Guyana Chronicle E-paper 2-8-2020 by Guyana Chronicle

SATURDAY 8th February, 2020

' No.105904

Technical institute for Bartica

-- greater emphasis to be placed on youth, skills development, President Granger tells Bartica rally

SEE PAGE 21

Bartica schoolchildren were elated to meet President David Granger as he entered the township for the APNU+AFC coalition’s campaign rally on Friday (photo by APNU+AFC)

Ballot papers arrive -CEO says Joint Services to vote on February 21

Multi-million-dollar cold storage bond for Wales …NICIL says investors identified, scores of jobs to be created

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Pay hike for sugar workers

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…GuySuCo, GAWU agree to pay increases to sugar workers 09 PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

Multi-million-dollar cold storage bond for Wales …NICIL says investors identified, scores of jobs to be created

A MODERN state-of-theart cold-storage bond will be constructed at the former Wales Sugar Estate as government continues its programme of diversifying the sector and provide jobs for workers who were laidoff due to the restructuring of the industry. In a release on Friday, NICIL said several investors, who were in Guyana for the past week, have expressed an interest in establishing the cold storage at the former Wales Estate. The investment, which was secured through NICIL, has been estimated to the tune of several millions. This disclosure was made by President of Caribbean Marketing Enterprises Inc (CMEI), Edmond Braithwaite. Braithwaite said that recognising the volume and great potential of produce grown in Guyana, his investment company is serious about establishing

a cold storage at the Wales Estate. This, he stressed, will see several farmers having an opportunity to maximise on the cold storage opportunities. He disclosed that with the Caribbean food import bill being so high, Guyana stands to benefit significantly with an established storage. The CMEI head revealed that the discussion for the storage bond was discussed at length with NICIL, who controls the Wales buildings and lands. He said that the discussion was very fruitful, and they are expected to begin construction later this year after the final pieces of documents would have been signed. “We met with the people at NICIL and had some lengthy but very fruitful discussions with Mr. Colvin Heath-London, who, like us, is excited and eager to see the reality of this storage bond. Several countries are interested in purchasing

vegetables and other agricultural produce from Guyana. However, with no cold storage facilities, it makes shipment of these produce very challenging, thus denying many farmers an opportunity of increasing their revenues, while expanding their markets. We intend to provide numerous opportunities to several of these farmers so whatever they produce we will purchase as we would have secured various markets

for them,” he promised, according to the NICIL release. Braithwaite revealed that farmers in Guyana will be given an opportunity to partown the cold storage, noting that twenty per cent of the cold storage would be owned by the farmers including the building. He disclosed that the investors will own the remaining 80 per cent. He dismissed the view that the investors may be seeking only to garner profits,

storage shortly,” Braithwaite assured. NICIL’s Privatisation Specialist acting, Racheal Henry, who is managing the project, said that her team has already begun finalising the deal, as it will significantly benefit residents and farmers. She said that NICIL is excited with the prospects that such a cold storage will bring to Guyana and how it can help in reducing wastage in agricultural produce sig-

The investors after examining and confirming their interest in the former Wales Estate

but rather stressed that their primary focus is creating markets for several farmers through the construction of the cold storage. “This cold storage is very

nificantly. “Over the years, many people would plant, reap and sell and for what is left over, it would be wasted, however, with the construction

Wales significantly. He said that such an investment is critically important for farmers in Guyana as it creates a golden opportunity for them to secure markers, while ensuring that the significant wastage that many of them suffer would be something of the past. “Each day you will have farmers complaining about the significant losses that they have experienced because when they do not have everything sold, they are forced in some cases to give them away and or to throw them away and this can be greatly reduced with the storage, as we would be able to find secured markets so that they can be able to expand their reach,” he assured. He revealed that NICIL secured a processing machine through a grant and as such, they would be able to assist a number of small farmers with processing. He stressed that the machine, which is worth millions, will certainly boost their agricultural plans for Wales. He disclosed that with plans afoot to establish an industrial area consisting of

The processing machine that NICIL secured through a grant

important as it allows the farmers to own 20 per cent of it along with the building, while we will take the remaining 80 per cent of sales. The great thing is that they would own the building and an established state-of-theart cold storage that they can use to process a number of fruits and vegetables, while servicing several regional and international markets with various agricultural produce. Heath-London has given us the assurance that NICIL will ensure that all systems are out in place so that we can begin rolling out this multimillion-USD cold

of a cold storage, this will be something of the past as farmers will not only be able to save and preserve their products, but also to tap in to a number of available markets. Part of this cold storage deal will see farmers bringing their produce here and it being bought from them, thus saving them from having to find markets,” Henry noted. Meanwhile, acting CEO, Colvin Heath-London, expressed satisfaction over the discussions. He said that they are confident that the proposed business venture is one that will propel West Demerara and more directly,

200 acres of land, the public can expect a number of great business ventures being realised at Wales. “Wales has been identified for the establishment of the industrial area and with the Cold Storage being one of the business ventures that will be there and with the processing machine that we secured it spells great news for a number of farmers,” he declared. He confirmed that construction of the cold storage is expected to commence later this year, adding that the paperwork is being finalised at the moment.

Ballot papers arrive

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

-CEO says 10,309 ballots will be extracted for disciplined services, non-resident electors

…joint services to vote on February 21 By Navendra Seoraj WITH about 24 days before Guyanese head to the polls, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has kicked into overdrive and “hit the ground running” after receiving the ballot papers and Statement of Polls (SOPs) forms for the upcoming elections. The “important papers” arrived on Friday morning from Canada, on Atlas Air’s B747 aircraft, one of the largest aircraft to ever land at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). Those papers were then transported, under “tight security,” to GECOM’s Headquarters at High Street, Georgetown. The ballot papers were printed in Canada, but the process was observed by GECOM Commissioners, Charles Corbin and Sase Gunraj. Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, has confirmed that the papers were received and escorted to GECOM by police, who were hailed for doing an “excellent job.” “Today we are happy that the ballots, both ordinary and tendered, and the SOPs are all here,” said Lowenfield in an invited comment to the media, on Friday. After receiving the papers, the elections body kicked into overdrive and immediately “got cracking.” Part of GECOM’s immediate work was to extract ballots, intended for voting by the disciplined services and non-resident electors such as Guyanese ambassadors and other officials, stationed overseas. According to the CEO, the extraction process was observed by political party agents, GECOM commissioners, former Chief Election Commissioner of India, Dr. Syed Nasim Ahmad Zaidi; former Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Ghana, Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan, and other officials. Lowenfield said the commission’s aim was to extract a total of 10,309 ballots on Friday, with 10,226 of those ballots being extracted for electors in the disciplined services and 83 for the non-resident electors. The CEO said the ballots will be extracted and posted to the non-resident electors, who will then be notified to return those ballots by a particular date. GECOM, in a breakdown of information on the non-resident electors, said

there are two non-resident electors registered in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); four in Region Three (Essequibo-Islands-West Demerara); seventy-one in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica); three in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); and one each in Regions Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice). JOINT SERVICES TO VOTE FEBRUARY 21 As for the disciplined services, Lowenfield said those electors are set to vote on February 21, 2020. The ballot officers for the disciplined services are Roxanne Ramdyhaw Lewi for the Guyana Defence Force; Nardeo Persaud for the Guyana Police Force; and Onicia Byneo for the Guyana Prison Service. Similar to the non-resident electors, ballots for the disciplined services will be extracted according to the region where the elector was registered. According to GECOM, there will be 47 ballots for Region One; 282 for Region Two; 1,482 for Region Three; 5,324 for Region Four; 976 for Region Five; 1,328 for Region Six; 61 for Region Seven; 17 for

erly secured in respective containers. As part of preparations for the General and Regional Elections, Lowenfield had said there will be 2,352 polling stations inclusive of 131 private residences, of which 91 of the private residences are in Region Four, particularly on the East Coast corridor. PROVISIONS FOR

Table showing the extractions to be done for Disciplined Services and non-resident voting

Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield; GECOM Commissioner, Robeson Benn, and other officials observe as the ballot papers are offloaded at GECOM’s head office (Carl Croker photo)

Region Eight; 29 for Region Nine; and 680 for Region 10. Lowenfield gave the assurance that the ballots will be locked in various containers for the duration of the exercise, prior to dispatch. It was reported that sensitive and non-sensitive materials are dispatched to the various districts prior to Election Day and sensitive materials, including ballot boxes, are checked, labelled and prop-

The Atlas Air B747 aircraft which brought the ballot papers from Canada earlier on Friday

VISUALLY-IMPAIRED The commission is also willing to make provisions for the visually-impaired to utilise tactile templates but it is still working out a register of where these specific voters are located. Speaking on GECOM’s preparedness, Commissioner Vincent Alexander had said: “For all intents and purposes, we’re on top of it… the persons whose names were moved around on the Registrar of Registrants and the voter’s list are being sent letters so that they know, and essentially those are persons who did transfers through the house-to-house registration. So, the houseto-house has served a very

critical purpose in ensuring that people who moved will now be able to vote in the place where they moved.” GECOM recently published the Official List of Electors (OLE) which is made up of 661,028 persons eligible for voting in

the March 2, General and Regional Elections. The commission has also given 11 parties the ‘green light’ to contest the elections. Guyana Chronicle had reported Chairperson of CARICOM and Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, as saying that peaceful election is in the interest of everyone. Prime Minister Mottley, who met with President David Granger and Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, during a visit to Guyana last Monday, said: “I think both sides are comfortable…there are concerns, but they are going to work them out, we hope. “We will keep a watchful eye and we have every confidence in the Guyanese people that they will resolve their determinations and decisions in a way that will benefit the people of the country.” As part of keeping a “watchful eye,” CARICOM will have a team of election observers “on the ground,” just as any other institution. TURN TO PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

Coronavirus: Hong Kong imposes quarantine rules on mainland Chinese

(BBC) Hong Kong has begun a mandatory two-week

quarantine for anyone arriving from mainland Chi-

na, in a fresh effort to contain the new coronavirus. Visitors must isolate themselves in hotel rooms or go to government-run centres, while returning Hong Kong residents must stay inside their homes. Anyone caught flouting the new rules faces a fine and a prison sentence. Tens of thousands of

China stepped up security at Shenzhen, where thousands queued to cross into Hong Kong

travellers queued at the Chinese border city of Shenzhen ahead of the midnight deadline.

Hong Kong has seen 26 confirmed cases of the virus and one person has died. The number of confirmed cases in mainland China stands at 31,203, with 636 deaths. Outside China, 270 cases have been confirmed in at least 25 countries, with one other fatality - in the Philippines. Meanwhile, another 41 people on a quarantined cruise ship off Japan have tested positive for the coronavirus, bringing the total number of cases on board to 61. There was some positive

news on Friday when the World Health Organization (WHO) said there had been fewer reported infections in China in the past two days. However, director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned against reading too much into those figures. He also told reporters that the outbreak had caused a global shortage of protective medical equipment such as gowns, masks and gloves. “When supply is short, and demand is high then there could be bad practices like hoarding in order to sell them at higher prices,” he warned, urging suppliers to “uphold the protection of humanity” rather than looking to increase profits. The WHO also released new data from 17,000 patients that suggested 82% had a mild form of the disease, with 15% considered severe cases and 3% critical.

