to the location where they met Boutrim. Boutrim was arrested, and, while at the station, Ajaday told him to sit on the bench and Boutrim dealt her a slap to her face. Magistrate McGusty fined Boutrim $20,000 on the first charge and granted him $40,000 bail on the last three charges. The matter was adjourned until December 18, 2019.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

New maritime safety centre opens in Berbice …as MARAD keeps eye on increased marine traffic

AS a result of Guyana’s emerging oil and gas sector, in addition to increased activities in fisheries, marine traffic has increased two-fold over the past year and this has necessitated increasing safety on the waterways. This is according to Director of Maritime Safety, Captain John Flores, who was, on Wednesday, speaking at the commissioning of the Maritime Administration Department’s (MARAD) Maritime Safety Centre in New Amsterdam, Berbice, Region Six. “The increased number of people in the country [has] also increased the number of speedboats that ply the rivers of Guyana. So,

generally across the country we have, almost double the amount of traffic we had one year ago and that is the reason we seek the need to increase safety itself, and I must say we will be expanding the maritime sector,” Captain Flores is quoted as saying in a Department of Public Information press bulletin. He said vessel owners and operators would now be able to access services such as certification, renewal of sea fares, and compliance with national regulations right in their district. The bulletin said Director of Ports and Harbours, Louise Williams, noted that over the years MARAD has commissioned other Maritime Safety Centres in Regions 1, 2, 7,

MARAD’s Director of Port and Harbours, Louise Williams

(Front row from left) MARAD’s Director of Port and Harbours, Louise Williams, Director of Maritime Safety Captain, John Flores, Region Six Regional Chairman, David Armogan with staff of the newly opened Maritime Safety Centre in East Berbice-Corentyne

Inside the newly-commissioned Maritime Safety Centre, Region Six

with works in the pipeline for the construction of a similar facility in Region 10 in the first quarter of 2020. “Persons in the fishing sector need to understand and practice safety on the waterways; it is important to have each vessel inspected properly, licensed and certified. Certification is also necessary for the captains for these vessels. It is also important that those in the sector also adhere to the importance of complying with stipulation regulations,” Williams noted. MARAD is also distributing life jackets in riverain areas and running sensitisation campaigns with the fishing co-operatives to boost safety and compliance.

MARAD’s Director of Maritime Safety, Captain John Flores

Labourer sentenced for biting security guard MAGISTRATE Faith McGusty, on Wednesday December 11, 2019, sentenced a Labourer to three months in prison for wounding a man. Mark Thompson appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court and pleaded guilty to the charge, when it was read to him. Particulars of the charge stated that, on November 22, 2019, at Bourda, Georgetown, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Roger Harmon, a security guard.

Mark Thompson

"I does pick up bottle by Bourda and he just deh

coming and harassing and tormenting me. And he had me in the trench so I bite he," Thompson said. According to information, on the day in question, Harmon was attempting to arrest Thompson, when Thompson bit Harmon on his left side eye. The matter was reported and Thompson was arrested and charged. Magistrate McGusty, after listening to all sides of the matter, sentenced Thompson to three months in prison.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Zeeburg man remanded for $15M cannabis ‘bust’ A 30-year-old man who was nabbed with $15.4M worth in cannabis following a high-speed chase by officers of the Custom Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) was on Wednesday remanded to prison for drug-trafficking. Azim Ali, called Boyo of Zeeburg, West Coast Demerara, appeared before Magistrate Zamilla Ally-Seepaul at the Wales Magistrate’s Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge. Particulars of the charge state that Ali on Thursday, December 5, 2019, at De Willem, West Coast Demer-

Azim Ali called ‘Boyo’

ara, had 30.902 kilogrammes of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. CANU prosecutor Konyo Sandiford strongly objected to bail for Ali; the magistrate agreed with the prosecutor and remanded Ali to prison

until January 28, 2019. According to reports, on December 5, 2019 around 23:00hrs., there was a highspeed chase along the De Willem Public Road, WCD, between CANU officers and motor car PPP 7790, which was driven by Ali and had three passengers inside. The car was eventually intercepted at De Willem and a quantity of suspected narcotics was discovered in the vehicle. Ali was arrested while the passengers escaped and are still being sought by CANU.

