SATURDAY 16th March, 2019
‘I’LL DO MY PART’ No.105578
… President says collaboration needed to resolve political challenges
… defends legitimacy of Government; awaiting GECOM work plan to declare date for elections … urges citizens not to be intimidated by incendiary 03&05 insinuations PAGES
“THE resolution of the present political challenges requires collaboration. I am prepared to do my part to ensure credible elections within “…the shortest time possible” this year. The decisions which have to be made and the actions which need to be taken, however, are not mine alone. I rely on the Commission’s readiness, the provision of funds and the extension of time, by the National Assembly, to conduct credible elections. I rely on the outcome of legal challenges by the Court of Appeal. I rely, also, on public confidence in the institutions responsible for executing these processes. They demand political cooperation, not confrontation. Guyanese, it is my desire that credible elections be held in the shortest possible time. I shall continue to ensure that Government’s actions are consistent and are in compliance with the Constitution and assure citizens of a credible electoral process. I urge everyone not to be intimidated by incendiary insinuations aimed at instigating disaffection which could affect preparations for elections. I assure everyone that the Government will spare no effort to protect your fundamental rights and freedoms. Guyanese, I am confident that the path we have chosen is the best for the nation.”
President David Granger
2
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
Union, RUSAL hold first round of talks … no agreement on reinstatement of sacked workers
THE Guyana Bauxite and General Workers’ Union (GB&GWU) has lobbied for the reinstatement of workers who were dismissed by the Russian-owned Bauxite Company, RUSAL. The union managed to meet with representatives of the company after weeks of being denied the opportunity to engage in bilateral discussion. According to a statement from GB&GWU, the parties met in an amicable environment to hold bilateral discussion. “This saw the union advocating for the reinstatement of the dismissed workers and having discussion on the removal of the barricading of the Upper-Berbice River, among other issues,” said the union. The company and union have been at odds for more than a week after RUSAL declared that it has not been making profits in recent years and will be closing sections of its operations, while laying off 30 workers to add to the 61 it had fired. The dismissed workers had taken strike action on February 15, 2019 to protest a one per cent increase in salaries for 2019. The workers have since blocked the river at Aroaima where the company’s bauxite-laden barges have to pass to go to the transshipment station for loading onto ocean-going vessels. In an effort to alleviate the grievance, the union and company met in the boardroom of the law firm of Hughes, Fields and Stoby. The union’s delegation comprised of GB&GWU President, Leslie Gonsalves; General Secretary, Lincoln Lewis; Assistant Secretary, Sheldon Thomas; and BCGI branch leader, Ephraim Velloza. RUSAL was represented through, the Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc. (BCGI) which sent a delegation comprising Com-
pany Representative in Guyana, Permyakov Vladimir; Personnel Manager, Mikhail Krupenin; and Labour Adviser, Mohamed Akeel. The union submitted to the company, in writing, the terms and conditions upon which normalcy can be restored at the workplace, and has taken the opportunity to explain to the company’s delegation the rationale and justification for every issue appearing in the document. Deliberations lasted for about an hour and the parties will reconvene another meeting on Tuesday, March 19. NO AGREEMENT “No agreement was arrived at since the BCGI representatives claimed that they had to go back to their principals in Russia. The union, while concerned about the absence of decision-making, is prepared to wait on a response expected at the next meeting as this will determine the way forward and the genuine commitment of BCGI in engaging the union with integrity and willingness for mutually acceptable decisions. Until such time, the impasse remains,” said the union. The workers, in solidarity with members of the community, are still blocking the river. “GB&GWU continues to rely on the support of society and government to remain engaged until workers on strike and those who were unlawfully dismissed, in violation of the Laws of Guyana, are returned to duty with no interruption in service or loss of seniority,” said the union. The recent fallout between the parties has caused a nationwide stir because RUSAL has been operating in Guyana for many years as a major employer of Guyanese.
‘I’LL DO MY PART’ 3
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
… President says collaboration needed to resolve political challenges … defends legitimacy of Government
… urges citizens not to be intimidated by incendiary insinuations By Svetlana Marshall PRESIDENT David Granger on Friday assured that his government was not unconstitutional and that there is no legal impediment that restrains it from exercising its functions or requires it to assume only ‘caretaker’ functions. In an address to the nation, the Guyanese leader said notwithstanding the passage of the motion of no confidence in the National Assembly on December 21, last year, the current political situation “should not be a cause for alarm and anxiety. To this end he said he is prepared to do his part to ensure credible elections are held as he underscored the importance of political cooperation at this critical junction of the country’s history. “I am prepared to do my part to ensure credible elections within…the shortest time possible this year. The decisions which have to be made and the actions which need to be taken, however, are not mine alone,” President Granger said. His address comes days before the expiration of the three month constitutional deadline for the holding of early of elections, which were triggered by the December 21, 2018 vote of no-confidence against the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Government. Pending the outcome of an Appeal Court decision on the validity of the motion, the Government needs the support of the Parliamentary Opposition – the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) to extend the time for the holding of General and Regional Elections. According to the Constitution, a two-thirds majority of all elected members of the National Assembly is needed to extend the deadline for elections. The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has long indicated that it lacks the technical and financial capability to hold the elections within the three month
timeframe, and is now in the process of preparing a plan of action for the holding of elections within the shortest possible time. Credible elections “I rely on the Commission’s readiness, the provision of funds and the expansion of time to conduct credible elections by the National Assembly. I rely on the outcome of legal challenges by the Court of Appeal. I rely, also, on public confidence in the institutions responsible for executing these processes. They demand political cooperation, not confrontation,”
am confident that the path we have chosen is the best for the nation,” the Head of State told the nation. Jagdeo’s threats In recent days, the Government has had cause to condemn statements made by the Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo that President Granger ceases to be President after March 21, 2019. Jagdeo has also called on Guyanese to “chase out” the President and his Ministers. The Government has deemed Jagdeo’s utterances as malicious. It is believed that his remarks are intended to create confusion amongst
Elections Commission is respected and the National Assembly is functional. “First, the authority of the legislative branch is unimpaired. The National Assembly remains in session. This is essential because, under the Constitution [at Article 106 (7)], the Assembly could be summoned to expand the time for conducting General and Regional Elections beyond the period of 90 days from the time of the no-confidence vote on 21st December 2018,” he said. President, in defense of his position, alluded to the
President David Granger meeting with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo during one of their most recent meeting on the state of the Guyana Elections Commission for the holding of elections. the Head of State told the nation. President Granger said it is his desire that credible elections be held in the shortest possible time, and assured the nation that his Government’s actions are consistent and are in compliance with the Constitution. “I urge everyone not to be intimidated by incendiary insinuations aimed at instigating disaffection which could affect preparations for elections. I assure everyone that the Government will spare no effort to protect your fundamental rights and freedoms. Guyanese, I
the populace. In putting the current political situation into prospective, President Granger, in his address, explained that it was birthed out of a No-Confidence Vote against the Government which activated four concurrent processes. He noted that all of the processes have a bearing on the present political situation. In identifying the processes, President Granger noted that the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana is sacrosanct and supreme; the independence of the Judiciary and the
case of Attorney General v. the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Leader of the Opposition, in which the Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire stated that the Parliament is not dissolved as a result of the no-confidence motion. The Chief Justice had explained that it is the holding of elections which will be responsible for the dissolution of such a Parliament. “The National Assembly, therefore, is still vested with the authority to provide the Elections Commission with the time and resources necessary for the conduct
of credible General and Regional Elections,” President Granger said. In the second process, he said the independence of the judicial branch has been respected. “The Government’s legal right to appeal to the judicial branch to interpret certain issues relating to the no-confidence vote is enshrined in the Constitution. The legal challenges, in so far as the Government is concerned, were neither frivolous nor calculated to frustrate the implications of the no-confidence vote. “The Speaker of the National Assembly was asked to review his decision in light of the legal issues which arose as to the validity of the vote. He declined to reverse his decision,” President Granger explained. However, he noted, while the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland declined to reverse decision, he concluded that the a full, final and complete settlement of these issues by a Court of competent jurisdiction will place beyond doubt any question which may exist. The validity of the vote of No-Confidence has been challenged on several grounds including the Opposition’s ‘failure’ to secure an absolute majority and the validity of the vote cast by Charrandass Persaud who sat in the National Assembly in breach of the Constitution by having dual citizenship. “The Government’s legal actions, therefore, can be viewed as a means of bringing clarity and certainty to the contentious issues which arose as a consequence of the no-confidence vote,” the President noted. He noted that the Chief Justice, in her rulings on these actions, issued certain declarations and the Government, while challenging aspects of her rulings, continues to comply with them. President Granger emphasized that the Government is conducting its affairs in accordance with the Constitution and with respect for the rule of law. The legal
challenges have been taken to the appellate stage and a decision is expected from the Court of Appeal. Third, the competence of the executive branch is essential to the viability of the state, the President further stated. Alluding to Article 106 (7) of the Constitution, he said the President and Ministers remain in office as provided for by the Constitution. According to that Article, “Notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months, or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than two-thirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly determine, and shall resign after the President takes the oath of office following the election.” He emphasized that the Constitution contemplates continuity of the Government. “There is no legal impediment that restrains the Government from exercising its functions or requires it to assume only ‘caretaker’ functions. The Government continues to protect the country’s borders, natural resources, sovereignty and territorial integrity and to fulfill its international obligations. Citizens will continue to be provided with public services at the central, regional and local levels to ensure their welfare. Life goes on,” the Head of States stated. Fourth process, he said treats with the electoral process, which must be credible. The President is confident that if these institutions are allowed to function without interference, the nation could expect a good outcome to the present situation. He assures the nation that the Government will continue to respect the Constitution, abide by the law and ensure the orderly functioning of the agencies of public administration and the efficient conduct of credible elections.
4
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, March 16, 2019
US$40 MovieTowne complex officially opened MovieTowne Guyana, the approximately US$40M cinema-plex and shopping mall has officially opened its doors. As the evening’s festivities began, various animated characters walked the Chinese
ernment of Guyana wishes to emphasise that it is happy to encourage and welcome investment of this kind that we can look at today… not to mention the magnitude and nature of the investment” he stated.