Saturday February 1, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

Jagdeo must provide proof of Irfaan’s qualifications

…citizens move to High Court to get answers By Clestine Juan AS the controversy over the qualification antecedents of the People’s Progressive Party /Civic presidential candidate Mohamed Irfaan Ali continues, two citizens have moved to the High Court seeking clarification on his qualifications, which they allege might be false. The application was filed by attorney-at-law Stephen Lewis on behalf of his clients Dianna Deravinee Rajcumar and Phillip Marcus, who are citizens of Guyana and registered voters. The respondents in the matter are PPP/C General-Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM.) The applicants are seeking a declaration that they are entitled to know the qualification antecedents of candidate Mohamed Irfaan Ali. Another order is that Jagdeo produce Ali’s first degree certificate and transcripts for any first degree; information pertaining to the name of the university or institution from which he obtained his first degree; information concerning the nature of study completed in relation to any first degree; informa-

PPP/C General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, and Presidential Candidate, Irfaan Ali

tion setting out whether the candidate Mohamed Irfaan Ali was issued with a certificate of graduation, which states that it was issued by the Business College, West Demerara Chamber of Commence within seven(7) days of the date of the Order. Additionally, Jagdeo must also produce within seven days, a copy of any transcript issued by the said Business College, the West Demerara Chamber in respect of a BA Degree in Planning; information on whether any degree was obtained by Irfaan Ali from the University of Sunderland; a copy of the certificate along with a transcript from the university. The applicants are also seeking an order against

GECOM to confer the above documents, which was conferred on the candidate Mohamed Irfaan Ali, which will be examined by them. The applicants have listed 11 grounds for their application to the High Court. One of the grounds states that the applicants have noted that information concerning the qualifications of one such presidential candidate Mohamed Irfaan Ali has been in some instances withheld and otherwise are alleged to be false. The applicants observed that there were several articles in the daily newspapers wherein Irfaan refused to be forthright in his answer to questions and the provision of information

surrounding his qualifications. Thus, they are now requesting clarification on his qualifications. On January 29, 2020, the applicant Dianna Deravinee Rajcumar wrote to Jagdeo seeking clarification about Irfaan’s qualification antecedents and requested a transcript. The applicants are seeking the Order on the grounds that consequent upon their constitutional right to vote, they have a right to information on the candidates for the elections. Additionally, consequent upon their constitutional right to vote, they are entitled to know the education antecedents of the candidates to assess, process and interpret along with others with information, before deciding to vote for a candidate. The applicants, as persons intending to exercise their right to vote are entitled to be privy to facts giving insight in the candidate’s capacity and suitability for acting as a President, parliamentarian or a legislator, including details of his/her life, including academic qualifications. They are entitled to a constitutional right to the Freedom of Expression, in particular, to receive ideas and information without interference. The application is also contending that GECOM is empowered with the responsibility

to exercise general direction and supervision over the registration of the electors and the administrative conduct of elections of members of the National Assembly, and to take such action as appears to it necessary or expedient to ensure impartiality, fairness, and compliance with the provision of the constitution of Guyana or any Act of Parliament, and therefore has the authority to require information from and in relation to candidates. Additionally, the List of Candidates shall be accompanied by a Statutory Declaration by each person named on that list of his qualifications and consent made before a Justice of the Peace or other person authorized to administer the Oaths To this background, the applicants claimed that no such Declaration was made by Mohamed Irfaan Ali, who appears in the List of Candidates submitted by the PPP/C by the representative of the List, Jagdeo. Rajcumar is the holder of a Degree in International Relations-University of Guyana 2008). Graduate Diploma in Public Administration- Australia National University(2014), Masters of Public Policy - Australia National University 2015 and Masters of Diplomacy - Australia National University 2016. “I fear that my right to vote

and to freedom of expression, in particular, to receive information without interference will be breached if the orders sought herein are not granted,” the applicant said in their court documents. PPP/C presidential candidate is allegedly being accused of academic fraud. It is alleged that he used a fake transcript to pursue a master’s degree programme at an Indian University and the University of Sunderland. But this is just the tip of the iceberg – Ali has been accused of defrauding the State of some $174M for his role in the notorious Pradoville land-sale scandal. The case is before the court. The ex-minister was slapped with 19 counts of fraud last November and the charges were laid indictable. The charges read that between 2010 and 2015, Ali conspired with persons unknown to defraud the Government of Guyana when he acted recklessly in presenting the value of 19 plots of state land situated at Plantation Sparendaam and Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara, and sold the said lands at a grossly undervalued price without first obtaining a valuation to determine their true value.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

Celebrating Black History THIS month, the USA and Canada observe Black History Month in recognition of the contributions of people of colour to the history of those countries. Although it is not an official observance in other parts of the African Diaspora, it has, over time, become informally accepted as such. Beginning as Negro History Week in 1925, as the initiative of African-American historian and scholar, Carter G Woodson, it evolved to become Black History Month in the post-Civil Rights era in the late 1960s. In 1976, the US Government formally designated it as such. From 1976 to the present, African-Americans and Blacks in the diaspora have

become more and more part of the so-called mainstream of the societies they inhabit. Despite continuing challenges, the group has made significant strides in our Caribbean. The crowning achievement was the rise of Barack Obama to the US presidency in 2008. That moment marked a more than symbolic achievement for Blacks; it was, for African-Americans, a tremendous blow struck for inclusion in formal structures — a signal that real socio-racial equality was possible. But for all the strides made, Blacks all over the world continue to suffer from the scars of a history of bondage. It is for that reason that Black History Month continues to have great relevance. It is a reminder to Blacks

and the rest of humanity that emancipation and independence do not necessarily mean freedom; that the formal end of oppression is not logically followed by the end of the system that birthed that oppression. What does Black History Month mean for us in Guyana? In our ethnically-divided country, any reference to race is generally viewed with suspicion and open condemnation. Ethnic and racial identities are contested, and are often derided as false consciousness. In such an environment, Black History Month elicits a polite nod from high and low. The notion of Black History flies in the face of a denial of ethno-racial identity. After all, Black History arises out

of the recognition of blackness as a marker of identity. A proper discourse on, and celebration of, our ethnic diversity yet beckons; for it is only within the context of an acceptance of that diversity would we be able to respectfully observe the significance of Black History to all of Guyana. Black History is pregnant with the inhumanity of slavery and the noble resistance that ensued. It is a pivotal period in Guyanese history and has had a defining influence on our nation. It was the unravelling of slavery that led to a new migration to the then colonial outpost in the form of indentureship. The colonial regime which succeeded slavery really evolved as slavery without slaves,

and, in the end, consumed all ethnic groups. The Black Village Movement was pivotal to the development of independent freedom spaces and organised communities, which we celebrate today as Local Government. For the African Guyanese community, Black History Month could be a time for sober reflection on the state of the community. This is, of course, not a new call; it is repeated at every moment of Black observance. But it continues to be a necessary one. Some African Guyanese leaders and organisations have been making this call for some time now. They have pointed to the drift in the community, and have argued for a repair job to be

undertaken by the group. The very notion of learning Black History could be a starting point. All Guyanese should learn Black History; it should find its place in our school curriculum. One remembers two books for children written by the esteemed historian, Dr. Walter Rodney — Kofi Baadu out of Africa, and Lakshmi out of India — and ask why those books are not required reading in our schools. African Guyanese, however, have a particular responsibility to lead the way in becoming steeped in Black History. (Reprinted)

2016 deal an example of astute statecraft Dear Editor,

May I suggest that the serious flaw in the Global Witness report is its failure to understand the external political context at the time of the signing of the 2016 Agreement with Exxon. If one recalls, in 2015, Venezuela had staked out most of Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone for itself. Stabroek News reported on June 7, 2015: “Venezuela makes new claim to Guyana’s territorial waters, po-

tential oil block”...On May 27, Maduro issued a decree creating the “Atlantic coast of Venezuela,” which now includes sovereignty over Guyana’s territorial waters in the Atlantic Ocean off the Essequibo Region. The preposterous borders effectively made Guyana landlocked. So the decision a year later to move expeditiously towards a revised production sharing agreement with the consortium was based on immediate needs but also long

term considerations of securing the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone. Our Patrimony. How to do that? By having Exxon and Hess continue as operators, it meant two large US companies with undoubted influence on US foreign policy would have interests allied to ours. As such, a small country, Guyana, managed to bring a level of protection for its resources it could never have with its limited military defenses to repel an aggressor. Furthermore the US$18M signing bonus af-

forded Guyana the ability to bring a case before the International Court of Justice that will consider its jurisdiction within a few weeks and one hopes resolve this issue once and for all. The oil companies got something but we got something too. This decision will be seen in years to come as an example of astute and visionary statecraft. Even in the interim one can argue that this has worked out well for all parties involved. We don’t need to consider what

might have been and indeed the alternatives to the present day reality might have been much worse, including armed confrontation over oil fields with our neighbour; a force majeure and freeze on industry activity. As of today, oil now flows into the Liza Destiny – 1M barrels every 10 days – earning Guyana substantial revenues – a minimum of 14.5 per cent of every barrel pumped; Exxon and its partners are moving ahead to fast forward two more FPSOs that will help

to bring $10B in annual revenues to Guyana by 2030; ’a robust economy creating good jobs for the people. And perhaps most important of all, our western border is quiet tonight. Indeed one could reasonably claim our EEZ has never been so secure. Believe it or not the Cooperative Republic of Guyana is winning right now and will for decades to come.

Yours sincerely, Albert Russell

Let this matter go to arbitration Dear Editor, The striking workers of the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) are in a fight of immense proportion and acknowledge they need support from all Guyanese regardless of geographic location, political or religious persuasion; from civic society and those in and out of government. Whereas this struggle is an industrial

action, fighting for workers’ rights, underpinning this is a vicious attack on the sovereignty of Guyana where government and laws do not matter. It is most embarrassing that Guyana approaches its 50th year of Republican Status and as we prepare to celebrate, labour, or at least a section of it, is being treated as second class with their rights trampled on. The recent unannounced/

uninvited visit by PPP MP, Bishop Juan Edghill, and Prime Ministerial Candidate Brigadier (rtd), Mark Phillips to the workers’ encampment site at the Crack in Aroaima, was met with rejection by workers and a supportive community who were unprepared for same. This visit as a result was viewed to be untimely. It also appears as incidental and an afterthought since there was an organised PPP campaign rally in the

vicinity. I am sure there was adequate time that notice could have been given to the community and workers. The struggle of bauxite workers is public knowledge and the least expected is a planned and notified visit on the agenda of leaders seen capable of meeting and respecting the various sensitivities involved. Workers are of the belief they are constantly being taken for granted and disrespected by politicians

who all appear to view them and their leaders as unworthy of basic respect and due notification that would result in adequate preparation. This serves to reiterate that we encourage and welcome Guyanese from all persuasions and associations to stand together as one against Rusal’s intransigence. It is evident that the resolution to this problem cannot be expected from any government, but must come from people’s

power. All that is required to restore a state of normalcy in the bauxite community and Aroiama is for the Department of Labour to move to arbitration on this matter. Again we ask, why isn’t this being done? Regards, Leslie Junor GB&GWU Branch Secretary (BCGI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

A factual response to a sensational story Dear Editor, I respond to an article published in the Friday February 7, 2020 edition of the Kaieteur News headlined “Standoff escalates at RUSAL, workers chase Edghill, Phillips, defy Police, block Berbice River.” We in the PPP/C conducted a three-day outreach in the Ituni, Kwakwani and

Upper Berbice River Areas which saw an unprecedented turnout. Residents at every location visited to listen to the PPP/C message and to engage as we prepare for the March 2020 General and Regional Elections. After conducting 13 successful public and community engagements during the three days, we made an impromptu

stop at the site of the river blockage, to hear from the workers who were already gathered at the location. We had earlier heard of the reports of a standoff between the police and the dismissed workers. We went merely to observe and listen to the concerns of the affected persons. On arrival at the waterfront in the Landersville area,

we engaged in one-on-one conversations with various individuals, in the process of those engagements we were heckled by a small group of persons wearing APNU/AFC t-shirts and waving flags. This outburst began when a known PNC leader told the people not to listen to Edghill and Phillips. It is my belief that work-

ers have a right to protest when they feel aggrieved and solutions seems not forthcoming. Any responsible government must hold companies/employers accountable and ensure that our laws are upheld at all times. This was said repeatedly to the workers that listened while the PNC/ APNU/AFC mobilised band

sought to distract from this engagement. Having completed our observation and engagement we peacefully departed. Regards, Bishop Juan A Edghill

Global experts shred Global Witness report Dear Editor, Bharrat Jagdeo, the PPP and all those who embraced the Global Witness (GW) report, including the former presidential adviser, should be embarrassed for associating themselves with a report that turned out to be a fraud. The report has been decimated and shredded by global industry experts as shallow, one sided, naieve, poorly-researched, lacking in facts and replete with speculation and obscene character attacks. The report ignores the PPP’s one per cent oil profit arrangement and their giveaway of 600 blocks in its initial contract with ExxonMobil, as well as Bharrat

Jagdeo’s attempts to give away part of Essequibo to Venezuela. The PPP is the most unpatriotic political entity in Guyana and poses an existential threat to Guyana’s national security. Yet, this report is pregnant with misinformation and subterfuge, that the APNU+AFC Coalition doesn’t have Guyana’s interest at heart – a reckless, crackpot assumption! The GW report should be rubbished as a fraudulent concoction of misinformation, malicious innuendo and unsubstantiated political attacks on Guyana government officials. They calculated that it would have damaged the APNU+AFC Coalition government to help the communist PPP win the election.