DISTASTEFUL ... infraction with significant impact and effect and which is not easily rectifiable; and Red, fundamental breach of the Broadcast Licence, the Broadcasting Act, the Amendment or any combination. Josiah explained that of the 18 infractions recorded in August, 10 were in the red following an assessment of the content aired on television and radio. In September, a total of 39 infractions were recorded – 20 of which were in the red, seven in the orange and 12 in yellow. In October 2019, the number of infractions jumped to 41 with 19 in the red. For the 31 infractions recorded in November, 25 were in the red. Under the Broadcasting Act of 2011, GNBA is empowered to implement a number of sanctions to infringing broadcasters, ranging from fines to suspension of broadcasting licences. Red infractions attract a fine of $50,000$100,000, while orange infractions range $25,000-$50,000 and yellow entails fines between $10,000-$25,000. Broadcasters can also be fined $50,000 for failure to provide a recording when ordered to do so. Repeat offenders are liable for suspension or revocation of licences. Josiah noted that the infractions included offensive references to opponents, offensive language and failure to protect children under 18 among others. In support of her case, the Chair of the Monitoring and Compliance Committee played a video clip comprising of several infractions. News items, talks shows, radio programmes and even movies shown by MTV, HGPTV (Nightly News), HBTV Channel 9, CNS Channel six, Hits and Jam, Freedom Radio, Keystone Solution (107.1) were laced with profanities, graphic imagines, and unsubstantiated statements targeting the People’s National Congress/ Reform, the People’s Progressive Party and the opposition

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leader. Josiah challenged the broadcasters present to be responsible in their actions and abide by the rules, regulations and laws governing the airwaves. On another note, the GNBA Chairman disclosed that the authority had cause to take legal action against some delinquent broadcasters and at least one operative bent on illegally using prohibited frequencies. “Frequencies are allocated to separate sectors e.g the military, maritime, aviation, telecommunications operate on specially-assigned bands and frequencies. Radio and television also have their own assigned bands and frequencies so that a broadcaster cannot expect to be allowed to unlawfully utilise frequencies assigned to other sectors,” Sobers explained. He warned that once GNBA becomes aware of such an endeavor, it would revoke that broadcaster’s licence or refuse to issue any future licence. The GNBA Chair reminded the broadcasters that their 2018 Audited Financial Reports, their Certificates of Good Standing and their Spectrum Fees are prerequisites for the issuance of Broadcasting Licences for 2020. The National Communications Network (NCN), MTV, HGPTV, News Talk Guyana, CNS Channel six, MAAD 97.5FM, Linden Wireless Communication Network and IRadio Network were among the broadcasters represented during Wednesday’s engagement. Communication Specialist, Dr. Rovin Deodat; Attorney-at-Law, Joel Edmond; Business Entrepreneur, Aretha Campbell; and Director of Telecommunications Agency, Andre Griffith, were among the GNBA’s Board Members present.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Dorado swimmers in T&T for ASATT Invitational

SIXTEEN swimmers from Dorado Speed Swim Club left Guyana this week to compete in the Amateur Swimming Association of Trinidad and Tobago (ASATT) Invitational, which is scheduled to run from yesterday afternoon until Sunday, at the National Aquatics Centre in Couva, Trinidad. The swimmers, most of whom are dominant national swimmers, are looking to use the invitational meet to accumulate FINA points. According to information from the club, a team of two coaches, two managers, 16 swimmers and eight parents are currently in Trinidad for the meet. Nicholas Fraser (head coach) and Shyka Gonsalves are the coaches, while Mrs Colleen Roberts and Mrs Marcel David Watson travelled as manager and assistant manager respectively. The swimmers are: Tyler Allicock, Ethan Gonsalves, Elliott Gonsalves, Athalcy Hunte, Brittany Quamina, Safiya Foster, Raekwon Noel, Monique Watson, Maiya Ifill, Vladimir Woodroffe, Alex Bentham (Jr), Kyra Soares, Daniel Scott, Stephon Ramkhelawan, Stephen Ramkhelawan and Delia George. The supporting parents are Dr Mellissa Ifill, Mr Alex Bentham, Ms Donna Vieira, Mrs Rhonda Allicock, Mrs Sharda Ramkhelawan, Mrs Gail Niles, Mrs Sharon Woodroffe and Mr Christopher Woodroffe.

Waramuri Primary beat Santa Rosa Secondary in 10/10 clash BRUCE Vincent and Alex Frazer helped Waramuri Primary defeat Santa Rosa Secondary School by 94 runs on Tuesday at the Waramuri Recreational Ground in the Moruca Sub Region in a T10 hardball encounter. Under overcast conditions the match as witnessed by a fair-size crowd of parents, children and teachers. The home team, including many players from the Waramuri Primary School’s secondary department were inserted to take first strike on the ExxonMobil-sponsored upgraded ground and they did not disappoint. Led by 13-year-old opening batsman Vincent, they were able to race to a whopping 157-1 from their allotted overs. He batted with maturity, struck 11 fours and a six in his unbeaten 63. He shared in an opening partnership of 94 runs with Jason Austin who contributed a patient 26 (2×4, 1×6). Skipper Nico Vincent joined younger brother Bruce and kept the pressure on, as he made a quick-fire unbeaten 39 (4×4, 3×6). Santa Rosa Secondary’s Raul Partab was the lone successful wicket-taker with 1-27 off his two overs. In reply, Santa Rosa were restricted to a paltry 63-7 as their overs expired without any of their batsmen dominating. Middle-order batsmen Kelly Greenidge (21) and Shamar John (13) were able to play a few shots. Bowling for Waramuri, Frazer finished with 3-18 from his two overs.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday, December 12, 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) (1) (2)