type and magnitude brings a broader choice of goods and services, and in this regard pledges government’s support to investors. “I would like to say to you that we have a commitment to you and other investors. The fortitude that you have shown in pursuing this public project to completion and in sticking to your investment, in spite of the challenges, you can be assured that the confidence that you have shown in this country and the efforts that you have made to see this project through to fruition, will be matched by the government’s efforts to ensure that you work within a predictable and welcoming environment” stated Minister Greenidge. Chairman of the MovieTowne franchise, Guyana-born Dereck Chin said the facility is a safe, friendly and family-oriented environment of which Guyanese can be proud. He said Guyana is worth the investment and indicated that in a further show
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge currently performing the functions of Prime Minister and Movie Towne’s Chairman, Dereck Chin at one of the food stalls
inspired decorated lobby area of the cinema-plex, giving special guests and patrons an insight as to what to expect from the state-of-the-art facility. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, who is performing the duties of Prime Minister, lauded the magnitude of the investment in his keynote address. “The Gov-
The minister said the government sees it as an effort specifically aimed and designed to bring significant benefit to Guyana. “Through job creation, supply of diversified recreational services and a unique shopping experience,” Minister Greenidge said. He said Guyana is quickly becoming a competitive market place and investment of this
of confidence in the local economy several well-known international restaurant franchises have signed up to set up their branches in the complex. With its enormous reputation in Trinidad and Tobago, the multi-million-dollar cinema-plex and mall will be the parent company’s first branch outside of the twin island state - a definite boost to the local economy that will see the creation of hundreds of jobs. Meanwhile, as MovieTowne Guyana opens its doors, 1,000 jobs have been created within the theatre operations of the multimillion-dollar facility. In the coming months, this figure will increase, as businesses within the MovieTowne mall open their doors. During the official opening of the facility, Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin noted that MovieTowne is poised to be one of the top competitors in Guyana’s entertainment sector. Minister Gaskin expressed his satisfaction in
having this form of investment in Guyana. “Good business is what creates jobs and opportunities, generates tax revenues, and provides good services, and experiences that can enhance people’s lives”, he stated. He emphasised that the APNU+AFC Government is positioned to cultivate an atmosphere that promotes growth in the business sector. “Good business requires an enabling environment.” The Minister of Business
also said that even as profit is the ultimate aim, “safe, secure, responsible [and] legitimate” practices are central to the government’s mandate. “We will see [in Guyana] the emergence of both a stronger private sector and an improved public sector that are better coordinated in their pursuit of common goals”, said Minister Gaskin. The MovieTowne entertainment mall is set to open its doors to the public on March 19.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge who is currently performing the functions of Prime Minister, cuts the ribbon to mark the official opening of MovieTowne Guyana with MovieTowne’s Chairman, Dereck Chin. Also in photo are: Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, Minister of Business and Dominic Gaskin along with other officials
Wednesday, MAR. 13, 2019
3 18 20 23 24 25
19
Mar. 15, 2018
J
3 2
5
11
22
24
9
1
2
1
7
7
3
5
13
15
18
5 13 15 18
5
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
‘Walkouts hurting GECOM’ … President still awaiting advice to proclaim date for elections … says opposition support needed
PRESIDENT David Granger said with the advice of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and support from the Opposition in the National Assembly, he will be able to proclaim a date as early as possible for the conduct of General and Regional Elections In an address to the nation, the Head of State outlined four processes that ought to be respect during this period of the country’s history, the electoral process being one. Despite his ill health, the President has been constantly engaging GECOM and the Opposition Leader to ensure that the necessary systems are in place for the holding of credible elections in accordance with the Constitution. “I have written to and met the Commissioners of the Elections Commission to urge their readiness to conduct credible elections at the earliest time possible. I am constrained from naming a date for elections without the advice and assurances that the Commission would be competent to conduct credible elections,” President Granger said in his address to the nation. It was noted that free and fair elections are essential to representative democracy. However, this credibility, in part, is dependent on the integrity of the Official List of Electors. A contaminated list can vitiate the credibility of elections. “The Government side, during its engagement with the Elections Commission,
gained the impression that, considering the small size of the national population, the existing list of electors was ‘inflated’ and needed to be sanitised. It is Commission’s responsibility to determine how efficiently and how quickly this could be achieved,” the President explained. He reminded that the independence of the Elections Commission is safeguarded by the Constitution, and is therefore insulated from political influence, instruction and interference. The Commission, he emphasized, must be allowed to function independently. “I cannot influence, interfere with or instruct the Commission in its work. I am guided by its advice as to its readiness to conduct elections before I make a proclamation on the date of those elections,” he made clear. GECOM’s Chairman, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson, in a letter to President on February 21, 2019 indicated that the Commission did not have the capability to deliver credible General and Regional Elections within the three-month timeframe commencing December 21, 2018. He advised, also, that the Commission would need an appropriation, approved by the National Assembly, in order to conduct General and Regional Elections. The President responded on February 25, 2019, and committed to do everything possible to ensure that the Commission is provided with the financial resources and has sufficient time to
conduct credible elections. “I promised ‘…to seek the approval of the National Assembly to ensure that an agreement can be reached given both the constitutional requirement and GECOM’s capability.’ I also urged the Commission to commence preparations for the conduct of general and regional elections,” President Granger pointed out. On March 8, 2019, the President consulted with the full membership of the Elections Commission to determine its needs and its readiness to conduct credible elections in the shortest time possible. This information is still pending. “It would be reckless of me to announce a date for elections without being satisfied that the Commission would be in a position to guarantee credible elections. I did not receive, at that meeting, the guidance that would have allowed me to proclaim a date for elections. I would be unable to do so until the Commission advises me accordingly,” President explained. He said the four concurrent processes – legislative, judicial, executive and electoral – enshrined in the Constitution, are essential to the lawful resolution of the challenges of the present political situation facing the nation. The President warned that attempts at frustrating the Commission’s decision-making through walk-outs of meetings by Opposition-nominated Commissioners have been dis-
ruptive, dilatory and counterproductive to the agreement of a ‘work plan’ that could assure the nation of the Commission’s ability to hold credible elections within the shortest time possible. Earlier this week, the President dispatched another letter to GECOM’s Chairman demanding the presentation of the ‘work plan’ and assured the Commission of the Government’s support for credible elections. “The Government of Guyana is committed to support the rule of law and respect for civil rights. The Government will remain committed, also, to ensuring respect for the Constitution and the independence of the institutions of the State,” the President assured. The President has also written to and met the Leader of the Opposition on matters relating to the political situation. The first meeting was held January 9, 2019
and it was agreed that the Government would work with the Opposition towards the expeditious conclusion of matters engaging the attention of the court and relating to the no-confidence vote. Additionally, the Government and Opposition agreed that the representatives of the two sides would meet the Elections Commission to enquire about its readiness to hold elections. A follow-up meeting was held on March 6, 2019 to discuss the National Assembly’s constitutional role in the present situation; and the Elections Commission’s readiness and requirements for funding to enable it to conduct General and Regional Elections. The Leader of the Opposition requested that the agenda be broadened to include setting an election date and to discuss other matters relating to the Government’s role in the approach to elec-
President David Granger tions. However, the meeting did not go beyond the first agenda item after the Leader of the Opposition insisted on the setting of a date for elections although the President was in no position to proclaim at that time.
6
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, March 16, 2019
NOT BEFITTING THE OCCASION
I
T is customary for outstanding leaders of a country to be commemorated and honoured on their death anniversary. It is often an annual event, on which occasion, either their political contribution to their particular country’s evolution as a nation, or its subsequent socio-economic development is remembered and paid homage to, for establishing that country and its people in the hallway of the international family. For such an occasion solemnity should be profound, as that leader is memorialised, paying full tribute to his/her sacrifice for nation and people, and what lessons can be learnt by his successors; even if it is from his/her former individual political party perspective, or from the wider plateau of national leadership. Irrespective of the extant moment, speaker(s), especially if they include any former chief executive, are expected to be mindful of the occasion, and of the content of their peroration as they recall the seminal moments of their former party/country’s leader. For it is the respect for the person, in addition to the reverence for his transition, that should guide the decorum of those paying tribute. Therefore, it is absolutely not a time for self-adulation/ glorification; political bombast; political grandstanding; and worse yet, political bellicosity of any type and dangerous
incitement to violence. The latter must also extend to race hate; wilful distortion of national issues and remarks that are unhelpful to national unity, and which are intended to create national tensions, and social strife. These examples have unfortunately now become synonymous with the annual gathering at Babu Jaan, held every March to memorialise the death of former leader of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic(PPP/C), and former president of Guyana, Dr. Cheddi Jagan. Such sentiments, filled with what is clearly anti-national vitriol, but unmistakably disrespectful for any such observance cannot be in good taste as an example to younger leaders and young people in general. Further, it is not in good stead for a former president of this nation, or any such personage, who continues to use such a celebration for dangerously selfish political ends. What has been taking place at the Babu Jaan Memorial flies in the face of what can be described as irresponsible behaviour for the holder of a constitutional office, such as leader of the parliamentary opposition. No one denies the leader of the opposition the right to protest, especially with regard to freedom of expression, given the fact that Guyana is a democratic country which respects the human rights of everyone. However, what is
at variance here, is how such is done by Jagdeo. For him to speak of mobilising his supporters to “chase them out,” meaning the executive, and its cabinet officers, is tantamount not only to deliberate obstruction of their lawful duties in the name of the people in whose remit they assumed office in May, 2015; but also inducing a hostile environment which is at odds with what the people of this nation desire. As a political leader, he must be reminded that he is misleading his constituents in his advice for such an action. No one, particularly the people of this land, will benefit from such reckless advice, since the government has the right to function as such, travelling to any and every region and its communities in advancing its socio-economic programme, which is meant for the good of Guyana, inclusive of the very supporters and their communities who Jagdeo has advised. Spewing national hatred under the guise of a memorial is a grand deception intended to mislead for national mischief. It is, in this instance, a great disservice to the memory of a former party leader and an outstanding Guyanese leader; one who agitated for whatever right he believed in, but never disrespected the highest office of the land as Jagdeo has so shamelessly demonstrated-continuously.
Accurate reporting is key to helping Guyanese understand oil and gas Dear Editor,
C
RITICISM and scrutiny are necessary elements for helping our institutions in Guyana enhance their abilities so that they are prepared to effectively manage the country’s oil and gas industry. The media plays a critical role in this regard and must be commended for its vigilant coverage of events and activities related to the country’s preparation for oil production. Like all aspects of life, along with great expectations, come great responsibility and media reporting is no exception. A recent report in the media examined a report by Chatham House, a UK-based think tank, and put forward the notion that the group supports contract renegotiations in frontier countries. As we all know, this has been a topic of great interest in Guyana over the last year in particular, and reports such as these from international experts are valuable tools for furthering our knowledge. **As Guyanese become more familiar with the deal the country negotiated with ExxonMobil, determining a course of action depends on the population being privy to accurate information. On the subject of contract renegotiations, Chatham House says, “New geological information can increase a country’s attractiveness to investors. New discoveries, in-country or even nearby, can lead to a surge of exploration interest from oil companies. These new data may prompt governments to seek to revise the terms of investment to their advantage. Similarly, companies sometimes come to governments to ask for a revision of terms to reduce the taxation or operational
obligations they face during periods of economic difficulty. This is happening today in many countries.” This paragraph has been corroborated by a recent media report. But I would like to draw attention to important information in the next sentence, which was left out of media reports: “However, as Flavio Rodrigues, government relations and regulatory affairs director for Shell Brazil, points out, it is good practice to modify the terms of future licensing rounds rather than changing the terms of existing agreements. “Unilateral change of conditions and contract terms drives business away. Industry recognies that a good fiscal system is progressive in nature, able to accommodate different production levels, reserve sizes or oil prices.” This context is important, as it explicitly cautions against the renegotiation of existing contracts. Even more so, the report echoes what so many have already said: Unstable business conditions and improper economic management can and will drive foreign investors away. We must consider and weigh the positives and negatives of any action we take regarding the contract. The Chatham House report also examined causes and cases worthy of renegotiation. The Chatham House report says, “Against the backdrop of a high oil price in May 2014, our group debated the legitimacy of renegotiating an existing agreement. A near consensus emerged that renegotiation was sometimes necessary in order to maintain a long-term partnership between oil companies and governments, because the refusal to review terms could be destabilising and unfair to some countries.”
