Guyana chronicle 16 12 13 by Chronicle

GUYANA No. 103682

MONDAY DECEMBER 16, 2013

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Finance Minister acted in accordance with constitution Page 2

-in restoring expenditures for NCN, GINA-AG

Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh

CJIA modernisation project continues on schedule 2 Page

Hope Canal completion now slated for February 2014 Centre

President joins East Coast senior citizens in Christmas celebration Centre

Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy

Health Ministry salutes voluntary blood donorsÂ Page 3

President Donald Ramotar being greeted by senior citizens at Mon Repos

New rice export Stewartville being sought man murdered, markets -with consistently increasing production house ransacked Two fatalities in separate 8 - in second home 8 Centre

Page

Murdered: Jamaludin Sattar

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invasion this year

incidents under investigations

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Finance Minister acted in accordance with constitution -in restoring expenditures for NCN, GINA-AG

THE threat by the political opposition to move to the courts, following the decision of the Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh to approve monies for state entities National Communications Network (NCN) and the Government Information Agency (GINA), may be in vain. Clearing the air on the issue, Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall said that the budgets of the two entities which were cut to $1 each by the parliamentary opposition were restored by his Cabinet colleague in accordance with the law. “I suppose they can attempt to initiate proceedings they feel may be appropriate, but it will be unsuccessful.” Nandlall said the same constitutional mechanism was used by the Finance Minister in 2012 after government was faced with

the same challenge by the opposition. “The Finance Minister utilised the very mechanism and restored the monies which were cut, and presented the same Financial Statement of Excesses to the National Assembly as is required of him by article 318 of the Constitution. They would have some type of impact on the financial accounting record of the country and those who are trained in that area have to deal with that, but speaking as Attorney General and as a lawyer, legally, the minister acted in compliance with the constitution of Guyana, and lawfully,” he stated. “My interpretation and the minister’s interpretation of Article 318, accord with the interpretation of that article by the Honourable Chief Justice of the country in the budget cut case in his preliminary ruling. Recall he handed down an 18- page ruling in which he

Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh detailed a whole host of legal issues and detailed his opinion in the form of a ruling of those issues,” the AG stated. He added that many of those issues involved included an interpretation of various provisions of the Constitution and article 318 fell to be interpreted by the Chief Justice in his analysis. This interpretation of the Constitution, he said, “is consistent with my interpretation of the Constitution and Dr. Ashni Singh’s interpretation of the Constitution.” The move by Dr Singh to submit Financial Papers to the National Assembly, detailing expenditures for the two state entities was met with opposition by APNU and AFC parliamentarians. The Attorney General is adamant that his Cabinet colleague acted in accordance with accepted parliamentary norms, and procedures and the Constitution. “One set of Financial Papers was Statement of Excesses and the other set was Applications for Supplementary Provisions. The Constitution of our country which is the supreme law, allows for monies to be accessed via the National Assembly in a variety of ways. You can do so at the beginning of the financial year by the presentation of what is called the National Budget which is accompanied by an Appropriation Act, and that is the main method by which the government obtains money to be spent.” The Attorney General noted that Minister Singh is not empowered to just take money and spend, he has to comply with the law, and the National Assembly has a role to play in approving these monies which are required to be spent. “There are many occasions that will arise which will prove that what has been budgeted is insufficient… in such a situation the constitution of our country provides two additional mechanisms that is, after the Appropriation Act for the Minister of Finance to access monies from the treasury. The Minister of Finance can, if he forms the opinion that there has been insufficient money budgeted or for whatever reason the monies budgeted were spent, and the need still exists for additional monies to be spent on any given matter, he can do one of two things. Firstly, he can go to the National Assembly with a supplementary application requisitioning the Parliament’s approval for a given sum of money for a stated purpose.” The second mechanism he said is that, “The Constitution expressly allows him to, in those very circumstances, to expend monies, and then as soon as it is reasonably possible, thereafter present to the National Assembly Statement of Excesses showing the monies which have been spent and the purpose for which they have been spent, and seeking what would then be, the ex - post approval of the National Assembly pursuant to Article 317 of the Constitution and that is what the Minister of Finance did. A final ruling on the legality of the cuts to the 2012 National Budget is expected on December 19, 2013 in the High Court. (GINA)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

CJIA modernisation project continues on schedule

THE US$138M Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) modernisation project continues on schedule, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ramesh Ghir says. This is despite the fact that the joint-Opposition, last Thursday opposed a $65.4M allocation included in a Statement of Excess, a financial paper tabled by Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh. Given that the minister acted in accordance with the Constitution and the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act, the opposition’s non-approval, post-expenditure, did not affect the allocation. The project faced similar opposition when the 2013 budget was cut, but in mid-September this year, Chairman of the CJIA Board, Ramesh Dookhoo, said the modernisation project is being propelled by a US$20M mobilisation advance made under the 2012 budget. To date, according to Ghir, the contractor is on site and excavation works are being executed at the end of the runway. “Concurrently we are also reviewing the design for the terminal building,” he said. The CEO added that the tender process, having recently concluded, is in the evaluation stage and the appointment of a consultant to work with the contractor is expected to be made soon. He stated that there are no challenges being dealt with currently, maintaining that works are progressing smoothly. Under the project, a new, modern terminal building would be constructed with the runway extended to accommodate larger, wide-body planes. Government has signed a design and build contract to the tune of US$138M with China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) which has 32 months to complete the project. The project is being partially funded by a US$130M loan from China with the rest coming from the national treasury. (Vanessa Narine)