But the effect has been the reverse. It has further galvanised coalition forces and supporters who see similar motives to the PPP’s failed no-confidence motion. The all-caucasian European socialists who run GW don’t have the interest of Guyanese at heart. To them, we’re mostly the sons and daughters of former slaves and indentured labourers who are collectively expendable as they pursue their quest to change the world order to become more climate friendly. They want Guyanese to remain poor while they trot around the world in yachts and private jets to promote their anti-drilling agenda. Guyana’s development is not GW’s agenda. Therefore,

No extra-judicial killings in last five years Dear Editor, It is a joy to know that since the Coalition Government came into office. There has not been any report of extra judicial killings. We can glory in the fact that we are now catching perpetrators of crime, who were once not brought to justice for their crime, now have to face the full brunt of the law. The government has reported that there has been a reduction in the crime since taking office in 2015. THE Guyana Police

Force has recorded a five per cent decrease in serious crimes at the end of July, 2018 relative to the same period last year, while there were 58 murders which equate to a 17 per cent decrease, according to the force’s statistics. Statistics further revealed that there is a 25 per cent increase in robberies where no instruments were used; a seven per cent increase in robbery under arms where firearms were used; a 23 per cent decrease in robbery under arms where instruments other than firearms were used; a seven per cent increase in

robbery with violence; a 25 per cent decrease in robbery with aggravation; a 24 per cent decrease in larceny from the person; a three per cent increase in rape; a seven per cent increase in burglary and a nine per cent decrease in break and enter and larceny. There is glaring evidence according to the statistics that crime is on the decrease but more so, extra judicial killings seem to be a thing of the past. Regards, G. Goring

how dare Bharrat Jagdeo, the PPP and other anti-government saboteurs bring these extremist, anti-development crusaders and global anarchists to our country to attack our government and try to influence the outcome of our

elections? Let us demonstrate our rejection of the fraudulent Global Witness report, as well as our outrage at this invasion of Guyana’s sovereignty and insult to our collective national intel-

ligence by turning out in record numbers on March 2, 2020 to vote for President David Granger and the APNU+AFC Coalition. Regards, Rickford Burke

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

Japan US$95,000 for VYC expansion project - 1000 at-risk and vulnerable youths to benefit THE launch off-shore oil production by Guyana and predictions that the economy will achieve high growth this year and yield huge revenues from its petroleum resources, has been hailed as a great achievement by Ambassador of Japan, Tatsuo Hirayama. In his remarks at the signing of an agreement to the tune of approximately US $95, 000 grant aid from the Japanese Government, the Japanese envoy, also underscored the need for focus to be paid on the younger generation. The grant is to facilitate the renovation and expansion of the Volunteer Youth Corps Inc. Youth Centre at the VYC office, located at Luckhoo Street, D’Urban Backlands. The ambassador said “If we could empower them to become active members of society, through mentorship and vocational training, its effect would have multi-faceted implications- both economically and socially. Thus, we will be able to build a more inclusive society where our youths will become more involved and play a more prominent role in their communities.” Unfortunately, he added, there is a portion of society that is vulnerable and disadvantaged, and we have to extend our assistance and provide an opportunity for growth that is resilient and self-sustaining. Noting that Year 2020 and the new decade will be of paramount importance for Guyana, he urged “… when you take off, you should ensure that nobody will be left behind and also that you will advance on the right track. This means the economic benefits must be shared and enjoyed in a balanced manner throughout the society and country.” As such, he sees the need for mentorship and vocational training for the younger generation, with particular focus on those who have a vast potential but may not have the immediate means to get started. According to the envoy, the role of the VYC is quite essential and such facilities should be equipped to assist and empower younger generations in need. The centres must, first of all, become a haven for those who want to escape troublesome environments, and then become an institution in which those youths can grow through mentorship, and eventually become self-dependent with vocational skills, academic support and career guidance. We have to ensure that these youths can step outside their comfort zones and move

on to a bright and prosperous future, he said, while noting that the undertaking would be a long and winding path, but it would be an extremely rewarding challenge that all should be prepared to face.

“The importance of this project cannot be over- emphasised, given the objectives, intended final outcomes, and beneficiaries, which include at-risk youths, as it seeks to improve access

Chief Executive Officer of the Volunteer Youth Corps Inc. (VYC)Ms Goldie Scott (left) and Japanese Ambassador, Tatsuo Hirayama ( at right) display the signed document for the expansion of the Volunteer Youth Corps Youth Centre (VYCYC). With them are Mr Forbes July, Director of Department of International Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs ( second Left) and Mr Kashir Khan, Honorary Consul General for Japan in Guyana (second from right)

The ambassador, who is on his third visit to this country and noted that it is the third time that his country and the VYC have been collaborating on projects, he further expressed the hope that the contributions by his government would yield tangible outcomes by empowering youths to become full-fledged members of society. Also, that the project will be of tangible benefit to all stakeholders. Affixing her signature on behalf of the centre was Goldie Scott, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of VYC. Also present were, Forbes July, Director of Department of International Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Kashir Khan, Honorary Consul General for Japan in Guyana and Samuel John, of SAEA Construction who will execute the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project, for the Expansion of Volunteer Youth Corps Youth Centre works. The centre offers programmes in STEM education, inclusive of Robotics lessons for 500 odd students from Grades 9-11 at 12 high schools in Georgetown; Youth Employment training; Career guidance and Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring. According to the Foreign Ministry official Forbes July, the project is a collaboration with the Government of japan which is regarded as one of Guyana’s key development partners.

to quality education and social services for at- risk and vulnerable youths, “ July added. He noted that undoubtedly the expanded facilities and amenities of the centre, as a result of the project, will have a positive impact on the youths from the communities it serves and beyond, including the Lodge- Meadow Brook, and surrounding areas, as we strive to meaningfully engage, equip, and provide ample opportunities for all our youths to become productive members of society. He opined that the project is even more imperative at this particular juncture in the development of the country. The works, due to commence on March 31, 2020 and last for one year, will entail an expansion of the current space to that of four floors. This expansion will allow for the over 1000 atrisk and vulnerable youths, to enjoy a more comfortable learning environment and improved access to quality education and social services. Although it involves the VYC, a non-governmental and not-for-profit organisation, it is also representative of the international cooperation between the two countries, resulting from the existing bonds of friendship between the governments and people of the two countries, which was cemented on June 11, 1969.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

Bauxite union renews call for arbitration --to resolve RUSAL issue GENERAL Secretary of the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union (GB&GWU), Lincoln Lewis on Friday warned that “the people will react” if police turn the guns on them. He made the observation while questioning the sudden presence of heavily-armed policemen at the Berbice River blockade being vigilantly maintained by aggrieved workers of the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI). Following clashes between the police and BCGI workers on Thursday, the Union on Friday held a press conference at its office at the Critchlow Labour College, where Lewis asserted that the police’s presence is uncalled for. “[Thursday’s] altercation with the police, workers and residents in Aroaima did not have to happen,” Lewis said, adding: “These are workers; citizens of Guyana. All they are fighting for and asking for is for the rule of law to be applied. Is that asking too much of a government?” Lewis questioned the motive of the police’s presence,

given that it has been two weeks since the workers have been peacefully maintaining the blockade, without incident, and likened the situation to instances of unrest in the country’s history, such as the 1948 Enmore Martyrs uprising; the 1999 public servants protest; and the 2012 Linden protest, all instances that resulted in the death of innocent citizens. “Are we going to have this when all bauxite workers are doing is standing up for their rights. Are the people of Guyana going to allow this? We have to ask ourselves what is going on,” Lewis said. Workers, with the support of residents in the surrounding communities, have been maintaining a blockade across the Berbice River since the company laid off some 142 workers on January 23, to prevent the company from shipping materials and equipment from their Kurubuka mines. The company subsequently laid off 288 workers on January 30, then officially terminated the services of another 326 on February 2, and suspended op-

GBGWU General Secretary, Lincoln Lewis

erations. On Wednesday, police went into the area and dismantled the blockade, which was promptly resumed by Wednesday evening. “I understand the importance of upholding the Rule of Law,” Lewis said, “but what bothers me is when those who are elected to serve and protect demonstrate that the laws are only applicable to the working-class people, and only the poor people will suffer.” RIOT SQUAD RUMOUR According to Lewis, he was made to understand that the police have been mobilising a riot squad to be sent into the area. However, when contacted on Friday, Regional Commander for the area, Hugh Winter said that to the best of his knowl-

Policemen clashed with BCGI/RUSAL workers at Ladernsville Point where workers are blocking the river

edge, there is no such plans on the table. “Nobody informed me about that; and if they were going in there, they would’ve informed me. I know that the situation is very much quiet there; the river is still blocked, but the situation is quiet. No confrontation or whatever the case may be,” Winter related. Lewis did not mince words when blaming the Department of Labour for the escalation

of the current situation, by not declaring a deadlock in conciliation discussions between the company and the Union over salary increases, and allowing the process to move to arbitration. “No one wants to hold RUSAL accountable for its actions from since they came here,” Lewis said. Since the firing of the workers, the Department has been lobbying the company to rehire the workers, while the Union’s focus has been on the company agreeing to deal with an increase in salary for the workers, and paying them retroactively. Lewis believes the call for reemployment is futile, alleging that the company appears already on a path to completely shut down its Guyana operations and ship out as much as they can before they do so. “They are going there asking RUSAL to reemploy these people when RUSAL carry away all the mining equipment,” Lewis said. “If the people done carry away the mining equipment,” he reasoned, “how can we believe any word that they are going to reemploy these people?” It has been almost one year

since the company and the Union agreed to begin negotiations over an increase in wages for workers, following the calling off of a six-week strike action, and the rehiring of some 91 workers that the company had fired as a result. In August 2019, the Union wrote Labour, requesting conciliation, as is catered for in the collective bargaining process. When conciliation fails, the next step is arbitration, whereby the issue at hand is resolved by an independent tribunal, and both parties being bound to whatever is decided. RUSAL has a 90 per cent ownership of BCGI, with the government of Guyana owning the other 10 per cent through the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL). Last year, BCGI Executive Vladimir Permyakov made the damning declaration that in the 15 years the company has been operating in the country, it has not been making enough profit to pay its workers improved salaries.

GuySuCO grants pay increases to sugar workers FOLLOWING a meeting between the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) on Friday, an agreement was reached for sugar workers to receive pay increases. GAWU noted in a statement on Friday that the union’s delegation, comprising officials and representatives from the various estates, were informed by the sugar corporation that it approved certain pay increases to the sugar workers. The union said it will refrain from disclosing the details of the agreement since the body and the workers are actively considering the company’s offer as it noted its struggles over the years to address the needs of sugar workers. President David Granger, on Sunday last, assured thousands of Berbicians that the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government will return the once-ailing sugar industry to profitability, if re-elected for a second term in office. “I know the pain the sugar workers feel, but the sugar industry the PPP gave us could not be sustained,” he said at an election rally at Rose Hall. His Administration, he assured the residents, will do everything in its power to protect and preserve the industry by keeping estates such as

Albion fully functional. In 2017, the APNU+AFC Administration took a decision to consolidate cultivation at the Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt Estates in an attempt to reduce losses and increase profitability within sugar industry. The government announced the closure of several sugar estates; initially the Wales sugar estate was named as the first to be closed one year after it was announced for closure. The move by the government triggered protests led by pro-People’s Progressive Party (PPP) leaders who joined ranks with GAWU leaders on the West Demerara and later in the city. Later several other estates in the Berbice belt were closed and these were also cited as being too costly to run. The opposition protested the move once more, although the government made it clear that annual multi-billion dollar bailouts to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) were hurting the economy. But the move by the David Granger-government was an undertaking which was forecast and made known to the PPP-government way back in 1996 when the gloomy future of the sugar industry was written in black and white. According to the draft National Development Strategy (NDS) of 1996, steps were urgently needed to be put into action and downsizing of the

industry was suggested so that its sales could have been made profitable. The undertaking, the NDS said, included the elimination of GuySuCo’s “least efficient components and relocate the labour force in more productive lines of work”. This effectively meant the closure of estates which were hampering the industry and the relocation of the labour force. The PPP government was told that if by the end of the 1997 cane-harvesting cycle the Wales Sugar Estate was not able to reduce its production costs, the estate should be closed after that crop. Additionally, the situation at the Uitvlugt and Enmore Sugar Estates faced an evaluation which also hinged on production costs, with the aim of making them viable by the year 2000, or phasing them out if they proved otherwise. According to the 1996 report, the strategy proposed was an indirect response to trends in Guyana’s economy at the time. According to the report, they were needed in response to signals of reductions in labour turn-out for some of the Demerara estates. “So it also is an acceleration of a natural process, undertaken for the sake of making the industry more competitive as soon as possible and also to avoid greater pressure on the public sector finances,” the report stated at the time. Fast forward to the years

after 2000, the PPP commenced the bailout process, with hefty sums to keep the industry afloat, the rising cost of production being the critical factor in the billions of

taxpayers’ funds being turned over to GuySuCo. It was this bailout process which the APNU+AFC acted on citing similar measures undertaken by the