In this instance, the Chatham House Group found that there was reason to renegotiate when oil prices increased beyond the existing contract’s fairness. However, the mention of ‘high oil price’ is critical to this analysis. Chatham House is not making a blanket endorsement for breaking solidified contracts, nor is it an endorsement for Guyana to seek renegotiation. In fact, we have a completely different agreement. Unlike countries whose revenue is based on a fixed price per barrel of oil, Guyana’s revenue is based on profit. We get 50 per cent of the profit, plus a 2 per cent royalty on total revenue. Therefore, if oil prices rise, so does our take; if oil prices fall, so does our take. Our arrangement is far different from the scenario Chatham House is referencing, and once again we must consider this when we discuss the possibility of renegotiations. Whether at the level of government or the average citizen, decision-making requires being armed, not with some, but ALL of the information. There is plenty of academic guidance on thorny issues in extractive industries, and groups like Chatham House publish a lot of literature on these topics. It is crucial that we learn from this guidance, and use complete information to effectively weigh potential benefits against potential pitfalls of any course of action that impacts our new energy industry. The media has a critical role to play in ensuring all the information is provided and not just aspects that represent specific narratives. Regards Selwyn Paul
7
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, March 16, 2019
Convenient, selective, and hypocritical Dear Editor,
P
ERMIT me space in your esteemed print as a response to “Forensic audit of City Council set for March 18”. Of course, it is time that such an exercise take place with regards the entire financial management affairs of the City’s municipality. As a matter of fact, the not-so-long-ago conducted Kennard enquiry, and submitted report into City Hall’s business, underlines why this imperative becomes urgent, so that its affairs can be properly ascertained, thus setting the city on a corrective path for better management of its administrative affairs, and of course, proper service to the city. However, I must take issue with part of your statement in paragraph two of [the] article which gives the understanding that Peoples Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) councillor has led calls ‘’over the years” for such an exercise. This is not true, and permit me an explanation to this effect. Editor, my understanding of the quoted phrase, as used,
is about a period of in excess of the period 2016 to current, meaning some reasonable amount of time. As far as I am aware, he has only been a councillor since 2016, a just-comer, whose particular reasons, as reported, calling for such an investigation at city hall, has more to do with scoring cheap political points for and on behalf of his political party, the PPP/C, rather than having a genuine interest into the city’s welfare, and how it is managed by the city fathers and mothers. Further, it must be reminded that it was this same councillor, in the run-up to the last local government elections, seeking to garner votes for his party, who emphatically stated that there would be no increase in taxation for the city and that new ways must be found to garner revenue for an already starved council coffers. Editor, though this is an aside, it is necessary to expose Kuppen’s great pretence about his supposed interest in the council’s affairs; for had he been genuine, he would have known that there is no municipality that is owed so many
billions in rates and taxes, and in which there has been no property valuation for over two decades; in addition to the fact of numerous instances of citizens still continuing to pay domestic rates although there would have been conversion of their properties into business entities – that could deliver efficient, much less proper services to its citizens. Finally, in the article referred to “…There is a lot that is not proven and tested, and we know with the corruption and mismanagement of the city, a forensic audit is important”. This councillor is in the category and mould of the Modi Sankars and a phalanx of like persons that had spent a considerable time lambasting city hall for its perceived, inept management of the city’s business, and of course, corrupt practices. Certainly, it was their right as citizens to criticize such actions at city hall that have been inimical to the better interests of its administration, and to the city in the process. However, they have all been convenient, selective,
I commend Lincoln Lewis’ letter to all and sundry
I
Dear Editor,
READ with great delight the erudite letter written by veteran trade union leader, Lincoln Lewis. He disassociated the GTUC from the assault on President Granger by the purported Civil Society in reference to Regional and General Elections. Sections of the media have already printed my response to this group earlier. Lincoln Lewis’ letter dealt extensively and scholarly with the subject at hand. He, however, forgot to mention that the 1961 Elections showed how certain po-
litical parties indulged in electoral ‘skullduggery.’ This forced the PNC to approach the High Courts with six (6) Election Petitions.
These were: (i) Andrew Leonard Jackson (PNC) against the successful candidate ,Randolph Emanuel Cheeks and the Returning Officer, Arthur William Good. (ii) Mrs. Winifred Gaskin (PNC) against the successful candidate, Peter Stanislaus D’Aguiar. (iii) Hamilton Green (PNC) against the successful candidate, George McLinton Henry (iv) Robert Augustus
Mitchell (PNC) against Fenton Harcourt W. Ramsahoye, the successful candidate. (v) Ptolomy Alexander Reid (PNC) against the successful candidate, Mr. John Bernard Caldeira. (vi) Charles Niewenke (PNC) against the successful candidate, Edward Eyre Melville I mention this for the benefit of young leaders who are bombarded with this one-sided view about the conduct of Elections in Guyana. I commend Lincoln Lewis’ letter to all and sundry. Regards Hamilton Green
US recognises APNU AFC democratic credentials Dear Editor,
O
n presentation of her Letters of Credence on Wednesday, The United States Ambassador to Guyana clearly said that the USA encourages “genuinely free and fair elections” in Guyana. In Guyanese lingo the words of the US Ambassador meant that the bloated electoral list must b e s a n i t i z e d t h ro u g h House to House Registration to guarantee free and fair elections. Elections conducted without
House to House Registration exercise which is long overdue, WILL NOT be considered by democratic constituencies as “genuinely free and fair elections”. The Lady Ambassador also said that the US has “seen a strengthening of democratic process and political institutions along with broader political participation and citizen representation,”. That means the USA has seen democracy being strengthened since 2015 and the reintroduction of Local Government Elections under the Coalition Government is evidence of
this. She did not call for rushed elections using a bloated electoral list as is being demanded by PPP trolls and Fake News proponents. The Ambassador used simple and carefully crafted modern diplomatic language. Well done to the APNU AFC. Your efforts and democratic credentials have been recognized. Regards Peter Narine Toronto Canada
and more so hypocritical in the vitriol that they poured on city hall. First of all, they must be reminded that what had obtained at City Hall was not in isolation of the larger plateau of rampant state corruption, inclusive of the pillaging of state resources, which numerous conducted audits have exposed, and which had taken place unabated under their political party, the former PPP/C administration. It would seem that they were either absent, and in another galaxy, or if present, read the news wearing extremely dark lenses. Otherwise, where were their voices then? Secondly, corrupt practices at the M&CC were no more or less than that which had been pervasive in every nook and cranny of state institutions, even within the system of local government that had
existed under the dictatorial PPP/C government. Thirdly, all that occurred at the Council was that the prevailing environment enabled dishonesty, because of the absence of proper systems. In fact, it was the former mayor, Mr Hamilton Greene, at whose constant complaints about questionable instances within his then council, that had led to the Burrowes Commission, which findings among others, not only led to the sacking of the then town clerk and the city treasurer, but also pointed out to the absence of administrative controls in the form of systems that had been the cause of the immoral practices; and the necessary recommendations that such guidelines be implemented. Thus, it was Mr Greene who was the first city official to challenge what had been taking place, and not Kuppen.
Fourthly, one should not be in any doubt that these “upright citizens”, given their line of attacks on the city and its administration, did so from a purely political perspective, as well as race, given the fact that when the city had stunk to high heavens, with its citizens almost suffocating under the unbearable daily stench of the numerous garbage piles – they were deafeningly silent, and never even bother to question the non-intervention of then central government. It is further noted, too, that their attacks on City Hall, aired in the post 2015 period, never mentioned the gradual restoration of the city to a habitable capital, and the role that the current administration has been playing in this vital process. Earl Hamilton
8
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
Anna Regina power plant in full operation MINISTER of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, has announced that the Anna Regina Power Plant, which is in full operation, will be commissioned on March 22. He was at the time speaking to councillors at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) during a visit to the Pomeroon-Supenaam Region on Friday. Minister Patterson visited the region to inspect ongoing infrastructural projects that
were executed in 2018 and to discuss plans and programmes for 2019. The minister related that he has been hearing complaints of residents saying the power plant is not in operation and used the opportunity to visit the multimillion-dollar facility to get first-hand information on its current state. According to Patterson, he is satisfied with the progress made and said Essequibians can expect less power outages.
Some of the attendees at the meeting held in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council, Anna Regina, Region Two
Former GRDB accountant granted bail By Deneita Fredericks PETER Ramcharran, 39, was yesterday committed to stand trial in the High Court before Justice Navindra Singh for embezzling over $400 million from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB). The former GRDB accountant appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann Mc Lennan
on Wednesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on 39 charges that are being taken indictably. These charges included falsification of accounts and converting money to his own use and benefit. The offences date back to 2011-2015 at the GRDB head office, Lot 16 Cowan Street, Kingston, Georgetown. His bail application was granted in the sum of $10,000
Former GRDB accountant Peter Ramcharran on each charge, totalling $390,000. The defendant was bailed and will appear back at the court at a later date.
Landlord charged with breaking into tenant’s house A 31-year-old man yesterday appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for breaking into his tenant’s apartment. Particulars of the charge allege that Peter Rollox on February 1, 2019, at Fifth Street, Alberttown, broke and entered the apartment of Anastacia Semple, and allegedly stole 1 Samsung Galaxy S6, valued
at $85,000 and $20,000 in cash. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge . In his submission to the court, the prosecutor noted that the defendant and Semple are known to each other, as she is renting an apartment from him. He further mentioned that on the day in question, Semple had secured her place before she left to go out. Upon returning, she observed that
the lock to her door was broken. When confronted, Rolox told Semple that he had broken into the room and removed the chester drawers. Semple then reported the matter to the police, an investigation was conducted and Rollox was arrested. Bail was granted the defendant in the sum of $50,000 and he will make his next court appearance on April 5, 2019.
Case against GECOM chairman, commissioners thrown out THE private criminal charges filed against members of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) were Friday (March 15, 2019) dismissed by Chief Magistrate Ann Mc Lennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. The charges were filed by Attorney Sanjiv Datadin on behalf of Marcel Gaskin.It was alleged that during the period December 21, 2018 and March 9, 2019, the Chairman of GECOM, Justice James Patterson and GECOM members Charles Corbin, Vincent Alexander and Desmond
Trotman, conspired to breach the constitution which provides for elections to be held within three months of the passage of a no-confidence motion. The commissioners were represented by Senior Counsel Rex McKay , Senior Council Neil Boston and their team of lawyers, who pointed out the grounds on which the matters filed had no virtue. The chief magistrate found the charges to be frivolous and, as such, dismissed them. It was said to have no legal basis nor merit.