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ:

Dennis Amiss-103 (ENG vs AUST, Old Trafford, 1972) Dennis Lillee-5/34 (AUST vs PAK, Leeds, 1975)

TODAY’S QUIZ:

(1) Who is the first player to score a Test match century? (2) Who is the first player to claim a five-wicket haul in a Test innings?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Gilchrist names Paine’s Test successor TEST legend Adam Gilchrist has nominated Pat Cummins or Steve Smith as the next Australian Test captain but insists the job is still Tim Paine’s while the gloveman is in the XI. Ahead of the first Domain Test against Pakistan, Paine, who turned 35 on Sunday, conceded at his age this summer could be his last in the Test team. “I think they’ve got a couple of options in Smith or Cummins should Paine pull out or they don’t feel he’s the right man to be in the team anymore,” Gilchrist said in Perth on the eve of the opening Test against New Zealand.

still utilises the brains of Smith, David Warner and the squad’s senior players. Paine’s on-field assistance from Smith during the Pakistan series has been highlighted but Australia coach Justin Langer said it would be “absolutely ridiculous” for the Test skipper not to tap into the former captain. But if it is captaincy by committee when Paine’s successor is eventually named, Gilchrist still wants there to be one figurehead of the team and dismissed the idea of co-captains. “I wouldn’t be big on co-captains,” Gilchrist said. “Smithy is a co-captain now, no drama with him

the Redbacks, Carey has amassed 386 runs with two centuries and an average of 55.14. While his form at domestic level and during the winter’s World Cup is impressive, Carey is still behind Paine as the premier gloveman in the country, according to Gilchrist, who says if the incumbent keeper is in the team he should be behind the wheel. “I reckon while (Paine) is in the team he should be captain,” Gilchrist said. “And then let’s see after these three Tests, see how he feels at the end of this summer. “I feel it was more of a light-hearted comment when he said it might be his last

Test legend Adam Gilchrist has nominated Pat Cummins or Steve Smith as the next Australian Test captain but insists the job is still Tim Paine’s while the gloveman is in the XI

“Pat’s come out and said he’s feeling comfortable now should they call on him. “I honestly don’t know if it would be good or bad thing for Smithy. “If he wants to do it and they feel he’s right to do it maybe that would be the right move for the team.” Smith has brushed off talks of a potential return to the captaincy since returning to the national side, following his 12-month suspension but Cummins said last week it would be an honour to be Test captain and if offered the top job he might not be able to say no. But the right-armer was quick to point out he would not be the finished product and would rely on the experienced players around him if given the responsibility of the Test side. While Cummins has little captaincy experience to draw on, Paine has a wealth of knowledge and even he

contributing to conversation in the change-rooms or out on the field. “Someone at the end of the day has to be responsible. “From the teams I’ve played in you like that as a team, you like to know there is someone who will be accountable if it goes wrong, in charge and giving a sense of direction. “Everyone contributes to what that direction might be. Someone literally has to keep steering it that way.” If Paine is no longer in the XI, Gilchrist said Australia’s top-ranked batter and bowler could step up into the coveted position. However, as it stands Paine is the captain of the Test team for the rest of the summer. Hot on the heels of the Tasmanian is South Australian Alex Carey, Australia’s limited-overs wicketkeeper who has been piling on the runs in the Marsh Sheffield Shield. In four matches for

summer. “But like all players that are getting into that age bracket, it’s almost a summer-by-summer analysis. “When you’ve got a guy like Alex Carey nipping at his heels … he’s starting to show some really promising signs of consistency now in his Sheffield Shield cricket. “With his overall game and where the attention gets drawn to is his run-scoring. “His wicket-keeping seems to be extremely consistent, as is Tim Paine’s, but Carey is now starting to really accumulate important runs in first-class cricket, so that is going to really put pressure on him. “If he is playing next summer, Tim Paine should be captain of the Australian cricket team. “But we will have to see at the end of the summer if he is still in there - whether it’s his own personal judgement or the selectors’.” (CRICKET.com.au)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Jesus hat-trick gives Man City 4-1 win at Dinamo ZAGREB, Croatia (Reuters) - Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus netted a superb hat-trick as they came from behind to beat Croatian title-holders Dinamo Zagreb 4-1 away in an entertaining Champions League Group C clash yesterday. City, who had already secured the group’s top spot, finished with 14 points from six games, seven ahead of Atalanta who joined them in the last 16 after a 3-0 win at Shakhtar Donetsk. Third-placed Shakhtar, who collected six points, will carry on in the Europa League’s last 32 while Dinamo (five points) were eliminated from European competition. Aiming to reach the Champions League knockout stages for the first time, Dinamo made a bright start as Spanish forward Dani Olmo fired them into a 10th-minute lead with a sumptuous volley. Jesus levelled in the 34th after Ilkay Gundogan had gone close amid some sustained pressure from City, rising above two markers to head home a Riyad Mahrez cross from the left. The Brazilian then produced a jinking run after a one-two with Phil Foden in the 50th minute, weaving his way past several defenders on the left before beating home keeper Dominik Livakovic with a neat finish. The irrepressible Jesus completed his one-man show four minutes later with a clinical side-footed shot from close range after left back Benjamin Mendy delivered an inch-perfect cross from the left. City took their feet off the pedal after Jesus was substituted in the 65th minute but Foden added some gloss to the scoreline in the closing stages as he swept in a fine pass by Bernardo Silva.

