Guyana chronicle 07 12 13 by Chronicle

GUYANA No. 103673

SATURDAY DECEMBER 7, 2013

The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com

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Guyana, China sign US$4.93M co-operation agreement Page 3

… China also presents mobile container scanner to GRA

9 CDB Director says Guyana’s economy has made substantial progress Page

22-yr-old remanded for killing pork knockerPage 16

‘SCHOOLCHILDREN IN INDIA MOURN MANDELA’: Schoolchildren hold candles and portraits of former South African President Nelson Mandela during a prayer ceremony at a school in the southern Indian city of Chennai December 6, 2013.(REUTERS/Babu)

Patient’s dentures go missing at hospital Page 5

… all I want for Christmas ...

Distraught: Randolph Roberts

Defendant: Joel Pereira Rodriguez

Accused: Mark Creame

Venezuelan remanded on firearm charge 16 Page

Sooba best suited person for Town Clerk

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- says Local Gov’t Minister

Carol Sooba

Schoolchildren across Guyana observe International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

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Sooba best suited person for Town Clerk - says Local Gov’t Minister

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013 THE Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development is in full support of Carol Sooba’s confirmation as Town Clerk of Georgetown. This was made clear at the ministry’s press conference yesterday, when Minister Ganga Persaud rebutted the arguments that Sooba does not possess the qualifications

for the position. Minister Persaud said the ministry, having evaluated the candidates that presented themselves for the position, concluded that Sooba was the ‘best suited overall rounded’ candidate for the job. He also noted that whilst the job description would have listed academic qualifications and whilst Ms. Sooba is not without such, the job description also had a number of elements to be satisfied, as any other job description. “A job description would

Carol Sooba have varying requirements to be satisfied and the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development is satisfied that Ms Sooba is the best suited candidate all being equal, and so we have appointed Ms Sooba to the position of Town Clerk and for us that’s full stop,” Minister Persaud said. Questioned as to why Sooba was not appointed the first time when the panel met, Minister Persaud explained that what has changed is that “the ministry has concluded the position in itself has run long enough, we have evaluated these people, Ms Sooba’s experience in performing the role of Town Clerk has also grown …and so, based on what was presented, we recognised that this time the best suited person with the overall competence to perform the duties of Town Clerk is Ms Sooba.” After acting in the position of town clerk for about seventeen months, Sooba was recently confirmed as Town Clerk. She was acting in the position, replacing former Town Clerk Yonette Pluck, who, with the City

Treasurer Anthony Meredith, City Engineer Gregory Erskine and Head of the Solid Waste Management Unit Hubert Urling was in the latter part of 2012 sent on leave and subsequently fired following an inquiry in the functioning of City Hall. That investigation revealed financial improprieties on the part of these workers. Since the announcement of Sooba’s confirmation many, including Opposition councillors within City Hall, have questioned Sooba’s qualification for the post. Minister within the Ministry of Local Government Mr Norman Whittaker pointed out that the Mayor and many of the councillors earlier welcomed the changes put in place by the ministry following the firing of the four workers, and Sooba’s appointment very soon after changed their tune, putting selfish personal interest in front of the goal of effective delivery of service to the residents of Georgetown. Minister Whittaker said that evidence of improvement was noted under the stewardship of Sooba’s as acting Town Clerk. He pointed to the fact that the revenue inflow was on the increase, as the debt recovery unit became more proactive, the council’s various creditors including statutory debts were being significantly reduced, and staff were being paid in a timely manner. He noted too, that expenditure control measures brought improvement in the council’s cash flow situation and, “No longer were we hearing about contractors withdrawing their services, and strikes…financial reports were forthcoming and with greater frequency and accuracy.” Minister Whittaker noted that “changes are a necessary input if the way we do things are to improve. Some will welcome the changes we make whilst others will reject them, and when they do, check to see if they do not do so because it is in their own personal interest to reject the changes. We at the ministry believe among all other things that we must commit to change, positive changes that bring desired result, not necessarily in the time span that we would wish, but positive changes,” he said. (GINA)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Guyana, China sign US$4.93M co-operation agreement

… China also presents mobile container scanner to GRA

GUYANA and the People’s Republic of China yesterday signed two agreements on Economic and Technical Co-operation between the two nations, and the acceptance certificate for a mobile scanner that will be attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). The signing was done at the Finance Ministry on Main Street with Minister Ashni Singh and Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Mr. Zhang Limin, along with other ministry and GRA staff. The value of the Economic and Technical Co-operation agreement between the two countries is up to $30M RMB or US$4.93M. On the mobile container scanner, Minister Singh pointed out that this would be a highly valued addition to the equipment and capital stock of the GRA. In a very significant way, it will enhance the GRA’s capacity to discharge its important functions as it relates to international trade, he informed. Meanwhile, commenting on the ties between Guyana and China, Dr. Singh observed that descendants of Chinese immigrants comprise a very important part of the Guyanese population. More recently, since Guyana attained its independence, he said the two countries have enjoyed good fraternal bonds. “Guyana is proud to have been the first Caribbean country to establish diplomatic relations with China and we are pleased at the evolution and the manifestations of the formal relationship between our two countries.” Over the years, he said, there have been many examples of projects implemented with China’s support, noting that there are even projects being executed currently with the help of China. “In fact, across the Caribbean, China has a special place, and we are pleased at the level of importance attached to the Caribbean by China, having witnessed a number of high level visits by the leadership of the Chinese Government. “Guyana has made good use of the resources made available under the various facilities provided by the Chinese Government to the Caribbean. The result has been truly transformative projects that are in current implementation. In addition, it is significant now that Chinese companies are increasingly looking to the Caribbean, including Guyana, as a

new destination for investment and for doing business. And we welcome them.” Dr. Singh said China has not only supported large projects in Guyana, but smaller initiatives that have also had tremendous impact. “So in addition to the larger projects, like the airport and the Electricity Transmission and Distribution Network, there have been a number of smaller initiatives implemented.” These include the provision of training to small businesses, provision of scholarships to Guyanese students, and cultural exchanges, among a host of others. “And all of these have served to benefit the people of Guyana and also to enrich the relationship between the two countries. “Importantly, China, notwithstanding that it is a large and prosperous country, is also still a developing country and it is a good example to the rest of the developing world; it provides useful lessons and many

Minister Ashni Singh, GRA Head Kurshid Sattaur, with Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Zhang Limin on his left, and other officers. he offered, will help to imgenerosity that it has shown this year that the two countries of us look to the Chinese model prove the customs adminGuyana. are collaborating. and how it is evolving and istration. Ambassador Limin offered, He said it is his hope that the rapid growth that is being by means of a translator, that he the grant will contribute to the achieved in China.” was happy to be present at the social and economic developThe minister concluded signing ceremony. He reminded ment of Guyana, and though it is his speech by thanking the that this is the second time for not huge, it represents the long Government of China for the history of friendship between the two countries. The container scanner,

Finance Minister Ashni Singh with Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Zhang Limin at the signing ceremony yesterday.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

South Africa mourns Mandela, will bury him on December 15 (Reuters) - SOUTH Africans united in mourning for Nelson Mandela on Friday, but while some celebrated his remarkable life with dance and song, others fretted that the anti-apartheid hero’s death would leave the nation vulnerable again to racial and social tensions. President Jacob Zuma said Mandela would be buried on December 15 at his ancestral home in the Eastern Cape. South Africans heard from Zuma late on Thursday that their first black president, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, had died peacefully at his Johannesburg home in the company of his family after a long illness. On Friday, the country’s 52 million people absorbed the news that the statesman, a global symbol of reconciliation and peaceful co-existence, had departed forever. Zuma also announced Mandela would be honored at a December 10 memorial service at Johannesburg’s Soccer City stadium, the site of the 2010 World Cup final. “We will spend the week mourning his passing. We will also spend it celebrating a life well lived,” Zuma said. Mandela would be laid to rest at his ancestral village of Qunu, 700 km (450 miles) south of Johannesburg, in a plot where three of his children and other close family members are buried. Despite reassurances from public figures that Mandela’s death at 95, while sorrowful, would not halt South Africa’s advance from its apartheid past, there were those who expressed unease about the absence of a man famed as a peacemaker. “It’s not going to be good, hey! I think it’s going to become a more racist country. People will turn on each other and chase foreigners away,” said Sharon Qubeka, 28, a secretary from Tembisa township. “Mandela was the only one who kept things together.” Flags flew at half mast across the country, and trade was halted for five minutes on the Johannesburg stock exchange. But the mood was not all somber. Hundreds filled the streets around Mandela’s home in the upmarket Johannesburg suburb of Houghton, many singing songs of tribute and dancing. The crowd included toddlers carrying flowers, domestic workers still in uniform and businessmen in suits. Another veteran anti-apartheid campaigner, former Anglican

Archbishop of Cape Town Desmond Tutu, said that like all South Africans he was “devastated” by Mandela’s death. “Let us give him the gift of a South Africa united, one,” Tutu said, holding a mass in Cape Town’s St George’s Cathedral. Tributes continued to pour in for Mandela, who had been suffering for nearly a year from a recurring lung illness dating back to the 27 years he spent in apartheid jails, including the Robben Island penal colony. U.S. President Barack Obama and British Prime Minister David Cameron were among those who praised him. The White House said Obama would travel to South Africa next week to participate in memorial events. The flags of the 193 United Nations member states along First Avenue in Manhattan, New York were lowered at 10 a.m. EST (1500 GMT) in honor of Mandela. The U.N. General Assembly observed a minute of silence. The loss was also keenly felt across the African continent. “We are in trouble now, Africa. No one will fit Mandela’s shoes,” said Kenyan teacher Catherine Ochieng, 32. Former Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda, an old ally of Mandela’s in the struggle against apartheid, hailed him as “a great freedom fighter”. POLITICIANS NOW “NOTHING LIKE MANDELA” For South Africa, the death of its most loved leader comes at a time when the nation, which basked in global goodwill after apartheid ended, has been experiencing labor unrest, growing protests against poor services, poverty, crime and unemployment and corruption scandals tainting Zuma’s rule. Many saw today’s South Africa - the continent’s biggest economy but also one of the world’s most unequal - as still distant from the “Rainbow Nation” ideal of social peace and shared prosperity that Mandela had proclaimed on his triumphant release from prison in 1990. “I feel like I lost my father, someone who would look out for me,” said Joseph Nkosi, 36, a security guard. Referring to Mandela by his clan name, he added: “Now without Madiba I feel like I don’t have a chance. The rich will get richer and simply forget about us. The poor don’t matter to them. Look at our politicians, they are nothing like Madiba.” The crowd around Mandela’s home in Houghton preferred to celebrate his achievement in bringing South Africans together. For 16-year-old Michael Lowry, who has no memory of the apartheid system that ended in 1994, Mandela’s legacy means he can have non-white friends.

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People react during a gathering of mourners on Vilakazi Street in Soweto where the former South African President Nelson Mandela resided when he lived in the township, December 6, 2013. REUTERS/Ihsaan Haffejee “I hear stories that my parents tell me and I’m just shocked that such a country could exist. I couldn’t imagine just going to school with just white friends,” Lowry said. Tutu tried to calm fears that the absence of the man who steered South Africa to democracy might revive some of the ghosts of apartheid. “To suggest that South Africa might go up in flames - as some have predicted - is to discredit South Africans and Madiba’s legacy,” Tutu said on Thursday. “The sun will rise tomorrow, and the next day and the next ... It may not appear as bright as yesterday, but life will carry on.” MAY HURT ANC IN LONG TERM Zuma and his ruling African National Congress face presidential and legislative elections next year which are expected to reveal discontent among voters about poverty and unemployment 20 years after the end of apartheid. But the former liberation movement is expected to maintain its dominance in South African politics. Mark Rosenberg, Senior Africa Analyst at the Eurasia Group, said that while Mandela’s death might give the ANC a sympathy-driven boost for the next elections, it would hurt the party in the long term. He saw Mandela’s absence “sapping the party’s historical legitimacy and encouraging rejection by voters who believe the ANC has failed to deliver on its economic promises and become mired in corruption”. Mandela rose from rural obscurity to challenge white minority rule - a struggle that gave the 20th century one of its most respected and loved figures. He was among the first to advocate armed resistance to apartheid in 1960, but was quick to preach reconciliation and forgiveness when the white minority began easing its grip on power 30 years later. He was elected president in all-race elections in 1994 after helping to steer the divided country towards reconciliation and away from civil war. Mandela was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, an honor he shared with F.W. de Klerk, the white Afrikaner president who released him in 1990. In 1999, Mandela handed over power to younger leaders better equipped to manage a modern economy, a rare voluntary departure from power cited as an example to African leaders. This made him an exception on a continent with a bloody history of long-serving autocrats and violent coups.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Patient’s dentures go missing at hospital (Trinidad Express) ALL I want for Christmas are my teeth! This is the wish of Randolph Roberts, 59, of Oropune Gardens, Piarco, whose dentures went missing at Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) in Mount Hope in October. Since then, Roberts, a cancer patient, has been unable to talk properly or eat solid food without first liquefying it. Last week Thursday, Roberts attended a North Central

Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) public meeting, where he emotionally delivered the story of his lost dentures and the lack of concern from hospital staff to find or replace them. NCRHA chairman Dr Shehenaz Mohammed and acting chief executive officer Kumar Boodram immediately took action and assured Roberts that he will get his teeth for Christmas. Roberts said a head nurse from the hospital visited him at his Oropune home and again

…all I want for Christmas... assured he would get his teeth. Last Friday, Boodram also visited Roberts’ home and gave him a wheelchair. “I said to him, I want my teeth, I want my teeth, I want my teeth for Christmas because I want to eat a piece of ham,” said Roberts. Mohammed, when contacted by phone, said that Roberts will be getting his dentures before Christmas.

“The measurements will be taken and Mr Roberts’ dentures shall be available in about ten days’ time. We will ensure that he gets it before Christmas so he can enjoy his Christmas meal,” said Mohammed. Mohammed advised that patients with dentures walk with suitable containers for storage as cleaning staff will easily remove styrotex cups in the cleaning process.