9
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
Main Street expo puts spotlight on consumer rights
WORLD Consumer Rights Day was observed on March 15, 2019 and a mini-expo was held by the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission in collaboration with the Ministry of Business, Department of Consumer Affairs on the Avenue of Main Street, Georgetown, to raise local awareness about consumer rights and needs. The mini-expo comprised booths from private sector agencies such as the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), Consumer Affairs Division, Public Utilities Commission (PUC), Global Technology Inc., Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GTT), Digicel Guyana, Starr Computers, the Food and Drug Department, and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) of the Ministry of Public Telecommunications. The representatives of the various agencies distributed flyers and keepsakes, as part of an effort to raise awareness on consumer’s rights. The event, formally launched with accompanying steel pan music, was celebrated under the theme “Trusted Smart Products”. Several speakers highlighted the event as a chance to demand that the rights of all consumers be respected and protected, and protest against market abuses and social injustices which undermine those rights. Director of Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission, Dawn Cush, said World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated annually to protect consumers, and lobby for safer products. She added that the commission has established an eightstep basic consumer rights guideline, through its Consumer Affairs Department, to create awareness for consumers when making purchases of smart devices and appliances. The move, she noted, is to educate consumers of their rights and how they can be protected when using ‘smart’ devices and appliances in their everyday lives. She pointed out that the agency is also geared towards the improvement of consumer control and privacy. In 2006, the Competition and Fair Trading Act (2006) was passed. This Act allowed for the establishment of
the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission. On January 5, 2010, the government and the Caribbean Development Bank signed a CART Fund Grant Agreement (No. 21/GY). This brought about the formal establishment of the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) of Guyana. Meanwhile, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Engineer, Rondel Mc Arthur of the NDMA’s Cyber Security Division, informed of his unit’s responsibility for digitising government services and ensuring citizens have access to ICT hubs countrywide. He explained the promotion of distance learning in rural areas, and his division’s mandate to maintain ICT security in Internet connecting devices as they could be hacked. Mc Arthur advised users, when using their smart phones, televisions, appliances and watches, to protect them with passwords. The ICT specialist also warned persons to disable their webcams when not in use. These devices can be accessed by hackers, who could record compromising photos and videos. He also advised about the installation of updates for devices, to protect users. Co-founder of National Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Project in Guyana, Karen Abrams, expressed similar sentiments. She noted that any devices that have internet connectivity are prone to being hacked thus posing a security threat. Abrams also stressed the need for all devices to be password protected. Abrams further advised that children, under the age of 15 and younger, be monitored by adults when using smart devices because they have access to many apps, some of which could contain harmful malware. Noting the positives, she related that 75 per cent of people in Guyana have Internet access. This, Abrams explained, is beneficial in terms of educational purposes for online studies among other things, “as such security measures should be put in place to ensure consumer rights are not violated.” Abrams also pointed out that smart phones, with Internet access, have im-
Bar owner remanded for allegedly trafficking Venezuelans By Deneita Fredericks SAVITA Persaud, proprietor of the Liquid Love bar, Station Street, Kitty, Wednesday appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on five charges that included trafficking two Venezuelan women. The first charge alleged that between January 31, 2019 and March 8, 2019, Persaud allegedly recruited and transported the women for the purpose of sexual exploitation; additionally, she is charged with unlawfully confiscating and withholding their immigration documents. She is also charged with two counts of trafficking in persons and employing an under-aged child to work in a place that sells liquor. The defendant was represented by Attorney-at-Law George Thomas who pleaded for her to be granted bail. He noted that his client rented the building to the Venezuelans and was not a part of the act. The prosecutor objected to bail due to the seriousness of the offence and the prevalence of the crime. Persaud denied all the charges and was remanded to prison.
The gathering at the opening of World Consumer Rights Day on March 15, 2019 at Main Street Avenue, Georgetown (Michel Outridge photo) proved the quality of life in Guyana in the context of the devices being used to boost the healthcare services and enable access to “smart classrooms”. She further highlighted some security risks when using smart phones and urged consumers to know their rights, and be educated by researching the products before purchase. In delivering closing remarks, Director of the Department of Consumer Affairs, Muriel Tinnis-Duke, said they have
made significant strides in protecting and educating consumers. Additionally, the Consumer Protection Agency allows consumers to have redress when they incur losses noting the control rights after purchase, she added. The event attracted scores of students and passers-by, many of whom were rewarded mementos after successfully answering questions posed by the agencies’ representatives.
10
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
Ogle Airport tests competency to respond to accidents
TO assess their readiness and capacity to respond to accidents or any incident, the Eugene F. Correia International Airport conducted a full scale emergency exercise on Friday, March 15. Safety and Compliance Manager, William Senasee, said that these exercises are mandatory and conducted every two years in accordance with the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). The emergency exercise, facilitated by Captain Jack McGovern, Fireman/Captain from Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA, simulated an event in which an ATR72 Aircraft,
a type used by LIAT and Caribbean Airlines, overran and caught on fire at the end of, the runway. It was designed to test the response from the Emergency Operation Centre (EOC), Airport Security and first responders such as the Guyana Fire Service, Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Police Force, ambulance and medical services, as well as major city hospitals, including the Georgetown Public Hospital, Mercy Hospital and Woodlands Hospital. There was full cooperation and excellent response from these agencies, according to McGovern who said he was pleased with the results. He added that, in years past,
Participants of the simulated exercise at Ogle, treating persons injured from the accident
First respondents on scene of the simulated plane crash at ogle airport
The respondents transporting injured crash the exercise dealt with one specific issue, whether it be a mass casualty incident, a bomb threat or a fire. However, this year, they tested OAI’s response to not just mass casualty incident management, but also an unannounced bomb threat exercise at the terminal building with nine hostages. “I am pleased to say that not only did OAI perform exceptionally well with the mass casualty exercise. They also performed exceptionally well in responding to the additional bomb threat”, McGovern stated. He pointed out that the biggest improvement this year, was communication. He noted, “We’ve always had issues with communication in the past and we seem to have improved significantly in that aspect this year. And I’m speaking communication in terms of team work and integration between agencies. We have improved significantly, causing our result to be better than the last.” He encouraged the participants, noting that even though their response was great, they must continue striving to be better. Also witnessing the exercise, was the Director General of GCAA, Colonel (Ret’d) Egbert Field. He too was impressed at the coordination between agencies but cited room for improvement. “I think this was a well-run exercise. This airport must conduct an exercise of
passengers from the simulated plane this type at least once a year to fulfill its requirement in terms of certification. It was nicely executed and the coordinators will now sit and look over the details to see if there is any aspect to be looked at… The response time was good, but could have been better. We will look at the stop watches and work on the necessary improvements”, Field said. He advised the participants to look at areas which can be improved on, and continue reading and studying on what role they have to play to improve. “Should there be an incident, there must be no doubts about the competency of the airport. All the groups must come to together as one coordinated team. There might be some weaknesses in a particular unit, but those will be looked at when we get to the aftermath. We will look at which department could really come up more to standard, because a chain is as strong as its weakest link, so there must be a seamless flow”, Field posited. He also thanked the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and the Ministry of Health, who supported the exercise and ensured its success. The exercise also featured a mock media briefing, in which personnel asked relevant questions pertaining to the aforementioned incidents.
11
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
Arguments for no-confidence stay pushed back
IN light of the imminent ruling by the Court of Appeal on the validity of the no-confidence motion in the cases brought by the government, Justice of Appeal Rishi Persaud on Friday deferred the oral arguments for the Conservatory Orders and Stay of proceedings being sought, to Friday March 22, 2019. On Friday, some of the country’s leading legal minds were expected to make oral arguments before Justice Persaud on the Conservatory Orders and the stay of executions in the constitutional cases: The Attorney General v Christopher Ram and Leader of the Opposition; The Attorney General v Speaker of the National Assembly; and Compton Reid v The Speaker, Charrandass Persaud, the Attorney General, the Opposition Leader and Joseph Harmon, however, they were consulted on and notified of the changes instead. The new date was arrived at during a brief in chamber meeting with Justice Persaud at the Appellate Court. Outside the court, the Attorney General Basil Williams, who appeared in association with Attorneys-at-Law Maxwell Edwards and Mayo Robertson, and the Solicitor General Nigel Hawke, only disclosed that a new date has been set for oral arguments. On behalf of the state, Williams is seeking
to preserve the status quo of the government and its Cabinet by way of a conservatory order pending the final determination of the cases, and a stay to freeze the January 31, 2019 decision of the High Court that the no-confidence motion was validly passed. The government has submitted that the opposition did not secure an absolute majority on the night of December 21, 2018, and as such, the passage of the motion could not have been valid. Attorney-at-Law, Anil Nandlall, the lead attorney representing the Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo, explained that the arguments were deferred pending the ruling of the full bench in the two cases brought by the attorney general. “In the one filed by the attorney general, as you are aware the hearing of the appeal itself had started and the hearings were concluded. So we are awaiting decisions in that one. In my view, it is improper to deal with an interlocutory matter or an interlocutory application when the substantive matter itself, which also deals with the same reliefs, is about to be concluded,” Nandlall told reporters. In relation to the Compton Reid case, Nandlall reminded that the date for oral arguments in the substantive case, which brings
into question the issue of dual citizenship in the National Assembly, has been set for Wednesday March 20, 2019. “We are going to start the hearing for the appeal of that matter then but because that one has not started as yet, the judge gave certain directions for us to put our written submissions in by sometime next week Tuesday, and we are to come back to court next week Friday (March 22) to deal with whether we are going forward or not,” Nandlall told reporters. On Thursday, following three days of oral arguments in the appeal brought by the attorney general, Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, indicated that notices would be sent out soon with the date for the ruling. The ruling is likely to be made before Thursday March 21, 2019 – the constitutional deadline for the holding of General and Regional Elections in the absence of an extension by a two-thirds majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly. A legal luminary had told the Guyana Chronicle that the court, in keeping with the doctrine of necessity, has the powers to grant an extension to the constitutional deadline. According to him, “like it or not, the court is in the driving seat” and will determine the way forward – it has the powers
to do so. “The court will determine what happens if the time runs out or is about to run out. It will make that determination. No other organ in the state is capable of so doing… the court is the organ, the institution responsible for making that kind of determination,” he told this newspaper. The no-confidence motion brought against the government last December has triggered the need for early elections; however, not only is the matter engaging the attention of the Court of Appeal, the Guyana Elections Commission, the constitutional body responsible for holding elections, has indicated that it lacks the technical and financial capability to do so within the three month timeframe. Given the circumstances, the legal luminary said the court could depend on the doctrine of necessity, and grant an extension. “If it so happens that the court is in the process of resolving an issue or enquiring into an issue, and the time stipulated in the Constitution has been overshot, then the court could rely on the doctrine of necessity and give such extensions as are required in the circumstances,” he further explained. He has also ruled out the notion that there is a looming constitutional crisis.
12
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
Minister Patterson, team on two-day visit to Essequibo
13
–– inspecting ongoing infrastructural projects MINISTER of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, along with a team of engineers and other technical personnel from the ministry are on a two-day visit to the Pomeroon-Supenaam Region to inspect ongoing infrastructure and other sea and river defence works. Minister Patterson’s visit commenced on Friday morning with the team inspecting the ongoing flood-protection and waterfront enhancement project at Supenaam. The Water Front Development Project is one of the biggest infrastructural projects ongoing in Region Two. The project will cost the government $88M to complete. During his inspections, Patterson said he was pleased with the ongoing works thus far. He also met with residents and drivers while he was at Supenaam. Residents expressed their satisfaction with the project which is truly transformational. After inspecting the Supenaam Waterfront Development Project, Minister Patterson along with his delegation inspected ongoing construction works under the flood- protection project at Johanna Cecilia and Golden Fleece, Essequibo Coast. A discussion was also had with Regional Democratic Council (RDC) representatives on issues related to infrastructural needs within the region. Minister Patterson assured residents that the Government
of Guyana will do everything to ensure the improvement of infrastructure in the region. Minister Patterson also interacted with staff of the Sea and River Defence District Office at Anna Regina, after which he had a walk through the river-defence works completed along the Pomeroon River. A walk was also conducted on the Charity Wharf with RDC representatives. On Saturday, the minister and his team are scheduled to visit the Wakapoa Community. There he will hand over a newlyconstructed bridge to the community. The team includes Kenneth Jordan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure; Geoffrey Vaughn, Coordinator, Works Service Group; Kevin Samad, Chief Sea and River Defence Officer; Phillip Amos, Road District Engineer,Region Two; Saeed Mohammed, Sea Defence Engineer, Region Two; Collin Gittens, Project Engineer for the Supenaam Waterfront Development Project; Krest Cummings, Public Relations Officer and Lallram Seeram, Traffic and Highway Lights. A team from the Region Two administration, including the Regional Executive Officer Denis Jaikarran, senior admin officers along with members of the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce, were also part of the several inspections.