Ron Robinson and Leo Sawh each achieved voluntary donations of over 100 units of blood to the National Blood Transfusion Service

Health Ministry salutes voluntary blood donors

MORE than 20 individuals along with collaborators were saluted by the Ministry of Health on Friday evening for their contribution towards voluntary blood donation to the public health sector. Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, in his address to the donors observed that it was only through their contributions that the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) achieved a total of 10,014 units of blood by August 31 this year. He noted that this achievement is equivalent to 92% voluntary non-remunerated blood donations. Dr Ramsaran expressed his happiness that the ministry is not on its own in this regard and that the civic duty of voluntary blood donation has caught on.

He commended the staff of the NBTS for their hard work and dedication in office and during their field trips. Pointing out the cooperation between 70 large corporations and the NBTS, the minister noted that the target achieved by the NBTS was made through hard work and investment. “This achievement is being used for creating a catalyst for better collection in the future,” Ramsaran said. Noting that less blood has been discarded, he said that this was the result of the investment of improved leadership at the NBTS and its new head Dr. Nadia Liu. Ramsaran also pointed to the ready availability of blood which enables lives to be saved from road accidents and ensur-

ing of safe motherhood. The Health Minister urged the donors to spread the message of voluntary donation, since the intention is to achieve 100% voluntary blood donations in the near future. Persons who were awarded are Leo Sawh and Ron Robinson, who each achieved donations of over 100 units and Mohan Gobin who donated more than 54 units. Six persons donated over 30 units while 12 donated over 20 units each. Collaborators who were awarded for assisting were the Arya Samaj movement, Marian Academy,the Ministry of Education,the Seventh Day Adventist Church,the Guyana Red Cross and the Saraswatie Vidya Niketan School. (GINA)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

South Africa buries ‘greatest son’ Mandela

Peter O’Toole of Lawrence of Arabia fame

Peter O’Toole, Lawrence of Arabia star, dies aged 81 (BBC News) Actor Peter O’Toole, who starred in Sir David Lean’s 1962 film classic Lawrence of Arabia, died on Saturday aged 81, his agent has said. He was being treated at London’s Wellington hospital after a long illness, his agent added. O’Toole’s daughter Kate said the family was overwhelmed “by the outpouring of real love and affection being expressed towards him and to us”. He received an honorary Oscar in 2003, having initially turned it down. In a letter the actor asked the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to delay it until he was 80, saying he was “still in the game and might win the bugger outright”. But when he finally clasped his statuette, he said: “Always a bridesmaid, never a bride, my foot.” O’Toole’s agent said he was “one of a kind in the very best sense and a giant in his field”. Film critic Barry Norman described him as a “true movie star”, who had “tremendous charisma”. The Irish President, Michael D Higgins, said Ireland, and the world, had lost “one of the giants of film and theatre”. Prime Minister David Cameron said: “My thoughts are with Peter O’Toole’s family and friends. His performance in my favourite film, Lawrence of Arabia, was stunning.”

(Reuters) - South Africa buried Nelson Mandela on Sunday, leaving the multi-racial democracy he founded without its living inspiration and still striving for the “Rainbow Nation” ideal of shared prosperity he had dreamed of. The Nobel peace laureate, who was held in apartheid prisons for 27 years before emerging to preach forgiveness and reconciliation, was laid to rest at his ancestral home in Qunu after a send-off combining military pomp with the traditional rites of his Xhosa abaThembu clan. As the coffin was lowered into the wreath-ringed grave, three army helicopters flew over bearing the South African flag on weighted cables, a poignant echo of the anti-apartheid leader’s inauguration as the nation’s first black president nearly two decades ago. A battery fired a 21-gun salute, the booms reverberating around the rolling hills of the Eastern Cape, before five fighter jets flying low in formation roared over the valley. “Yours was truly a long walk to freedom, and now you have achieved the ultimate freedom in the bosom of your

maker,” armed forces Chaplain General Monwabisi Jamangile said at the grave site, where three of Mandela’s children already lie. Among the 450 mourners at the private burial ceremony were relatives, political leaders and foreign guests including Britain’s Prince Charles, Amer-

ican civil rights activist Reverend Jesse Jackson and talk show host Oprah Winfrey. Mandela died aged 95 in Johannesburg on December 5, plunging his 52 million countrymen and women and millions more around the world into grief, and triggering more than a week of official memorials to

one of the towering figures of the 20th century. Over 100,000 people paid their respects in person at Mandela’s lying in state at Pretoria’s Union Buildings, where he was sworn in as president in 1994, an event that brought the curtain down on more than three centuries of white domination.