Teen lies; ‘dead’ mom alive (Trinidad Guardian) THE 15-year-old boy who made a tear-jerking claim in court on Wednesday that he was an orphan who never went to school admitted yesterday his mother was alive and he had dropped out of primary school. The teenager had appeared before Magistrate Lisa Ramsumair-Hinds two weeks ago, charged with stealing a cellphone from a man who is physically challenged, and pleaded guilty. On Wednesday, the boy was due to be sentenced, but

when no parent or guardian turned up in court on his behalf, he told Ramsumair-Hinds his parents were dead and he stole because he was hungry. Ramsumair-Hinds said she saw the teenager as “vulnerable” and “in a desperate situation”. Thursday when the magistrate learned the defendant had not been truthful to her, she said: “I do not know what is operating in your mind, but we are going to get to the bottom of it. I do not know what caused you to say your mother is dead. I would

appreciate it if you do not lie anymore.” A police constable who was asked to investigate the claims made by the boy told the court yesterday the teen had been staying with a female friend of his mother’s but had left because he was being disrespectful. The woman told the officer the boy’s mother was alive, lived in Pleasantville and had other children. Ramsumair-Hinds told prosecutor Sgt Gordon Maharaj, Mohammed and other police officers in court that the boy’s

mother needed to be found and brought to court. “If we find your mother, there is a possibility that you could go with her. Or you can go back to YTC (Youth Training Centre) until we work out some other things. But the lie you told yesterday has gotten you into further trouble,” said the magistrate. Ramsumair-Hinds ordered a probation officer’s report and adjourned the case for one week. She told the teen to be truthful when interviewed by the probation officer.

Distraught: Randolph Roberts

Import licence required for fireworks, firecrackers (Jamaica Gleaner) THE Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is reminding the public that an import licence is required to bring into the island pyrotechnic articles such as fireworks. It says persons found trading in such goods without the required licence faces prosecution and the seizure of goods. In its weekly Force Orders, the JCF warned that the activating, discharging or throwing of any squibs, firecracker or any other illegal fireworks in any public place is prohibited under the Town and Communities Act. It notes that the activating, discharging or throwing of any squibs or firecrackers is sometimes frightening as many members of the public find it difficult to differentiate between those explosions and that of a firearm. The force says this practice becomes more prevalent during the Christmas season and requires increased vigilance by law enforcement officials.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

GUYANA

World has lost a great freedom fighter and statesman EDITORIAL

MANDELA AS anticipated, the world is mourning the passing of the revered and iconic South African leader Nelson Mandela, who passed away on Thursday at age 95. Like most great personalities such as Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King (jr) and very few others of the same ilk, he was void of arrogance, hatred, malice and pomposity. He was characterised by humility, compassion and an unswerving commitment to betterment for mankind. After he was released from prison on Robben Island where he spent over 27 years, it was reported that the white prison guards cried because of the great friendship he developed with them demonstrating that he held no hatred for them. He hated the system but not individuals, whom he considered its mere victims. Mandela’s entire life was dedicated to the epic, selfless and indomitable struggle against the abhorrent and inhuman apartheid system in his country and against injustice wherever and in whatever form it existed. “During my lifetime, I have dedicated myself to this struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die. I do not, however, deny that I planned sabotage. I did not plan it in a spirit of recklessness nor because I have any love of violence. I planned it as a result of a calm and sober assessment of the political situation that had arisen after many years of tyranny, exploitation, and oppression of my people by whites.” (Statement by Mandela to the court during the Rivonia trial, April, 20, 1964) What is also remarkable about Mandela is that, as is so often the case with many leaders, on ascension to the South African presidency he did not become vindictive, power drunk, obsessed with accumulation of wealth and corrupt. He remained the same humble and caring person, and consequently opted for a path of reconciliation and no retribution against his political foes. Mandela, addressing a public meeting after his release from prison on February 11, 1990, said: “I stand here before you not as a prophet but as a humble servant of you, the people. Your tireless and heroic sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today. I therefore place the remaining years of my life in your hands.” And at his presidential inauguration, he stated: “The time for the healing of the wounds has come. The moment to bridge the chasms that divide us has come. The time to build is upon us...We enter into a covenant that we shall build a society in which all South Africans, both black and white, will be able to walk tall, without any fear in their hearts, assured of their inalienable right to human dignity - a rainbow nation at peace with itself and the world.” However, what is ironic is that many persons and countries who would be paying glowing tributes to this great man actually contributed to the suffering of the South African people and ostracisation of Mandela and many of his colleagues under the horrible apartheid system. In fact, many of them did not utter a word of condemnation nor did anything to put pressure on the then government to end apartheid and free Mandela and many of his colleagues. On the contrary, they supported forces opposed to the South African freedom fighters through overt and covert operations. And today many of them are still fomenting war, violence and sabotage among those who do not follow their diktat and are considered to be “terrorists” and violators of human rights. Such is the hypocrisy by some in this world. Giving glorifying speeches and messages on Mandela’s greatness are welcome and necessary, but what is more important is for us to try to emulate his ideals of humility, compassion,the unending struggle against injustice and commitment to the bet-

THE world has lost a great freedom fighter and statesman with the death of South Africa’s first black President, Nelson Mandela. All is not lost however, for he has left us with a great legacy and left us richer than anything money can buy. He lived his life by virtues of truth, honesty, knowledge, caring and sharing with peace. We are indeed saddened by his passing but he lived a great life, touching the world with his genuine love, kindness and compassion, having taught us much, so let’s celebrate his life. Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live. The world has lost democracy’s most loyal friend and advocate for freedom and justice. Nelson Mandela was the 20th century’s icon of freedom and liberty. “He inspired us to believe that no obstacle is too large; no walk is too long, and no enemy of freedom is so powerful, that we should ever consider giving in. He has lived a life not only for himself and the people of South Africa, but the entire world. He has lit the candle for the world to see freedom.

His life will surely become one of the most epic stories in world history, of the true depth and strength of the human spirit. He inspired us with his life, his words, his work and his triumph. Mandela will forever be remembered as a man who fought for freedom and won it for millions, around the world, without once compromising his beliefs or his principles. He has sacrificed his life for freedom The legacy he has left us is one we shall always celebrate and we shall always thank God for Nelson Mandela. The prayers, love and support of the Board of Directors, executives and members of the Humanitarian Mission of New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir, Inc, its Guyana and Toronto Chapter are with his family and those dear to him. May he rest in peace knowing that he leaves behind many who will continue his fight and carry on his legacy! PANDIT SURESH SUGRIM Humanitarian Mission of New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir, Inc

Recent events show Timehri squatters pose security threat to CJIA THE issue of security in and around the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri is one that has been resounding in the media for years and years. However, a few days ago, I was very happy to read that two men who are squatters living in the Timehri area, were caught on Close Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV) stealing office equipment costing approximately one million dollars from the AmeriJet Bond between November 19 and 20. This is a good thing, as I can see more proactive action in ridding the airport of such phenomenon. This is one of the many cases which have been reported in the media, and one of the reasons why I am a firm believer that persons should not be allowed to squat so closely around the airport. Squatting in close proximity to the CJIA has posed a major security threat, especially as it harbours criminals. One can recall the infamous criminal, Rondell Rawlins aka ‘Fine man’ had lived for months in the Timehri squatting area. These persons only serve to tarnish the image of the community and the people residing in it, as I am sure that there are many hard-working and honest persons in the area. Nevertheless, I am firmly of the view that all persons in close proximity to the airport should be relocated as soon as possible. However, as we see being well publicised in the media, this had not been sitting well with some residents, especially those of Timehri North, to whom notices have been served to vacate airport lands, which they have been occupying for years, illegally, so that the airport expansion can be facilitated. In my view, squatters being unwilling to work with the Ministry of Public Works, Ministry of Housing and other agencies designated to assist them with relocating are utterly lawless and are motivated by selfishness, irrationality, and total disregard for a project of national significance. I have seen numerous attempts by ministries and the airport authority trying to render assistance to squatters, explain to them, clarify questions all related to the expansion of the airport and what it means for the country. I have also read that the airport has set up a Community Relations Office specially for engaging with squatters, to help them in fast-tracking their relocation to neighbouring villages. I suggest that squatters take advantage of this opportunity. Help is being offered. Make the most of it. You are now being given a chance to own your land, with a title, your name printed on it. A regular law-abiding citizen will apply for a houselot and wait years upon years to get a title, while on the other hand, there are squatters in Timehri whose process is fast tracked, and they are downright refusing it. How can this be rational? I fully support Kaieteur News’ Peeping Tom article of August 30, 2013, which stated that squatting should be made a criminal

terment of mankind regardless of race or creed. Mandela, in his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech in December 1993, said: “Let the strivings of us all prove Martin Luther King Jr. to have been correct, when he said that humanity can no longer be tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war. Let the efforts of us all prove that he was not a mere dreamer when he spoke of the beauty of genuine brotherhood and peace being more precious than diamonds or silver or gold. Let a new age dawn.”

offence. Persons who squat often demand rights, but how can you demand rights when you did not observe your civic duty of adhering to laws, simply ensuring your paperwork is in order before putting up a permanent structure on land? The article rightfully stated that squatting near the Cheddi Jagan International Airport is an eyesore and an embarrassment. The airport and its surroundings are the first exposure visitors have to a country and can make or break their opinions of it. Guyanese should take more pride in what is theirs! This is our home, our country. Let the airport expand, it will benefit us all. A larger airport will create more employment, and persons in Timehri will have an advantage. Men, women, young people just out of school can apply, work, earn a salary and live a good life. A larger airport will invite more airlines to the country, which means more visitors will start to pour in, and the trickle down of economic and other benefits will be rewarding. Let’s put Guyana first! AMANDA SINGH

Kudos to the Local Government Ministry

KUDOS are in order to the Local Government Ministry to start a clean-up and desilting of Georgetown and its environs. While some may say that the blame game is good, at the end of the day actions speak louder than words and the ministry must be commended for their actions. I and many others were amazed to see that many of the drains in several parts of the city are actually concrete based. Someone has to keep up the momentum and maintain the effort. Of course, persons have a role to play but I’m sure that if the drains are cleared in several areas, it would be easier for residents to keep them clean (whether by self-help or paying the weeder-man to do it once a month at least). My two cents of advice is to use the small excavators which are becoming more prevalent. These can be used in many areas, such as Lamaha Gardens, Kitty, South Ruimveldt; take your pick. This is in addition to the workers employed by the NDCs, many of whom seem to be able to curse loudly than actually clean properly. If City Hall is unable to get their act together, then the relevant ministry needs to do what is needed to ensure that drains and canals are kept flowing so that a repeat of the flooding that was experienced does not recur. More advice use the prisoners to clean more often, this was done in years past (the good behaved ones of course) and it worked quite well. Another reason why local government elections are sorely needed is because it is time for the mayor and councillors to hang their heads in shame and take a long walk. Instead of retiring gracefully, many of them may only retire hurt, and in the meantime, the citizenry are hurting from the state of the capital. Bring on the local government elections, maybe I’ll run for office too! PAUL ROMEO McADAM

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

My advice to Chase-Green: ‘Do your homework before exposing your stupidity in such a vile and stupendous manner’ I READ an article captioned: “Least qualified Sooba named as Town Clerk.” In that article, the Deputy Mayor Mrs Patricia Chase-Green is claiming that the post for Town Clerk was “advertised” and there were other entrants worthy of selection, but Sooba was selected only because of her so-called association with the ruling party. This is the insinuation in her diatribe of a letter. But before I join Green’s circus I would like to ask the question: how did the two Greens get into office? What good qualities got them there? If this is not another sick joke, what is Patricia Chase-Green talking about? Everyone knows that both the mayor and deputy were planted there by the PNC mafia. He, after falling from prime ministerial grace

sought refuge in the mayoral chair whilst the other Green, a party hack, was helped into office by a PNC-dominated council. If this is not the case then enlighten me please. So, if we are to use her own “qualification for office talk” what is so special about theirs that makes Sooba wrong? The point is, Sooba has become a problem for Green and a derelict City Council because of her keen sense of duty and hard work. For this she has become target practice for the mayor and his deputy. Let me remind readers of the horrendous experience another keen hardworking Town Clerk had to endure at the hands of the very same mayor. Some years ago, Hamilton Green openly called former Town Clerk Beulah Williams a “head heifer”, a denigrating term for

a noble lady who was trying to do an honest job in the city. Beulah was called this and other horrible names because she did not go along with Green’s nasty and nefarious deeds hence, this poor excuse for a man who tried everything at his disposal to bring her down. It is a dirty political strategy used by the PNC whenever they want to get rid of someone who challenges them or whom they think is going contrary to their corruption. In their Black Book you are a marked individual once you venture out and expose their evil deeds. You immediately become an enemy (the worst living breathing human being) who must be gotten rid of as fast as possible. When I say to be gotten rid of, I mean just that, because history is replete with instances where supposed political opponents

suddenly turned up dead or mysteriously disappeared. Walter Rodney is a case in point. Now, the latest call by ChaseGreen is certainly amusing because I would first pose the question: How did Hamilton Green and Patricia Chase-Green get there? What qualifications they possess to ever hold such lofty positions? What I do know also is that his DNA is laced with an unhealthy dose of corrupt practices too numerous to mention, yet he held positions such as vice-president, prime minister and mayor among other things. What I would advise Chase-Green and the tabloid that facilitates her is to first do their homework before exposing their stupidity in such a vile and stupendous manner. NEIL ADAMS