Minister Patterson interacting with residents of Region Two
Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, inspecting the Supenaam Waterfront Development Project
14
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
Linden youths urged to register businesses to qualify for RDC contracts
AS another avenue of financial empowerment, given the limited means of employment in Region 10, youths are being urged to register their small business, which is the first step
of pre-qualifying for small contracts up for tender, at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC). This admonition was given by Regional Chairman, Renis Morian, who has been
meeting with youths and sensitising them on the process of business registration and tendering. During his most recent visit to Linden, Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin,
Regional Chairman, Renis Morian engaging youths who were interested in tendering for small contracts at the RDC while meeting with the Linden Chamber of Commerce, reiterated government’s policy of 20 per cent of its procurement going to small entrepreneurs. He also encouraged young people in Linden to get their small businesses registered and to forge ties with the Small Business Bureau (SBB), which facilitates such registration. The SBB has a help desk in Linden, and also facilitates training in record keeping, business proposal writing etc. During an interview with this newspaper, Morian noted that tendering for small contracts by youths at the RDC is high on the agenda. Now that the budget cycle has commenced, youths have a wide avenue of items they can tender, to supply the RDC. These include culinary items, toiletries, furniture etc. Bids for small contracts such a repairs to buildings, roads, drains and other infra-
structure are also welcomed. One young person, who has taken the encouragement, has already registered his business and has prequalified and submitted his bid for an item up for tender. He related that the process of business registration is straight forward and simple. It entails purchasing of a pre- qualification document at the RDC, applying for the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) compliance, Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) compliance and a business registration at the office of Commercial Registry in Georgetown. A registration fee of $6,500 will be charged for the first time registration and $2,500.00 for annual renewal. The process normally takes five working days. “After being unemployed for a couple of months, I decided to register my business in me and my wife’s name and have prequalified for supply
of items up for bid at the RDC. It is a way of making money, rather than to sit and complain, and I encourage other youths to do the same,” said the young man, who asked not to be named. In another bid to enable youths to receive financial empowerment, the RDC in 2019, will be embarking on a work readiness programme which will see youths being sent to various governmental and non-governmental organisations to receive onthe-job training. They will be receiving a stipend during the course of time. The programme was done in 2016 over a period of six months and participants received a stipend of $15,000. Many of the youths were retained as permanent employees at their placement after the programme was completed.
15
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
$1B DSL warehouse commissioned By Wendella Davidson
A SPANKING new stateof-the art building valued at in excess of $1B, and which represents a significant landmark for Distribution Services Limited (DSL), a subsidiary of the DDL Group was commissioned on Friday. The facility at Diamond, East Bank Demerara, will serve as the new DSL warehouse and enhance the Diamond landscape. It is testimony to the declarations and claims of growth and diversification of the DDL Group. Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, who delivered the feature address on behalf of President David Granger who was unavoidably absent, commended the board, management and staff of DDL for their vision to propel growth in Guyana. He said the government will continue to put in place enhanced measures to ensure adequate public infrastructure, favourable macroeconomic conditions, stronger institutions and reduced bureaucratic red tape. “We understand that these are critical conditions for a positive and dynamic business and investment climate and we are making every effort to attract investors for investment in the different sectors of the economy,” he said. Among those who graced the occasion were Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge; Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin; iconic business executive Dr. Yesu Persaud; DDL Executive Chairman, Komal Samaroo; members of the diplomatic corps; Directors of DDL, staff and special invitees. According to the finance minister, it goes without saying that Guyana’s economy cannot realise its full potential without the presence of domestic companies like DDL, because domestic private companies are a major driver of job creation and economic growth in any economy. Commenting on the new facility, the minister said it will provide a more spacious and conducive environment for the company to conduct business, as it expands and continues to enhance the image of its products on the domestic and international markets . INVESTORS’ CONFIDENCE “This investment is evidence of improvements in the investment climate in Guyana; it is one of several large investments that are taking place in the economy, and an indicator of
how confident private businesses are about the state of our economy.” “Last year, at the time of reporting in November, the country’s growth rate was pegged at 3.4 per cent, leaving the Caribbean Development Bank to recognise Guyana a having `one of the fastest growing economies in the Caribbean’”, he added. The latest estimate of 2018 real growth in the economy with the benefit of final numbers is between 3.6 and 3.9 per cent, with the actual growth to be known at the annual end-of-year report by mid-year, the finance minister said. Remarking that Guyana is increasingly being looked at as “the preferred destination”, he recalled a recent experience while attending a Prospectors and Development Association of Canada Convention, the largest mining convention in the world. According to Minister Jordan, over 275 investors attended Guyana Day, which was a special day, an indication that extremely high-level investors are showing an interest in the country, something that was never heard of before. Noting that persons had to be accommodated in an overflow room, the minister said at previous such gathering, the counts had barely passed 50 people. He said too that importantly, the current government, since assuming office, has managed to keep the economy growing in an increasingly hostile international environment such as derisking, The Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009 (AMLCFT), which is posing more problems for businesses and for people to do business, along with a domestic environment that is sometimes rocked by political instability and challenges to traditional sector. That fact that growth has been achieved in the context of low inflation and a manageable fiscal deficit and a GDP ratio, is a tribute to the prudence and management of the economy by this government, Jordon declared. Earlier in his presentation, the minister recognised Samaroo, a man with vision, closely following in the footsteps of his mentor, Dr. Yesu Persaud. He reminisced on the day when he and Samaroo had attended the Cummings Lodge Secondary School, just a stone’s throw from the University of Guyana. There, they learnt the values of hardwork, excellence, discipline and sacrifice. The minister recalled too, attending a private sector activity function
Queen’s College Sixth Form student, Leshanna Bindah assists Finance Minister Winston Jordan (extreme right), in cutting ceremonial ribbon at the new DSL warehouse. From left are DDL Executive Chairman Komal Samaroo; iconic business executive, Dr. Yesu Persaud and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge (Adrian Narine photo) at the Pegasus Hotel last year, where speakers who spoke before Samaroo had lamented about the state of the economy. OPTIMISM But, according to him, Samaroo, in his address, had a different view of things and drew rapt attention from the gathering. Samaroo had said, “where there is a will, there is an opportunity; where there is a challenge, there is a profit. If we see the glass as only being half-empty, others will exploit the other half that is full.” Giving a brief history of DSL, General Manager, Bryan Prittipaul, said the company began operations here in 1992, some 25 years ago, a move that was triggered with the opening up of the Guyana economy and trade liberalisation in the 1980s. At the early stages of operation, DSL was appointed the sole authorised agency in Guyana for Johnson & Johnson products, which they proudly represent until now. Over the years, the company has added several leading fast-moving consumer goods brands such as Nestle, Edgerwll Personal Care, Dr Fresh Oral Care, and Baron Foods, among others. “It is therefore no surprise that we have earned the reputation of becoming one of the leading distributors of fast-moving consumer goods products in Guyana,” he told the gathering. This achievement, Prittipaul said, lies in the heart of DSL’s mission to reliably provide quality fast-moving consumer goods from around the world to Guyanese. DSL is also increasing See page 16
16
$1B DSL warehouse ...
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
From page 15
shareholder value and affording opportunities for growth and enrichment of their employees as it strives to conduct business with minimal environmental impact. Since its founding, DSL has diversified into a retail service and today operates four Cash and Carry stores countrywide. The distribution business currently services 2300 retailers within Guyana through its sales force and strong distribution network. These efforts have been
stymied to some extent as rapid growth has resulted in constraint to the existing warehouse space. That he added, provided a key justification for the construction of the new facility, as the company is now well positioned to continue its growth through the development of its current brands, as well as the acquisition of new brands and categories. THE NEW FACILITY Construction of the project commenced in
November 2017 and was completed 17 months after. The facility measures 136x240 feet and has a gross area of 42,000 sq feet; office areas are 8000 sq ft; with a ground floor space of 3,400 sq. feet. Additionally, the facility is equipped with four cold rooms with a total chill storage area of 1,825 sq. ft. along with two frozen chill chambers of 1,070 sq. feet. It also has a receiving area consisting of four docking stations, sensors in some areas, each equipped with
The spanking state-of-the-art DSL warehouse at Diamond, East Bank Demerara that was commissioned on Friday (Adrian Narine photo) docking levellers, to allow lighting system only when Prittipaul also thanked his for the efficient restocking of those areas are occupied. staff and urged them, as they containers, while the dispatch Further, there are auto- embark on a new journey, to area can accommodate mul- matic shut-off faucets in the take DSL from goodness to tiple trucks simultaneously. washroom area which sup- greatness. The warehouse is also ports the company’s efforts The general manager equipped with special infra- to conserve energy and water thanked too the contractors, red sensors in some areas, consumption. layout and design firms and which serves to activate the The facility was official- all others who helped to ly handed over to the DSL make the project a success. management on March 1, Samaroo, in his address, 2019. described the warehouse While the property is a commissioning as an “imsignificant expansion rela- portant day” in the develtive to the previous location opment of the DDL group at Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, in general, and particularly the general manager said DSL, its major subsidiary. the new facility has been The commissioning, he modular in its design, to added, marks a major step cater for further expansion forward in the company’s at the southern section of diversification drive. the property, with a space of Assisting in the cutting over 30,000 sq. ft. that was of the ceremonial ribbon deliberately left out to cater was Leshanna Bindah, a for future growth. Sixth Form Queen’s ColIn addition to thanking lege student, after which the board for having con- guest were afforded a tour fidence in the DSL busi- of the facility. The event ness, and providing strategic was interspersed with liveleadership and guidance in ly steelpan music by Ras realising their objectives, Camo Williams.
Cocaine-in-bra trafficker ‘busted’
The illegal substance that was found MONALISA Moore, 23, of Phoenix, Leguan, Region Three, is in police custody after the police found narcotics at her home during a search. During the search, a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis sativa or “ganja,” were found in a black plastic bag in her bedroom, under her bed. Additionally, a hard whitish substance was found in her brassiere. She was immediately told of the offence commit-
ted and cautioned. In reply, she reportedly said, “Officer is lil money I trying fah get because I just come from jail.” The woman was arrested and taken to the Leguan Police Station, where the suspected cocaine and narcotics were weighed in her presence. The cannabis amounted to 25 grams and the cocaine 10 grams. Moore is assisting the cops with their investigation.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
Food For The Poor builds homes for 20 families at Bethany
TWENTY families residing in the Indigenous reservation Bethany, Pomeroon-Supenaam Region Two, are now the proud owners of their own homes, Food For Poor Guyana Inc. said in a release. The first 10 houses were completed during the Christmas holidays under Food For The Poor General Housing programme. The second batch of houses were completed in late February and was made possible by donations received from the St. Theodore Roman Catholic Church of Louisiana USA. The families formally received their homes at a handing over ceremony hosted by Food For The Poor (Guyana) Inc. on February 28, 2019. All of the houses are equipped with washroom facilities, tables, chairs, folding beds, gas stoves and solar panels. According to the organisation, a small contingent from St. Theodore was present at the ceremony which saw poem recitals, dances and promises by member of the Fundraising Committee of the St. Theodore Roman Catholic Church, Kirk Guillory, to invest more extensively in Bethany. Speaking at the event was Senior Projects Manager, Andrea Benjamin, who called on the families to take care of the homes and maintain the structures. One of the families who benefitted was young couple, Joseph and Joyann Lorimer, who only recently gave birth.