PPP, including the closure of the Diamond and other East Demarara estates in order to reduce the burden the sugar industry was placing on the economy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

First hinterland technical institute commissioned in Reg. 9

HUNDREDS of North Rupununi residents gathered at Bina Hill to witness the commissioning of the hinterland’s first ever technical institute. The $130M Hinterland Green Enterprise Centre is located in the same compound as the Bina Hill Youth Learning Centre in Annai, and boasts eight classrooms; a modern computer and science laboratory; a large auditorium; and a lecture room. The facility can accommodate as many as 120 students at any one time. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo said in his opening remarks that the institute will address the high demand for skills training in the hinterland, whilst simultaneously promoting training that aligns along a path of sustainable development. “The government have made you part of that vision of the future; a vision we will start within the first 10 years; a decade of development,” the PM said, adding: “That decade will concentrate on making our country an educated nation, because the oil industry will need engineers, environmentalists, and people with technical skills. And we have to make you marketable.” He noted that the technical institute will join the Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS) programme and numerous other initiatives

that the ‘Coalition’ government has rolled out over its four years in office, in its quest to target hinterland youths to empower them. One of the pioneers of the Green-Enterprise Centre, Min-

and the country as a whole, and over time could lead to the establishment of the hinterland’s first university. A CONTINUOUS DEVELOPMENT

ment, and expansion of the nation’s education system.” She said the event marks a turning point for ‘green’ education, and the development of environmental literacy and nurturing of economic sustain-

Following the unveiling of the plaque to commemorate the commissioning of the Hinterland Green Enterprise Centre at Annai are, from left: Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock; Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Valerie Garrido-Lowe; Minister of Education Dr. Nicolette Henry; Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo; Minister of Public Telecommunication Catherine Hughes; and Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton

ister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock posited that the Institute represents the actualisation of a collective dream of the Indigenous Peoples. The Centre, he noted, will enable students to contribute meaningfully to the development of their villages, region

a good quality of life to all Guyanese, based on sound education, social protection, low carbon footprint and new economic opportunities.” Also attending the commissioning was Minister of Public Telecommunication Catherine Hughes, who assured those at the function that the Centre will have full access to the Internet. Remarking on the growth and development of the Bina Hill Institute over the past four years, Minister Hughes noted that the Centre is an important addition to President Granger’s vision of linking the hinterland and the coastland. This vision, she said, is also being realised through communication. The Public Telecommunication Ministry has to date connected over 72 communities with free Internet. Access is also available at health centres, schools, community centres, village offices, and other public spaces in the hinterland. The Hinterland Green Enterprise Centre is in keeping with President David Grang-

ma-Waini); Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); Eight (Potaro-Siparuni); Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo); and Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice), all of whom will be trained in subject areas such as business management, leadership and enterprise, and technical areas such as motor mechanics and heavy-duty machinery. It will mirror all technical institutes in Guyana, including the Government Technical Institute (GTI). The project’s main objective is to stimulate economic growth by creating and supporting innovative leaders with the capacity and know-how to lead businesses in the challenging hinterland environment, while driving upstream demand for local products and services. The expectation is that this institution will be replicated in Regions One, Seven and Eight, from feasibility studies that were done last year. Also present at Friday’s event were: Minister within

“Your government is committed to the continuous development of its most valuable resources. Not oil; not gold, but you; our young people,” Minister Allicock declared. Minister of Education Dr. Nicolette Henry described the commissioning as “a coming of age of the ‘green’ move-

The newly-commissioned Hinterland Green Enterprise Centre at Annai

ability among students. The work of Institute, she noted, will lend support to “an inclusive and prosperous Guyana that aspires to provide

er’s Ten-Point Plan for Hinterland Development- Hinterland Education Support Programme. It targets Indigenous youths Regions One (Bari-

the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Valerie Garrido-Lowe, and Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

40 teenage mothers learn vital skills FORTY young mothers, who were trained in the areas of make-up, hair braiding, mehendi, nail art, pedicure, manicure and facials, graduated on Thursday from the Ministry of Education’s Health and Family Life Education Programme. The programme is part of an initiative to reintegrate adolescent mothers into the school system. The graduates received certificates and startup packages. The graduation was held under the theme, “Young Mothers on the MOVE. I Am Not What Happened to Me, I am What I Choose to Become,” at the Awareness Consciousness Togetherness (FACT)

Regional Executive Officer, Kim Williams-Stephens, presents a kit and a certificate to a graduate

A section of the graduating class

Building in Corriverton. Addressing the proud grad-

uands, Education Minister, Nicolette Henry, said by rec-

ognising the plight of teenage mothers in getting an education, the government implemented the re-integration programme to help tackle the issue and the

cence mothers into the formal school system is necessary in order for all you young girls to enjoy your right to an education, which will provide you with the foundation to improve your lives and the lives of your children,” Dr Henry told the graduands. She continued that the programmer, which was implemented two years ago, is structured not only to manage the re-integration of adolescent mothers into the formal school system, but also to advance the prevention of adolescent

Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry, hands over a certificate to a graduate

Some of the kits equipped with essentials that were handed over to the graduands

graduating class was testament that the programme has been successful thus far. “We cannot talk about sustainable development without addressing the needs of young people who make up a significant percentage of Guyana’s population. Teenage pregnancy is one of the major challenges standing in the way of girls’ education and their ability to achieve their full potential, especially when the necessary support systems are not in place. It is for this reason that we have to continue on the path we have started,” he minister said. She wished the class all success as they develop their own capacities to reach their full potential, support their families and contribute to the further development of the country. The minister also highlighted the importance of supporting the development of a policy that would ensure every child’s right to an education is realised, and to provide adolescent mothers with an opportunity to complete their secondary education. “We would be derelict in our duties as administrators of education, if we do not ensure that girls who become pregnant are given an opportunity to continue their schooling. The reintegration of adoles-

pregnancy. This, she highlighted, is in keeping with the Ministry of Education and the Government of Guyana’s policy in providing equal opportunities for all Guyanese, especially the youths. “That is why your government is committed to helping Guyanese in this journey of lifelong learning. We are investing more in our schools and at all levels of education. More upgrading opportunities will continue to be available for all young people,” the minister said. Meanwhile, Executive Director of FACT, Annette Jaundoo, in her address, said in addition to the skills training programme, the 40 young women were also trained in the area of time management, decision-making, job readiness, sexual reproductive health, domestic violence, basic HIV and VCT education. She told the women to aim high and continue to empower themselves. Jaundoo also noted that most of the women have already begun to set up their own small businesses. The programme ran for 15 weeks. One of recipients, Terresha Phillps, was moved to tears as she testified how the programme has transformed her life.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

Plastic City residents welcome President’s squatter resettlement plan LESS than a week after His Excellency President David Granger announced plans to establish a National Squatter Resettlement Commission, residents of Plastic City at Vreed-en-hoop, West Coast Demerara (WCD), have welcomed the decision. At a rally in Leonora last Friday, President Granger said the new commission will bring an end to homelessness and provide

wants out of the community. “I want to thank the president for thinking about Plastic City and what he has in mind to do for us here. I want to thank him and congratulate him for his works cause, I need some help,” he told this publication. The situation varies from family to family. Some persons have been living in the area for close to 30 years. The struggles throughout the years have been overwhelming. Hear-

Life in Plastic City (DPI photo)

adequate housing for all. He pointed out Plastic City, as one of the areas that needed to be removed. “People must not live like that in Guyana. People must not live like that in Region Three. We have to abolish squatting. No slums! No shanties!” the Head of State had underscored. With a lack of basic necessities like electricity and running water, living conditions there are far from acceptable. Apart from the absent infrastructure, the mounting garbage piles in sections of the community and the continuous flooding remain health hazards to residents. Dilapidated shacks line the walkways where little children play. For decades the hundreds of residents have been frustrated, but their hope was revived following the president’s announcement. Roy Haywood, 53, has been living in the community for almost five years. When the DPI visited today, he showed us a wooden frame which he said would soon be his new home. He, however,

ing of the President’s plan they say, brings relief. Pinky Ganga, 35, has been living in the area since she was seven years old. All four of her children were born there. She hopes for a better life for them. “From at the back come out, it isn’t healthy for us. We didn’t have a choice and that is why we live here because the spring tide water comes up and flood the place and make the children sick. It is a good idea, yes. If we get a piece a place we will move,” she said. DPI later caught up with a young father Wayne Watson, who has been actively pursuing a better life for his family. He said he has been struggling in the community for more than 20 years and is looking forward to the plan by the Head of State. “It’s rough in this place because I ain’t getting water, ain’t getting proper light. If the government offer me a piece of land, I would be very glad. Me and my family would be able to build something with whatever money I raise or if the government help

me, I would be thankful for that”. President Granger said the over 153 squatter settlements across Guyana remain a major bugbear. His mission is to eliminate such living conditions, providing instead, a better quality of life for all. (DPI)

Pinky Ganga of Plastic City

Roy Haywood

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

CJIA facilitates ‘very large’ cargo aircraft

THE runway capacity of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) was tested when the airport facilitated the Atlas Air 747-400 N475MC cargo aircraft, on Friday morning. The Atlas Air aircraft, which is among some of the largest aircraft to land here, is considered a “very large” cargo aircraft that is available for lease around the world. It was the first aircraft to utilise the newly-constructed Apron at the CJIA for Code D and E-sized aircraft.

According to a press statement from CJIA, all hands were on deck to ensure a seamless landing and takeoff process, when this aircraft arrived with its sensitive and delicate government cargo. “Clearly, from the results of the operations earlier, Guyana has shown its growing capacity to handle the demands that will come from its emerging economy,” said CJIA. The Boeing 747-400 at its maximum take-off weight of 800,000 lbs would usually

Atlas Air’s (747-400) N475MC cargo aircraft at CJIA

require an expansive runway

off and CJIA was able to

capacity for landing or take-

meet this requirement.

Management of the airport collectively said: “we are very happy that we were able to execute this operation without any major challenges, despite our limitations.” They added that, “it was a historic experience that has highlighted the efficiency of our services, such as, ground handling, air traffic control and the CJIAC team, among others, to collectively

demonstrate the importance of teamwork to execute this operation.” Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Jaipaul Sharma, had told the media that the CJIA expansion project was expected to be completed within the first quarter of this year. It was 93 per cent complete in January.