Riots and marches only cause more backlash PRESIDENT Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia as reported by Reuters in SN of November 26, 2013 has warned that “youth unemployment is a major threat to peace and security in Liberia which, unless addressed, could see the return of conflict to the West African country following a decade of peace.” However, before President Sirleaf’s reminder, APNU’s Mr. David Granger had previously warned, as reported in the KN of August 31, 2013 that Guyana’s “Youth unemployment is a time bomb that needs to be diffused.” Shouldn’t a hint from both Baneba and Quasheba be a good lesson for Guyana’s socialist caliphate cadres to take notice? Mr. Granger, an old timer who knows a thing or two about strategy should be commended and taken more seriously if he is cooperative. The Brigadier has publicly pointed out to his opponents where their defences are weak, making them politically vulnerable. Youth unemployment cuts across politics, race, religion and gender and addressing it more aggressively is to everyone’s benefit. Youths are more than half the entire population with unemployment about 21 percent. Considering Mr. Granger champions free lands for former soldiers, and providing they are agriculturally productive, any such land grants should be made in Essequibo, possibly near Jonestown as a settlement, i.e., kibbutz. Our cotton-picking National Service graduates, imbued with productive zeal in agriculture were adequately equipped, we are told. The Jonestown tourist potential can be lucrative especially with

plans to reopen the nearby Matthews Ridge manganese mines. Veterans’ patriotic loyalty to Guyana in such a strategic location after land grants in Essequibo would be a tremendous, assured asset in territorial defence. Since Guyana’s military has traditionally always voted for the PNC, no fears can be harboured of losing political support. In any event, Guyanese politicians should be reminded of the Zambian Bemba proverb that ‘leading a race does not mean that you will win it’. Constant attacks on the Chinese and Indians should be discouraged especially since we need their investments for job creation. The Tanzam Railway linking Tanzania and Zambia’s, began in 1970, was completed in 1975, two years ahead of schedule, financed and constructed by the Chinese costing some US$500M making it the largest single foreign-aid project undertaken by China at the time. The possibilities for our Asiatic friends help in an Essequibo kibbutz settlement are enormous. In fact, Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy’s noble efforts to attract Trinidadian agricultural investments at Canje similar to that done for Barbadians in the Rupununi are most commendable. APNU should have no problems with such a venture which creates long-term jobs that earn foreign exchange. Riots and marches only cause more backlash; Linden’s riots severely affected the youths employed in the phone call industry. Scaring off investors and jobs only help to increase poverty. Any PPP/C government’s pro-active efforts at a veterans’ kibbutz settlement in Essequ-

ibo will safeguard Guyana’s borders, take care of veterans by conditional land grants and seriously dent youth unemployment. It’s a win-win for all in Guyana. All the motives are honourable with APNU’s support assured in Parliament if they mean what they say. On a visit to Brussels to highlight the challenges facing fragile states, President Sirleaf had said more needed to be done to help young Liberians affected by 14 years of on-off civil war that ended in 2003. According to the United Nations, young people account for about 65 per cent of Liberia’s population of 4.1 million, and youth unemployment is estimated as high as 85 per cent. “Peace and security in Liberia is still an issue because of the young unemployed, and until we can address that, there’s always hanging over us the chance that there may be a resumption of conflict,” she said during an interview with Reuters. The SN report pointed out that Sirleaf’s warning underscores the risk that Africa’s long heralded “demographic dividend” could become a liability, unless governments can create more jobs for their growing populations”. In the early 1970s the PNC sought to resettle Asian Hmong refugees in Essequibo as a defence against Venezuelan incursion. The CIA-funded Hmong guerrillas were allied in the American military quest against Vietnam. They became pariahs after Vietnam won the war. Mr. Forbes Burnham had a rethink about their loyalty to Guyana so close to the Venezuelan border. The PNC nevertheless settled former GDF and policemen, reportedly on Mr. Granger’s recommendation,

at Melanie Damishana on seized rice lands in front of the PPP stronghold at Enterprise. That military settlement was politically crafted to control and strangle their fellow Guyanese viewed as a greater threat. A kibbutz settlement of veterans in Essequibo offers considerably more for our country in the long term. SULTAN MOHAMED

Enmore hire car drivers being harassed, pleading for help

WE, the undersigned hire car drivers operating from a base at the Enmore Road Front, respectfully appeal to President Donald Ramotar for assistance on matters related below and which can escalate to physical confrontation and bloodshed. 1. There are six men who, over the past months, have been invading our base and using private cars, some of which belong to policemen, to bully us and affect our passenger base. 2. These men come from Ann’s Grove, Golden Grove, Haslington and Enmore North and they start operating from about 5pm daily. They take over our park and force us to park on the road. 3. These men ‘smoke dope’ openly and they carry and drink hard liquor and Guinness, also openly. 4. Sgt. Joaquin of the Cove & John Traffic office is aware of the matter because we had lodged several complaints. There is a particular traffic constable , who would come to the scene and instead of removing these private car drivers, collects ‘raise’ from them. These private car drivers openly boast of their relationship with this constable. 5. However, if an Indian hire car driver buys a new vehicle and uses it while his hire car registration is being processed, that vehicle is impounded by the constable. 6. There are two drivers, who constantly threaten us that they would shoot us and damage our cars and go into hiding at Mahdia. Every day, these two men particularly, provoke confrontation with Indian drivers. 7. Because of the behaviour of these drivers, all drivers at the road front get labelled as ‘smoking dope and drinking’ while carrying passengers. We are appealing to President Ramotar to look into our problems. We are fed-up and we are at breaking point. The behaviour of these men shows naked racism. And the behaviour of this police constable is no less racist. We need the intervention of someone in high office, thus our respectful approach to you, Sir, through the media. We are hopeful that our concerns will receive due attention. ENMORE HIRE CAR DRIVERS

Stop the blame game THE regional administration and the Anna Regina Town Council should be held accountable for the flooding of the township, Anna Regina Multilateral School, businesses, and people’s properties and public buildings including the Anna Regina Police Station and the Guyana Revenue Authority compound. There should be no finger pointing and excuses, all the irrigation regulators along the main canal conservancy of the Tapakuma Irrigation scheme was left open by the drainage and irrigation overseer, discharging water into the housing areas when the flash flood came. The only pump at Anna Regina was out of fuel and the koker operator was not on the job and could not be found to open the sluice door to avoid the flooding of the township. I was reliably informed by party comrades and officials of the regional administration of Region 2 that two drums of fuel were requested by the pump operator days before the flash flood and which were lying in the operation and maintenance compound awaiting transporta-

tion, a stone’s throw away from the pump. When the residents saw that the water was coming into their yards and businesses, they went to the koker and the pump to see if they were in operation and found that they were not in operation as the water kept rising quickly. The pump operator and some fishermen then broke the sluice door to release the water from the land; at that point the residents then decided to roll the two drums of fuel manually from the D&I compound where it was lying for days to the pump some 100 yards away to the location. This operation was not successful, because no one was there to issue the fuel until the next day. By that time the damage was already done in the entire township. One week before the flash flood, there was heavy rainfall, our businesses were flooded causing damage to TV sets and other electrical appliances. I called the regional vice-chairman and told him that our businesses and yard in Cotton Field was flooded out, and he told me it was the Town Council’s fault. I then called the Town Clerk

and told her what was happening in our village. She told me that the council has one backhoe which has been out of order for years, because of the lack of a fuel pump and maintenance and there is nothing she nor the council could do to avoid the flooding in the township. E d i t o r, a s I t r a v e l l e d through the township all the main trenches and internal drains leading to the kokers and the pump have been clogged up for decades without being cleaned or maintained to prevent flooding. As I travelled farther outside of the township, the canals and trenches alongside the main public road are clogged up with antelope grass as high as a tree. These trenches and internal drains have not been cleaned for decades, especially in the Marias’ Delight and New Road areas. The regional administration and the Town Council must stop the blame game and get on with the job they were elected to do by the people. We’re defined by what we pass on to the next generation. MOHAMED KHAN

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

PPP mourns Mandela FITUG pays - says while the entire world is poorer for his passing, his legacy of virtue in struggle and the triumph of justice over injustice will forever live on

THE Central Committee and entire membership of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) mourns the death of Nelson Mandela who passed away peacefully on December 5, 2013 at age 95. The PPP, in a condolence message, said Mandela would be remembered for many things - as a fighter against apartheid rule, as a leader of the South African people, as an international statesman, as a person of strong moral character and tenacity of conviction in a free and democratic South Africa - attributes that sets him apart from others especially during those dark and painful moments of white minority rule. But it was his ability to rise above the political fray, reconcile differences and bring together people from all across the political and ethnic divide that defined him as a true and genuine statesman, the PPP said. “For him no sacrifices were considered too great in his struggle for a free and dignified society. Not even the suffocating and toxic environment of repressive apartheid rule was enough to silence him or weaken his resolve for an end to the hated system of apartheid rule,” the party said. It noted that after spending twenty seven years in prison Mandela rose to become the first democratically elected President of South Africa. And he is rightly regarded as the Father of a free democratic and modern South Africa.

The PPP said it has always been inspired by the heroic struggles of Nelson Mandela and the ANC of which he was a founding member. “Indeed both parties have always enjoyed warm and fraternal ties with the PPP leading the struggle in Guyana for an end to apartheid rule,” the PPP stated. It said such was the extent of the respect accorded to the PPP that the ANC- led government awarded Dr. Cheddi Jagan that country’s highest award - the Oliver Tambo Award. According to the PPP, “the entire world is poorer for his passing but his legacy of virtue in struggle and the triumph of justice over injustice will forever live on”. In honour of the life and work of this great and outstanding leader, the PPP will be hostNelson Mandela ing a commemorative activity on Monday December 9 at 17:00 hrs at the Umana Yana, Georgetown.

President advocates knowledge-based economy to respond to globalised world HEAD of State President Donald Ramotar has called for Caribbean countries to promote greater regional integration towards developing a human resource base within the Region that is more responsive to the globalised world. The president made the appeal at the opening of the 45th Meeting of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) and 40th award ceremony for outstanding performances in the May/ June 2013 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE,) Thursday night at the National Cultural Centre. President Ramotar said that collectively, the Region is too small by land mass and population to have any strong influence on the world economy, and as such, tends to be price takers for goods and services in the world market. He pointed out that it is only through education successes and the promotion and improvement in regional performance that the Region could change this status. He noted that many countries that have been able to achieve this objective are highly industrialised nations, and they did it through investment in their human resources, not through investment in their natural resources, though the latter is important. “Whilst natural resources can help and it is important, the most important factor for our countries’ and Region’s development is our human resources, our human capital. With this in mind, I am of the strong view that what we need to do in the Region is to have a focused strategy promoting and developing a knowledge-based economy,” he said. President Ramotar pointed out that though developing a knowledge-based economy goes beyond investing in tertiary education, what is required is

- at CXC award ceremony

to collectively identify specific areas where the objective is to promote new and innovative activities, services and products. “The fact is the largest gain we can make for our people and our economies is through the promotion and capitalisation of innovative activities,” he said. He pointed out that the Region already has the base that can be used to undertake research and innovation. He said regional integration, for instance, has not been progressing as it should, as countries within the Caribbean are still thinking too individualistically about their own growth. “We seem not to realise that as small island states, we can only be competitive if we come together and build our economies stronger,” he pointed out. The president did say, however, that CXC has been one of the better examples of regional integration at work, more so where curriculum development and education standards and work levels are concerned. He said that there are other bodies that were formed that need to be further developed and need greater participation of the Caribbean people, such as the Caribbean Court of Justice. This year, CXC celebrated its meeting and awards under the theme, “Celebrating the accomplishment, continuing in the journey.” CXC Registrar Dr. Didacus Jules said the council is going forward with renewed commitment and accelerated efforts towards development of education in the Region. He said that the Council is astutely aware that what has brought it to this point will not suffice in the coming years. To this end, he disclosed that the Council has brought a strategic plan to this 45th meeting for approval. “This agenda will map the road to be travelled by CXC in its movement to the next level in [the] face of dire weather

forecast and a future obscured by uncertainty,” he said. CXC Chairman, Professor Nigel Harris, expressing congratulation to the awardees, parents, family members and teachers, urged that students in the Region’s school system be urged to become more creative and constant workers, and filled with ethical behaviour. He also lauded CXC, noting that the regional body has created products and achieved standards that are accepted internationally. Also present at the ceremony were Minister of Education Priya Manickchand and Permanent Secretary Delma Nedd. Since 1988, CXC has honoured candidates for outstanding performances in CSEC May/June examination. In 2006, CXC introduced awards for outstanding performances in the CAPE. CXC also presents A school of the Year Award

President Donald Ramotar giving the feature address at the opening of the 45th meeting of CXC and the presentation of awards for outstanding performances in the May/June 2013 examinations to the school which entered the student who received the award for the most outstanding performance overall in each of the examinations.

tribute to Nelson Mandela

THE Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) joins with the world and especially all South Africans in mourning the passing of the South African leader and hero, Comrade Nelson Mandela. Comrade Mandela’s work and actions inspired many freedom fighters in South Africa and beyond. In his lifetime, he suffered a long and brutal incarceration, but never became embittered and revengeful. He devoted his life to fight for the Africans, he fought against colonialism and imperialism, but this struggle transcended the world. For his stand for National Liberation and against Apartheid he was Nelson Mandela incarcerated for 27 years of his life. Most of his years of imprisonment were served in the infamous Robben Island prison. Shortly after his release from prison, he was elected to be President, making him the first democratically elected President of South Africa. During his mandate as head of the African National Congress (ANC) led Government, South Africa became one of the countries that embraced a democratic culture and the prestige of the country grew in the world. His tireless fight for human rights around the world and especially in Africa earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. His struggle has been a reference for peace in many countries. The world’s working class, the poor, the dispossessed, those languishing in the ghettos of the world and those who today live with apartheid have a great debt to Mandela and will find in his life story great inspiration. His fight was not in vain. His examples and his works will certainly serve to strengthen all of us who today strive for a better world. We have lost one of the most significant personalities of the struggle for a different world which highly values social justice, equality, human rights, world peace and without capitalist exploitation, without racism. Mandela will continue to be present in our struggles and will remain as a timeless example for the working class and to the world for freedom and full human dignity.