With a new baby, some of the problems affecting their home became more glaring to them. Living previously in a home built from second hand materials, the Lorimers stated that the strong winds and rain often affected the child. They expressed their gratitude to FFTP and said that the gift of a new home would enable them to stay together and build a decent life for themselves. Stating his words of gratitude to Food For The Poor Guyana and sponsors, Percival John expressed his joy at finally having his own home. Living in Bethany over 30 years and a father of seven children, Percival had been residing with one of his sons until his home was completed. Percival is the main caretaker for one of his sons who is differently abled. His now 22-year-old special needs son has suffered from epilepsy from birth. His responsibilities, added to the fact that Percival currently suffers from bone cancer in his left hand, has resulted in him being unable to seek employment. Percival has started to mind meat birds in an effort to earn extra money to provide for himself and dependents. The other families who received homes were, Leland and Evan Couchman, Latoya Martin, Nadirah Johnson, Lynn Edward, Petra Richards, Narifah Marslow, Wendy Vanslytman and Lynn Williams. Food For The Poor (Guyana) Inc. is a Chris-
Trial of  Campbellville double murder accused continues AS the Preliminary Inquiry into the murder of 61-year-old Deonarine Liliah and 28-year-old Gopaul Liliah continued before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman on Thursday March 14, 2019, the magistrate commenced a voir dire (a trial within a trial) to determine the admissibility of statements given by a witness for the prosecution. On trial is Orlando Douglas, who is accused of murdering 61-year-old Deonarine Liliah and 28-year-old Gopaul Liliah at their Delph Avenue and Craig Street, Campbellville, Georgetown home, during the furtherance of a robbery, between July 7 and July 10, 2018. The voir dire will continue on March 27, 2019, at 09:30hrs.
tian charitable organisation whose work is aimed towards helping those who are poor, through the provision of housing, basic food items, medical supplies and equipment, clothing, personal care items, agriculture and other self-sustainable projects.
17
Members of the St. Theodore Roman Catholic Church and the beneficiary of one of the homes, Narifah Marslowe and her children
18
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
19
20
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
21
22
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
23
24
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
25
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, March 16, 2019
Bangladesh end New Zealand series after narrowly missing terror attack (ESPNCricinfo) - Members of the Bangladesh team were just “about 50 yards from the mosque”, which was the site of one of two terror attacks in Christchurch on Friday morning that resulted in multiple fatalities, Khaled Mashud, the team manager, told reporters at the team hotel. The third and final Test match of the series was cancelled following the incidents. “This was a kind of accident that we would never expect nor want in any part of the world,” Mashud said. “We are very lucky because we had a number of us, about 17 of us, in the bus. Soumya Sarkar was also there, and we were all heading to the mosque for prayers. Only two of the players Liton Das and Nayeem Hasan, as well as Sunil Joshi, the spin-bowling coach had stayed back in the hotel, and rest of the squad had gone there. We were very close to the mosque, and we could see from the bus. We must have been about 50 yards from the
mosque. “I would say we were really lucky. Had we reached even three or four minutes earlier, we probably would have been inside the mosque. This could then have been a massive incident. We are very thankful that we weren’t caught in the crossfire, but what we saw was straight out of a movie scene. We could see bloodstained people staggering out of the mosque. Maybe for about eight-ten minutes, we were all inside the bus and were sitting with our heads bowed, just in case someone fired at us.” The team was initially barred from leaving the bus, but after a while, they disembarked and ran through Hagley Park to the ground. They later went back to the team hotel. “When we realised that the shooters could have inflicted more damage if they had found us inside the bus all at once, we took a collective decision to escape through the back gate,” Mashud said. “We ran or quickly walked out through that gate. Then we were in the dressing room, and the local liaison people explained to us how we could get out of there most safely to our hotel. It wasn’t their fault, they tried their best according to whatever they are used to in their culture. “Our players supported
them a lot, with inputs on what was needed at that point of time. Our decision to get out was timely, because in videos we saw that people came out and kept shooting later.
EAST Coast played unbeaten throughout to win the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB Inter-association Under-17 title yesterday at Lusignan. Yesterday’s final-round win against East Bank by 54 runs, was the third consecutive one for the East Coast side. They managed to defend 168 with ease. Reynaldo Mohamed was most instrumental in bowling out their opponents for just 114, collecting 4-17 while Rudranauth Kission, Ajay
American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 American Lincoln Race 2 Enjoyitwhilewecan Race 3 Sower Race 4 Needs No Ice Race 5 Heartbustingirl Race 6 Desert Lights Race 7 Thesis
have carefully brought us to the hotel. “This incident has nothing to do with cricket, and it is unfortunate both as a cricketer and a human being
captain Mahmudullah and Tamim (Iqbal) and coach (Steve Rhodes). “I would like to thank the cricket board for monitoring the situation and giving us their inputs. I hope everything will be fine, and I would like to thank the New Zealand cricket board, for how they
to have witnessed this. We want to play cricket, and it is unfortunate that this accident is causing us to pull out of a Test match.” The players and others, understandably, are shaken by the experience, as some of their “It is natural to be affect-
Police keep watch at a park across the road from the mosque.
(Associated Press)
“All said and done, I think we are grateful that the team is all healthy and in the hotel. Those back in Bangladesh must be worried about our well-being. I think the players are okay, and the Test has been cancelled. They have told us and will send an official mail by 6:30 in the evening. Our
DCB Inter-association U-17 cricket By Rajiv Bisnauth
plan to return has also been chalked out with the people in charge of logistics. “The board has been in communication with us, not just with me, but also the
ed. When you see something like a terror attack in front of you, and you see blood spilled in front of you, this will affect any human being,” Mashud said. “It wouldn’t have occurred to us then that we would be safe later. Some of the boys inside the bus were crying as well, because they were all worried about how to get out of there. “At this point, it is important not to leave the hotel, because an incident like this can happen anywhere. We don’t want to carry any memories of this incident. We have briefed everybody to have dinner at the hotel itself today onwards. “All the players are together in one room, and trying our best to distract ourselves by talking about other things. Ultimately, everybody ends up talking about what they saw, but we are lucky that if the players had either gotten off the bus later or gone to the mosque earlier, it would have been difficult to get out of there. When we were able to get out of there, it was because of the collective effort of the players. I would thank the players for caring for themselves so well.” The Bangladesh team will take a flight from Christchurch at midday today and arrive in Dhaka in the evening.
East Coast defend 168 to win title
Gainda and Edmond Pearson took a wicket a piece. After deciding to bowl first, East Bank bowlers used the conditions well much to the delight of their skipper and produced a disciplined effort to limit the East Coast side to 168-5. For the hosts, Chetram Balgobin top-scored with a brutal 57, inclusive of four fours and five sixes. On a slow Lusignan track Elnathan Sukhnandan, Matthew Nandu and Jafar Pinder, proved to be handy with figures of 2-19, 2-19 and 2-41 respectively. East Coast lost openers
Mark Sukhai (6) and Mohamed (12), at 47-2. However, Romel Datterdeen (25) and Chanderpaul Ramraj (21), then added 33 for the third-wicket before a middle-order batting collapse saw the hosts lose four quick wickets for just 26 runs. At that point the left-handed Balgobin single-handedly took control of the scoring until his dismissal. He added 51 for the sixth-wicket with Kissoon, who remained unbeaten on 13. East Bank then suffered two early setbacks which eventually crippled their
run chase. They lost Rahul Singh and Mavendra Dindyal without scoring. Nandu and Thaddeus Lovell then added 44 for the third-wicket but after the partnership was broken, the innings went downhill. Nandu top-scored with a well-composed 54 and was supported by Rivaldo Phillips who chipped in with 21. Lovell made 10 in a disappointing batting display. Meanwhile, at Wales, Georgetown whipped West Demerara by 121 runs. The City team made 161-5 from a reduced 39
Race 8 The Big Lebanese
Irish Racing Tips Down Royal 10:30 hrs Cosmo’s Moon 11:05 hrs Bracka Lily 11:40 hrs Goose Man 12:15 hrs Mill Quest 12:50 hrs Mala Beach 13:25 hrs Sidetracked 14:00 hrs Pont Aval
09:30 hrs Heatstroke 10:05 hrs Envoye Special 10:40 hrs My way 11:15 hrs Kayf Blanco 12:25 hrs Ultimatum Du Roy 13:00 hrs Shishkin
South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:45 hrs Cathedral County 09:20 hrs Vistula 09:55 hrs Trip To Heaven 10:30 mhrs Hero’s Honour 11:05 hrs Flowing Gown
English Racing Tips Kempton
Uttoxeter 09:50 hrs Holdbacktheriver 10:25 hrs De Rasher Counter 11:00 hrs Acey Milan 11:35 hrs Folsom Blue
overs due to rain. Brandon Jaikaran top-scored with 50, Zechariah Mootoo scored 34 not out while Niran Bissu hit 29. Bowling for West Demerara, Daniel Roberts took 2-25 and Nityanand Mathura 2-27. In reply, West Demerara struggled to reach their target and fell for a meagre 40 from just 21.2 overs. Andre Seepersaud was the only batsman to reach a double figure, with 12. Daniel Mootoo was the most destructive bowler grabbing 4-9 while support was gained from Joel Gilkes who took 3-9. 12;10 hrs Hideaway Vic 12:45 hrs Cuddles McGraw 13;20 hrs Tigeralley 13:50 hrs The Cob Wolverhampton 13:40 hrs Biog Bad Lol 14:15 hrs Salute The Soldier 14:45 hrs Albert Finney 15:15 hrs Tiger Eye 15:45 hrs Tour De Paris 16:15 hrs Wise Words
26
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 16, 2019
27
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, March 16, 2019
Hamilton heads Mercedes one-two in Australia (BBC) - LEWIS Hamilton headed a Mercedes one-two in second practice at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix. Hamilton beat Valtteri Bottas by 0.048 seconds but the two were 0.8secs clear of the two Red Bulls of Max Verstappen and Pierre Gasly. Ferrari, who appeared to have the quickest car in pre-season testing, were fourth with Sebastian Vettel. The suspicion is that the Italian team were hiding their true pace before qualifying on Saturday afternoon.