The coffin of former South African President Nelson Mandela is prepared to be buried during his funeral ceremony in Qunu, Eastern Cape in this December 15, 2013 handout picture provided by the South African Government Communication and Information System (GCIS). Credit: Reuters/Elmond Jiyane/GCIS/Handout via Reuters

Syrian helicopter bomb raids kill 36 in Aleppo: monitor (Reuters) - Thirty-six people, nearly half of them children, were killed on Sunday when Syrian army helicopters dropped improvised “barrel bombs” on the disputed northern city of Aleppo, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Video uploaded by local activists showed a fire in a narrow street covered in debris and dust after one air raid in the Karam el-Beik district. Another

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showed blackened and twisted wreckage of a vehicle at a busy roundabout. The Britain-based Observatory said at least 15 of the casualties on Sunday were children. Barrel bombs are explosive-filled cylinders or oil barrels, often rolled out of the back of helicopters with little attempt at striking a particular target but capable of causing widespread casualties and significant damage.

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President Bashar al-Assad’s forces, battling rebels in a 2-1/2 year conflict that has killed more than 100,000 people, frequently deploy air power and artillery against rebel-held districts across the country. They have been unable to recapture eastern and central parts of Aleppo, which rebels stormed in the summer of 2012, but they have driven rebel fighters back from towns to the southeast of the city in recent

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weeks. Backed by Lebanese Hezbollah guerrillas and Iraqi Shi’ite fighters, they have also consolidated Assad’s control over the capital Damascus and the main highway north to the central city of Homs, despite counter attacks by the Sunni rebels, who include many foreign jihadi fighters. (Writing by Dominic Evans; Editing by Alison Williams)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

A city under siege - 12 killed as new Ex-president wave of criminality rocks MoBay Michelle Bachelet wins Chile poll run-off

Adrian Frater, News Editor

(Sunday Gleaner) Residents cower in the wake of the latest violence, which is reminding them of several similar periods of bloodletting they had to endure in the past decade. Twelve persons’ lives have been snuffed out by ruthless criminals in several incidents, including a triple murder and two double murders in the past week. In the latest incident, a 36-year-old woman, Monique Watson of Rose Heights in St James, was shot and killed by a gunman who reportedly walked into her hairdressing parlour and shot her at point-blank range. That followed 15 minutes of raw brutality last Wednesday morning, when four persons were slaughtered gangland-style in two incidents in North Gully, downtown Montego Bay, and Hibiscus Drive, Norwood. That bloody onslaught evoked memories of the period in 2006 when the notorious Stonecrusher gang came to the fore, pushing the parish’s murder count for a single year past the 100 mark - a dubious record that has since become the norm. In the current bloody siege, the body count is now at 151, eight more than the corresponding period last year. MOTHER, SON SHOT In the first of the two incidents last Wednesday morning, heavily armed thugs kicked open the door of a house in North Gully and opened fire. One man was shot dead at the scene, and a mother and her son hit several times in a hail of bullets. The son, identified as 20-year-old Romario Haughton, succumbed to his injuries after being taken to hospital. His mother was treated and released. In the morning’s second incident, gunmen invaded a house on Hibiscus Drive in Norwood, and opened fire on the occupants.

Policemen making their way to a crime scene along Union Street in Montego Bay.

(BBC News) Left-wing candidate Michelle Bachelet has been elected Chilean president for a second time, with her run-off rival conceding based on partial results. With nearly 90% of the vote counted, Ms Bachelet had 62% to 38% for Evelyn Matthei, a former minister from the ruling centre-right coalition. Ms Bachelet first served as president in 2006-10, after which she was obliged by electoral laws to stand down. She narrowly missed out on outright victory in the first round last month. Turnout in Sunday’s election to replace President Sebastian Pinera appears to have been lower than expected. The lower house of congress and half the senate were

Brazil World Cup 2014: Worker dies in stadium fall (BBC News) A worker has been killed in Brazil after falling from the roof of a

stadium being built in the Amazon region for the 2014 football World Cup.

Marcleudo de Melo Ferreira, 22, died in hospital in Manaus after falling nearly

The stadium will host England’s opening match of the 2014 World Cup

35m (115ft). Hours later, another worker died of a heart attack at a nearby site. His family said he was overworked. The builders’ union is discussing whether to strike over working conditions. Several construction workers have now died at venues connected with the World Cup as Brazil rushes to complete its stadiums on schedule. Two were killed in an accident on 27 November when a crane fell and destroyed parts of Sao Paulo’s Arena Corinthians, which will host the opening game on 12 June.

also being elected. ‘Radical’ manifesto A paediatrician by training, Ms Bachelet, 62, won 47% of the vote in the first round on 17 November. Ms Matthei secured 25%. Ms Bachelet leads an alliance of her Socialist Party, Christian Democrats and Communists and has campaigned on

Michelle Bachelet policies designed to reduce the gap between rich and poor. Chile is one of the richest countries in Latin America, but millions have staged protests over the past few years to push for a wider distribution of wealth and better education. Ms Bachelet wants to increase taxes to offer free university education and reform political and economic structures dating from the dictatorship of Gen Pinochet, who ruled from 1973 to 1990. Her manifesto this time is much more radical than before, the BBC’s Gideon Long in Santiago reports. Ms Bachelet was constitutionally barred from serving a second successive term but was very popular when she left office.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