President Donald Ramotar with Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, executive members of CXC , parents, teachers and students at the opening of the 45th meeting of CXC and the presentation of awards for outstanding performances in the May/June 2013 examinations

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

ECONOMICALLY, Guyana has progressed under the macro-economic policies and programmes initiated by government, but there is still more to be done to ensure that it remains on the path to further development. This was the view expressed by Director (Economics Department) of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) Dr. Justin Ram, during a presentation at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s 124th Annual Gala and Awards Ceremony on Wednesday at the Pegasus. He posited that several measures should be implemented to consolidate the gains obtained thus far under the present administration. Dr Ram called on Guyana’s private sector to assume the lead position in advocating for growth, adding that based on the current trajectory, Guyana would achieve its Millennium Development Goals (MDG) by the stipulated date (2015) in education, gender and the environment. Despite these achievements, he said, Guyana’s economy still faces challenges. “In this regard, there have been a number of

omy driven by efficiency rather than by the basic factors of production. He said, “The transition will require a focus on higher education, improving the technological readiness of the economy, and developing its financial markets”. Dr Ram recommended that the country look to force greater internal and external collaboration as it seeks to move the economy forward. “Prosperity now requires building on a strong foundation established, strong investments and critical reforms. The CDB and other developmental partners are ready to collaborate with Guyana in this regard. The effort will also require a strong partnership between the private sector and government, to build consensus on the priority agenda, so substantial progress has been made, but the journey is far from over”. A call was also made for the private sector to take the lead in preparing for potential natural disasters, given the fact that agriculture and natural resource extraction remain main driving forces in the local economy. In closing, Dr Ram said that properly measured economic

CDB Director says Guyana’s economy has made substantial progress constraints identified by private sector stakeholders. These include the restrictions to and the high cost of credit; the absence of research and development facilities for the manufacturing sector; the complete scarcity of managerial capacity and skills due to migration; lengthy bureaucratic processes associated with industries and the commercial private sector; the high cost and unreliable power supply… all of which contribute to high transaction costs”. It was noted that several of these issues were highlighted in the World Bank’s Doing Business report for 2013, and unfortunately, resulted in Guyana being ranked at 120 out of 189, overall, for ease of doing business. The results of this and other bench-marking exercises suggest that the reforms and policy agendas need to be continued apace, Dr Ram added. The CDB is partnering with government to help resolve several of them, he said. Among these is a fund to assist with the formation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy, which, along with other measures, will help Guyana along the path to possessing an econ-

CDB Director Dr Justin Ram in discussion with President Donald Ramotar and President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Clinton Urling growth is the return on the asset base of capital of the economy, “thus economic growth is really a function and stock of assets, as well as the productivity of economies. Therefore, as assets are extracted and depleted, you, the private sector, must ensure that investment is made in other

types of assets such as human capital, plants and machinery, telecommunications and infrastructure, since these will be the assets that will help support growth in the future… The economy must also be invested in to sustain economic growth in the future.”

Opening more links with international partners will also further boost the economy’s growth, he said , and urged stakeholders to execute their future plans with a consistency akin to that displayed by Guyana-born West Indian batsman, Shivnarine Chanderpaul.

Christmas Village 2013 opens on Main Street … PM Hinds says it’s a time for joy and fellowship and putting grievances behind us

THE MINISTRY of Tourism, Industry and Commerce last evening opened the Christmas Village on Main Street in Georgetown. The event is the second of its kind and will run until December 29. The event was attended by the diplomatic corps, past and present ministers of the government and several members of the business community, including those who live and operate businesses along Main Street and its environs. In his address, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds told the gathering that all Guyanese can look forward to a Merry Christmas since the aim and purpose of the government is to ensure that there is a more sustainable life for all citizens. Prime Minister Hinds expressed the hope that the event will be better next year as the ministry tries to have the event come over as a bigger and better one each time.

According to Mr. Hinds, this is Christmas time and it’s a time for joy, goodwill, fellowship and the putting behind of all the grievances as we all resolve to make the year 2014 a better one for all of Guyana. He also called for there to be the spirit of sharing and for those who are better off to reach out to those who are less fortunate and in need of assistance. Acting Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali expressed the hope that the Village will create the atmosphere that will generate that beautiful and colourful feeling of Christmas, where love fills the air. According to Minister Ali, Guyana has a very entrenched Christmas culture that sees many Guyanese and even tourists travelling to this part of the world in December to experience what we here in Guyana enjoy for Christmas. He said that one of the reasons for the Christmas was to

Mrs Santa presents a child with a token (Photos by Sonell Nelson)

provide an environment which is safe and relaxing, while at the same time depicting Christmas and ensuring that the magical feeling fills the air. The partnership with the business community to make the event a successful one was also underscored. The evening’s proceedings were chaired by popular radio announcer Wanita Huburn who interacted with the special invitees and the many children who gathered. The high point of the now so glamorous gathering was Santa Claus, and Mrs. Claus who made an appearance.( Leroy Smith)

Masqueraders show off their flouncing technique at the Christmas Village opening

From right are Minister Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, Minister Ashni Singh and former Minister Manniram Prashad

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Minister upset with contractor’s performance at Ebini - Edghill tells contractor: ‘Give me one reason why you should not be blacklisted’ By Leroy Smith

MINISTER within the Ministry of Finance, Bishop Juan Edghill, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr George Jarvis, were visibly upset on Thursday when they travelled to Ebini in Berbice only to find that works that should have been completed by a contractor between October and November are less than fifty percent complete. Mr Jarvis related to the Chronicle and Minister Edghill that, after awarding the contract to the contractor, the Ministry of Agriculture realised that he was having cash flow problems, and offered to assist him in securing his materials for the job and in getting them to the remote area. The Agriculture Ministry awarded the contract for rehabilitation of several structures in the area to be used by two key departments of the ministry, namely the National Agricul-

usually refusing to travel back to the area after being paid. “That is not my headache,” Minister Edghill declared. “Give your workers incentives that will cause them to stay ‘get the work done’ and leave and go home when they are finished.” According to the contractor, who seemed not too bothered about the consequences to the state as a result of his delays with the work, he has been trying his best. That statement did upset Permanent Secretary Jarvis, who informed the minister that the ministry has been going “overboard” to ensure that the man had access to the materials needed and the means to get them up there. From all indications, the contractor did not want that arrangement, since it appeared that he would have been more comfortable interfacing with the suppliers himself, and dealing with them in a manner differently from the ministry, which has to produce

“I think it’s time the Government starts suing contractors. Right now you are at a state of liquidated damages; no excuse would suffice, you cannot come into these parts and play the fool and expect us to shut our eyes.” - Minister Juan Edghill tural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) and the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA). The works included rehabilitating an office to be shared by the two agencies, besides staff facility and laboratory and several other structures. The project, which has another lot on the East Coast of Demerara at Mon Repos, has a price tag of just over Gy$68 million. Asked to explain his dilemma, the contractor, whose only

receipts and pay taxes on purchases made. For the past two weeks, the contractor and his team have adopted a hands-off approach to the works in the area since, according to him, he is waiting on word from the Ministry of Agriculture on whether work should continue on buildings which he and his men have been unable to complete by the deadline, and those which have not even been touched. However, the Ministry of Agriculture is yet to decide on

The best job done thus far by the contractor is still incomplete name was given as Dookie, said he has been having several setbacks with respect to moving materials for the project to the remote upper Berbice river location. He also told of his workers, who are all from Georgetown,

the way forward, and, come Monday, there will be a meeting with Minister Edghill, the contractor and all other parties concerned and involved in the project to come to a final conclusion on how the project is to

be handled, and the fate of the delinquent contractor. Mr. Dookie, the contractor, told the team headed by the minister that it is his intention to bring on another contractor to assist with the completion of the works. He asked for an additional two months to ensure that everything is complete; but although the minister seemed very okay with the man’s proposal, he made it very clear that should another contractor come on board, or the works are allowed to be completed by the contractor, it should be at no additional cost to the Government and people of Guyana. “You are behind, you used up all your time, you practically demobilized, and you are asking for two months to complete this project. What have you done in three months?” Minister Edghill asked the contractor. The minister asked the contractor if he knew the importance of the project, and his job and obligation to the Guyanese people as the contractor. “Give me one reason why you should not be blacklisted and never again be given another contract from the Government,” Minister Edghill asked the contractor. The contractor responded by telling the minister that he should not be blacklisted because the project is an interior one and he has been trying his best to complete it. He however, failed to acknowledge that all the problems he encountered that caused the delay were brought upon himself, since he failed to whole-heartedly accept the assistance offered to him by the Agriculture Minister to secure his materials and assist with transporting same to the interior location. “I think it’s time the Government starts suing contractors. Right now you are at a state of liquidated damages; no excuse would suffice, you cannot come into these parts and play the fool and expect us to shut our eyes,” Minister Edghill passionately declared. Permanent Secretary Jarvis opined that the way forward should be the securing of a contractor that would get the job done, and while the now delinquent and lackadaisical Dookie can identify the sub-contractor, the choice must be one that the Ministry of Agriculture has confidence in with respect to completing the works, to prevent them ending up in the situation Dookie presently has them in. Minister Edghill and PS Jarvis, during their visit to the area on Thursday, were greeted with buildings which had not been touched by the contractor - missing walls and windows; incomplete ceiling and stairs; unpainted building; buildings with uninstalled pipe fittings; no electrical work done, and a whole host of other unsightly features which would upset any public official who has to answer how the State’s money is being spent. The entire project is funded by a foreign donor agency, and once the time frame for the project is up with works outstanding, if the donor agency

Minister Edghill and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr George Jarvis, speaking of the delay even as the contractor seems least interested (Leroy Smith photos)

The unfinished structure which should house the staff of the two agencies as well as a laboratory does not approve an extension for the works, then the money has to be returned. The slothfulness of the works has also affected operation in the community, with the community being left without power until certain aspects of the work are completed, and those include the installation of a new generator system. Once completed, the area will be used for breeding and raring of certain cattle and research work for NAREI and GLDA. Among those who accompanied the Minister and Permanent Secretary on Thursday were Dr. Oudho Homenauth and Dr. Dindyal Permaul, and Messrs. Fredrick Flatts, Dhaneshwar James, Raymond Latchman and Nigel Cumberbatch.

Edghill to contractor: ‘Give me one good reason why we should not blacklist you’

An incomplete generator house with workers still working can be seen here, even as the completion deadline has passed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

CARICOM Cement workers protest to save jobs

By Jeune Bailey Vankeric

SCORES of CARICOM Cement factory workers downed tools and took to the streets of Hampshire Village on Monday where they protested against a Corentyne business importing ‘Titan America’ cement. The employees’ objective is to have their respective jobs secured, whilst enlightening the general public of the advantage of using their product branded ‘Titan’ instead of the other which has a similar trademark. The workers repeated anti-investment jingles and called for the intervention of the gov-

Mohammed Khan, Health, Safety and Resource Officer, Caricom Cement Inc. ernment, so as to ensure that the local cement company is not forced to close its doors because of the cheaper and inferior quality cement which is being imported and sold in many retail stores in Berbice. ‘Titan America Cement’, which is being sold under the name ‘Titan’, is retailed at $1,500 per bag, while the locally manufactured product

is retailed at a cost of $1,650 per bag. Meanwhile, Mohamed Khan, Health Safety and Human Resources Officer, speaking to the Berbice media, said the illegal importation of cement is having a negative impact on the company, resulting in a decline in sales. Consequently, management is forced to either reduce the labour force or decrease work hours. We have one hundred and thirteen workers in the factory, with eighteen persons being employed as security officers. The management met with the workers and updated the staff on the recent developments, and its implications on their lives. As a result, the men were peeved and decided to protest in front of A. Hamid General Store, as the owner is the agent for Titan American Cement in Berbice.’ Explaining further, Khan said the company manufactures two types of cement: Titan and West Indian Cement. He said, “The Titan cement is franchised, which was bought from CEMEX, a Mexican company. The raw material which is used to produce the cement is obtained in Dominica. This is a Caribbean company we export to Suriname and to French Guiana. It is unfair for another company to be allowed to import cement, moreso, cement under our brand and it is not of the standard that we require in Guyana.” The Human Resource Officer noted that the other cement

Some of the employees of Caricom Cement Inc protesting on Monday

is to be used in cold climates, and when used in the tropical countries it would crack after a year of casting. “The traders will supply you

with a certificate stating that their product meets ASTM standards. However, their product meets ASTM standards under test conditions in cold weather.”

According to Khan, the company would produce 7,000 bags of cement daily; but over the past few weeks that amount had been reduced significantly.

The workers, who are all based at the Everton, East Bank Berbice location, is expected to continue their protest action.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Ministry bans road construction in Deep South Rupununi By Clifford Stanley THE Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has issued instructions banning the construction of a road from Parabara in the Deep South Rupununi in Region 9 (Upper Essequibo/Upper Takatu) to the New River Triangle. The road was reportedly being constructed by itinerant Brazilian miners associated with local miners, with the apparent intention of allowing easy access from Boa Vista Brazil, to the Deep South and West Rupununi. The miners were among those reportedly forced north out of Yanomami tribal lands in Brazil over the past decade. The ministry disclosed that it had, by way of a letter, informed the Toshao of Masakinari, Paul Chekema, that it had not granted permission or awarded any licences for mining operations in the area. As such, there should be no road construction taking place in the area as an aspect of mining operations. Masakinari is the home of the Wai Wais in the deep south, literally the bottom of the map, an area also known as Gunn’s Strip. A Bartica miner responsible for the road, it was said, had obtained the consent of the leader of the community for its construction. The ministry sated that from their investigations, machinery had been assembled for road construction but construction had not yet begun. Villagers of Parabara in the Deep South Rupununi had been recently informed that a road connecting the border town of Lumidpau to the Kuyuwini

River to the south-east would pass through their village. The plan was that a mechanized pontoon would then ferry vehicles across the Kuyuwini and the road would continue to the Essequibo River.

Minister Robert Persaud Sources said that the road would have bypassed Immigration and Customs located in Lethem and would have provided more direct access to and from Boa Vista, Brazil. There had been objections about the road, becoming more vocal in recent weeks since it would also have crossed the Kuyuwini River and led towards the Upper Essequibo and would have been located in one of Guyana’s most pristine and biodiversity rich areas in the Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo region. In a press release earlier this week, the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) expressed appreciation that the ministry had written the respective indigenous communities that no mining–related construction must take place within Parabara and that the road had been banned.