BDO officially launches in Guyana -- underscores local content with all-Guyanese staff

Nayak Ramdahin, Head of International Tax; Frank Soe-Agnie, Partner Suriname; Anamika Mangroo, Director Suriname; Albert Lopez, CEO Americas; Rakesh Latchana, Partner Guyana; Nadia Latchana, Roma Ali, and Riaz Ali, Partner TT

BDO, Chartered Accountants, on Thursday, officially announced the opening of its office at Quamina Street, Georgetown, Guyana. The firm offers audit and assurance services, tax compliance and advisory services, business services outsourcing such as payroll and accounting, and a wide range of other professional services. The Guyana team is entirely staffed by local personnel and is headed by Rakesh Latchana, a member of the local accounting fraternity for over 20 years. He is also a member of the SME Implementation Group of the International Accounting Standards Board. At a reception held at the Georgetown Marriott, Latchana said he was “extremely proud to be a part of this historic occasion. One of the largest professional services firms in the world is now firmly established in the Guyana market. BDO’s global vision and brand promise is to be the leader for Exceptional Client Service and our clients can

expect to see this promise delivered.” In the Caribbean Region, BDO’s network now extends to 21 countries. The Guyana office will have access to global network resources and will be working especially close with teams in Trinidad and Suriname. BDO’s international network extends across 167 countries and territories, with 88,120 people working out of 1,671 offices. Global revenues for the year to September 2019 totalled US$9.6B or €8.5B, a 10.1 per cent increase over the prior year. BDO refers to one or more of the member firms of BDO International Limited, which forms part of the international BDO network of independent member firms. BDO, Chartered Accountants, a Guyana partnership, is a member of BDO International Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, and forms part of the international BDO network of independent member firms.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

‘We have a strategy to put money in your pockets’ …Ali tells Port Kaituma rally PPP will double old age pension, school grants, create jobs for youths THE People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) recently took their campaign to Port Kaituma and its Presidential Candidate, Irfaan Ali, told supporters that come after March 02, when the PPP/C is re-elected, they will ensure that every Guyanese is given the opportunity of a wealthy and comfortable life. “I want to outline to you a clear strategy, a strategy that will put back money in your pockets, put back money in your comminutes and return prosperity to this region… as we meet here today people across the country are hurting in these communities that you come from the suffering has been real. The loss of jobs, the loss of income, the lack of support for your communities, the lack of support for farming and farmers, the lack of support for business, the lack of support for communities, the lack of support for health, education, women and children, has been enormous and it has taken a toll on the communities,” Ali told supporters. Ali assured his supporters that the PPP has a strategic plan, which will see a significant increase in income to ensure a better life. He noted that the PPP will first start by doubling the pension, raising it to $40,000 per month. “We have to work on our conditions of improving life for our elderly and that is why your next government will work on ensuring that our pensioners retire with dignity… not only do we have to make the pension easier to access, we have to progressively increase the pension for the pensioner so that it will give them a decent way of living and enjoying their old age and retirement that is why we are proposing to increase the pension by doubling it to $40, 000,” he explained. Additionally, Ali noted that he will expand the school feeding programme so that no child goes to school hungry and restore the school uniform programme. In addition, the PPP/C will link the school uniform programme to provide jobs for women in the hinterland region by providing them with the necessary requirements to capitalise on the said programme so that the monies earned can be used to develop the village community. “We are going to link that to the economy to ensure that you train the women in the village to sew those uniforms, we are going to ensure that we give them sewing machines to sew that uniform so that the money will remain in the villages to

Former Member of Parliament, Priya Manickchand; Presidential Candidate, Irfaan Ali along with a supporter at the Port Kaituma public meeting

build the village economy and create wealth,” Ali stated. Ali further noted that, the PPP will create an environment in which children can be safe, successful and have access to a bright future with a school uniform programme, a school feeding programme, the transportation programme to support and ensure children’s attendance in school, the party will to return the $10,000 per child cash grant and will progressively increase it to $50,000 per child if given a next term in office. The PPP, he added, will invest in sports and recreational facilities so that children can achieve their full potential in every area of development, in every area of growth our children must have access to opportunities. “We must be able to ensure that our children have access to transportation to get to school, in many of the communities that I visited in this region and many other regions in our country especially the hinterland and riverine areas,” he stated. THE HEALTH SECTOR The PPP believes that all Guyanese should have access to good liable healthcare, access to healthcare that has the medical supplies and medicines that meet their needs and not when they turn up to the health centres the medication is not there or it is almost expired when it is given to them, this Ali pointed out are things that the party will correct. As such the PPP will invest in a regional medical facility that will be state-of-the-art, equipped with modern technology and equipment so that Guyanese everywhere including their non-supporters can benefit, this Ali stated are all

things that will improve life and improve living conditions for persons in the hinterland and riverine areas. In addition, Ali stated that the PPP will set up health centres, schools and provide training facilities in the hinterland region to ensure that youths are trained to guarantee self-development and the economic development of the country. In closing, Ali further noted that the PPP/C will work relentlessly to ensure that every child, every youth, every elderly person in the hinterland receives quality healthcare, quality education, a quality life, quality jobs so all Guyanese can live of a wealthy and comfortable life.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

AG slams PPP, Nandlall’s falsehoods …says party’s desperation knows no bounds

ATTORNEY General, Basil Williams, on Friday, slammed statements by PPP executive, Anil Nandlall that he has argued for the postponement of the forthcoming elections. Nandlall made the comments following the court hearing in the partial appeal – the Attorney General-v-Christopher Ram, the Chief Elections Officer, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and the Guyana Bar Association (Amicus Curiae) in the Appellate Court. The court heard arguments

regarding the validity of Constitutional Amendment No. 4 of 1991, which sets residency as a requirement for voting in Guyana. The arguments formed part of the overall challenge to the High Court’s decision to block the removal of persons from the National Register of Registrants Database (NRRDB), and the Court of Appeal has announced that it will hand down its judgment in the matter on Monday. However, following the final hearing on Thursday, Nandlall, in an interview with the Evening News, –a recording of which he has uploaded on

that Williams had argued in court for the upcoming elections to be postponed, but in a

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, SC

his facebook page, and which has been circulating on social media, the former AG alleged

Attorney Anil Nandlall

swift response Williams said: “This couldn’t be further from the truth and underscores the desperation of Mr. Nandlall and by extension his party as it heads into elections.” Saying he will not respond to Mr. Nandlall’s comments on the case itself, since the matter is still before the court and as such is deemed sub-judice, Williams, however, said note must be taken that during the court hearing on Thursday, Mr. Nandlall attempted to make similar statements purporting that the Attorney General was calling for the postponement of elections and had to be corrected by the learned Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards. “Mr Nandlall and the PPP have a history of disrespecting the courts and its officers when decisions do not go in their favour. This nation therefore, must be on guard as it is clear Nandlall is preparing the ‘wicket’ to launch one of those assaults on the judiciary if the decision on Monday does not go in his favour.” Williams said in his statement. He said the Government of Guyana led by His Excellency, President

David Arthur Granger, has repeatedly committed to ensuring free, fair and transparent elections. Besides, he said the Coalition, APNU+AFC, has launched a most spirited and dynamic campaign, inspiring thousands across the country and is confident of a resounding victory come March 2, 2020. RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT Meanwhile, in his original written submission, the Attorney General had argued that by virtue of Constitution (Amendment) No. 4 of 1991, the residency requirement for voting in Guyana was reinstituted and became a necessary requirement to qualify to be an elector. Article 159 2(a) of the Constitution, he argued, was amended to read to include the residency requirement. “Albeit an argument may be advanced that there was omission of the alteration of the revised constitution by section Two (f) of the Constitution (Amendment) (No.4) Act 1991 (Act No. 36 of 1991) and that the omission of an alteration to the article of the revised edition of the Constitution, this omission, whether inadvertent or not, does not affect the validity of the article of the Constitution,” he said, while pointing to Section 10 of the Law Revision Act, Chapter 2:02. Further, in support of his position, the Attorney General, in his submission, made reference to Article 159 (2) (C), explaining that it provides a mechanism to facilitate the socio-political changes that would necessitate the extension of the list of qualifications. Article 159 (2) (C) reads: “(two) Subject to the provisions of paragraph (three) and (four), a person shall be qualified to be registered as an elector for

elections if, and shall not be so qualified unless, on the qualifying date, he or she is of the age of eighteen years or upwards and either – (C) satisfies such other qualifications as may be prescribed by or under any law.” He, therefore, argued that by virtue of that provision, Section six (two) (a) of the National Registration Act, Chapter 19:08 makes residency part of the list of qualifications under “any law.” On Thursday, the Attorney General, in expounding on his original submission, explained that it was not the Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOM’s) intention to remove persons from the list, but rather to generate a new register based on data collected during the 2019 house-to-house registration. “Article 159 (five) [of the Constitution] states that by a qualifying date, GECOM has the option to compile a new register or revise a register,” Minister Williams told the court. He submitted to the Appellate Court that once a new National Register of Registrants Data Base (NRRDB) is developed, the old register is retired. That aside, the Attorney General respectfully submitted to the Appellate Court that Ram and the Guyana Bar Association failed and neglected to provide and furnish any evidence of overseas voting since 1991. “The Act wasn’t inactive; the Constitutional Amendments and Elections Law were not inactive, they were being applied since 1991 because there has been no overseas voting since 1991, you had to be resident in Guyana to vote,” the Attorney General argued.

Evans pleads not guilty to businessman’s murder KEMO Tyron Evans, on Thursday, pleaded not guilty to the murder of businessman, Abdul Farouk Ghanie, whose lifeless body was found lying in a pool of blood at the back of the yard at his Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara (EBD) home, in April 2015. Evans, 23, of Water Street, Bagotstown, EBD, appeared before Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Demerara High Court and denied that between April 15 and 16, 2015, at Collingswood Avenue, Nandy Park, he murdered Ghanie, aka “Brother”, during the course of a robbery. He is represented by attorney-at-law, Dexter Todd while the state is represented by prosecutor, Tuanna Hardy, Tiffani Lyken and Nafeeza Baig. On February 03, 2020, Floyd Anthony Rammit of Kaneville, another EBD village, appeared before Justice Kissoon and opted to plead guilty

Murdered businessman, Abdool Farouk Ghanie

to the crime. He was sentenced to 30 years behind bars. The State’s case was that Rammit was given accommodation in Ghanie’s property while being employed as Ghanie’s handyman. Rammit and his accomplice, Kemo Tyron Evans’ then concocted a plan to rob the businessman. It is alleged that on April 15, 2015, Ghanie was ambushed by the two men who

Kemo Tyron Evans

stabbed him (Ghanie) to his chest with a knife. The men were seen running away from the home by two eyewitnesses. On April 15, 2015, neighbours found Ghanie’s body lying in a pool of blood. He died due to a stab wound to his heart. Four months after Ghanie’s death, Rammit was arrested by police at a location in the interior.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

$6.15M in grants, ATV handed over South Pakaraima villages

COMMUNITIES in the South Pakaraima District in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo, Region Nine, received $3.5M in grants for various village projects and an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) valued at $2.6M. The cheques and transportation were presented to the villages by Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, during a community engagement at the Cashew Tree Park on Thursday. Paipang, Tiger Pond and

the grants were timely as it allows the village councils an early start to their 2020 workplan. Kendell Francis, toshao of Paipang, explained that the fruit farm will further boost the development of his village and adds to the other ongoing projects in the community. These include a swine and sheep rearing project, a cassava harvesting project, a fuel depot and village snackette, from which the 200 residents benefit. Charles Man-song-hing,

munity,” Minister Allicock stressed. He also advised the residents to be more involved in agriculture not only as a means to sustain their families and communities but to become the breadbasket of the entire Region and by extension, the country. Minister Allicock also used the opportunity to highlight some of the key achievements under the coalition government over the last four years, such as the

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, handing over materials for fencing of farm lands to the toshaos

Karasabai received $500,000 each to embark on fruit-farm projects; while Taushida received $1M towards the repair of their village tractor to continue their agriculture and lumber ventures, and $1M was given to Yurung Paru for the construction of a community centre. The ATV was given to the newly-appointed Community Development Officer (CDO) serving those mountainous villages within the district. Additionally, Paipang received a generator set and the villages, material for fencing farmlands. DPI spoke with the village leaders who noted that

Toshao of Tiger Pond, explained that he will be engaging his people on how they will be fully utilising the funds to ensure each of the over-100 residents benefit. In his remarks, Minister Sydney Allicock encouraged the people to fully utilise the support the government has been making available to improve their livelihoods. “These are not handouts; these are requests that the people have made and we are delivering… Use them to enhance your lives. It is not for a specific person; it is to be used for everyone. Work together, unity is the best way to build your com-

Ballot papers ...