Dillian Whyte

Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus scores their third goal to complete his hat-trick (Action Images via Reuters/Matthew Childs)

Improving United on the right track, says Solskjaer MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - Manchester United’s recent wins over Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, despite missing several injured players, are signs that the team are moving in the right direction, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said yesterday. With club record-signing Paul Pogba among those sidelined, United handed their former boss Jose Mourinho his first Spurs defeat last week and dented the Premier League title charge of Pep Guardiola’s faltering City on Saturday. “We’ve come through a sticky patch in terms of injuries and form,” Solskjaer told a Europa League news conference before his side,

who have already qualified for the last 32 knockout stage, face Dutch team AZ Alkmaar at Old Trafford today.

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

“Results are the proof but inside we’ve always believed in what we’re doing. We’re on the right track ... I see the boys training every day and the attitude and the quality so I’ve not been too

WBC reinstates Britain’s Whyte as interim heavyweight champion

worried.” United’s form has been patchy this season but, after climbing to fifth in the league and moving within five points of fourth-placed Chelsea after a five-game unbeaten run, Solskjaer backed his team to improve further. “Of course, consistency is vital if you want to win trophies,” Solskjaer added. “This young team need to learn how to put in performances when they don’t feel great. You don’t feel great every time you go on the pitch. “We’ve had some games when we’ve not been able to perform as well as we liked but that’s a learning curve and the boys will improve over the

next couple of years ... hopefully the rest of the season.” Midfielder Jesse Lingard will miss the Alkmaar game after sustaining a knock against Manchester City but Marcos Rojo, Diogo Dalot and Nemanja Matic are in line to return. United must avoid defeat by the Dutch side to top Group L. Solskjaer added that he was hopeful Frenchman Pogba will recover from his ankle injury before the end of the year. “Let’s get him fit and back in form. He’ll play loads of games. He’s one of the best players in the world and we’re looking forward to having him back,” he added.

(REUTERS) - British heavyweight Dillian Whyte has been reinstated as WBC interim champion and will get a mandatory shot at the title currently held by Deontay Wilder, the WBC said yesterday. The decision comes five days after the UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD) withdrew a charge against the 31-year-old Whyte for a doping violation and follows a WBC investigation. “In light of the WBC’s own finding and of UKAD’s withdrawal of the claim against Mr Whyte, the WBC has closed its internal investigation,” the WBC said in a statement here. The WBC said it found no sufficient or conclusive evidence that Whyte intentionally took a banned substance with the aim of enhancing his performance. “The WBC is hereby lifting its provisional suspension and confirming its recognition of Mr Whyte as WBC Interim World Heavyweight Champion,” the statement added. Whyte won the title on July 20 by beating Colombian Oscar Rivas but the WBC provisionally suspended recognition of his status as interim champion 10 days later over an irregular urine sample he had provided out-of-competition in June. UKAD had charged Whyte for a doping violation as his sample before the fight “indicated the presence of two metabolites of a steroid” but on Friday it cleared him of any wrongdoing. The agency said there was nothing in Whyte’s “longitudinal urinary profile” to suggest he used steroids. Wilder is set for a rematch with mandatory challenger Briton Tyson Fury in February after their last clash ended in a draw. Whyte will become the mandatory challenger after that fight, with the incumbent WBC champion to face Whyte by February 2021.

Afghanistan re-appoint Asghar Afghan as captain for all formats MUMBAI, India (Reuters) - Former Afghanistan cricket captain Asghar Afghan has been brought back to replace Rashid Khan and lead the team in all formats, the country’s cricket board (ACB) said yesterday. “As per the decision by ACB Top management, senior player Asghar Afghan is reappointed as team Afghanistan’s captain across formats,” ACB said on its official Twitter account. Leg-spinner Rashid, 21, was named captain for all formats with Afghan as his deputy in July after a dismal run at the 50-over World Cup in England. Afghan, 31, who led his country to a maiden

Former Afghanistan cricket captain Asghar Afghan brought back to lead his country in all formats