Flags at half-staff for Mandela

PRESIDENT of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, His Excellency Donald Ramotar, has instructed that all flags are to be flown at half-staff to mark the passing of former South African President, Nelson Mandela.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

U.S. Embassy celebrates 10 years of PEPFAR at World AIDS Day Walk

Participants during the World AIDS Day Walk U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Bryan Hunt led a team of Embassy staff to participate in a World AIDS Day Walk organised by the Ministry of Health on December 1, 2013. The Embassy joined with the Government of Guyana, international donors, and civil society in honouring those who are living with HIV and their families, remembering those who have lost their lives to the disease, and paying homage to all those who are working towards an AIDS-free generation. This year, the United States established the theme of World AIDS Day 2013 as “Shared Responsibility-Strengthening Results for an AIDS-Free Generation.” In his remarks at the end of the programme, Chargé Hunt stated that “it is a testament to the collective efforts of government, donor partners, and civil society that the picture in Guyana has improved dramatically, and Guyanese institutions are now poised to take on ever greater responsibility for continuing to combat the disease.” In 2003, President George W. Bush launched the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the U.S. Government initiative with a goal to help save the lives of those suffering from HIV/AIDS around the world. This commitment is the largest by any nation to combat a single disease internationally and PEPFAR investments also help alleviate suffering from other diseases across the global health spectrum. PEPFAR-supported programmes have created new hope for millions around the world, and scientific advances have brought the goal of achieving an AIDS-free generation within sight. 2013 marks a decade of PEPFAR’s remarkable achievements in helping protect people against this deadly virus. To commemorate PEPFAR’s 10 Year Anniversary, PEPFAR partners in Guyana will highlight the many programmes and accomplishments of this initiative, culminating in a celebration on World AIDS Day 2014. Over the past ten-years of intensive investment in combatting HIV/AIDS globally, partnerships between governments, international donors, and civil society have created new hope for millions around the world. A statement from the U.S. Embassy said: “Thanks to the efforts of all of our partners, HIV/AIDS infection rates in Guyana have stabilized. The people of Guyana are assured an adequate, safe supply of blood. Laboratory and surveillance capacity is in place to monitor and respond to the epidemic. Pregnant HIV positive mothers are assured to know their status and receive necessary preventative care, so as to prevent infecting their unborn babies. Voluntary counselling and testing centres have grown exponentially across the country and thousands now know their HIV status. For those infected with the disease, care and antiretroviral treatment is readily available. Despite these many successes, there is still work to be done to achieve an AIDS-free generation.” The Georgetown-based U.S. Embassy also noted that “creating an AIDS-free generation is a shared responsibility.” It said the U.S. will continue to play its part in this global fight, but no one can do it alone. “To achieve sustainable health systems, we must continue to work with partner countries, including Guyana, in advancing their efforts to take on the responsibility of caring for their own people,” the embassy stated.

U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, Bryan Hunt and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds during the recent World AIDS Day Walk

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

22-yr-old remanded for killing pork knocker MARK Creame, 22, was remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry yesterday for the unlawful killing of a pork knocker. The accused was not required to plead to the indictable charge that said on December 1, at 8 Miles in the North West Magisterial District, he murdered 42-year-old Terrence Henry. Police prosecutor Corporal Bharat Mangru told the court that on September 1, the suspect saw the deceased at 8 Miles in the North West District, where he was consuming alcohol. He subsequently contacted the deceased in a fit of vexation for a previous incident. The deceased then proceeded to his hammock at a camp when the accused came up to him armed with a cutlass and dealt several chops to his body, resulting in is death. The matter was transferred to Matthews Ridge magistrate court for February 3. (Geeta Rampersaud)

Accused: Mark Creame

Venezuelan remanded on firearm charge

A VENEZUELAN national appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, yesterday, to answer a possession of firearm charge. Joel Pereira Rodriguez pleaded guilty to the offence that said at Aurora Backdam, Cuyuni River, he had in his possession one .38 snug nose revolver without being the holder of a firearm licence. Police corporal Bharat Mangru told the court that on the day in question, at Aurora Backdam, the suspect was in his boat when he was approached by John Gobin, whom he owed $36,000. An argument ensued between the two parties and Rodriguez pointed a gun in Gobin’s direction. The victim became afraid and reported the matter to the police. Mangru said around 14:00hrs the police contacted the defendant and a search was conducted on his person when a gun was discovered in his ¾ pants pocket. He was told of the offence and subsequently Defendant: Joel arrested and charged. Pereira Rodriguez According to the defendant, he had the revolver because of the work he does. Chief Magistrate asked Rodriguez his purpose in Guyana and he responded that he came to work as a boat captain. The matter is set for recall on December 11.

Region 2 Mash Committee to officially launch activities on Friday at Anna Regina By Rajendra Prabhulall THE Planning Committee for Mashramani celebrations in Region 2 will officially launch its programme of activities on Friday at the Anna Regina Fire Station compound. A release from the Administrative Office has said that launching, under the theme “Cultural folklore: Celebrating forty-four”, will be open to the general public. The release said the programme would include prayers and cultural items, and Regional Chairman Mr. Parmanand Persaud is expected to launch Mash celebrations 2014. Some of the activities planned to celebrate Mash next year are: a child art and essay competition; dramatic poetry; calypso, dance and masquerade; costume; physical display; road relay race; steel pans in the street; differently abled and an elderly fun day; best decorated and illuminated buildings competition; folk and patriotic songs competition; talent show; children’s Road March; a cultural show and flag raising ceremony; masquerade display; float parade and revelling competition. The celebrations will end with an awards ceremony.

Gov’t constructing reinforced concrete bridge at Hampton Court

GOVERNMENT, through the Region 2 Administration, started construction work on the Hampton Court Bridge that links the public road. The old timber structure is currently being replaced with a modern concrete-and-steel reinforced bridge. Contractor of the project, Mr. Manboardram Sukhai, has already completed constructing one lane of that bridge. PPP/C Government has already constructed modern concrete bridges to link the public road at Hampton Court, Devonshire Castle, Walton Hall, Paradise, Perth, Dartmouth, Andrews, Maria’s Delight and Somerset and Berks.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Aries March 21 - April 19

You don’t mind helping the other members of a group if they get stuck and need your assistance -- that’s why you work well as part of a team. Your actions prove you are good at taking orders as well as carrying them out, plus you can also be a fantastic leader. But this is a good time to hang out in the background and learn from someone else’s knowledge. It shouldn’t take long to emerge as one of the team’s strongest members, which could definitely lead to some excellent opportunities for you.

Taurus April 20 - May 20

It may seem like the universe is conspiring against you by throwing some ludicrous things your way, but luckily you have enough internal fortitude to withstand the silliness and come out unaffected by it all. Be prepared to run into some people or situations you find incredibly absurd, to say the least. Try to ignore someone who is simply trying to get a reaction out of you. Eventually, they’ll get bored and move on. The worst thing you can do right now is show the other person that what they’re doing concerns you in any way.

Gemini May 21 - June 21

An open mind is one of your best accessories at the moment. You’re likely to encounter people you aren’t really used to dealing with, but the experience can be an enriching one. It’s important to remember that different doesn’t automatically equal weird or wrong. Once you summon the courage to break the barriers between you, you may actually find you have a lot -- or at least something -- in common. Before the day is through, you may find you have a whole new opinion about something you were ‘sure’ about this morning.

Cancer June 22 - July 22

Before you tell a loved one -- or a stranger, for that matter -- how you feel about them, you might want to consider how they might react to the news. Although it may seem like a good idea at the time, an emotional outpouring might not elicit the response or reaction you thought it would. Everyone doesn’t deal with their emotions as well or as easily as you do. In matters of love and work, it’s important to proceed with caution. You really can’t count on what you consider a ‘typical’ response from anyone right now.

Leo July 23 - August 22

Set aside your own needs to listen to what the other person has in mind for a change. Don’t let your pride ruin a perfectly good relationship. Insisting on nursing your ego may come between you and someone who is close to your heart, and this is a good time to put an end to that kind of destructive behaviour. And who knows -- you might actually begin to like the give-and-take relationship that is beginning to develop. Never say never.

Virgo August 23 - September 22

Try not to be so afraid of doing something extraordinary, especially if you’re leery of how your behaviour might look from someone else’s point of view. The only person whose opinion you should be worrying about is your own. If you’ve been resisting change for a long time, this is your day finally to let your guard down and embrace it. If you don’t exactly know where to begin, start by taking someone else’s suggestion for doing an ordinary task a different way. Once you open yourself up to new possibilities, the opportunities you will encounter are endless.

Libra September 23 - October 22

Taking the time to connect with other people is worth your efforts -- and the rewards for being of service are priceless. You have a special understanding of the way people’s minds work as well as a sense of compassion for those who are less fortunate than you. You have a knack for coming to the rescue of the people who think no one understands them -- which makes you seem like the light at the end of the tunnel or the shelter from the storm for your friends and family, even strangers.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21

Elderly relatives like to share their wisdom with you when they get the chance, but you aren’t in the habit of listening up. You have a hard time relating to people who are older and wiser than you are. Take a minute out of your busy day to sit and talk with someone from a different generation. What starts out as a boring story you’ve heard many times before could actually turn out to be quite a good lesson -- but you have to be willing to pay attention to benefit from it.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21

The more you try to get other people to conform to your own point of view, the more frustrating your day will become. Since you’ll probably be dealing with a variety of people who have different tastes, opinions and personality types throughout the day, your best strategy is to keep as much of an open mind as humanly possible. If you usually sit in the back of the room for a class or meetings, try moving to the middle or even the front row. Everything you can do to get a different perspective of your daily activities is worth the effort.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

If you want things done correctly, sometimes it’s just better to do them yourself instead of relying on secondary sources for help. This is a good time to plan for the future, but you might not be able to solidify all of your plans just yet. It’s a good idea to leave some room open for negotiation anyway, especially where your financial situation is concerned. Find out all you can before you actually make the big move you’re contemplating, but make sure you check your sources.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18

Great things can happen now, especially since you have more than your share of energy, so surround yourself with other people who share your drive. Something will inspire you enough to take action. Instead of sitting around contemplating your next move, you’re suddenly ready to take the first step. You’re smart enough to accomplish whatever you want to on your own, but two heads are certainly better than one at the moment. Look for a new collaboration to yield some very interesting -- and successful -- results.

Pisces February 19 - March 20

If you want to get something done, make sure you surround yourself with pros. Try to take any constructive criticism you receive as just that -- constructive. It’s the other person’s job to be an expert in their field. With proper instruction, you’ll get the hang of it in no time -- and on your next attempt, you’ll be able to do it entirely on your own.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

CIVIL society experts are calling for more male involvement in their drive to eradicate the escalating cases of gender-based violence in Guyana. This appeal was initiated at a recent film screening and panel discussion hosted by the Guyana Equality Forum (GEF), and its partners in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The screening and discussion at Moray House in Georgetown was a jump start for 16 days of activities to end gender-based violence which culminate on December 10, 2013 - Human Rights Day. Two films were screened to stimulate the panel discussion, the first being “Audre Lorde The Berlin Years: 1984 - 1992”, produced by Dr. Dagmar Schultz. This film chronicles the years the acclaimed black feminist, lesbian poet and activist, Audre Lorde, spent in Berlin, and her contributions to the Afro-German women’s movement and her contributions to the German discourse on racism, xenophobia, antisemitism, classism, and homophobia within the black movement, and the black and white women’s movement.

men and women and that, to some degree, it is perpetuated by fear. Other recommendations from the panel and the audience included the need to address violence against children, and expanding the Health and Family Life Education curriculum to include topics about sexuality and violence. There was also a call for the strengthening of institutional frameworks created to protect victims of gender-based violence, even as calls were made for material resources to be provided to support persons who are attempting to leave abusive unions. Partnering with the GEF to host the event were GRPA, Red Thread, Help and Shelter, The Mothers’ Union of the Anglican Church, Guyana Rainbow Foundation and the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD). The GEF is a network of civil society groups working cohesively to achieve equality and realise human rights for all Guyanese. The GEF is currently chaired by Red Thread, while SASOD serves as its administrative secretariat. The event was funded by the Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice through SASOD.

Civil Society experts call for more male involvement in ending gender-based violence The second film, “Voices of Survivors”, is a short documentary produced by Red Thread which shares the heart-wrenching stories of Guyanese women who have been victims of domestic violence. Addressing the gathering at the event, African Cultural Development Association (ACDA) Executive Director, Eric Phillips, appealed for the need for masculine intervention to end this issue. He however mentioned that feminine leadership, especially in the political arena, is also vital in addressing this issue. Karen De Souza from Red Thread, and Daunta Radzik, representing Help and Shelter, noted that the level of violence within the family is alarming, emphasising that more needs to be done to encourage involvement, thus dissuading others from being passive spectators in cases of domestic abuse. De Souza indicated the need for religious organisations to be part of a comprehensive national plan to end gender-based violence and that their voices have to be heard in the move to end domestic violence. Radzik related that violence exists because of inequalities in relationships between

Rev. Patricia Sheerattan-Bisnauth of GRPA, at left, and Ms. Karen De Souza of Red Thread participating in discussions on domestic violence

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Guyana gets Most Outstanding - as CSEC and CAPE top Candidate Overall performers receive awards THE 2013 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) top performers Thursday evening received their awards at a ceremony at the National Cultural Centre in the presence of President Donald Ramotar, CXC Chairman Professor Nigel Harris and Registrar Dr Didacus Jules. Yogeeta Persaud of Guyana won the Most Outstanding Candidate overall. Guyana also took four other CSEC top awards. All the awardees received scholarships to pursue studies at the University of the West Indies (UWI). The winners are as follows: CSEC Yogeeta Persaud Overall Outstanding Achievement Anna Regina Secondary School Guyana Rafena Mustapha Saraswati Vidya Niketan Guyana

Most Outstanding in Humanities

Cecil Cox Queen’s College Guyana

Most Outstanding in Sciences

Sasha S. Woodroffe Queen’s College Guyana

Most Outstanding in Business Studies

Zimeena A. Rasheed Anna Regina Secondary School Guyana

Most Outstanding in Technical Vocation Ed.