Members of the diplomatic community, who have also been observing electoral process so far, had also urged political leaders to campaign in the spirit of “hearty” and “respectful” competition, with the ultimate goal of ensuring free and fair elections. President Granger had said he is confident that “credible” and “efficient” elections will be conducted as scheduled on

Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS) programme which has trained 4,000 youths in various skill areas and has led to the development of over 2000 businesses. The minister also mentioned the $130M Hinterland Green Enterprise Centre at Annai, which will train Indigenous youths in areas including heavy-duty machinery and motor mechanics among other skill areas that are needed in the hinterland. This technical institution will be replicated in Regions One, Seven and Eight. (DPI)

FROM PAGE

March 2, 2020. “The government side is satisfied that Guyana is on-stream to have efficient and credible elections on the second of March, 2020. “We are satisfied with the work that is taking place now and we feel that the Chairman of the Commission has got her finger on the pulse and will do everything in her ability to ensure that we will have credible elections,” said the President.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, handing over the keys to the ATV to the community development officer

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

Gov’t disburses $9.3M in grants to Rupununi communities ANOTHER $9.3M in grants has been delivered to six North and Central Rupununi communities in Region Nine (Upper Takutu, Upper Essequibo) for various economic projects on Friday. The cheques were presented to the village leaders by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo during the commissioning of the Hinterland Green Enterprise Centre in

Annai. Nappi, in Central Rupunini, received $5M to boost their tourism venture. The grant will be used to construct a benab and a kitchen at the Nappi Water Reservoir Eco Lodge. Surama, in the North Rupununi, received the sum of $1.5M for the construction of the Surama Eco-Lodge’s main benab, and another $500,000 for the establishment of a fruit farm. Kwatamang, another North Rupununi village, also received $500,000 for a fruit farm, while the village of Fairview will finish the construction and stocking of its village shop with the $1M they received.

Minister Nagamootoo handing over the cheques to the toshaos of the various North and South Rupununi villages on Friday

Duo charged for murder of alleged ‘cattle thief’

TWO Berbice residents were, on Friday, remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on a joint murder charge. Gobin Balram, 60, a farmer, and Jerry Pirtam, 25, a labourer, both of Number 65 Village, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and were not required to plead to the capital offence of murder. Particulars of the charge stated that on January 30, 2020, at Number 67 Village, East Berbice, Corentyne, they murdered Parmanand Lakram called “Bachan”. Both men were unrepresented. Police prosecutor told the court that on the day in question, Lakram’s body was

(in front) Gobin Balram, Jerry Pirtam

found at #67 Village Backdam. The police were contacted and an investigation was launched and Balram and Pirtam were arrested. Reports are that Lakram’s

two friends were hiding in some nearby bushes, when they saw Balram and Pirtam shoot Lakram over a stolen cow. The men then reported the matter. The firearm along with some spent shells were also recovered at the scene. Chief Magistrate McLennan remanded the men to prison and adjourned the matter until February 25, 2020. The matter was transferred to the Springlands Magistrate’s Court. Balram, after hearing his return date, said, “Madam, can you give me an earlier date. I have cattle and other things to look after.” But the magistrate maintained her ruling.

Man gets 14 years for killing wife THREE years after Justina Bernard was beaten and left to die along the Central Rupununi, Essequibo roadway, her 35-year-old reputed husband was, on Thursday, sentenced to 14 years behind bars. He had confessed to the gruesome crime. Peter Juan, formerly of Shulinab Village, Central Rupununi, was charged with the capital offence. However, he opted to plead guilty to manslaughter, before Justice Sandil Kissoon, at the Demerara High Court. Juan admitted that on February 18, 2017, at Central Rupununi, he unlawfully killed Bernard. State Prosecutor, Nafeeza Bernard told the court that on the day in question, the couple was consuming alcohol at a location in Central Rupununi.

Peter Juan

It was reported that while on a bicycle on their way home, the couple got into an argument and, it is alleged, Bernard slapped Juan and told him something insulting. Juan became annoyed, grabbed Bernard and slammed her onto the ground several times. He then left her and went home but was forced to return after he did not had the key to the house. When he arrived, he saw his wife’s lifeless body on the ground where he left her.

Attorney-at-law, Maxwell McKay, during his plea of mitigation for Juan, told the court that his client was under the influence of alcohol when he committed the crime and regrets his actions. Juan, during his address to the court, expressed remorse and explained that he wanted to be released to look after his child since he cannot do so behind bars. Justice Kissoon considered the background of the case and the plea of mitigation, while also placing weight on the need to deter other like-minded individuals from committing similar crimes. Eventually, Juan was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment by Justice Kissoon, who ordered that the prison authorities deduct from the sentence the time Juan had spent on remand.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

UG launches Diploma in Land Valuation course --as Guyana readies to meet the demand for housing with coming of oil and gas

IN what has been described as a historic development in addressing the growing need for qualified professionals in land valuation and management, the University of Guyana (UG), in collaboration with the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission (GLSC), on Thursday launched an inaugural Diploma in Valuation Programme. The Programme, which comes under the Faculty of Earth and Environmental

pend on this batch of students to start the process, to make sure we get value,” he added. The majority of the students, 21 to be exact, will

Minister of State Dawn Hastings-Williams

GLSC Commssioner Trevor Benn

come from GLSC, which is sponsoring the programme for its staff. Benn noted that the other agencies are being encouraged to sponsor their staff as well. The programme is expected to cost approximately $30M. UG Registrar, Dr. Nigel Gravesande (Photos by Delano Williams)

Sciences (FEES), will run for 18 months, starting off with some 30 students. Delivering the feature address at the launch was Minister of State Dawn Hastings-Williams, who stressed to the students the importance of land administration, and the critical role they could go on to play in helping to craft policies that will guide the country in the prudent management of our land resources. “Considering the oil-andgas industry and [economic] growth, land interest has already been on the increase, primarily along the coast,” Minister Hastings-Williams said, adding: “It is you the upcoming students to make stakeholders feel confident to take decisions in the face of uncertainty. You the professionals equipped with the requisite skills will play a key role to build a functional and effective valuation system.” The first batch of students comprise staff from the GLSC, the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA); National Industrial and Commercial Investments Ltd (NICIL); Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC); Lands Registry, and Deeds Registry. “We thought it important for all the agencies involved in land management to be involved in this training,” GLSC Commissioner Trevor Benn said. “We have to ensure we oversee our nation’s patrimony to bring good value to Guyanese. As stewards of the government, we can de-

CAPACITY BUILDING “At GSLC,” Benn said, “we take the education of our staff very important. We have been making an effort to make sure that we expose our staff to various work processes that they can bring to Guyana to elevate our work.” He noted that this investment in the Commission’s staff is part and parcel of a wider capacity-building initiative at the Commission, to ensure that the agency is able to meet the demands being placed on it. Several staff members have also been part of overseas training programmes, while the Commission also has a collaboration with the University of Twente in the Netherlands, to assess the needs of the Commission and commence training of the staff. Benn emphasised that it is important for GLSC staff and all Guyanese to become competent in areas where there is a skills need in the country, in the face of the growing immigration to Guyana by foreigners in search of job opportunities. The Programme is the second that the GLSC has collaborated on with UG to implement, the first being a Diploma in Land Administration. “The two programmes that we have launched so far are very critical to the work this country is about to embark on in oil and gas, as we prepare for the people that are coming to Guyana,” Benn related. Also speaking at the launch was UG Registrar Dr. Nigel Gravesande, who noted that there is a significant skills gap for competent profession-

als in land valuation in Guyana, as well as in the wider Caribbean Region. Noting that the Region is estimated to need over 5000 such professionals by the year 2025, Dr Gravesande said. He said that notwithstanding the need, initiatives to meet the demand have not been corresponding, as in all of the Caribbean, only the University of the West Indies (UWI) and now UG that are offering programmes in the sector.

“At both universities, the current cohort of students pursuing such programmes number less than 100. UG sees itself therefore as playing a critical role in satisfying the skills gap not only locally but also regionally,” Dr. Gravesande said, adding: “This Diploma was initiated as a result of a very direct and frontal request by the GLSC. It is also responding to critical feedback from other stakeholders that UG must extend

its offering to provide training and competencies in the discipline of valuation.” Also making remarks at the event were: Dean of the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Dr. Temitope Oyedotun; and Chair of the University’s Transition Management Committee, Professor Paloma Mohamed. The students were given an orientation talk by Assistant Registrar, Students’ Welfare, Daniella King.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 8, 2020

PRP reveals new Presidential Candidate …launches ‘anticorruption’ manifesto

Founder of The People’s Republic Party (PRP), Dr. Valerie Leung

THE People’s Republic Party (PRP), on Friday, revealed its new Presidential Candidate, Ms. Phillis Jordon, a long- standing minister of faith, at the party’s manifesto launch. Ms. Jordon, addressing a gathering at the National Library’s conference room, stated that, she believes the time is right now to have persons of faith with the help of the Almighty God take charge of Guyana. “What will be will be and today God has allowed us to get this far. We are competing at the national level and we are competing in seven regions…I believe we are at a very important junction in our nation, the stakes are extremely high and I believe that it is God himself that has allowed us as people of faith to step up at this point as guardians of the nation,” she stated. Ms. Jordin noted that, the date is an auspicious and significant one which will see people of faith finally having a voice and a platform to ensure their values at the highest decision-making forum beyond the confines of the Church organisation. Meanwhile, Dr. Valerie Leung, the founder of PRP, related that the party’s main aim is to address corruption in Guyana, “We will address corruption, and that will be addressed from the top down.” Dr. Leung noted that, corruption in government eats

The People’s Republic Party (PRP), Presidential Candidate, Ms. Phillis Jordon

away at the sinews of our nation, and robs our nation of its wealth. While a few well-connected ones hog the riches, the poor masses struggle for daily survival. When politicians get into office and quickly appropriate state resources to themselves, building palatial structures and engaging in overnight conspicuous consumption, it not only dampens, but destroys the public trust in government. Corruption in government creates a ripple effect in the rest of the public service and wider society and as such the PRP will root out corruption wherever and whenever it happens by firing and jailing ministers and public officials wo do not adhere to a national code of conduct. Additionally, Dr. Leung related that Guyana is now the richest country in CARICOM with the most resources; however a diverse, balanced economy is essential for long-term sustainable growth. Therefore, the PRP will not put all of Guyana’s proverbial eggs in the ‘oil’ basket, or abandon agriculture and mining bases. Dr. Leung further noted that, if given the chance, the PRP will re-negotiate all oil contracts and agreements to ensure fairness to Guyana, she added that, new oil blocks will be auctioned in an open process that will result in Guyana having a greater share of oil revenues.

Construction worker remanded for murder of drinking buddy CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan, on Friday, remanded a 27-year-old construction worker to prison on a murder charge. Jerry Harlall appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was not required to plead to the capital charge. Particulars of the charge stated that between January 25, 2020 and January 27, 2020, at Republic Road New Amsterdam, Berbice, he murdered Cleon Outar. Police told the court that, on January 25, 2020, Harlall and Outar were at a bar consuming alcohol. Shortly after, Outar stepped out and Harlall followed him, picked up a wood, and dealt him several lashes about

his body and pushed him into a nearby trench. On January 27, 2020, Outar’s body was found by passersby. The body was taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was pronounced dead. An investigation was launched and Harlall was arrested and charged. A post mortem examination revealed that Outar died from asphyxiation and blunt trauma to the body. Chief Magistrate McLennan, after listening to the prosecutor, remanded Harlall to prison until February 17, 2020. The matter was transferred to the New Amsterdam Magistrates’ Court.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

Technical institute for Bartica -- greater emphasis to be placed on youth, skills development, President Granger tells Bartica rally economy.” Meanwhile, on the topic of local governance, the president recalled that

By Svetlana Marshall EVEN as he urged Barticans to further diversify their local economy, President David Granger announced the establishment of a Government Technical Institute (GTI) in Bartica that will create a window of opportunities for residents of the town and the region at large to acquire the requisite skills and knowledge needed to advance in various sectors. The Head of State was at the time addressing a large gathering of A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) supporters at an elections rally held at the Bartica Sports Centre on Friday evening. “Bartica needs a technical institute to train the young people to boost the economy of this region, and during the next 10 years, during our ‘Decade of Development’, Bartica will have its own technical institute to train young people,” President Granger declared to loud cheers and the blowing of horns. Since taking office in May 2015, he said, his Administration has been placing major emphasis on youth development. The Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) is one of several programmes initiated under the Granger Administration to finance businesses developed by young people through the provision of grants. To date, over 2,500 young men and

and bicycles to ensure that school-aged children can easily access their schools. Un-