Test win against Ireland this year, has been a regular member of the team since 2009 and was reinstated at the helm with Rashid demoted to vice-captain. Under Afghan’s leadership, the country won full membership status from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and qualified for the 2019 World Cup but in a surprising move he was removed from the position less than two months before the tournament. Afghanistan lost all nine of their matches at the World Cup in England and finished at the bottom of the standings.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Naseem leads fightback as Pakistan host first Test in a decade LAHORE, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistan’s teenage fast bowler Naseem Shah led the hosts’ recovery against Sri Lanka on a riveting opening day as Test cricket returned to the country yesterday for the first time since a militant attack in 2009. Sri Lanka started strongly but Pakistan fought back through their four-pronged pace attack as the visitors reached 202 for five when bad light brought an end to the day’s play. Dhananjaya de Silva was unbeaten on 38 with Niroshan Dickwella 11 not out for the island nation. The two-match series marks Pakistan’s first Tests on home soil since the attack on Sri Lanka’s team bus in Lahore a decade ago and the current touring side have been promised watertight security during the visit. In the presence of a small crowd at the Pindi Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne won the toss and opted to bat

under overcast skies. Karunaratne and his opening partner Oshada Fernando gave them a solid start, adding 96 for the first wicket as Pakistan’s fast bowlers toiled though a wicketless first session. The Sri Lanka captain was lucky to survive while batting on 31 when an inswinger from debutant Usman Shinwari kissed his offstump but failed to dislodge the bails. Shaheen Afridi gave Pakistan the first breakthrough when he dismissed Karunaratne, who was also hit on the back of the neck by Naseem Shah, leg-before for 59. Fernando, who played the last of his two Tests in February against South Africa, fell to Naseem after a well-made 40. The 16-year-old Naseem, who played his maiden Test against Australia last month, also accounted for the experienced Angelo Mathews. The former Sri Lan-

ka captain scored 31 but added a crucial 62 for the fifth wicket with de Silva to steady Sri Lanka’s innings after they had lost Kusal Mendis (10) and Dinesh Chandimal in quick succession to be reduced to 127-4. Experienced middle-order batsman Chandimal was back in the Sri Lanka side for the first time since losing the captaincy after their defeat by Australia in Canberra

SCOREBOARD

Teenaged pacer Naseem Shah was Pakistan’s best bowler on day one with 2 for 51

Foster to seek re-election following successful first term BERBICE Cricket Board (BCB) president Hilbert Foster has signalled his intentions to seek re-election for another two terms, as the board prepares to host their Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday, December 22.

Outgoing BCB president Hilbert Foster

In a release from the BCB, Foster stated that he was fully prepared to walk away after his highly successful first term but agreed to the request of countless clubs, young cricketers, cricket officials and parents as they were concerned about Berbice Cricket returning to a state of dormancy. Foster, who is also the Secretary/CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, took over the leadership of BCB February 18, 2018, at a Special Election ordered by Guyana’s High Court. Moves, such as a drive which raked in over $20M in cash from hosting over 60 tournaments at the Under-13, U-15, U-17, U-19,

in February but managed to score only two. Sri Lanka included one frontline spinner in Dilruwan Perera, dropped opening batsman Lahiru Thirimanne and brought in Oshada. Opening batsman Abid Ali was the other debutant for the hosts who dropped Imam-ulHaq, while there was no place for experienced leg-spinner Yasir Shah.

U-21, Double Wicket, Primary School, Secondary School, Female, Intermediate, Internal Zone, Inter-Village, Second Division and First Division levels were all works of Foster during his tenure. Berbice players are also being recognised at the West Indies level in record numbers with the following players been called up over the last two years at different levels: Devendra Bishoo, Romario Shepherd, Gudakesh Motie, Anthony Bramble, Shemaine Campbelle, Sheneta Grimmond, Shabika Gajnabi, Isiah Thorne, Kevlon Anderson, Rampersaud Ramnauth, Jonathan Rampersaud and Kevin Umroa. They were also included in training camps. The BCB head stated he has no intention of campaigning for the position as his unmatched achievements spoke for themselves. The 13 clubs and three sub-associations have to decide if they want to return to the sad state of the recant past or to see more progress over the next two years. Foster plans to run for the period 2020–2021 and plans to host at least 25 tournaments per year at the different levels, continue the 2-Day tournament, carry on upgrading the BCB office, expand the countywide coaching programme, hold more cricket tournaments and assist clubs in the riverine area as well as construct an all-weather practice centre. He plans to assist clubs with proper youth structure, cricket gear for promising youth players and mentoring of young leaders at the BCB.

SRI LANKA 1st innings Dimuth Karunaratne lbw Shaheen Afridi 59 Oshada Fernando c Haris Sohail b Naseem Shah 40 Kusal Mendis c Mohammad Rizwan b Usman Shinwari 10 Angelo Mathews c Asad Shafiq b Naseem Shah 31 Dinesh Chandimal b Mohammad Abbas 2 Dhananjaya de Silva not out 38 Niroshan Dickwella not out 11 EXTRAS: (b-5 lb-3, nb-3) 11 TOTAL: (five wkts, 68.1 overs) 202 Fall of wickets: 1-96, 2-109, 3-120, 4-127, 5-189. Bowling: Mohammad Abbas 20.1-7-50-1, Shaheen Afridi 16-6-37-1 (nb-3), Usman Shinwari 14-4-47-1, Naseem Shah 16-4-51-2, Haris Sohail 1-0-9-0, Shan Masood 1-1-0-0.