Nathaniel Adiah Presentation College (Chaguanas) Trinidad and Tobago Aimee De Montbrun Holy Name Convent (Port of Spain) Trinidad and Tobago Ranolyn Hunt St Mary’s College Jamaica CAPE Dea Thomas Ardenne High School Jamaica Tasanique Henry Hampton High School Jamaica Maryam Archie St Joseph’s Convent (San Fernando) Trinidad and Tobago Elise Francis St Joseph’s Convent (San Fernando) Trinidad and Tobago Shelemiah Peterkin St Joseph’s Convent(St. Joseph) Trinidad and Tobago Zakiyah Ali Trinidad and Tobago Brendan Hatch Fatima College Trinidad and Tobago Stephen Prince Hillview College Trinidad and Tobago Ronan Narine North Eastern College Trinidad and Tobago Jean-luc Duval St Mary’s College Trinidad and Tobago

Minister of Education Priya Manickchand presents Rafena Mustapha, of Saraswati Vidya Niketan with the award for Most Outstanding Candidate in Humanities

President Donald Ramotar with Most Outstanding CAPE Student overall in the Caribbean, the winner of the Dennis Irvine Award, Dea Thomas from Ardenne High School,

Best Short Story

Best 2-Dimensional Work in Visual Arts Best 3-Dimensional Work in the Visual Arts

Overall Outstanding Candidate – Dennis Irvine Award Most Outstanding in Humanities Most Outstanding in Mathematics

Cecil Cox of Queen’s College receives his award for Most outstanding Candidate in the Sciences

Chairman CXC Professor Nigel Harris presents the award for Most Outstanding Candidate Overall to Yogeeta Persaud from the Anna Regina Multilateral School, Guyana

Most Outstanding in Technical Studies Most Outstanding in Business Studies Most StJoseph’Convent Outstanding in Modern Languages Most Outstanding in Modern Languages Most Outstanding in ICT Most Outstanding in Environmental Science Most Outstanding in Natural Sciences

Minister Priya Manickchand presents Zimeena Rasheed of the Anna Regina Secondary School with the CXC award for the Most Outstanding Candidate in Technical/Vocation

Sasha Woodroffe of Queen’s College receives the award for Most Outstanding Candidate in Business Studies

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Schoolchildren across Guyana observes International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

Alana King delivering her presentation at the St. Joseph High School

Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport speaking with students of Beterverwagting Secondary about Domestic Violence, yesterday

Ms Marcia Nadir-Sharma, Attorney-at-Law, with students of the Richard Ishmael Secondary School

THOUSANDS of schoolchildren throughout Guyana, ceased classes from 9:00 hrs yesterday to discuss and reflect on the significance of observing International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (IDEVAW), and to bring into special focus the issue of domestic violence in Guyana. This exercise involved all students and teachers from nursery, primary and secondary institutions nationwide. Over 200 volunteers from across the country from diverse professions and political persuasions, unified on a single purpose of spreading the message of eradicating violence against women, and domestic violence, to young attentive minds in the school system. Led by members of Cabinet, Members of Parliament, Educators, Managers, businesswom- Ms Priya Manickchand, en, the Men’s group and a number Minister of Education of other professionals with deep addressing Students of interests in the issues of domestic vi- the CPCE olence and violence against women, they took their messages to the next generation of Guyanese leaders. The Ministry of Education said that, based on reports received, all schools participated in this initiative. This means that 25,543 nursery, 87,747 primary, 75,425 secondary, and 9,133 tertiary students were all engaged in discussion on these issues at the same time. Region 9 schools did their session in the afternoon. Until now, this could probably be the single largest simultaneous conversation ever held on this issue in Guyana. The initiative was led by t h e H o n o urable Minister of Education, Ms. Priya Manickchand - who visited the Cyril Potter College of Education to raise awareness amongst trainee Ms Volda Lawrence, APNU- teachers. The minister expressed MP, making her presentation deep gratitude to all the persons at the Dolphin Secondary who volunteered in this very necessary exercise. “Violence against women and domestic violence are two major issues affecting the lives of women in the world and the development of countries every day. Confronting these issues requires a national effort, and I am inspired by the kind of overwhelming support that we had today nationally in our school environment. I encourage all to continue to keep the conversation going as together we galvanize significant action to free our country of this horror.” The Ministry of Education, in a statement, said it is hoping to make this conversation on relevant social issues a regular feature of education in Guyana in the hope of causing change and inspiring a generation through education.

Rev. Kwame Gilbert, MP, speaking to students at the Lodge Secondary School

Presidential Adviser Ms Gail Teixeira, MP, addressing students of the North Georgetown Secondary School

Marcel Hutson, ACEO-Primary, Ministry of Education, interacting with students of the Graham’s Hall Primary School

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Digicel makes donations to Ptolemy Reid Centre, Help and Shelter, Life-Line Counselling By Michel Outridge DIGICEL Guyana, as part of its corporate responsibility in support of National Disability Week, observed from November 24 to December 2, 2013, International Day of the elimination of violence against women in Guyana, and World Aids Day, yesterday made separate contributions to the relevant non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The giant cellular phone company made a monetary donation which amounted to a substantial sum for the refurbishing of the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre (PRRC), Help and Shelter and Life Line Counselling. The presentations were done at Digicel headquarters at Fort and Barracks Streets, Kingston, Georgetown, where Head of Marketing Jacqueline James penned a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in support of these significant observances, yesterday. Administrator of the PRRC, Cynthia Massay, accepting a cheque, said that Digicel has been a long standing supporter of the organisation, from the time it entered the local market in 2006. She added that its contributions brightened the lives of disabled children in many ways. In September, Digicel had donated a cheque for $1M with which the newly refurbished dining room was furnished. Massay stated that yet again Digicel Guyana has displayed its support to the PRRC, funding a refurbishing project that will include replacing the floor in the Rehabilitation Department and some exterior work on the building. She noted that the Centre’s Education Department caters for nursery, prep and primary students, and these number just over 60 each day, and its day-care service caters for about 30 children each day. The Centre’s Christmas party will cater for about 80 disabled children. Meanwhile, representatives from Help and Shelter, Denise Dias and Margaret Kertzious, were gifted more than $4M for the refurbishing of the building which provides services for women, children and men, who are victims of domestic abuse. Speaking on behalf of the organisation, Denise Dias said that they are pleased with the support from Digicel and they have started repairs for the first time in the past 17 years. She stated that Help and Shelter, which is located on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown, is a safe place for abused women, children and men. Some are housed in the building where they seek to empower themselves to become self-sufficient. Margaret Kertzious added that in the past four years, they were unable to promote any public outreach programmes, since they lack funding for that. She said Help and Shelter is being funded by the European Union (EU) and another organisation with most of this channelled in the counselling and other services, and the home accommodates 46 persons. Life Line Counselling representatives were also presented with a cheque for the general running of the services they provide for persons affected by HIV/AIDS. Digicel’s Jacqueline James, in brief remarks, said the company has made contributions to these organisations to brighten their Christmas. She explained that the donation to PRRC was needed for the children to have a comfortable place and for Help and Shelter, they want women, men and children to have a safe and suitable building where they can feel comfortable as they seek services provided.

Digicel Guyana Head of Marketing, Jacqueline James with Administrator of the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre, Cynthia Massay, and Digicel’s Communications Manager Vidya Sanichara during yesterday’s press briefing.

Digicel’s Jacqueline James with representatives of Life Line Counselling and Help and Shelter’s Margaret Kertzious, Denise Dias and Vidya Sanichara. (Adrian Narine photos)

New $8M sluice at Charity by mid-December A NEW $8M sluice is under construction on the river defence dam at Charity on the Essequibo Coast. Region 2 Chairman Mr. Parmanand Persaud said the new sluice will improve the drainage capacity in the Charity area, especially for the growing housing scheme there. According to the chairman, an old sluice, known as “grassy sluice”, was located many years ago in the same area where the new one is being constructed. He said the new sluice will be connected to a main trench that drains the Charity housing scheme.

Mr Persaud said the contractor, Mr. Param Lall, of Walton Hall on the Essequibo Coast, has already excavated the site for the new sluice and should complete construction work by mid December. The chairman said residents and business owners of Charity should stop dumping garbage in trenches, canals and the Pomeroon river. He said the careless dumping of garbage is causing the blockage of drains and sluice channels in the Charity area. (Rajendra Prabhulall)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Mandela key to ushering South Africa ... From back page jail sentence in 1990. His African National Congress (ANC) moved quickly to use sport to implement a nation-building policy with South Africa allowed to send a team to the 1992 Barcelona Olympics and enter the 1994 Soccer World Cup qualifiers, long before the change in the political system was complete. It was also a two-way street with major international sporting bodies keen to re-incorporate South Africa back into their families.

“The International Olympic Committee wanted Mandela in their ranks, he was an icon of the world and at the opening of the Barcelona Games they treated him like a head of state,” recalled Sam Ramsamy, former South African Olympic Committee president and now an IOC member. Mandela also stepped forcefully into a bitter debate over the symbols for South African teams, surprisingly siding with his former white oppressors and allowing rugby to keep using the Springbok emblem. BUILDING BRIDGES

Most wanted it removed as a hate symbol of the days when only whites were allowed to represent South African sport but while the national flower, the Protea, was adopted by cricket and then the country’s Olympic committee, rugby continues with the Springbok as its image. It won for Mandela deep affection across racial lines, particularly among the Afrikaner community, at the time suspicious of what a black-led future held. “Through his extraordinarily vision, he was able to use the 1995 Rugby World Cup as

an instrument to help promote nation-building just one year after South Africa’s historic first democratic election,” South African Rugby Union president Oregan Hoskins said yesterday. Mandela famously wore the jersey of captain Francois Pienaar on the day the Springboks beat New Zealand to win the World Cup and a year later, was clad in the country’s soccer jersey as the national side, Bafana Bafana, won the African Nations Cup. While he was at the forefront of the country’s bidding efforts that ultimately won the right to host the 2010 World

Cup, Mandela also maintained a keen interest in South Africa’s top sportsmen. He once had golfer Ernie Els and his great rival Tiger Woods round for tea. “He treated us like we were his two sons,” recalled Els. “His sincerity was amazing and it really left a mark on both of us.” Cricket captain Shaun Pollock lost his job after his team bombed out of the 2003 World Cup, misreading the rules on rain-effected matches, but he received a call some days later from Mandela. “He just called to commend me on the way I handled the situation and to see if I was alright,” Pollock said.

ENGLISH AINTREE 08:00 hrs Gabrial The Great 08:30 hrs Gitane De Berlais 09:00 hrs Lieutenant Miller 09:30 hrs Ivan Boru 10:05 hrs Across The Bay 10:40 hrs Wayward Prince 11:15 hrs Toby Lerone WETHERBY 08:10 hrs Mysteree 08:40 hrs Dreams Of Milan 09:10 hrs Josies Orders 09:40 hrs Stagecoach Pearl 10:15 hrs Maybe I Wont 10:50 hrs Whiskey Ridge 11:25 hrs Lebanna

SANDOWN 08:20 hrs Champagne At Tara 08:50 hrs Top Totti 09:20 hrs Act Of Kalanisi 09:50 hrs Hinterland 10:25 hrs Deep Trouble 11:00 hrs Somersby 11:35 hrs Hunters Lodge IRISH RACING TIPS NAVAN 08:15 hrs Harvey Logan 08:45 hrs Beach Of Falesa 09:15 hrs Faugheen 09:45 hrs Hold Em Cowboy 10:20 hrs Felix Yonger 10:55 hrs Down Under 11:30 hrs Sizing Brisbane AMERICAN RACING TIPS AQUEDUCT Race 1 Flores Island Race 2 Groupthink Race 3 Wundahowigothere Race 4 Alcomatch Race 5 Jewel in the Sky Race 6 Bluegrass Flash Race 7 All Mine Tonight Race 8 Ullapool Race 9 Private Irving A

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Hing on target in GNRA handgun shoot NATIONAL handgun captain Dale Hing shot his way into a comfortable position at the end of the second round of the Guyana National Rifle Shooting Association’s (GNRA) Handgun section end-of-year championships, following the Practical Pistol Shoot held last Sunday at the Timehri Ranges. Hing finished with an over-

Dale Hing

all combined score of 209 points in the two-stage competition. The first stage was won by David Dharry with Gordon Richards finishing second, Hing third, Ryan McKinnon fourth and Azaad Hassan fifth. Hing won the second stage followed by McKinnon, Hassan, Hemant Narine and Dharry in that order. The overall combined

stage results were Hing with 209 points, McKinnon 158 points, Dharry 142, Hassan 136 and Gordon Richards 123 points. The first-round leaders reigning Caribbean fullbore shooting champion Lennox Braithwaite, female shooter Vidushi Persaud and Hemant Narine who held the top three

positions, slipped down the order and only Narine remained in the overall top five. The final leg of the championships, an Action Pistol match is scheduled for tomorrow at the Tactical Services Unit range at Eve Leary. The overall championship is a combination of points for all three events and the standing so

far reads: Hing in the lead followed by Dharry, Richards, Narine and McKinnon. The winner will be declared tomorrow. The presentation of prizes for the handgun and fullbore championships will be done during the GNRA Annual Presentation Ceremony to be held later this month at a venue to be finalised.

Windies Under-19s lose to Bangladesh Under-19s by 104 runs CHITTAGONG, Bangladesh (CMC) - West Indies Under-19s failed to capitalise on an advantage and lost to Bangladesh Under-19s by 104 runs in the first Youth OneDay International here at Chittagong yesterday. Bangladesh recovered from a precarious slump to eventually score a formidable 222 for nine in their 50 overs and bowled out West Indies for 118 in 44.5 overs at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium. The home side plunged

to 84 for 6 in the 31st over, in danger of being skittled out for a low score after winning the toss and electing to bat. A 119-run stand between Mosaddek Hossain and Saeed Sarkar boosted the score beyond 200. Sarkar smashed a 66-ball 83 with eight fours and four sixes before he was dismissed by Jerome Jones. Mosaddek stretched the score to 222 before he fell for 77 off 107 balls to Fabian Allen in the last over.