President David Granger addressing a very lively Bartica rally

women have benefited from SLED. Complementing the SLED initiative is the Hinterland Employment Youth Service (HEYS), another avenue created to financially empower young people within the hinterland. Under the APNU+AFC Government, 3,800 young people have received grants totaling millions of dollars. These programmes, President Granger explained, have been addressing the vexing issue of unemployment in the country. Noting that the decision by the PPP/C Administration to dismantle the Guyana National Service (GNS) in 2000 resulted in a surge in the country’s unemployment rate, President Granger said that in order to remedy the situation, the National Youth Corps was re-established in March 2019. NO TO BULLYISM Turning his attention to the region’s gold and diamond industries, the Head

of State assured the crowd of supporters that the APNU+AFC, once re-elected, will continue to protect mining in the country. “We will protect miners, but we will prevent bullyism,” he said. “We will ensure that small and medium-scale miners are not put out of work,” he assured Barticans and residents of other Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) communities at the rally. While the gold and diamond industries continue to contribute significantly to the national treasury, and have thousands of Guyanese in their employ, President Granger underscored the importance of Bartica, and the region by extension, to diversify its local economy, by investing in such areas as the food and manufacturing industries. Warning that mining will not last forever, President Granger urged the people of Region Seven: “You must train your children to get other jobs; let us try to diversify our

A section of the gathering at the APNU+AFC rally in Bartica on Friday

one year after his election to office, he declared Bartica a town in 2016. At the time of his election, he noted, Bartica was managed by an Interim Management Committee (IMC), a system imposed on residents by the former People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration. It was after a 22-year hiatus that Local Government Elections were held in Guyana in March 2016, a process that effectively resulted in the dismantling of the IMC, and the election of local leaders within municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs). On the national level, the president alluded to the fact that his administration has invested significantly in the education sector, and that under the Public Education Transportation Service (PETS), communities and villages across the country have been given buses, boats

der a similar programme, the Public Education Nutrition Service, children are provided hot meals in schools. WINNING STREAK Given the track record of the APNU+AFC, President Granger is confident that the ‘Coalition’ will win the March 2020 elections, and the next two General and Regional Elections to follow. “We won in 2015; we will win in 2020; we will win in 2025, and we will win in 2030!” President Granger declared to loud cheers. While the APNU+AFC won Region Seven by 59 per cent in the 2015 General and Regional Elections, President Granger said that this time around, the ‘Coalition’ is aiming to secure 89 per cent. Noting that the PPP/C has been on a downward spiral since 1997, President Granger said, “In Region Two, they are losing their grip; in

Region Three, they are losing their grip; in Region Six, they are losing their grip. In Region Seven, they never had a grip, and they will never get a grip,” he told the APNU+AFC supporters, the majority of whom were decked out in green and yellow, the colours of the ‘Coalition’. According to President Granger, the PPP/C, the main opposition party, is losing mass support due to its poor leadership skills, and self-serving traits. “The PPP does not demonstrate leadership,” he said, adding: “The PPP does not believe in partnership; the PPP does not believe in stewardship. When they get into power, it is for themselves.” First Lady Sandra Granger; Minster of State Dawn Hastings; Minister within the Ministry of Infrastructure Jaipaul Sharma; Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton; Minister within the Ministry of Labour Keith Scott; Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency Joseph Harmon; Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall; Chairman of Region Seven Gordon Bradford; and Mayor of the City of Georgetown Ubraj Narine were among officials present at the rally.

Gov’t re-establishes Mabaruma-Morawhanna road link CONSTRUCTION works to a roadway linking the town of Mabaruma with the fishing/farming community of Morawhanna on the Barima River in the North West District, is progressing and residents have expressed appreciation to the administration for re-establishing the vital roadway. According to reports from Mabaruma, the contractor has already completed more than half of the length of the roadway which is being constructed by International Imports and Supplies contracting firm. Mabaruma town councillor, Ian Baird, told the Guyana Chronicle that residents of Morawhanna and the Smith Creek community will

Works underway on the roadway

be the main beneficiaries of the road link. He said, when completed, residents of the area would be able to utilise the roadway to ferry their produce with less hassle to the market at the business community of

Kumaka. “I think school children especially would be the main beneficiaries,” Baird said. Residents have noted that the roadway will once again create opportunities for persons to conduct business in

the area. Morawhanna, which is located some six hours by boat from the Venezuela border, is an official port-of-entry for vessels and persons must check-in with the authorities there, including immigration, the coastguard and police, before proceedings onward into the region. The Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) ferry usually makes its first stop at Morawhanna on the way to Mabaruma from Georgetown. On Friday, Baird commended the government for providing a boat to residents at Morawhanna to aid in the transportation of school children from the area to nearby schools. He said the residents had complained that the boat

which they utilised in the months gone by, became faulty. He said contact was immediately made with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings, who pays a special interest in the welfare of residents of far-flung communities in the Mabaruma sub-region. Through her intervention, a boat was procured for the residents. Morawhanna was once a populated community with thriving businesses, however, during the late 1990s, the sea-defence infrastructure in the area was eroded by the nearby Barima River due to poor maintenance. This led to the area being neglected by the authorities and persons noted that remnants of an excavator,

which was taken to the area to rebuild the sea-defence, is testimony to the community being left on its own. In a Kaieteur News article of August 2009, residents reported that the closure of a fishing complex, which many depended on for storage, fell by the wayside. The complex had also provided desperately-needed employment for several in the village and it was the off shoot of persons mooring at the complex, given that they would conduct business at the few shops that existed, the report said. Flooding, which was attributed to damaged sluice doors, was also seen as one of several factors which led to the community’s decline.

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8th Milo schools football launched … Tournament to begin on February 15 SCHOOLS Football returns on February 15 when the Milo U-18 tournament kicks off at the Ministry of Education (MoE) ground, Carifesta Avenue. The 8th instalment of the widely popular

schools football tournament was launched yesterday in the boardroom of Milo’s parent company, Beepats. Giving the opening remarks at yesterday’s launch, Petra organisation co-Director Troy Mendonca contended that the event has come a long way under the stewardship of Milo. “I really want to express our thanks and thank you for the confidence from the Beepats

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Company for coming on board,” he said. The Petra boss also said, “I would like to emphasise the concept that the Petra organisation has. Once football is being played on the field, everything else comes into play.” According to Mendonca, “We can clearly identify some of youngsters who are excelling now because they came through the programme.” The MoE also rep-

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resents a major part of the tournament as was outlined by Lorraine Barker-King, the Administrator of Allied Arts. “The MoE is always pleased to associate with Petra. It is important that our children are exposed to all aspects of sport, and physical education is one part of this,” she added. In the absence of president Wayne Forde, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) was represented by Bryan Joseph who contended that “currently, we are finalising our departure for the U-20 boys and it is important to note that members of that tournament will return to that Milo tournament,” he said. Brand manager of Milo, Shelona David, stated, “We at Beepats are always happy to be a part of events of this nature and I must say that it is an anticipated event.” In giving the closing remarks, director Chris Beepat contended that for the past seven years, the tournament has been an excellent way of promoting youth develop-

ment. “Sports can also bring about intangible benefits to schools and communities,” he concluded. Approximately $4M was pumped into the 2020 edition of the U-18 tournament which will start on February 15 and continue on Saturdays and Sundays for 10 weeks. The 24 teams will be competing for a $400 000 first prize which will go towards any project for the winning school; second-place will get $200 000; third-place $100 000 and $50 000 for fourth place. The participating schools are Bishops’ High, South Ruimveldt, New Central, Cummings Lodge, Carmel, Golden Grove, St Stanislaus College, Christ Church, St John’s College, Marian Academy, Charlestown, East Ruimveldt, St Joseph, Canje, Christianbrug-Wismar, Annandale, President’s College, Golden Grove, Ann’s Grove, Uitvlugt, Vergenoegen and Friendship. North Ruimveldt are a standby team.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday February 8, 2020) COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK –

STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) &CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Clive Lloyd &amp; Anura Tennekoon (Manchester, 1975) (2) Hashan Tillakaratne-104 (Mumbai, 1993) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many WI have played ODIs against SL

to date?

(2) How many SL have played ODIs against the

WI to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday February 8, 2020

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

Pep plays down Messi Manchester City move (BBC) - PEP Guardiola has played down suggestions that Lionel Messi could join him at Manchester City and believes the forward will end his playing days at Barcelona. Messi, 32, has spent his career with Barca but has a clause allowing him to leave for free this summer. Guardiola coached Messi at the Nou Camp between 2008 and 2012, winning three La Ligas and two Champions Leagues. “He will stay there [at Barca], that’s my wish,” said the City boss. Guardiola left Barca for Bayern

Munich having become their most successful manager, with 14 trophies in four seasons. He went on to win three successive league titles in Germany and has won the Premier League for the last two seasons with City, although this term they trail Liverpool by 22 points with only 13 games remaining. Messi, who has won the Ballon d’Or player award six times, 10 league titles and four Champions Leagues, is under contract until 2021.

But he spoke out this week against Barcelona sporting director Eric Abidal after the Frenchman accused players of not working hard under former coach Ernesto Valverde. Barca are three points behind leaders Real Madrid in La Liga but Guardiola would not be drawn on the apparent unrest between Messi and Abidal - both former players of his - adding: “I’m not going to talk about players for other clubs. “I think he will finish his career there.”

Josep Guardiola shakes hands with Lionel Messi of FC Barcelona during half-time of the UEFA Champions League semi final second leg match between FC Bayern Muenchen and FC Barcelona at Allianz Arena on May 12, 2015 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by A. Beier/FC Bayern via Getty Images)

England second ODI against South Africa abandoned (BBC) - ENGLAND’S second one-day international against South Africa in Durban was abandoned because of rain. South Africa had reached 71-2 when the players were forced off the field at 16:35 GMT by the rain, which had already caused a delayed start in addition to two lengthy stoppages. The hosts remain 1-0 up in the threematch series after victory in the first ODI in Cape Town. The third ODI takes place in Johannesburg tomorrow at 08:00 GMT. England’s previous two ODIs against

South Africa in Durban in 2005 and 2009 were also both abandoned because of rain. South Africa had made a decent start at Kingsmead after being put in to bat, with opener Reeza Hendricks hitting three fours in his unbeaten 35 off 34 balls. Temba Bavuma also looked to be in good form - hoisting Tom Curran for a huge six into the leg side before being trapped in front by Chris Jordan from what proved to be the final delivery of the ill-fated contest. Proteas captain Quinton de Kock was bowled by Joe Root for 11, missing a delivery that skidded on while trying to cut.

England must now win the final ODI tomorrow to avoid a series defeat.

Jamshed jailed for spot-fixing (BBC) - PAKISTAN international batsman Nasir Jamshed has been jailed for his part in a spot-fixing scandal. He was arrested with Yousef Anwar and Mohammed Ijaz last February in a National Crime Agency probe. Jamshed encouraged other players to fix a Pakistan Super League (PSL) game in February 2018 by getting batsmen to avoid scoring runs from certain balls in return for a share of £30 000. The three defendants were jailed after admitting bribery offences. An attempt to fix a Bangladesh Premier League match towards the end of 2016, and an actual fix in the PSL were uncovered by a police officer who posed as a member of a corrupt betting syndicate. Jamshed, from Walsall, was initially

targeted in the Bangladesh plan which was later called off. He then acted as a go-between and encouraged other players to spot-fix at the PSL fixture between Islamabad United and Peshawar Zalmi in Dubai. He initially denied the bribery offence but changed his plea to guilty during his trial in December. ‘UNDERMINING CRICKET’ Anwar, 36, of Littlebrook Avenue, Slough, Berkshire, and Ijaz, 34, of Chippingham Road, Sheffield, had admitted conspiring to offer bribes to professional cricketers at an earlier hearing. During their sentencing at Manchester Crown Court, Judge Richard Mansell QC said: “By far the most insidious conse-

Nasir Jamshed was initially a target of bribery before turning perpetrator.

quence of these offences is the undermining of public confidence in the integrity of the sporting contest, not simply in the individual match directly affected but in the game of cricket generally.” Anwar was jailed for 40 months, Ijaz sentenced to 30 months and Jamshed, who made more than 60 appearances for his

country, for 17 months. Jamshed was previously banned from playing cricket for 10 years following an investigation by the Pakistan Cricket Board’s anti-corruption unit. Two other players, Sharjeel Khan who carried out the PSL fix - and Khalid Latif, received five-year bans.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday February 8, 2020

Scottsburg United, No 73 Young Warriors to clash in Trophy Stall UCCA U-19 50 overs cricket final THE finalists of the second edition of the Trophy Stall and Upper Corentyne Cricket Association (UCCA) Under-19 Inter-club 50 overs cricket tournaments have been decided. The finalists are Scottsburg United and No 73 Young Warriors. In semifinal play, No, 73 Young Warriors got the better of No. 72 Cut and Load by 27 runs in a close encounter, in their game played at the No. 72 Cut and Load ground. Young Warriors batted first and fought their way to 109 all out

in 29 overs. Victor Latchman topscored with 34 while Niradt Singh made 16. Bowling for Cut and Load, Seeraj Chatterpaul led the way with 4 wickets - Charran Singh taking 3 and Mukesh Edwards 2. In reply, No. 72 Cut and Load were cut down for 72 in 18.5 overs with Salim Somdat contributing 27. Bowling for Young Warriors, off-spinner Rawle Jabbar 5-20 and leg-spinner Salim Khan 5-24 were the destroyers. In the other game, Scottsburg

e v i g n o t s g Kin s s o B a t r a p S ! t o o b the KINGSTON solidified their status as dark horses, eliminating defending champions Sparta 3-1 in the biggest upset ever recorded in the Magnum Tonic Wine Mashramani Cup Futsal Championship on Thursday at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue. Kingston prevailed in the roundof-16 showdown to ensure new champions will be crowned in the prestigious championship. Stephon Reynolds fashioned a hat-trick in the third, sixth and 10th minutes. For the losers, Gregory Richardson netted in the eighth minute. Kingston will now oppose Spartacus in the quarterfinal section set for this evening at the same venue, after the latter mauled Broad Street 6-1. Moore

United defeated No. 73 Mandir by 4 wickets in their game played at the Scottsburg ground. No. 73 Mandir batted first and were dismissed for 92 in 14 overs with Andrew Tahal 33 and Inderpaul Singh 21 the top-scorers. Bowling for Scottsburg United, Joel Dhanraj and Aktar Nohar picked up 4 wickets each. Scottsburg United. in reply. reached 93-6 with all-rounder Joel Dhanraj making 21, Brandon Nandalall 20 and S Blair 18. Tahal picked up 2 wickets bowling for No.