GUYANA

India joins the world in mourning for Mandela EDITORIAL

A comprehensive solution to bus fare structures urgently needed GUYANA’s public transportation woes began with the scrapping of the railway by the PNC government and today we are severely reeling from that terrible mistake. This was followed by the introduction of a poorly managed and administered state-owned bus service, which obviously did not survive and then came the chaotic, unregulated and exploitative mini-bus service. With a rapid increase in the volume of commuters across the country, the exploitation of commuters by mini-bus operators has increased. This is in addition to the chaotic, hazardous and congestive traffic situation. However, one of the recurring and nagging problems that has been affecting commuters is the mini-bus fare structures, and of course the overloading of buses which has become an integral part of the mini-bus culture. As regards the latter, commuters are advised to stand their ground, but those who gave this advice seem to have forgotten the elderly commuter who lost his life earlier this year after he stood up for his rights, which resulted in a confrontation with a conductor. Those who gave this advice are clearly not aware of the verbal and sometimes physical assaults which commuters undergo daily when they stand up for their rights. On the issue of fare structures, this has been a perpetual problem because there is not any definitive law(s) or regulations governing fare structures. And so Route 32 mini-bus operators have unilaterally and unjustifiably hiked their fares by as much as $40, in a calculatingly well-timed move, similar to that of a chess grandmaster as they know it is the festive season and commuters in their haste to do their business will pay up unhesitatingly. The alternative is the use of taxis which is unaffordable by most people who use mini-buses. Acting Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Mr. Irfaan Ali, in an invited comment correctly declared that the fare increase is unjustified. “There is no way the Route 32 drivers can, unilaterally, decide to increase fares,” he emphasised. He said the ministry has a standing agreement with the Minibus Association, which states, clearly, that, in the absence of increases in fuel prices, there cannot be a rise in fares. Ali said: “There has been no communication from anyone regarding any concerns that can justify the increases. There is no justification for this. “The situation with fares has been continuously monitored and, to date, given that gas prices have remained under a certain price, there cannot be any increases in fares,” he added. The minister’s pronouncement on the hike being unjustified is well known. The issue is that commuters are reeling under the unilaterally increased fares without getting any satisfaction or protection from anyone, especially workers and students who have to commute almost on a daily basis. The salaries some workers earn in some cases could hardly sustain their travelling expenses. On the issue of a standing agreement with the Minibus Association, which states clearly that in the absence of increases in fuel prices, there cannot be a raise in fares it is true, but the big question is that this agreement is not legally binding. It is a morally binding one and everyone knows that most mini-bus operators are most unscrupulous and unprincipled and therefore they will never be expected to abide by such an agreement. The minister has also indicated that an advisory will be issued after which the situation will be monitored and the police will be

AS in Guyana, the Indian media have been carrying glowing tributes on the anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela from Indian politicians as well as intellectuals at the universities (I spoke at Indira Gandhi University), and the common man. India declared five days of mourning as a mark of respect to the South African leader’s legacy. The Indian President, Leader of the ruling alliance, the Opposition Leader, and head of the left went to the state funeral. The relationship between India and Mandela has been long and enduring. Mandela maintained contact with India while he was in prison for 27 years and after he was freed. Apartheid was abolished in 1990, and a post-apartheid nation held its first multiracial elections in 1994, overwhelmingly voting for Mandela as the country’s first black president. In gleaming through the Indian media, Mandela is referred to as a giant and the politicians call him a great friend. Indian intellectuals I interacted with view him as a source of inspiration for future generations. These glowing tributes came in because Mandela touched the lives of the Indian people in deep, personal ways as no other Black leader did in any part of the globe. He deeply admired and respected Indians worldwide for standing with the anti-apartheid movement. Many recall Mandela with fondness the few times he visited India before, during and after he became president. Commoners know him as first elected black president expressing respect for his role in fighting racism and for also opposing and condemning those who organised attacks on Indians in South Africa. There are over one million people of Indian descent in South Africa and Mandela rallied to their protection when their homes were invaded and they were beaten and robbed. Mandela reminded the anti-Indian racist attackers that Indians were also victims of the apartheid system and that many Indians fought apartheid alongside him and many went to jail serving lengthy jail sentences as he. Mandela’s lawyers were Indians and his Attorney General after winning the presidency was his Indian lawyer who served time in jail fighting apartheid. It was not surprising, therefore, that all the Indian newspapers carried editorials saluting the iconic figure. Mandela is only one of two foreigners (Mother Theresa is the other one but she had acquired Indian citizenship and was given a state funeral when she died) who was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in honour of his contribution to the friendship between South Africa and India. When Mandela was freed from prison, India was the first foreign country he visited as a gesture for India’s unswerving support to the anti-apartheid struggle and the financial contributions to the movement. India gave tens of millions of dollars to the anti-apartheid movement and the front line countries threatened by the racist White government. When other African governments failed to back India for a UN Security Council seat in 1997, supporting Japan instead because of the greater financial assistance they obtained from Japan, then President Mandela rallied with India out of principle, expressing gratitude to India for its consistent support. asked to enforce the approved fare structures. Here again the issue of legality arises, because under what law (s)/regulations can they charged and brought before the courts? In fact, commuters have told this newspaper that some of the minibus operators have told them that the police have advised them to print and display the new fare structures and that would be alright. In any case, when the advisory is issued, inevitably the minibus operators will go on strike leaving hapless commuters stranded with no alternative. This proposed action by the ministry would perhaps bring a temporary solution to the problem, but it has been and will continue to be a perpetual problem until and unless a comprehensive and permanent fare structure solution is formulated through legally enforceable and implanted means. One way to go is to bring the operations of minibuses under the auspices of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). What also has to be done is that the government has to re-introduce a big-bus service during peak hours, because that is when these unscrupulous and ruthless mini-bus operators exploit commuters the most. And of course the minibus operators do this because they enjoy a monopoly on road transportation. The re-introduction of big buses on a limited scale will break that monopoly. The working class and the poorer sections of society need to be protected from these vultures in our midst.