West Indies captain Ramaal Lewis was the most successful bowler taking 3 for 24, while Gudakesh Motie and Allen picked up two wickets apiece. Pacer Mehedi Hassan, off-spinner Mosaddek and left-arm spinner Nihaduzzaman claimed the frontline batsmen as West Indies stumbled to 41 for six, chasing 223. The only resistance in the Windies batting was from Tristan Coleman with a stubborn knock of 42 while Jerome Jones 14 not out and Ramaal Lewis 13 were the only other players getting into double figures.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Australia take control after Clarke, Haddin score tons By Ian Ransom ADELAIDE, Australia (Reuters) - A fired-up Mitchell Johnson dismissed England captain Alastair Cook cheaply in a hammer blow for the tourists after Australia declared for a mammoth first innings of 570 to be firmly in control after day two of the second Ashes Test yesterday. A day that began with promise for England quickly unravelled in the field as Australia captain Michael Clarke and his deputy Brad Haddin scored glittering centuries in a record sixth-wicket partnership at Adelaide Oval. Adding insult to injury, Clarke, who struck 148 for his second ton in successive Tests, waited until 34-yearold paceman Ryan Harris had compiled his second Test fifty before declaring on 570-9 after tea in glorious sunshine. Johnson then captured the key wicket of Cook for three, beating the England skipper for

Centurions Michael Clarke and Brad Haddin combine for an Adelaide Oval record 200-run sixth-wicket stand, Australia v England, 2nd Test in Adelaide.

pace with a searing delivery that knocked over his off-stump and sent a raucous crowd of more than 35 000 into paroxysms of delight. Michael Carberry (20 not out), and Joe Root (nine not out), promoted to number three in place of the departed Jonathan Trott, dug in grimly in the final hour but Johnson could have also dismissed the opener on the final ball of the day. Unleashing rockets over 150 kph (93 mph), Johnson trapped Carberry in front, but Australia, surprisingly, declined to review the not out decision for lbw only for Hawk-Eye to track the ball hitting leg stump. “Myself, Watto (Shane Watson) and Michael (Clarke) all thought it was going down leg and Mitch (Johnson) exactly the same,” Haddin told reporters. “As we’d seen when we came off we were wrong, so we haven’t learnt with the DRS by the looks of it.” Carberry reprieved, En-

World Cup draw opens door for game’s big guns By Mike Collett COSTA DO SAUIPE, Brazil (Reuters) - The convoluted draw for next year’s World Cup finals in Brazil yesterday produced a set of groups in which most of soccer’s big guns will fancy their chances of reaching the knockout stages. Group D, featuring former winners England, Italy and Uruguay, along with Costa Rica, is probably the exception, while Spain and Netherlands, who met in the 2010 final, will have to be well prepared to see off Chile and Australia in Group B. Host nation Brazil will kick off the tournament against Croatia in Sao Paulo on June 12 and the favourites should be relatively happy with a Group A also containing Mexico and Cameroon as they seek their sixth title. “We ended up in a strong group, one that gives you goose bumps,” said Brazil captain Thiago Silva. “A strong African side, perhaps one of the best, Mexico, who have been a tough adversary for us, and Croatia, who are a strong team physically. It’s very difficult but we’re ready.” One former champion will surely to go out from Group D, with England against Italy in the jungle city of Manaus - a mouth-watering opener for the two European sides. “We know how good Italy are because we lost to them in the quarter-finals at the (2012) Euros,” said England boss Roy Hodgson. “The game is going to be tough from a climate point of view for both teams. We’re both in the same boat.” Forward Diego Forlan, who helped Uruguay to the semi-finals in 2010, said: “In comparison with what other teams got, it’s the hardest group of this World Cup. “But you have to play the matches and at the last World Cup we were in a very complicated group but came through well.” FINAL REPEAT World and European champions Spain begin their defence with a repeat of the physical 2010 final against the Netherlands in Rio’s Maracana. “We will have to be prepared right from the first day, focus ourselves,” said coach Vicente Del Bosque, knowing the group runners-up are likely to face Brazil in the first knockout round. “I expect that Brazil will be first in their group so we will have to take great pains to do the same,” he added. Germany will come face-to-face with their former striker and coach Juergen Klinsmann, now in charge of the United States, with Portugal and Ghana completing the Group G lineup.

“Of course, a special moment for me is to play against Germany but we beat them in a friendly this year and once you get on the pitch they are just the opponent,” said Klinsmann, who won the World Cup as a player in 1990. France, who qualified via the playoffs, will be pleased with a Group E placing alongside Ecuador, Switzerland and Honduras. “It could have been more complicated,” said coach Didier Deschamps. “We know Switzerland well, they were seeded so obviously the toughest opponent. We don’t know Ecuador and Honduras that well and it will have an influence on our preparation.” Bosnia, the only one of the 32 teams taking part in their first World Cup finals, will have a dream start to their World Cup adventure as they kick off against Argentina in the Maracana before facing Iran and Nigeria. “Argentina are the group favourites and it will be a very special occasion for us to play our opening match against them at the Maracana Stadium,” said coach Safet Susic. “We should have an even chance alongside Nigeria to clinch the runners-up spot, although no one should underestimate Iran either.” Fancied Belgium head up Group H alongside Algeria, Russia and South Korea while Group C, containing Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast and Japan, looks the toughest to predict. The final is in Rio on July 13. Joao da Mata, Bahia state, yesterday.

ADELAIDE AFFAIR Clarke’s love affair with Adelaide Oval continued as he raised his fourth ton from his last nine Tests at the ground, which have also included two double-centuries and three 50s. Fielding at short leg, Ian Bell put down a tough chance which would have seen Clarke dismissed for 91, when the Australian skipper charged down the wicket at spinner Swann only to nick it behind. Appearing set for a third double-century in Adelaide, it was something of a surprise when Clarke was eventually dismissed, miscuing a drive off debutant all-rounder Ben Stokes to be caught by a diving James Anderson in close. Haddin, dropped on five by Carberry on Thursday, could have been run-out on 18 but for poor fielding and was granted

another life on 30 when he sent an errant pull-shot high in the air only for Monty Panesar to pull up rather than dive for a catch. Stokes later had Haddin caught behind on 51 only for his maiden Test wicket to be taken away on review when it was shown he had overstepped the mark. The hard-bitten 35-yearold rode his luck to blast his way to 118 with five sixes before nicking a catch to fellow wicketkeeper Matt Prior when flashing at a Stuart Broad delivery. The knock continued Haddin’s sparkling form with the bat following a 94 in the first Test in Brisbane that resurrected Australia’s first innings and his 53 in the second. Paceman Harris notched his half-century with a delightful square cut to the fence and finished unbeaten on 55 after caning the England attack with six fours and two sixes. Number 11 batsman Nathan Lyon also helped himself to a six and finished unbeaten on 17 at the declaration. New Zealand-born Stokes finished with 2-70 from his 18 overs, with Broad England’s best bowler with 3-98. Recalled spinner Panesar was hammered for 1-157. “To get the first wicket, a proud moment,” 22-year-old Stokes said. “It has been a very tough two days. We’ve got to put that behind us now and focus on what’s ahead, which is to bat long.”

AUSTRALIA first innings (overnight 273-5) C. Rogers c Prior b Swann 72 D. Warner c Carberry b Broad 29 S. Watson c & b Anderson 51 M. Clarke c Anderson b Stokes 148 S. Smith b Panesar 6 G. Bailey c Swann b Broad 53 B. Haddin c Prior b Broad 118 M. Johnson c Broad b Swann 5 P. Siddle c Prior b Stokes 2 R. Harris not out 55 N. Lyon not out 17 Extras: (b-8, lb-1, nb-4, w-1) 14 Total: (for nine wickets decl, 158 overs) 570

Fall of wickets: 1-34, 2-155, 3-155, 4-174, 5-257, 6-457, 7-474, 8-483, 9-529. Bowling: Anderson 30-10-85-1 (nb1), Broad 30-3-98-3 (w-1), Swann 36-4-151-2, Panesar 44-7-157-1, Stokes 18-2-70-2 (nb-3) ENGLAND first innings A. Cook b Johnson 3 M. Carberry not out 20 J. Root not out 9 Extras: (lb-1, nb-2) 3 Total: (one wicket, 21 overs) 35 Fall of wickets: 1-9 Bowling: Johnson 7-3-9-1 (nb-2), Harris 5-4-3-0, Lyon 5-1-17-0, P. Siddle 4-2-5-0.

gland were 35-1 at the close, still 535 shy of Australia’s total and facing a Herculean task to claw themselves back into the game. Despite losing the toss, England had battled hard to earn a share the spoils on Thursday’s opening day, but squandered their opportunity on an overcast morning when play resumed at 273-5. Having dropped three catches on day one, the tourists committed a number of howlers in the field yesterday to allow Clarke and Haddin to notch a 200-run partnership, including 116 runs in a swashbuckling morning session.

Full 2014 World Cup draw Former French soccer player Zinedine Zidane draws a ball from a pot as former Brazilian soccer player Cafu looks on, during the draw for the 2014 World Cup at the Costa do Sauipe resort in Sao

Group A: Brazil, Croatia, Mexico, Cameroon. Group B: Spain, Netherlands, Chile, Australia. Group C: Colombia, Greece, Ivory Coast, Japan. Group D: Uruguay, Costa Rica, England, Italy. Group E : Switzerland, Ecuador, France, Honduras. Group F: Argentina, Bosnia-Hercegovina, Iran, Nigeria. Group G: Germany, Portugal, Ghana, USA. Group H: Belgium, Algeria, Russia, South Korea.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

Sporting tributes for Nelson Mandela (REUTERS) - The sporting community paid tribute to Nelson Mandela after the former South African president and Nobel Peace Prize winner passed away aged 95 on Thursday. Among the many offerings of respect are the following: “He was a true statesman. A remarkable man who understood that sport could build bridges, break down walls, and reveal our common humanity.” - International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach. --“It is in deep mourning that I pay my respects to an extraordinary person, probably one of the greatest humanists of our time and a dear friend of mine: Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. When he was honoured and cheered by the crowd at Johannesburg’s Soccer City stadium on July 11 2010, it was as a man of the people, a man of their hearts, and it was one of the most moving moments I have ever experienced.” - FIFA president Sepp Blatter. --“Mr Mandela was a truly remarkable man. I was honoured to be with him during the historic days of Rugby World Cup 1995 and saw his incredible impact on his nation and his people. His wisdom, intelligence and sheer presence, a wonder to behold.” - International Rugby Board chairman Bernard Lapasset. --“All of our lives are poorer today at the extinguishing of

Nelson Mandela and FIFA president Sepp Blatter the great beacon of light and hope that led the way for our country through the transition to democracy. ‘Madiba’ was a great man of vision, determination and integrity who performed a miracle that amazed the world as much as it amazed his fellow countrymen.” - South African Rugby Union president Oregan Hoskins. --“Madiba exerted a profoundly positive impact upon the world, but especially within his home country of South Africa where he famously championed sport as a vehicle of inspiration and social change. Madiba was - and will continue to be - an inspiration to all through the courageous legacy he leaves behind. He will be sadly missed not only by the rugby family, but by the world as a whole.” - Super Rugby governing body, SANZAR, CEO Greg Peters. ---

“Nelson Mandela was a towering symbol of resistance, a leader, an activist, and a man who recognised the power of sport to inspire and bring people together. Mr Mandela never compromised his principles and his beliefs in justice and equality. As South Africa’s first black President, Mr Mandela recognised and utilised sport as a mechanism to unite the divided people of South Africa and create a shared national identity and pride. As a statesman, he was remarkable, and as a man, he was inspirational.” - International Cricket Council president Alan Issac. --“The sporting world will remember him for his tireless efforts at uniting the various sporting codes in order to create a proud and united South African sporting front. “Nothing assuredly gave him greater pleasure than being part of the team that

brought the FIFA World Cup to South Africa in 2010 and seeing what a wonderful celebration of sport, comradeship and humanity the tournament was. CSA dedicates the current series against the Indian team to the memory of Mandela.” - Cricket South Africa president Chris Nenzani. --“One of the greatest human beings ever! May your soul Rest in Peace ... the world’s greatest fighter.” - Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt. --“He made us realise, we are our brother’s keeper and that our brothers come in all colours. He taught us forgiveness on a grand scale. His was a spirit born free, destined to soar above the rainbows. Today his spirit is soaring through the heavens. He is now forever free.” - Boxing great Muhammad Ali. --“Let us all continue his legacy with purpose and passion” - Brazil soccer great Pele. --“Thankful, Madiba, for your legacy and your example. You’ll always stay with us.” - Real Madrid and Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo. --“We have lost a true gentleman and a courageous human being.” - Former England soccer captain David Beckham. --“The greatest man on the planet has died. RIP Nelson Mandela.” - Former England striker Gary Linekar.

--“You will forever be remembered for your indomitable spirit, incomparable honour and courage” - West Indies cricket great Brian Lara. --“Nelson Mandela’s courage, forgiveness, love and hope inspired people around the world. He made me want to be a better man” - Golfing great Gary Player. --“Pop and I felt your aura when we met you. I feel it today and I will feel it forever. You have done so much for humanity.” - World number one golfer Tiger Woods. --“It is a very sad day. We have lost one of the iconic leaders of our time. You cannot say anything bad about the man. He fought for what he believed in, went to prison for so many years and came out to lead our country up until now. He was just the most amazing person I have ever met. Today will be tough.” - South Africa golfer Ernie Els. --“He never gave in to the spirit of defeat. He believed so that today you and I can be free to live a life with no limits!” - South Africa soccer captain Itumeleng Khune. --“A man we did not have for long enough, but left a lifelong legacy. Madiba we will never forget” - South Africa’s 2007 Rugby World Cup-winning captain John Smit.

--“My lasting memory of Madiba is that of a person who had enormous ability to bring people together” - South Africa rugby captain Jean de Villiers. --“Rest In Peace, Tata Madiba. Thank you for the inspiration and hope. May your legacy live on forever.” - South Africa rugby player Bryan Habana. --“A sad day for our country, Rest In Peace Madiba” - Former South Africa rugby player Joost van der Westhuizen. --“Madiba was an inspiration to the Proteas in the same way that he was to other South African teams. To us he represented so many of the qualities which we as players have looked to adopt in playing for South Africa. He always gave simple but wise advice and this had a big impact on me as leader of the team. His words will stay with me forever as they were not only relevant to cricket, but also to life.” - South Africa Test cricket captain Graeme Smith, --“Let us now, more than ever, stick together as a nation, we owe that to him that much. Madiba, you will be missed” - South Africa cricketer AB de Villiers. --“ To a m a n w h o h a s changed the mindset of a nation, may we inspire and motivate as you have. You will always be remembered.” - South Africa cricketer JP Duminy.