Lewis Hamilton
KFC recognises ... probably one of the most synonymous names in Guyana’s cycling today. He started at the tender age of 14, and after only three years of cycling, he went on to be the first and only Guyanese to have won the Caribbean Senior Road Racing Championships. He has successfully raced for a number of teams throughout the Caribbean in his extraordinary career. He was instrumental in persuading the current principals to form Evolution Cycling, and has successfully ridden for them for a number of years. After a short hiatus to attend to personal matters, he is slowly finding his way back into the sport he loves, and is bent on resuming his winning ways in the near future. Stephen Fernandes first rode consistently ten years ago, following a stellar career as a national hockey and squash player. He was sidelined from hockey due to knee issues, and had to find another sport to maintain his fitness. Cycling fitted the bill perfectly. He rode creditably in the veteran category from 2014 to 2017, taking a short break in 2018 before resuming his training this year. Stephen, a principal and founder member of Team Evolution, is looking to regain his fitness and competitive drive this year to once again become a force in the veteran category. Andrew Arjoon, the third of the Evolution principals, is a former national squash player, who turned to cycling after multiple knee injuries ended any hopes of playing squash consistently. After a creditable third in his first-ever Park race and a bad crash in his first road race, he turned to managing the club and team’s participation in
racing events. While he enjoys training with his team mates and other cyclists, his work and travel commitments preclude more consistent training to make racing a reality. He still lives in hope. Paul De Nobrega entered the cycling scene in 2010. His main motivators were his brother Ricky and two of his uncles - Joe and the late Errol Gonsalves - and coach Wayne Henry, who served to inspire and sponsor him. His ascent in cycling has been nothing short of meteoric, having won the Caribbean Junior Championships by 2012, and following up that achievement with the national accolade of Junior Sportsmanof-the-Year in the same year. Paul’s tenure with Evolution over the past two years has been successful, to say the least, and he has been the runner-up in the national points standings for the past two years. He is training hard to improve his performances in order to represent his country at the highest level and to take top honours in the national points standings. Christopher ‘Chicken Legs’ Griffith started cycling at the tender age of 12 in the BMX category, placing third in his first-ever race. After spending four years in the BMX category, he moved on to the road bike category as a junior. He rode for Team Alanis for over four years before joining Team Evolution, where he won his first-ever senior race in his first race for Evolution. He attributes his success to the motivation and training received from local cycling legend Robin Persaud. Christopher is working hard towards a top-three finish
FROM PAGE 31 ←
in 2019, after finishing a commendable fifth overall last year. Denise Jeffrey is a former national squash player and mother of four, who have all represented Guyana in squash and motor racing. She is now primarily a competitive triathlete who joined Evolution to enhance her cycle training. She has been known to cycle with the men with little or no difficulty, even leaving some of them behind in the process, much to their dismay. Her training continues this year with the aim of entering triathlons in Canada and USA, and the possibility of competing in local events. Keith Fernandes, another principal and founder of Evolution Cycling, started cycling in September 2008 as a way to get fit. He started at the same time as his cousin Stephen. As he became fitter and faster, he decided to try his hand at racing. He started racing in 2009 and won for the first time in the Park in 2010. After an inconsistent year of training and racing in 2018, he has found a renewed drive to compete in 2019 and is looking to winning his first road race. Amrit Sankar, one of the original and most enthusiastic members of Evolution, started his cycling career over 10 years ago on a mountain bike, and graduated to a road bike a few years after. He has been racing for a couple of years now, and enjoys travelling around with his teammates and the sheer thrill of the competition. Amrit is looking forward to racing as much as possible, in order to enhance his race craft in support of the veterans’ division.
Can football tell us if Ferrari are faster than Mercedes? Vettel was 0.8secs slower than the Mercedes on both short, qualifying-style runs and longer race-style runs, which is completely contradictory to their form in testing, when all their rivals felt Ferrari were ahead. The session left plenty of intrigue ahead of qualifying today, when the cars’ true pace will be shown for the first time. Ve t t e l e n d e d t h e d a y 0.873secs slower than Hamilton, a result that, if it were repeated today afternoon would surprise the whole paddock.
Vettel was just 0.03secs slower than Hamilton in the first session of the day, as 0.084secs covered them and Verstappen. But while Mercedes found a second’s worth of pace for the second session, Vettel improved by just 0.164secs and Verstappen by only 0.392secs. Verstappen’s relatively slow time can be explained by the fact he set his fastest lap at the start of a long run, so it cannot be compared with other drivers’ headline times because of the amount of fuel he would have had on board.
28
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, March 16, 2019
UEFA unveils last-eight draw (REUTERS) - BARCELONA will meet Manchester United in the Champions League last eight in a repeat of the 2009 and 2011 finals which were both won by the Catalans, with the help of goals from Lionel Messi. Manchester City face Tottenham Hotspur in an all-Premier League clash, their first European meeting, while Cristiano Ronaldo’s Juventus meet Ajax Amsterdam, who are back in the last eight after a 16-year absence. Five-time European champions Liverpool, the fourth English representatives and beaten finalists last year, will face Porto in a repeat of last year’s last-16 tie which they won 5-0 on aggregate. The semi-final pairings were also made with Tottenham or City to face Ajax or Juventus and Manchester United or Barcelona to meet either Liverpool or Porto. The draw had an unusual feel with neither Bayern Munich nor Real Madrid in the hat, the first time both European giants have failed to reach the last eight since 2005-06. Five-time winners Barcelona, who are in the last eight for the 12th successive season, will be away in the first leg after UEFA switched the order to avoid United’s home match clashing with Manchester City, who host Spurs in their second leg. Tottenham and City will meet three times in 10 days in April with a Premier League
fixture following hot on the heels of their second leg. “We have already proved last season against Real Madrid and Dortmund, this season against Inter or Barca away, that we are ready to compete,” Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris said. “Then you need a little luck and team spirit.” Ajax, once a major European power who struggle to compete financially with clubs from bigger leagues, ousted Real Madrid in the last 16 and their tie against Juventus will be a repeat of the 1996 final, which the Serie A club won on penalties. They also met in the final
of the old European Cup in 1973 with the Dutch side winning 1-0. “I’m neither happy nor sad. Ajax eliminated Madrid so they are no joke,” Juventus director Pavel Nedved said. “I liked them a lot against Madrid so we will have to be very careful. We will have to face Ajax with great commitment. I expect two great games.” Juventus are unbeaten in their last 10 games against Ajax, winning five of the last six. Porto, who won the competition in 2004 under Jose Mourinho, are confident they can spring an up-
set after last year’s mauling. “We have to keep dreaming and believe we can go further,” said midfielder Jesus Corona. “What can I say?” said Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp, whose side knocked out Bayern in the round of 16. “It’s Porto, we’ve played there already and we know how good we had to be last year. We saw the character and quality Porto have.” Chelsea were the last English team to win the Champion League in 2012. The two-leg quarter-finals take place on April 9-10 and 16-17.
FIFA approves 24-team Club World Cup
Real Madrid beat Al Ain to win the 2018 Club World Cup (BBC) - FIFA has approved a revised 24-team Club World Cup starting in 2021 despite top European clubs saying they would boycott the tournament. The new competition is expected to include eight teams from Europe. It will run every four years and take place from June to July in the slot currently used for the World Cup warm-up event, the Confederations Cup. FIFA president Gianni Infantino said he was “extremely happy” after the FIFA Council backed his plan yesterday. “Now the world will see a real Club World Cup where fans will see the best teams in the world compete to be crowned the real world champions,” he said. The Club World Cup is currently held every December and features seven teams from six confederations, but the competition is largely ignored by Euro-
pean fans. As well as eight European clubs, the new tournament would comprise six teams from South America, three each from Africa, Asia and North and Central America and one from Oceania. It has been suggested each club could earn £50M from taking part. The European Club Association (ECA) says any new competitions should be part of an agreed framework for the international match calendar post-2024. ECA board members, including Manchester United’s chief executive Ed Woodward, signed a letter - expressing concerns - which was revealed earlier yesterday. “(We are) firmly against any potential approval of a revised CWC - no ECA clubs would take part,” it said. When asked if he was concerned about staging a new
Club World Cup without any of Europe’s elite clubs, Infantino said: “We hope that all the best teams will participate and we’ve had some very positive discussions with UEFA. “But it was our responsibility to take a decision because we have to deal with the organisational matters - it is only two years away.” The FIFA Council also decided that it would be “feasible” to expand Qatar 2022 World Cup from 32 to 48 teams. World football’s governing body voted to expand the 2026 World Cup - which will be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States - to 48 teams in 2017. The council will now discuss potential additional hosts to Qatar and a final decision will be made at a FIFA congress in Paris in June. “If it happens, fantastic! If it doesn’t happen, fantastic also,” said Infantino.
29
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, March 16, 2019
New Amsterdam Team Mohamed’s GTR cleared set to play twice ahead of Drag Race meet in Inter-Jamaat softball cricket
NEW Amsterdam Masjid will play twice tomorrow when action in the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) Inter-Jamaat 15over Softball Cricket competition continues at the MYO ground in Woolford Avenue, Georgetown. The home team will face New Amsterdam from 09:00hrs, followed by a battle between New Mosque and New Amsterdam and a clash between LBI and Diamond New Scheme. In the latest match, Diamond defeated Cornelia Ida/Hague Jamaat by five wickets.
CI/Hague batted first after winning the toss, and although they had a few batsmen who played some aggressive shots, they lost wickets regularly. At the end of their 15 overs, they had reached 133-9 with Nazim Azim hitting 30 and Naeem Khan 20. Bowling for Diamond, S. Mohamed and Keisho Ramsarran took 3-20 and 3-15 respectively. Diamond, in reply, were led by a half-century from Ajay Kishun, who scored 51 to help his team to 135-5 in 14.2 overs. Ameer Khan added 20 and Raul Reid 16.
THE much-talked-about former world record-holding Nissan GTR, recently acquired by Team Mohamed’s Enterprise, was cleared yesterday morning. The car, a featured attraction for the March 24 first drag race meet was cleared at the John Fernandes Wharf. Already the buzz around the car is promoting competition out of Suriname with several of that country’s drivers already lining up to take shots. The GTR is the third for the team, who have the current strip record at 7.52 seconds in an undefeated monster called Goliath. Everything that has been thrown at Goliath, it has been able to overcome, including a railcar from Trinidad and it is expected that the newest addition to the family will be the biggest and ‘baddest’.
The car comes at an opportune time when the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) is moving apace with its launch-pad. The pad will allow high-horsepower cars to better put down their power, something the new GTR requires if it as to run at its best. In addition to that, Mohamed’s Enterprise, the company associated with the team, has opted to extend the strip from 1 000ft to a full quarter-mile. The car will also require a full quarter-mile in order to attain its fastest times as that is what it was tuned for. The tuners of the car will arrive shortly, with testing expected to begin once works are completed at the South Dakota Drag Strip.
Berbice Zone Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’
East vs West to decide the best of Berbice
Milo schools football action resumes this weekend
SCHOOLS football action resumes this weekend as the Milo schools football tournament gets going at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue. In a triple-header set to commence at noon, Ann’s Grove will take on St John’s College. This Group C challenge is to determine third place, as Christianburg/Wismar Secondary currently lead the group with six points from two games ahead of Friendship Secondary who have four. St John’s are currently on one point from two games while Ann’s Grove are yet to score a point. From 13:45hrs, Group D fixtures get going when fourthplaced Uitvlugt Secondary go toe-to-toe with second-placed St Cuthbert’s Mission. Golden Grove Secondary who are group leaders against Cummings Lodge, who sit third in the group, will close off the day’s encounters. The following day, Christianburg/Wismar Secondary will look to continue their undefeated streak atop Group C when they play second-placed Friendship Secondary Group F action also gets going with Vergenoegen, who are also undefeated, playing second-placed Charlestown who are on four, from 13:45hrs. Third-placed Tucville (one point) will play Tutorial Secondary (zero points) from 15:30hrs. In other groups, Annandale Secondary head the Group A with seven points after three games with Canje second, on four points, and South Ruimveldt (two points) ahead of St Joseph (two) points by a goal difference of -1 to -6. Group B have Bishops’ High on 7 points barely ahead of St Stanislaus College, who have the same but are behind on goal difference (+7 to +4) with Queen’s College. Group E has Lodge Secondary leading the way with seven points ahead of President’s College (five points), St Mary’s Secondary (three points) and Marian Academy (one point).