Ronaldo and Higuain on target as Juve beat Leverkusen 2-0 BERLIN (Reuters) - Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain scored late goals as already-qualified Juventus beat hosts Bayer Leverkusen 2-0 in the Champions League Group D finale on Wednesday to eliminate the Germans from the competition. Ronaldo tapped in from close range in the 75th minute after having missed an almost identical chance in the first half and Higuain scored in stoppage time to put Juve top of the group on 16 points. Atletico Madrid, on 10, also advanced with a 2-0 win over Lokomotiv Moscow, leaving Leverkusen in third place on six points and with a spot in the Europa League the next year.

Leverkusen started strongly and looked for an early goal but it was the Italians who came agonisingly close when Higuain cut into the box and Ronaldo was a fraction too late. Leverkusen’s Moussa Diaby then let fly from 20 metres and seemed set to beat 41-year-old keeper Gianluigi Buffon, who was making his first Champions League appearance this season, but the ball bounced off the post. After the break, Juve controlled the pace with the hosts growing more desperate. Dybala then set up Higuain for their second goal with the Argentine scoring with a low drive.

McKinnon, Dharry shine in Woodpecker Products Practical Shoot VETERAN shooters Ryan McKinnon and David Dharry emerged as the top deadeyes last Saturday when the Woodpecker Products/Guyana Sport Shooting Foundation (GSSF) hosted its final Practical Shoot for 2019, at the Timehri Rifle Ranges. The annual event was well attended by a number of local gunners, some highly-experienced and some trainees but they all failed to over the feats of the two expert pistol shooters; who reigned supreme in their respective categories. Among the stages contested, Raw Deal, Down Low, Horsing Around, RM28, to name a few, were traditional obstacle-filled stages which tested the shooters’ reflexes, precision and stamina. In the Limited Division, McKinnon shot an impressive 342.7725 points

for his first place spot as he kept the others at bay. Another expert shooter, John Phang, secured 292.2822 points which landed him in 2nd place, while Pravesh Harry finished 3rd with 272.1620 points. The second division, Production, was dominated by the GSSF executive

Dharry, who was impressive with the handgun as he accumulated 345.9295 points to end as the 1st place winner in that group. Second place in the Production Category belonged to Andrew Phang, who shot 313.4308 points and former GSSF president Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon

who came in 3rd spot with 279.5950 points. Meanwhile, GSSF lauded the unwavering support of Guyana Defence Force/Chief of Staff Brigadier Patrick West, Commissioner of Police Mr Leslie James, OC TSU Mr Guy Nurse, the media and sponsors for their support in 2019 and look forward to brighter ventures and relationships in 2020. PRODUCTION DIVISION: 1st place – David Dharry (345.9295 points) 2nd place – Andrew Phang (313.4308 points) 3rd place – Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon (279.5950 points)

From one winner to another! Limited Division winner Ryan McKinnon (left) receives his trophy from Production Division winner David Dharry (right)

LIMITED DIVISION: 1st place – Ryan McKinnon (342.7725 points) 2nd place – John Phang (292.2822 points) 3rd Place – Pravesh Harry (272.1620 points)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 12, 2019

Windies T20 series hopes evaporate amidst India onslaught

MUMBAI, India (CMC) – West Indies’ bid for a rare series win fizzled under the weight of an enormous run chase as India pulled off a convincing 67-run victory in yesterday’s third Twenty20 International to clinch a 2-1 verdict in the threematch series. Faced with a record run chase of 241 for victory at the Wankhede Stadium, West Indies ended on 173 for eight off their 20 overs, to suffer their eighth defeat in nine T20s to India and also notch their third successive series defeat to the sub-continental powerhouses. Captain Kieron Pollard belted his second half-century in six innings when he top-scored with 68 from 39 balls but his demise at the end of the 15th over saw the Caribbean side’s slim hopes also disappear with him. Left-hander Shimron Hetmyer gave support with a 24-ball 41 but no other top

order batsman reached double figures. Opener Evin Lewis was ruled out of the game after sustaining soft tissue damage to his right knee while fielding, leaving West Indies short of a key batsman. Asked to bat earlier, India stormed to their third highest total in T20 Internationals behind Man-ofthe-Match KL Rahul’s scintillating 91 and additional half-centuries from fellow opener Rohit Sharma (71) and captain Virat Kohli (70 not out). Entering the contest with the series in the balance, India unleashed a punishing onslaught up front with Rahul and Rohit plundering 72 from the first power-play, as they put on a rollicking 135 off just 70 deliveries for the first wicket. Rahul struck nine fours and four sixes in a 56ball knock, reaching his half-century off 29 balls