In his condolence message on Mandela’s passing, President Pranab Mukherjee, who was Foreign Minister when Mandela was President, said: “Mandela was a statesman, world leader and icon of inspiration of humanity. He was a great friend of India and his contribution for strengthening the close ties between our two countries will be always remembered”. The India media quoted Vice President Hamid Ansari, as describing Mandela as the “greatest personalities of our times who represented the best of human spirit values”. He added: “While his courage, determination and sacrifice inspired millions of people during the anti-apartheid movement, his message of peace, forgiveness and reconciliation thereafter, united them and led the rainbow nation on the path to peace and progress. His life and message of courage and goodness would continue to inspire and guide all of us around the world in the years ahead”. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh stated Mandela’s passing was “as much India’s loss as South Africa’s. He was a true Gandhian. His life and work will remain a source of eternal inspiration for generations to come. I join all those who are praying for his soul”. The opposition prime ministerial candidate for the BJP, Shri Narendra Modi, the most popular political figure in India as I found in my surveys, associates Mandela with Mahatma Gandhi as Manmohan also did. Modi tweeted in the social media: “Mandela’s struggle against apartheid featured several South Africans of Indian origin; he later appointed several South African Indians to his cabinet after becoming President in 1994”. Modi said he deeply admired Mandela “for his remarkable, lifelong contributions to the promotion of freedom, democracy, justice, human rights and reconciliation.” Modi stated: “Many of us are not fortunate to see Gandhiji alive. We are blessed to see the life of Nelson Mandela, who embodied his values & ideals”. The newly elected Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Vasundhara Raje, said “in Mandela’s passing, the world has lost a great leader, but most importantly, a beautiful soul”. The Indian Parliament suspended business last Friday to allow M.Ps to pay tribute to the great leader. Many recalled meeting the South African leader and visiting the prison where Mandela served time. Senior BJP Leader L.K Advani referred to Mandela as a great leader and the father of a free South Africa, who inspired his nation. Many M.Ps compared Mandela in the mold of Gandhi who had supported inclusive governance. Mandela was a great admirer of Gandhi and even delivered a feature at a conference on the great Mahatma in Durban when he was president. As the Indian media, politicians and people asserted, Mandela would long be an inspiration to all of humanity because of his selfless struggle for racial equality and freedom. VISHNU BISRAM

Derrick Josiah was an accomplished, committed trainer THERE will be many tributes on the death of Assistant Commissioner, Derrick Josiah. Mr Josiah was involved in a training programme which was designed for the police and others to intervene in domestic violence. He was an accomplished and committed trainer and remained concerned about how the police dealt with cases of domestic violence and child abuse. This concern continued even as he assumed different responsibilities. The evidence of this concern is his presentation in the Help & Shelter video : Break the silence, Stop the Violence. The Guyana Police Force and the government, in tribute to the memory of Mr Josiah, should consolidate on all the recommendations made to ensure that the police have a consistent and high-quality response to reports of domestic violence and child abuse. VIDYARATHA KISSOON

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Assistant Commissioner Josiah was an extraordinary person ON behalf of the Board of Directors, executives and members of The Humanitarian Mission of New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir, Inc. its Guyana and Toronto Chapter, we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family, his fellow law-enforcement comrades on the passing of Assistant Commissioner Derrick Josiah. His demise was received with great sadness. However, all is not lost. I had the opportunity in meeting with him while he was stationed in Berbice, as commander. There isn’t much we can say or do to ease the pain of separation from his dear family members, his law-enforcement comrades and all those whom he had a relationship with. However, please take comfort in knowing that our prayers and thoughts are with his entire family and friends during this very difficult time. We recognise that there is much pain involved in letting go of someone so dear to them and so loved by them all. We encourage them to surrender

N.C.P.E, C.P.O.G extend condolences on the death of Assistant Commissioner Josiah THE National Community Policing Execu t i v e s ( N . C . P. E . ) a n d the Community Policing Organisation of Guyana (C.P.O.G.) extends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the late Assistant Commissioner of Police and Commander of “A” Division Mr Deryck Josiah, who died at the Woodlands Hospital on Friday November 13, 2013. We also mourn the occurrence of this sad and unexpected happening and stand in solidarity with the Guyana Police Force in continuing to offer motivational and moral support to see that the desired work performance level is attained from the “A” Division Christmas Plan so recently launched by this diligent and astute policing stalwart. May His soul rest in peace! EDWARD A PERSAUD Public Relations Officer N.C.P.E

their pains to the feet of God Almighty, knowing that God is capable of and will remove the pain of separation. So let’s celebrate his life and legacy in a meaningful way. He has touched the lives of many with his profession, kindness and compassion. Additionally, be assured in knowing that God loves them. He is holding out His arms to comfort each of them