Action in the Berbice Zone of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’
IN a classic case of East versus West, Berbicians on both sides of the river will have the opportunity to see which side of the divide will come away with bragging rights when the final of this year’s Berbice Zone of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ competition kicks off this evening at the New Amsterdam Ferry Stelling. Defending champions Trafalgar are still strong favourites to retain their crown, but East Berbice teams, New Amsterdam Kings and East Bank Gunners, will want to have a say in disrupting their reign at the top. Champs Trafalgar will first have to get past Lichfield in the first semi-final, while NA Kings will face East Bank Gunners in the other encounter. The winners will then meet in the final. All four semi-finalists have displayed impressive form to date and while predicting which two teams will survive the respective semi-finals, fans are virtually assured of two riveting games, before the championship showdown. Trafalgar have players the quality of Kevin Layne, Olvis
Mitchell and Delwyn Fraser to lead their quest for a final spot, while the same could be said of Lichfield, whose pursuit of victory will be spearheaded by Allan Garnett, Shelton George and Carlos Grant. In the other semi-final, Kings will be hoping that Quinn Hazel and Jamal Butts produce the kind of performances that will result in victory. Conversely, East Bank Gunners’ quest for a place in the final will depend on how well Sherwin Nicholson and Joseph Giddings combine in offence. The winning team will receive $300 000 and the championship trophy, while second-, third- and fourth-place finishers will take home $150 000, $100 000 and $75 000 respectively. It is expected that a number of Banks DIH officials, along with media representatives, will be on hand to witness the final of this year’s tournament. The other sponsor on board is Colours Boutique of Robb Street.
30
GMR&SC gaining sponsorship momentum ahead of drag race
Drag racing action returns on March 24. (GTRidez photo)
MOHAMED’S Enterprise, Delco Ice Factory, Trans-Pacific Motor Spares are among some of the sponsors listed for next weekend’s Drag Race meet of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC). Sponsors released by the club last evening were BM Soat Auto Sales, Motor Trend Service Centre, Supreme Ventures, and Air Services Limited. Power Line, Cyril’s Taxi, Omega Brokers, Enetworks, Prem’s Electrical, Miracle Optical, Choke Gas Station and Super Bet had confirmed their sponsorship up to press time. Mohamed’s Enterprise announced earlier this week
that it would sponsor the extension of the current drag strip from 1 000ft to 1 320ft or an international quarter-mile. The sponsorship will definitely be a welcome push for an event that was postponed by one week, and for a club which has placed the infrastructure of racing on the front burner for 2019. Already, GMR&SC has constructed new sections of the pit area to ensure that more competitors can be housed during its year-end international circuit racing event. The construction of the launch pad for the drag strip is also something that the Rameez Mohamed-headed club has been doing recently. The plan is to have it ready for the March 24 event.
Independence SC win WDCA T20 knockout final
Independence Sports Club won the championship clash by two wickets.
INDEPENDENCE Sports Club (ISC) claimed a two-wicket victory against rivals McGill Super Star Sports Club in the West Demerara Cricket Association (WDCA) T20 knockout final which was played at Joe Vieira Park recently. The victory was the second consecutive by ISC over McGill (a Canal Number One team) in a WDCA final. Last month, Independence SC defeated McGill in the final of the WDCA 50-over President’s Cup competition also at their home ground (Joe Vieira Park). In their most recent clash last Sunday, which was marred by injuries to a few of the visiting team’s players, Independence won the toss and opted to field. McGill, led by an unbeaten aggressive half-century from Prahalad Singh, romped to 140-8 from their allotted overs.
Singh struck six sixes and three fours in a top score of 55 not out, while former national U-19 cricketer Keshram Seyhodan added 25 (3x4, 1x6). Off-spinner Reaz Esau led the home team’s attack with 3-17 from four overs, while Ricky Sargeant supported with 2-16 (four overs) and Ewart Samuels 2-19 (four overs). Independence SC, in reply, were led by Vivian Beckles, who belted eight fours and three sixes in a score of 53. Mahendra Dhanpaul added 31 (3x4, 2x6), while Samuels scored 16 not out towards the end, which steered them to 141-8 in 19.2 overs. Abdul Razack and Daniel Basdeo finished with 2-22 and 2-33 respectively, while former national U-19 captain Travis Persaud took 1-8.
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, March 16, 2019
Action heating up in Toucan Distributors Junior Squash IT was an exciting second night on Thursday at Georgetown Club when the Toucan Distributors Junior Skill Level Squash Tournament continued. Shomari Wiltshire stayed securely on top with his conquest over Gianni Carpenter 11-4, 11-2, 11-2 - his expertise proving too much for the left-hander. Samuel Ince-Carvalhal and Michael Alphonso fought a tight 5-game battle that had spectators holding their breath but Ince-Carvalhal prevailed for a 12-10, 11-9, 8-11, 9-11, 11-9 win. He came back twice from a 9-5 deficit to take the second and then crucial fifth game. All four Category A players executed some outstanding shots throughout their games, but it was Wiltshire who stood ahead of the group. Another close 5-game match from Category B between Ethan Jonas and Mohryan Baksh saw some great play as the youngsters rallied it out to each other’s tipping point. The first four games could have gone either way with each player retrieving difficult balls and extending the rallies before the final game, which Jonas dominated to bring home his triumph 11-9, 9-11, 9-11, 12-10, 11-5. Beau Fernandes put the pressure on Joshua Verwey when she played a solid second came to overcome him 11-9. Verwey regrouped to push through the third game despite Fernandes heading out to an early 7-2 lead, which he eventually claimed at 11-9. He finished strong in the fourth to earn an 11-5, 9-11, 11-9, 11-5 victory. In Category G, Brenno DaSilva, despite a 2-1 defeat, true to form stole the show. With animated court movement and an acrobatic dive to retrieve a drop from his opponent Abhinav Singh, DaSilva thrilled the crowd. After a game apiece, the third was a real battle that ended at 13-11 with a win for Singh. Play continued at the usual venue, the Georgetown Club, yesterday at 18:00hrs, There will be 2 sessions today with the finals tomorrow. SCORES FOR THE EVENING: Category A ● Shomari Wiltshire shocked Gianni Carpenter 11-4, 112, 11-2. ● Samuel Ince-Carvalhal overcame Michael Alphonso 12-10, 11-9, 8-11, 9-11, 11-9. Category B ● Abosaide Cadogan defeated Lucas Jonas 11-7, 11-5, 11-7. ● Ethan Jonas got the better of Mohryan Baksh 11-9, 9-11, 9-11, 12-10, 11-5. Category D ● Nathan Rahaman defeated Teija Edwards 11-9, 11-7, 11-4. ● Joshua Verwey beat Beau Fernandes 11-5, 9-11, 11-9, 11-5. Category E ● Aishani Persaud defeated Angel Rahim 11-8, 11-7. ● Dhiren Persaud whipped Arvin Seelall 11-5, 11-7. ● Rayad Boyce trounced Lucas Persaud 11-6, 11-5. Category F ● Grant Fernandes thrashed Matthew Spooner 11-2, 11-3. ● Christiana Fernandes bettered Noah Rahaman 12-10, 11-7. ● Kaden Pynaendy defeated Mailia Maikoo 11-6, 11-7. ● Noah Rahaman defeated Safira Summer 8-11, 11-9, 11-9. Category G ● Abhinav Singh defeated Brenno DaSilva 11-8, 5-11, 13-11. ● Tristan Seereeram edged William Escarraga 7-11, 11-8, 11-6. Category H ● Tianna Gomes demolished Nicholas Sawh 11-1, 11-0. ● Shriya Persaud crushed Jnae Singh 11-6, 11-4. ● Solomon Ince-Carvalhal got past Eli Goveia 11-7, 11-6.
31
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday, March 16, 2019
From spectator to senior national cricketer in under a year -Afruica Gentle slams her way to the top WHEN Afruica Gentle made her way into Sabina Park, it was mid-2018 and she was a national tennis player, who was very good at her craft, but curiosity and patriotism had gotten the better of her. Her Guyanese cricketers were battling their Jamaican counterparts and Gentle wanted to see the action live. Over the years, she had seen numerous cricket matches but this one was different; this one was a female regional encounter. Seeing national skipper Shemaine Campbelle manoeuvre the willow ignited a passion in the teen and she fell in love with cricket all over again, but this time as a player - not as a spectator. A little over eight months later, Gentle will now join Campbelle in the national team when they play in the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional 50-over and T20 tournament which bowls off tomorrow in Guyana.
Afruica Gentle will use the regional competition as learning experience.
NATURALLY GIFTED Gentle has always been a natural at sports and her tennis exploits prove just that. She started to play that sport at the age of four. She was inspired by her sister and was driven. By the tender age of seven, she had already made the national team and since then has become a regular member of the national squad. In 2013, she won the Caribbean Junior Invitational and the St Vincent ITF Singles Title. Two years later she became the youngest tennis player to win three titles at the GBTI Open. Additionally in 2017 and in 2018 she won the Bakewell Junior Championship, and in July in Jamaica, she won the Quest Super Series. Her most recent major
conquest was done last November when she won the U-18 Girls Inter-Guiana Games title. WHY CRICKET! For Gentle, who turned 18 earlier this month, cricket is a new and exciting challenge. “I was encouraged by Devon Gonsalves and my family to start playing because they told me they think I will do well and I took their advice and with the help of my father, who bought my cricket gear, it took off from there.” EXCITEMENT Prior to making the national senior team, Gentle’s time in the middle was impactful. In U-17 franchise cricket last year, she made 322 runs (including 109 against West Berbice) and took 10 wickets with her left-arm spin-bowling. The right-handed batter then went on to represent the Select U-19 team in last month’s Guyana Cricket Board Senior Female Inter-County tournament. Outside of hardball cricket, Gentle was the MVP at the just concluded NSC Al Sports and Tour Promotion Forbes Burnham Windball School Championships, where she exploded in the fiveover competition, hitting a tournament-high 150 unbeaten runs in one of the games for Mae’s Schools. GAINING EXPERIENCE For the teen, she hopes to use the competition to gain some valuable experience, which she can use in the future to transition to the West Indies team. “I am grateful and I am also excited, I hope to gain a lot of experience from the players on the team so I could better my cricket.”
Afruica Gentle is a tennis star.
KFC recognises cyclists from Team Evolution THE Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) franchise has thrown its support behind cyclists from Team Evolution. In a release to the media, Paul Subryan pointed out, “Cycling is becoming a noticeable sport in Guyana, and our future as a cycling nation looks very encouraging with the current generation of talented youths who are involved in the sport. “KFC (is a) family brand that values individuality, hard work, honesty, commitment, and last but not least, having fun. KFC (is offering) support to develop the Guyanese reputation of producing world-class athletes such as Evolution Cycling Club, who shares similar
values”. In the release, Subryan noted that KFC is confident the series of races throughout the year will be exciting exhibitions of skill and competition that will result in a thrilling experience for all cycling fans. “KFC takes this opportunity to wish Team Evolution and its competitors well, and we urge the Guyanese public (to) support and experience many of the thrilling races that will occur throughout the year 2019.” The following cyclists are members of Team Evolution: Marlon ‘Fishy’ Williams is TURN TO PAGE 27
→
The former world record-holding Nissan GTR was recently acquired by Team Mohamed’s Enterprise.
Team Mohamed’s
Page
29
DCB Inter-association U-17 cricket Page
25
GTR cleared ahead of Drag Race meet
East Coast defend 168 to win title
Action heating up in Toucan Distributors 30 Junior Squash Page
DCB’s administrator Kavita Yadram hands over the winning trophy to East Coast captain in presence of other teammates and management staff.
Milo schools football action resumes this weekend Page
29
Part of the action in the Milo schools football tournament
Georgetown Club squash courts were buzzing with energy on Thursday evening. (Samuel Maughn photo)
Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208
SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 2019