with a single at the start of the 10th over, before perishing in the final over to a catch at the wicket, trying to pull a short one from leftarm pacer Sheldon Cottrell. Rohit, meanwhile, belted half-dozen fours and five sixes in a 34-ball cameo, raising his 19th T20 fifty with the second of two consecutive sixes off left-arm spinner Khary Pierre in the eighth over which leaked 21 runs. When he finally scooped seamer Kesrick Williams to Hayden Walsh at deep mid-wicket in the 12th over, India stumbled when Rishabh Pant fell without scoring five balls later with three runs added, holing out to long off, off Pollard’s slow medium. However, Man-of-theSeries Kohli arrived to produce another magical innings, pummelling four fours and seven sixes in a 29-ball knock as he inspired a 95run, third-wicket stand with Rahul.

KMTC Annual Boxing Day Horse Race

Metro injects close to $2M into ‘Million Mile’ Open race METRO Office and Computer Supplies yesterday handed over almost $2M to the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) ahead of Boxing Day’s Annual Mega Horse Race set for Bush Lot, Corentyne, Berbice. KMTC president Justice Cecil Kennard, upon receiving the cheque following the brief presentation at Metro’s Quamina Street location, expressed thanks as he noted that the business has been supporting the club for the past 13 years. Kennard added that not only has Metro been a proud sponsor over the past

decade, but the business has also been the major sponsor of the main event’s million-dollar prize money; with this year’s amount being $1 875 000. The KMTC president confirmed that things have been coming together nicely ahead of the race as it pertains to support and entrants. “Things have been coming together nicely, at least 50 jockeys have signalled their intention while all the major stables, like Jumbo Jet and others have indicated their willingness to be a part of the race,” said Kennard. Only one jockey from Trinidad and Tobago was

confirmed but Kennard said he expects more overseas participation as the event approaches. Some of the frontrunners to do well on Boxing Day are Don’t Overlook, Just Call Me Boss, Lucky Star, Vera Finnely, Good Will Boy, Stormbird, Golden Blue Echo, T&T, Mr Olympic. Meanwhile, Metro’s CEO Avia Lindie said the company was happy to continue its strong ties with the club and is happy to have been again the premier sponsor for the main attraction race which will see riders compete for millions in that category. (Clifton Ross)

From left, Management Trainee Andrew Hing, KMTC president Justice Cecil Kennard accepting the million-dollar cheque from Management Trainee Prakash Bahadur in the presence of Sanshya Bhagwandin. (Adrian Narine photo)

Kieron Pollard goes long during his half-century against India in yesterday’s third T20 International

He nearly single-handedly took 22 runs from the 15th over bowled by pacer Jason Holder then smashed another 27 runs from the penultimate over from Pollard, belting three sixes and a four to race to his fifty off just 21 balls. Needing to score at just over 12 runs per over, West Indies had a less than stellar start, losing Brandon King (5), Lendl Simmons (7) and Nicholas Pooran (0) to swiftly tum-

ble to 17 for three in the fourth over. Pollard and Hetmyer then stitched up the innings in a 74-run fourth-wicket stand which kept West Indies’ hopes of victory alive. After managing a single run from his first seven balls, Pollard exploded to lash five fours and half-dozen sixes, bringing up his fifty off 33 balls in the 14th over with a boundary to wide long on, off left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav (2-45).

Hetmyer, meanwhile, punched a four and five sixes, and had cleared the ropes twice in succession with Kuldeep in the 10th over when he smashed a full toss to long on, going for a third six. Holder (8) was caught in the deep in Kuldeep’s next over and even though Pollard kept the chase alive by adding 38 for the sixth with Walsh (11), the asking rate of 17 proved burdensome.

South Africa appoint Smith acting director of cricket

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (Reuters) - South Africa have named Graeme Smith as acting director of cricket for a three-month period, which covers England’s tour of the country starting later this month, before he takes up a commentary role at the Indian Premier League (IPL). Smith is the most successful captain in Test history and will seek in the new role to turn around the fortunes of an ailing South Africa side, who have lost their last five Tests in a row to Sri Lanka and India, two of which were by an innings. Jacques Faul was appointed acting chief executive of Cricket South Africa (CSA) last week after Thabang Moroe was suspended over governance concerns and major sponsor Standard Bank decided not to renew their contract in April 2020. “I am delighted that Graeme has agreed to assist Cricket South Africa up until the IPL next year,” Faul said in a statement yesterday. “Obviously, Graeme has had his concerns during

the course of the last few months, but I am pleased to say that we have overcome those concerns and I look forward to working with him to urgently address pressing cricketing matters in particular.

impact over the next few months. “I’ve publicly stated a number of times that I would love to assist CSA in this difficult time, particularly in developing this new role of Director of Cricket. I’m still

Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith

“He is a natural leader and his knowledge of the game is second to none. To have him on board to work with the professional cricket arm of CSA, as well as the cricketing pipeline, which is so vital for our game, is a massive shot in the arm for CSA during this period.” The 38-year-old Smith said he was looking forward to making a positive

as passionate about South African cricket as I ever was and I’m looking forward to getting stuck into the role. “There is a lot of work to be done in the next few weeks and months and my objective will always be to make a positive impact during my tenure.” The first of four Tests against England starts on December 26 in Pretoria.