NEW ZEALAND 1st innings 609 (R. Taylor 217 not out, B. McCullum 113; T. Best 3-148) West Indies 1st innings 213 (S. Chanderpaul 76; T. Southee 4-52) West Indies 2nd innings (following on) (overnight 168 for two) K. Edwards lbw b Sodhi 59 K. Powell c Southee b Boult 14 D.M. Bravo not out 210 M. Samuels c & b Southee 23 S. Chanderpaul lbw b Wagner 1

N. Deonarine c wkp. Watling b Anderson 52 D. Ramdin b Sodhi 24 D. Sammy not out 44 Extras: (b-4, lb-5, w-5, nb-2) 16 Total: (6 wkts) 443 Fall of wickets: 1-18, 2-135, 3-178, 4-185, 5-307, 6-363. Bowling: Southee 26-4-90-1; Boult 28-8-71-1 (w-1); Wagner 25-2-96-1 (nb-1); Anderson 14-2-29-1; Sodhi 41-6-130-2; Redmond 5-1-18-0

Bravo double earns Windies lead DARREN Bravo’s maiden Test double-century took the West Indies into an unlikely lead heading into the final day against New Zealand in Dunedin. Having resumed on 168 for two following on, still 228 shy of making their hosts bat again, Bravo (210 n.o.) led a superb rearguard, with able support from Narsingh Deonarine (52) and the lower-middle order, as the tourists closed on 443 for six. That equated to a lead of 47, but New Zealand, who declared their first innings on 609 for nine, will still have high hopes of sewing up the win on

day five. The day certainly did not start in positive fashion for the Windies as Marlon Samuels was caught and bowled by Tim Southee in the fourth over of the morning. When Shivnarine Chanderpaul was trapped lbw by Neil Wagner soon after to leave his side 185 for four it appeared they could roll over. But Deonarine announced his arrival at the crease with a sweet boundary off Wagner and he proved an able ally to Bravo, who brought up his ton off his 200th delivery with a sweep for four off Ish Sodhi.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday December 07, 2013) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: Roy Fredericks and Alvin Kallicharran 4 Today’s Quiz: What are the best Test innings bowling figures claimed by WI fast bowler Andy Roberts? Which WI player is the fastest to 5000 ODI runs in terms of innings played? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

By lunch the pair had compiled 50 runs in a conservative but effective partnership, and they continued in similar fashion after the resumption. An elegant drive from Bravo off Southee for four demonstrated the batsmen were now feeling comfortable, and when Deonarine was given a let-off thanks to a drop from Brendon McCullum, he added insult

to injury by cracking another boundary. Bravo stroked back-to-back fours off Wagner, before Deonarine drove to the boundary to pass 50, but he was out two overs later, caught behind off Corey Anderson to end a partnership of 122. At tea, the West Indies still needed 82 to make the Black Caps bat again.

6TH GEORGETOWN GUINNESS ‘GREATEST OF DE STREETS’

Island All Star upset West Front Road THANKS to Alpha McPhoy’s third minute goal, Island All Star opened up the competition in this year’s sixth annual Georgetown leg of the Guinness ‘Greatest of de Streets’ Futsal football competition, when the action continued on the fourth night at the Burnham Basketball hardcourt last Thursday night. In the first matchup of the tournament which continues with eight more matches at the California Square tonight, Costello Housing Scheme defeated defending champions Leopold Street 3-2 on sudden death penalty kicks, after a 1-1

… Action continues tonight regulation time result. Okene Fraser scored for Leopold Street in the third minute but his goal was neutralised by Sherman Anthony’s 14th minute strike for Costello, following which both teams played to a dead lock, resulting in penalty kicks deciding the winner. After seeing Island All Star defeat West Front Road, South Ruimveldt marched away with a 6-5 penalty-kick win from the halfway line over Kingston, after they both played to a nil-all stale-

mate, while Deon Alfred (5th) and Leon Fredericks (19th) were responsible for Queen Street-Tiger Bay’s 2-0 win over Norton Street-East. Globe Yard defeated Albouystown ‘B’ 3-1 on penalty kicks after they played to a nil-all draw, while California Square came away with a 5-4 penalty kicks win from the halfway line, after being held to a 1-1 draw by Hope Street-Tiger Bay, with Christopher Darlington scoring for the victors in the 9th minute, after Rensford Coleridge sent

the losers into the lead five minutes earlier. Tonight’s action will see North East La Penitence opposing Sophia North, Alexander Village taking on Norton Street-East, Kingston meeting Costello Housing Scheme and East La Penitence facing Bent Street, followed by the Guinness break. After the interval, Island All Star face Cross Street, Back Circle clash with Festival City, Laing Avenue take on California Square and West Front Road go head-tohead with East Front Road, to culminate proceedings for the night. (Calvin Roberts)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 7, 2013

GCB/GT&T/HAND-IN-HAND 4-DAY

Five-wicket hauls for Bishoo and Khan as ‘Cheesy’ Singh hits 50 By Calvin Roberts NATIONAL leg- spinners Devendra Bishoo and Amir Khan claimed respective five-wicket hauls for Berbice and Demerara, on the second day of action in the Guyana Cricket Board/Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company/Handin-Hand-sponsored four-day tournament yesterday. At the Everest Cricket Club ground where no play was possible on the first day, the President’s XI who won the toss and opted to bat first, were bowled out for a laborious 185 in 72.4 overs, with their skipper Vishal Singh hitting a patient 55 against the bowling of Bishoo who took 6 for 57 for Berbice. At Enmore, Essequibo wasted the opportunity to post a respectable total against the defending champions, as Khan’s 5 for 62 coupled with Zaheer Mohammed’s 4 for 46, sent them packing for 198 from 73.4 overs, after resuming the day on 101 for 3, to which Demerara replied with 172 for 3 at the close, with Christopher Barnwell unbeaten on 48 while Ramnaresh Sarwan scored 42. Earlier in the day, Dillon Heyliger (27) and Kemo Paul (19) resumed Essequibo’s innings, with Heyliger being the first to go, lbw to Khan at 122 for 4, while Paul followed 10 runs later when he was bowled by Trevon Garraway (1 for 30). Some resilient batting from Parmesh Parsotam who made an unbeaten 39 (1x4) and Ravindra Parsram 28 (1x6, 1x4), guided Essequibo to their final total, as Khan and Mohammed made light work of their batsmen, who contributed to the cause with their irresponsible shot selections. In Demerara’s reply, pugnacious opener Trevon Griffith (11) was first to go, caught by Heemchand Persaud off Heyliger at 17 for 1, allowing Rajendra Chandrika and skipper Leon Johnson to add an even 50 runs for the second wicket, before Chandrika was lbw to Anthony Adams for 22. Sarwan, a discarded West Indies middle order batsman joined Johnson and they pushed the score to 81, before Paul held a well judged catch running around from long on, to account for Johnson off Persaud, after he made 40 from 72 balls with five fours at 81 for 3. Enter a confident-looking Barnwell, who opened his account with a four, courtesy of a deft cut through point off Persaud, followed by a six over long on, even as Sarwan, with whom he added 89 for the fourth wicket, pulled Adams twice over wide midwicket for four, followed by two fours off

wicket after Barnwell turned a delivery from Heyliger to short midwicket, with his 42 coming off 87 deliveries and decorated with four fours. Christopher Pattadin, who missed a ton during the Demer-

Vishal Singh Royan Fredericks in the final over before tea. However, when he was well set for a composed half-century, Sarwan was run-out when he failed to beat the return at the non-striker’s end, as he charged down the

ara trials held last week, joined Barnwell who has so far struck four fours and two sixes in his unbeaten 48, to steer Demerara to their close of play score, with Pattadin yet to score. At Everest, Singh faced 169 balls and struck three fours while being the backbone of his team’s innings, but the day belonged to Bishoo, after fast

bowler Raun Johnson sent back both openers early, allowing Bishoo to mop up the middle and lower order, which he did to precision. Earlier the opening pair of Robin Bacchus (24) and Shemroy Barrington (7) failed to capitalise on starts, with Bacchus looking ominous striking three

boundaries in his knock before he was removed by Johnson, who also got rid of Barrington.

Devendra Bishoo

Amir Khan

Former Test batsman Ryan Ramdass (24) and Singh came to the middle looking to rebuild their team’s innings, but Royston Crandon had the former adjudged lbw for 24 (3x4) at 69 for 3, before rain stopped play with the President’s XI on 92 for 3, with Singh on 22 and Dominique Rikhi 9. That interruption, which forced the umpires to take the luncheon break, lasted for approximately three hours and following an inspection at 14:00hrs play resumed 30 minutes later, following which Bishoo removed Rikhi via lbw without any addition to his score.

Singh brought up a grinding 50 from 157 balls and the team’s 100 came in 35.5 overs, while the 150 mark came up in the 57th over, but a double strike by Bishoo saw both Singh and all-rounder Romario Shepherd-DeJonge (0) falling in successive balls as the leg-spinner ended a successful over with a double-wicket maiden. Bishoo then had wicketkeeper Jason Sinclair (19) pinned lbw by a “googly” delivery, followed by the removal of Steven Sankar (2) who hit a delivery straight down the throat of long-off, while his sixth wicket was that of Kellon Carmichael who made15.

Meusa takes chess lead as defending champion suffers defeat FORMER national senior chess champion Wendell Meusa last weekend delivered a stunning blow to reigning national champion Taffin Khan, defeating him in a clash that lasted more than three hours in the Guyana Chess Federation/Vita Malt Plus 2013 national senior chess championships. Playing at the Ocean Spray Hotel in Kitty, Khan, who drew his previous encounter with former junior national champion Anthony Drayton, saw the results of both matches severely

Clash of the Titans! Reigning champion Taffin Khan (left) and former champion Wendell Meusa concentrate hard during their epic clash last weekend.

denting his chances of retaining the championships, which is a telling indicator of loosening the grip on the title he has held for the past three years. At the completion of three rounds last weekend, Meusa sits atop the table with the maximum three points, while Glenford Corlette and Errol Tiwari have two points each and they are followed by Drayton and Khan on oneand-a-half points each, while Roberto Neto and Davion Mars have scored one point to date.

Meanwhile, Drayton triumphed over Meusa and put a monkey’s wrench in his plans when the tournament continued last Wednesday evening, while Tiwari defeated Rashad Hussain, who entered the competition following the withdrawal of Neil Khan, making him the fourth junior player now competing in the senior championship. The championships will conclude tomorrow with the final two rounds of action, following which the national champion will be crowned.

Sport CHRONICLE

The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com

Five-wicket hauls for Bishoo and Khan as ‘Cheesy’ Page Singh hits 50 39

Bravo’s double-century inspired by poor Indian tour DUNEDIN, New Zealand (CMC) - West Indies batsman Darren Bravo has conceded that his maiden double-century against New Zealand was inspired by a less-than-impressive tour of India and a promise he made to opener Kieran Powell. He was dismissed for a career-best 218 on the fifth morning of the Test. His unbeaten 210 overnight anchored the Windies to 443 for six in their second innings at the close on the fourth day at University Oval for a lead of 47.

Darren Bravo raises his bat after reaching 200 on the fourth day in the Dunedin Test.

South Africa, India go ahead with one-day cricket series (REUTERS) - The second one-day international between South Africa and India will go ahead in Durban tomorrow and will be marked by a tribute to former president Nelson Mandela. Cricket South Africa confirmed the fixture would be played after discussions with the government following Mandela’s death on Thursday at the age of 95. “We have taken this decision in consultation with Sport and Recreation South Africa,” CSA chief executive Haroon Lorgat said in a statement yesterday. “We will, of course, appropriately mark the passing away of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the father of our nation and one of the world’s greatest icons.” Soccer and golf had already stated they would go ahead with their programmes. The League Cup soccer final between Orlando Pirates and Platinum Stars will take place this evening after an emergency meeting of stakeholders. The local Premier Soccer League also confirmed that all other matches in the top two tiers would be played as scheduled, though none will be staged on the day of Mandela’s funeral on December 15. The Nedbank Golf Challenge continued yesterday as large crowds turned out at the Sun City course with spectators in sombre mood along the fairways and greens.

“ I re m e m b e r t e l l i n g (teammate) Kieran Powell that I’m going to score a double hundred in New Zealand and I just backed myself,” said Bravo. “I knew I was going to have a special innings in New Zealand.” The 24-year-old left-handed batsman, whose previous highest score in 26 Tests was 195 against Bangladesh two years ago, in Mirpur, put behind the patchy form from the preceding tour of India and fulfilled his rich talent

with a near 9½-hour innings of supreme class. “I didn’t really perform well on our preceding trip in India,” said Bravo. “But I was spending some time, like an hour, hour-and-ahalf at the crease, but I wasn’t scoring big runs.” Bravo admitted to a bit of nerves when he moved to 199 and was kept waiting a few balls to cross the 200-run threshold. He eventually steered leg-spinner Ish Sodhi to third man for two and became the

seventh West Indies batsman to collect a double hundred against New Zealand in a Test. “While the bowler was running up and all the spectators were clapping. There was a little bit of nerves, but I didn’t want to do anything rash. I knew a single would be right around the corner,” said Bravo. “It was a great feeling. It’s one of my most special moments and hopefully, on Saturday (today), I can continue from where I left off. I set myself to bat out the day.”

Mandela key to ushering South Africa back to global stage By Mark Gleeson CAPE TOWN, South Africa (Reuters) - While the world mourns his death, Nelson Mandela will also be celebrated as the man at the heart of South Africa’s return to world competition after decades of Apartheid-enforced isolation, using sport as a means of reconciliation between the country’s diverse racial groups. Mandela, who died aged 95 on Thursday, trumpeted an early return to international participation, encouraged South African sporting personalities and significantly saved the Springbok emblem, putting a firm lid on a contentious debate His presence at key contests at which South African teams triumphed led to the concept of ‘Madiba magic’, a play on his clan name and the awe-inspiring effect he produced. Sport had been targeted

Evergreen Nelson Mandela presents the Webb Ellis trophy to 1995 South Africa captain Francois Pienaar. for sanctions during the counwas released from his long Games and various World try’s Apartheid rule, leading Cups and an almost complete to bans from the Olympic please see page 35 isolation by the time Mandela

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