at this critical juncture of their lives, and that our collective prayers to God will strengthen their hearts to find the solace they truly deserve for him being such a compassionate and caring person, especially to his family, friends and all those who he has touched with his genuine love. “Not how did he die, but how did he live - Not what did he gain, but what did he give.” He was one of those extraordinary people who will never be forgotten in a lifetime. His life was like a sun-

beam that lit up the world around him, his family and friends. Now that he is not physically here with us, we can bask in the rainbow of his loving memories that will live forever in our hearts. “Death ends a relationship, but not love.” No, it won’t be the same without him by any means, but we will go on as best as we can and look forward to the day we will meet him again in eternity. We shower his entire family, friends and his law-enforcement comrades with our prayers and trust each of them will draw strength from God, their many spiritual friends and family who want to help you through this very difficult time. We may not ever understand why he died. For many years he took good care of everyone. It was so tough to stay so strong, the road he travelled hard and long. But now he has gone to walk a beat on some goldpaved heavenly street. The angels will rest well forever and we will take comfort together. Lay down your burdens one by one - the time for healing has begun. In memory we love you still and you know that we always will Derrick. PANDIT SURESH SUGRIM

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Stewartville man murdered, house ransacked - in second home invasion this year

By Michel Outridge FORMER planter at Uitvlugt Estate, West Coast Demerara, Jamaludin Sattar, 56, who was also an ex-soldier, was found murdered in his Stewartville home early yesterday morning. His reputed wife, Genevieve Hartman, 62, a security guard attached to the Ministry of Agriculture at Den Amstel, said that she left home on Saturday at about 06:30hrs for work leaving her husband home alone. She returned home at 07:00hrs on Sunday morning and opened the front door to the building via the lower flat and found her husband’s lifeless body near the stairway by the kitchen. The grieving woman said that when she first returned home from work she called out to her spouse as usual but after getting no response she decided to open the padlock to the door. She related sadly that his face was covered and he was motionless while his head was bashed in and his jersey was covered in blood. She then ran out of the house screaming and alerted neighbours. Hartman explained that she was not sure what the killer(s) were after in the home but the entire house from the lower flat to the upper flat was ransacked, suggesting that they had spent a lot of time inside the building. She said too that when she entered the house she saw the back door ajar. This is the second break and enter and robbery at the Lot 28 Middle Street, Stewartville residence this year. About two months ago the home was broken into and jewellery and money which they had stored in the building were stolen. It is believed that the intruders gained entry to the upper flat of the house by using a wooden bench to scale the window on the eastern side and then they entered the upper flat of the house and burglarised the place of valuables. Hartman said that her reputed husband was an ex-soldier and worked Monday to Friday and he was at home alone. She feels that her reputed Murdered: Jamaludin Sattar husband was killed during the home invasion.

Sattar has a child from a previous relationship and leaves behind siblings and scores of relatives. Relatives of the deceased said, yesterday, that they believe that several drug addicts (junkies) who roam the village committed the crime although neighbours in the populated street did not hear or see anything since they said it was raining heavily. Police reported that at about 07:30hrs yesterday the body of Jamaludin Sattar was found in his home with suspected marks of violence to his head and the home was found ransacked. The police are awaiting the results of the post-mortem examination as investigations continue.

Genevieve Hartman, the grieving reputed wife.

Two fatalities in separate incidents under investigations

INVESTIGATIONS are being conducted into a fatal accident that occurred at about 05:30 hrs, yesterday, on the main road at Foulis, West Coast Berbice, and which resulted in the death of motorist Trevon Jamal Wilson, 22 years. Investigations have revealed that Trevon Wilson was driving motor car PRR 3473, accompanied by Almond Smith and Earl Miller, 25 years, both of Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, when he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a utility pole. They all received injuries and were taken to the Mahaicony Hospital where Trevon Wilson was pronounced dead on arrival. Almond Smith was admitted for medical treatment, while Earl Miller was treated and sent away. Meanwhile, investigations are also being conducted into the circumstances surrounding the death of miner Terrence France of Oronoque, Port Kaituma, North West District, whose body was found with several suspected chop wounds at about 06: 00 hrs, yesterday, in a mining pit at 8-Mile Backdam, Port Kaituma. The body is at the Port Kaituma Hospital Mortuary awaiting post mortem.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana

Donald Ramotar: A great human being and one of the greatest leaders Guyana has ever produced U NCLE Donald as he is fondly referred to by many is much more than a President, he is a leader; one whose present contribution and legacy will continue to inspire countless generations in the future. I’m confident that in time, Old Kai’s views will be vindicated. You see, in order for you to be a good Head of State, you must first have the ability to be a good leader. The internationally recognised Forbes Magazine lists 10 character traits which make a good leader and in each and every single one of them, Mr Ramotar scores high. These include: Honesty, Ability to Delegate, Communication, Sense of Humour, Confidence, Commitment, Positive Attitude, Creativity, Intuition and Ability to Inspire. It is that last one which is the reason this column is dedicated to Uncle Donald today. Old Kai could be Donald’s uncle with all my years ahead of him but that’s the ability of the man, he inspires both the young and the old. Picking up the Chronicle on Sunday morning to begin my reading with a hot cup of Chai, an image of President Ramotar and the ever hard working Minister Robeson Benn wading through floodwaters caught my attention. It was not the fact of what they were doing in inspecting the areas affected by floodwaters in the city but more importantly, it was where. South Ruimveldt, is a known opposition stronghold and obviously they would have known beforehand that the reception they would have received might have been a bit cold from some when one considers the years of the opposition feeding their supporters a diet of hate and misinformation about PPP leaders