Milerock, Pele Technical Director of Milerock Brian Joseph

WITH close to $4M in cash prizes up for grabs come January 1, 2020, the 2019/2020 edition of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Super 16 Cup is set to kick off on Sunday at Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, with the first double-header. This format of the sport leaves no room for teams to rebound so they have to hit top form at the first whistle and play faultless football in order to survive and make the next round. It’s virtually four matches or at least 368 minutes to the top prize of $2M and all 16 teams are starting on even keel with the chance to win. The second-placed team will walk away with $1M while third- and fourth-place attract $500 000 and $250 000, respectively. Pressure is never easy going into one’s opening match and given the chance to ease the tension first are Elite League side Milerock Football Club, based in the Bauxite Mining Town of Linden and City side, Pele Football Club. The current rainy weather has been a challenge in terms of preparations for all the teams but this means that the technical staff have to come up with innovative ways to keeping their teams in shape ahead of game day. Commenting on team preparations, coach of Pele FC, once one of the top exponents in the knockout format, Dennis ‘Chow’

Waramuri Primary beat Santa Rosa Secondary in 10/10 clash PAGE

to set tone in GFF Super 16 Cup opener on Sunday

Hunte, stated that they are ready for the challenge that Milerock will present on Sunday from 18:30hrs in the curtain-raiser. Set to feature a young side, Pele are in the rebuilding process. Hunte confirmed that his team is not as solid as before, having been faced with many challenges in the past three years; but his young charges, who would be led by Lodge Secondary School’s captain Derwin George, will be up to the task. “When we go out on the field of play, every team will have a chance to win the tournament but it would be down to whoever executes best on the day. We are in the rebuilding phase as a club and we have a very young team who would be giving a very good account of themselves, come Sunday evening. “We have been forced to do lots of physical work as the weather has been posing a challenge for us with grounds being unplayable. We usually practise at the CARIFESTA Sports Complex ground but we have had to find innovative ways of keeping in shape.” Technical Director of Milerock, Brian ‘Joe Boy’ Joseph, commenting on his team’s training indicated that it has intensified. “We are a bit behind where we should have been at this time and that’s because of all the challenges we faced in trying to get

the entire group together and to start proper preparations. But we are not complaining, we understand that most of the other teams in the tournament are facing or would have faced the same challenges.” TD Joseph exuded positivity that they are just about ready for their opening match against Pele on Sunday. “We intend to finalise a lot of the work that we’ve been doing, just to fine-tune a couple of things. I think the philosophy of how we want to play is established, it’s just a case now for us to reinforce in every session the importance of sticking to plan and playing together as a unit.” Commenting on the guest players they have approached given the fact that the rules of the competition allows for every team to have three, Joseph informed that they have a number of players from their hometown training with the team and they haven’t as yet finalised which of those players would be added to the team. “But what I know is that we pretty much know where our weaker areas are and we’ve tried to ensure that we bring in players who can strengthen those areas.” Sponsors on board to date are MACORP, Pegasus Hotel Guyana, HJ 94.1, THAG, Extra Beer & Extra Energy, Impressions, MP Sports, BACIF, NAMILCO, ECV Investments Ltd.

Dorado swimmers in T&T for ASATT Invitational PAGE

23 Head coach Nicholas Fraser (right) along with some of the swimmers, prior to leaving Guyana on Tuesday

Australian Barty named WTA Player of the Year

Alex Frazer (left) and Bruce Vincent led Waramuri Primary to victory

LONDON (Reuters) - Australia’s Ash Barty has been named WTA Player of the Year after capturing her maiden Grand Slam singles title and reaching the top of the world rankings. The 23-year-old, who quit tennis to play cricket in 2014 before returning to the game in 2016, became the first Australian to win the French Open since Margaret Court in 1973 when she beat Czech teenager Marketa Vondrousova in June. She also won the prestigious Miami title and became the first Australian woman to reach the WTA World number one ranking since Evonne Goolagong Cawley in 1976. Barty’s 57 match wins this year was the most by any player. Bianca Andreescu took the newcomer award after winning the U.S. Open to become the first Canadian to win a Grand Slam singles title, while Swiss Belinda Bencic was named “comeback player of the year” after regaining her place in the top 10.

Ash Barty’s 57-match wins this year was the most by any player

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2019