73 Mandir. The final is set for today at the Crabwood Creek ground The tournament is sponsored by Trophy Stall Port Mourant Branch through its General Manager Ramesh Sunich. Seven participated in the competition, the others being No. 43 Cricket Club, No. 66 Cricket Club and No. 73 Mandir and No. 52 Cricket Club. The Trophy Stall with head office in Bourda Market is one of the leading sponsors of sporting

activities in Guyana. It is also one of the leading sports and trophy stores in the country. The Trophy Stall, which opened a Branch in Port Mourant Corentyne last year, is happy to give back to the people of Berbice for their unstinted support over the years. General Manager Ramesh Sunich was happy with the way the competition was organised last year and readily agreed to sponsor the competition again. He has committed to further sponsorship.

Action between Back Circle (yellow) and Rio All-Stars in the Magnum Tonic Wine Mashramani Cup Futsal Championship, at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue

smashed three goals in the ninth, 11th and 16th minutes while Mark Carrega tallied a double in the fifth and 18th minutes. Adding a goal in the 14th minute was Osric Barrow. For the losers, Omar Sinclair scored in the seventh minute. Meanwhile, Bent Street crushed Mocha 5-0. Sheldon Holder scored a hat-trick in the fourth, fifth and seventh minutes while Colin Nelson and Jermaine Beckles netted in the ninth and 17th minutes respectively. Their quarterfinal opponents Sophia edged Ansa McAl All-Stars 3-2 on penalty kicks after regulation time ended 3-3. Gerald Grittens tallied a double in the fifth and seventh minute for Sophia while Joshua Kamal netted in the ninth

minute. For Ansa McAl, Shamar Fraser recorded a double in the 12th and 18th minutes while Akin Curry scored in the fourth minute. On the other hand, Gold is Money and Leopold Street will faceoff in the quarterfinal round following hard-fought wins. Leopold Street bested Avocado Ballers 2-0. Omallo Williams and Darren Benjamin netted in the eighth and 10th minutes correspondingly. Gold is Money edged Alexander Village 2-1. Randolph Wagner and Andrew Murray scored in the seventh and 18th minutes respectively. For the losers, Shem Porter scored in the sixth minute. Meanwhile Back Circle and Rio All-Stars will do battle in the final

quarter-final fixture. Back Circle earned their place in the final-eight section after blanking Albouystown 2-0. Donovan Francis and Selwyn Williams scored in the 17th and 18th minutes respectively. Meanwhile, Rio All-Stars needled Future Stars 1-0. Jermaine Junior scored in the 12th minute. The winner of the respective quarterfinal matches will progress to the semifinal round on February 15. Winners of the event will pocket $600 000 and the championship trophy, while the second-placed side will collect $400 000 and the respective accolade. The third- and fourth-placed units will receive $200 000 and $100 000 respectively and the corresponding trophy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 8, 2020

Bowlers help set platform for interesting 3rd Day … Jaguars trail by 47, Scorpions 50-3 2nd innings By Clifton Ross IT WAS an interesting second day of action as Jamaica Scorpions bowlers gave their side some hope, while Guyana Jaguars should fancy their current position going into Day 3. Guyana, who were 17-0 at stumps on Day 1 and 170 runs behind after Jamaica made 187 in their 1st innings, were eventually bowled out for 190 in 83.1 overs on Day 2. The Champs’ batting was kept quiet as Chandrapaul Hemraj (38), Chris Barnwell (34), Veerasammy Permaul (35) and Raymon Reifer (33) all made starts but failed to convert. On a day where bowling was the X-factor for both teams, Scorpions spinners Jaime Mer-

chant (3-37) and Patrick Harty (3-30) led the way as pacer Derval Green snapped up two big wickets in his spell, 2-29. Despite staring at a deficit, the Champs will feel comfort in knowing that Jamaica managed to build a slight lead at the cost of three top-order wickets. At stumps, Scorpions were 50-3 with Guyanese Assad Fudadin set to resume on 13. Fudadin was forced to watch as his skipper and partner at the top, John Campbell, smashed 31 off 30 with two fours and two sixes before being trapped by off-spinner Kevin Sinclair. The wizard Permaul then brought about the swift demise of Nicholson Gordon (1) and first-innings hero Jermaine Blackwood (0),

rocking the visitors in the final session before stumps. Earlier, Peter Salmon (1-54), knocked over Tagenarine Chanderpaul (5), who added just two runs to his overnight score after facing 47 deliveries, hitting a four. Rain intervened for a few minutes and upon resumption Leon Johnson (6) stroked a sweet four through the off-side to get his confidence going. The Champs then suffered double blows when Johnson shot himself in the leg as he chose to leave a delivery from Green which swung and crashed into the stumps. Hemraj then gave his wicket away when

he gifted gully with a simple catch as Green bagged two huge scalps to pull things back, leaving Guyana to ponder on their lunchtime score of 62-3. The afternoon session resumed with Barnwell and Vishaul Singh (22) in a tricky situation despite a relatively low first-innings target. The latter pair were then removed by Merchant following the break, but a lower-order passage of calmness brought about by Reifer and Permaul saw the champs cleaning the slate by creating a lead. Permaul hit six fours while Reifer returned to action after being clear for a concussion to smash a six and two fours to end not out. Action continues today from 10:00hrs

Dr Norton tells footballers ‘all of 83 000 square miles are depending on you’ “I HAVEN’T seen you perform in a match situation, but just seeing you in action today makes me feel so proud,” said Hon. Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton, during a visit to the training session of the National U-20 and Senior Men’s National teams yesterday. The respective teams trained at GFF’s National Training Centre, Providence and are preparing for CONCACAF Men’s U-20 Championship in February and the CONCACAF Gold Cup Qualifiers in March. Minister Norton said he is happy about the football administration in Guyana and renewed the Government’s commitment to sport development in Guyana. “I have confidence in your administration particularly because of their track record. The results we’ve been having in football both at the level of the senior as well as the junior, both

male and female, and I am happy.” “I want to let you know that your government will do everything it can to support you and not only help in providing the infrastructure but also the opportunities for you to live that good life like His Excellency promised the nation.” “I urge you to remember that all of this 83 000 square miles are depending on you and we look forward to more success, much more than you’ve had in the past not only at the personal level but also at the national level,” the Minister concluded. In briefing the Minister about the technical programmes, Technical Director Ian Greenwood highlighted that the combined team has players who have been part of the GFF Academy Training Centres (ATCS). “A number of players in this group have come through the GFF

Academy Training Centre so we have players like Omari Glasgow, Marcus Wilson and such players who have been part of Guyana’s first-ever youth international tournament in 2017 and they are now regularly training with the senior men’s national team.” “We’re very excited for both the male and female sides. They’ve linked perfectly well with coach Maximo’s programme for the senior team. I think as long as we invest in the infrastructure, coach education, capacity-building and give young players exposure and opportunities, we’ll start becoming a real threat in the CFU Region and looking to export players to the top leagues across the world.” Guyana Senior Men’s National Team are set to play Barbados on March 26 and 31, as they seek to qualify for the 2021 CONCACAF

Technical Director Ian Greenwood briefs Dr Norton during his visit to the national teams.

Gold Cup. The first match of the two-round qualifier is scheduled for Barbados at 19:00hrs while Guyana will be looking for home-court advantage in the final match scheduled for the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora at 20:00hrs. The National U-20 team are on the final lap to compete at the

CONCACAF U-20 Men’s Championship scheduled for Nicaragua from February 15 to 23, 2020, and Guyana have been placed in Group A with St. Vincent and The Grenadines, Montserrat, US Virgin Islands and hosts Nicaragua. Present at yesterday’s visit were GFF president Wayne Forde and staff members of both teams.

Return of Dakota 100, marshal training in Boodhoo’s GMR&SC Manifesto

AS the race to the top seat of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) heats up, one competitor has outlined his plans should he be successful. Former president Mahendra Boodhoo, one of the candidates who emerged has pinpointed the return of the Dakota 100 and marshal training as two of the major plans he has for the sport in 2020.

Releasing via a post on his facebook page, Boodhoo stated, “We will reintroduce the Dakota 100 which is 100 laps around the long circuit with adequate safety marshals and safety responders. We will get major sponsors for this event so that we can have foreign competitors joining this series and encourage local cars that were built for endurance racing to come out.” In addition to that, the

manifesto added, “We will have a full complement of volunteers to ensure all safety and follow the regulations. We will arrange training of marshals and follow protocols.” His first task if elected back in office would be the fan experience he stated, adding, “We plan to keep the fans more informed and be interactive with the fans by resuscitating the GMR&SC website and other social media

platforms together with getting the forum up and running where we can get feedbacks from our fans.” He has also outlined plans to increase the membership of the club through ‘non-traditional members’ as well as enhanced improvement to the South Dakota raceway. “We have seen tremendous improvements in the form of racing within the last two years, kudos to the teams and present execu-

tives. We plan in the short term to focus on developing the drag strip to meet international standards, by re-laying the entire quarter mile to a flat surface including a full operational timing system with digital boards at the finish line.” His slate includes: Shairaz Roshandin (Vice-President), Azim Jaffar (Secretary), Chetram Singh (Treasurer), Azaad Hassan (Assistant Secretary/Assistant Trea-

surer), Rameez Mohamed, (Club Captain), Joel Evans (Technical Advisor), Vivekanand Harichand (Committee Member), Reyaud Rahaman (Committee Member), Paul Jiwanram (Committee Member), Diana Dornellas (Committee Member) and Udoh Kanu (Committee Member). Elections, along with the annual general meeting of GMR&SC, take place on Monday.

8TH MILO SCHOOLS FOOTBALL LAUNCHED

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From left, Petra’s Jacquline Boodie and Beepat’s director Chris Beepat watch on as Milo brand ambassador Shelona David hands over the winners’ trophy to Troy Mendonca in the presence of Lorraine Barker-King of the MoE, GFF’s Bryan Joseph and Mark Alleyne. (Adrian Narine photo

… Tournament to begin on February 15

DR NORTON TELLS FOOTBALLERS ‘ALL OF 83 39 000 SQUARE MILES ARE DEPENDING ON YOU’ PAGE

Minister Dr George Norton addresses the combined senior men’s national team and the U-20 squad.

… Jaguars trail by 47, Scorpions 50-3 2nd innings

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TA O K A NING D F I O A R N 39 T R AL U T RE ARSH HOO’S TO ,M BOOD IFES 0 0 1 IN C MAN S & R GM

Veerasammy Permaul and Raymon Refier batted with composure during their repair efforts. (Adrian Narine 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

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The 2017 edition of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championship featured well over 100 competitors. (GT RIdez photo)

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 8, 2020