and the government. Never mind that the cause of these people’s plight is their very leaders from the opposition who relaxed in the Georgetown City Council and have done absolutely nothing to prevent flooding in Georgetown. Yet, they went in there because that is what great leaders do; they look out for the interest of each and every single citizen irrespective of where their political loyalty lies. Donald could have been doing many other things at that very moment, but he chose to be with the people affected in Ruimveldt. He wants to alleviate their suffering but they have to understand that they also have a role to play. If for over 20 years, their leaders whom they voted for and placed to control their affairs in City Hall have ignored their concerns but only come around when its election time with words and laying blame elsewhere, when they are the ones ultimately entrusted with the responsibility of managing the affairs of Georgetown; then it is time to let APNU and Hammie know that GGG means: Go Green Go! This is what inspired Old Kai. While I was relaxing in the comfort of my home, dry and warm, enjoying my tea; Donald and his Ministers were out in the cold, getting soaked by the rain, walking through floodwaters, taking ‘lil’ cussing, meeting and greeting, listening to concerns and coming up with strategies to stop the flooding. Boy, it is hard being a leader! That is what makes him so special, even in all that he still maintains a positive attitude, still committed to all his people, honest with them about the reality,

confident enough to go anywhere and still be himself, never pretending but always clear in his communication about his vision for our country and people and ultimately, always maintaining that sense of humour even in the most trying of circumstances, which has been a hallmark of his character and has served to inspire so many to follow in his footsteps. All this we get from a one single image, yet on any given day, Uncle Donald is out and about, travelling the length and breadth of this nation, interacting with our people, working with them to overcome their challenges. In economics, they teach you that resources are scarce and our wants are infinite which ultimately means that all our problems could never possibly be solved. Yet, President Ramotar and his government have been trying relentlessly to maximize their limited resources to deliver as much as they can to our people. It is important that this be contrasted with the fact that at every single turn, our political opposition has been waiting in the dark to sabotage those efforts. But surely as the old saying goes, ‘what is done in the dark must come to light’ our people are gradually beginning to see who genuinely have their concerns at heart. While the opposition talk about ‘calling for no peace’ and ‘collateral damage’; President Donald Ramotar and his team have been calling for ‘unity’ and ‘working together to overcome our challenges’. There is a clear line of distinction and you have to decide where you stand as it will ultimately determine what kind of future you want your children to grow up in.

196 graduate from BIT programme in Region 5 THE Board of Industri al Training (BIT) is continuing to empower Guyanese through programmes a d m i n i s t e re d a n d d e l i v ered through its National Training Project for Youth Empowerment ((NTPYE) and Single Parents’ programme. One hundred and ninety-six persons from Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice) on Thursday graduated after completing training administered by BIT at a ceremony held at Hurricane Harbour. A total of 144 persons graduated under the NTPYE, while 52 women graduated from the single parents’ programme. Among the NTPYE graduates were 21 engineers, and 10 welders, while 38 persons received certificates after completing training in health services and 42 in the area of Home Economics. Permanent Secret a ry within the Public Service Ministry, Hydar Ally, said BIT must be applauded for its key responsibility of facilitating fundamental training in the area of technical and vocational proficiency. “Not many countries in the world are offering these kinds of opportunities, and I think the government and the board must be commended for this initiative,” the permanent secretary added. The value of the programme cannot be overstated, considering its mandate of empowering young men, women and single parents by creating opportunities through techni-

BIT graduates with Region 5 Chairman Bindrabhan Bisnauth, CEO of the Board of Industrial Training, Maria Khelawan, and Permanent Secretary of the Public Service Ministry, Hydar Ally cal and vocational training. Ally noted that government’s drive to ensure all Guyanese are Information and Communication Technology inclined, forms part of the administration’s vision of enhancing the lives of Guyanese. Despite the tremendous success of the programme since its beginning in 2005, the subject of gender imbalance remains an issue since almost 100% of the participants of the single parents’ programme are women. This however, is testimony to the success of the programme’s mandate of empowering women and encouraging

entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, Region 5 Chairman Bindrabhan Bisnauth commended the graduands, while citing the tremendous economic benefits of the initiative. He also highlighted the critical responsibility of the initiative in reducing unemployment, while at the same time contributing to national development. BIT, since its inception, has trained 8,869 in over 50 technical and vocational skill areas. Recently, graduation exercises were also held at Leonora, Bartica, Linden and Essequibo. (GINA)

Police shoot drunken miner, seize unlicensed shotgun A DRUNKEN gold miner, who allegedly went berserk, was reportedly shot and injured by police in the North West District and the unlicensed shotgun seized, according to police reports. Police said that about 23:45 hrs last Saturday they responded to a report that a man was at the Kumaka Waterfront discharging rounds from a firearm and threatening to kill persons. Upon arrival the policeman, who was armed with his service revolver, saw the miner identified as Randy Edwards, 27 years, of Yarakita, North West District, who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol, in a shop armed with an unlicensed shotgun. The policeman confronted Edwards in efforts to retrieve the firearm and to arrest him, and a struggle ensued between them during which the miner was shot and injured to his back, police sources said. The miner has been referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) after receiving initial medical treatment at the Mabaruma Hospital.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Central Demerara Lions Club hosts Christmas party for East Bank special needs children

By Tash Van Doimen THE Lions Club of Central Demerara hosted its annual Christmas party for special needs children Sunday afternoon at the Special Needs School in Diamond, East Bank Demerara. The Annual Special Needs Christmas party, which is one of the Central Demerara Club’s signature projects, is meant to spread cheer to the special needs children of the East Bank Demerara in the season of sharing and giving. According to president of the club, Lionel Chinian, “This is just a regular children’s Christmas party with dancing, goodie bags and gifts. However, it’s for children with special needs which makes it so much more special seeing their faces light up with joy.” The club catered for approximately 86 children as well as the teachers of the Special Needs School in Diamond. Everyone was entertained with music, dancing, food, drinks, goodie bags and gifts from Santa Claus. Annie Rooplall, the secretary of the Lion’s Club Central Demerara told the Guyana Chronicle that, “It’s a party intent on making the special needs children of the school happy for the season; a season that all children should enjoy and cherish.” This Lions club has been hosting a Christmas party for the children of the East Bank Demerara communities annually for several years. However, about nine years ago they decided to split the party, hosting a separate one for the special needs children of the area. Mr. Chinian and Ms. Rooplall were joined by other Lions club members at the Christmas party, including past president Wes Davis, Dwarka Singh and Annand Surijpaul.

Children at the party pose for a picture with Lionel Chinian, Annie Rooplall and Wes Davis

Global cancer cases reach 14 million, World Health Organization says By James Gallagher Health and science reporter, BBC News

THE number of people being diagnosed with cancer in the world each year has leaped to more than 14 million, the World Health Organization says. The data for 2012 shows a marked rise on the 12.7 million cases in 2008. In that time the number of deaths has also increased, from 7.6 million to 8.2 million. The rising burden of cancer is being driven by a rapid shift in lifestyles in the developing world to more closely reflect industrialised countries. Rising rates of smoking and obesity as well as people living longer are contributing to the rise. Lung cancer, which is mainly caused by smoking, was the most common cancer globally, with 1.8 million cases - about 13% of the total. The WHO also described a “sharp rise” in cases of breast cancer. Both the incidence and mortality have increased since 2008. The disease in now the most common cancer in women in 140 countries.

Eight CSOs receive $63M in UNDP grants

By Clifford Stanley

EIGHT local Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have been awarded grants totalling some $63M for environmental and livelihood benefits to communities under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)/ Global Environment Facility (GEF), Small Grants Programme.(SGP). The GEF SGP provides grants directly to CSOs, including Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to design and implement projects that will bring environmental and livelihood benefits to communities. Mr Ian Kissoon, GEF Small Grants Programme National Coordinator disclosed that priority is given to poor and vulnerable communities in the GEF focal areas of Biodiversity Conservation, Climate Change Mitigation,Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) and Prevention of Land Degradation, Reduction and/or Elimination of Persistent Organic Pollutants (Chemicals) and Protection of International Waters. In addition, the UNDP said SGP seeks to generate sustainable livelihoods, reduce poverty, and create community empowerment. The beneficiaries were members of the North Rupununi District Development Board, ( NRDDB) the Rupununi Conservation Society (RCS) , Global Youth Movement-Guyana, (GYM-G) South Central People’s Development Association (SCPDA) , Kanuku Mountains Community Representative Group, (KMCRG) Guyana Agriculture Producer’s Association (GAPA) Guyanese Women in Development (GYWID) and the Aishalton Village Council (AVC) The sums obtained ranged from $10M GDs to $1M.GD . Of the beneficiaries for example, the NRDDB will receive the sum of $9.8M GDs to strengthen their capacity to support local implementation of fisheries monitoring and management in the North Rupununi Wetlands This project is intended to develop the capacities of 16 Amerindian communities to manage the Arapaima fish and fisheries of the North Rupununi via capacity building, arapaima surveys, conservation education and awareness, consultations and development of management plans The South Rupununi Conservation Society is expected to train Ranger-Researchers in the South Rupununi, in collaboration with the “Ongoing Protection of Red Siskins in South Rupununi” CLP Project This project, the UNDP said, with $6.8M GD funding seeks to protect the Red Siskin bird through capacity development of individuals from the six Amerindian communities where the bird exists in the areas of bird research, tour guiding , ranger training/monitoring, and conservation awareness. Other projects being funded include a Community Health, Environment and Recycling Project in Region 5 (Mahaica /Berbice) , one for building climate change resilience amongst the 21 communities of the KMCRG, for safeguarding Katoonarib’s bush island forests through savannah farming in Region 9 , reducing deforestation in Aishalton Village in Region 9 (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo) through savannah farming and a community Led Mangrove Restoration project :Towards Sustainable Management of Guyana’s Mangrove Forest in Region 5 and Region 6 (East Berbice/Corentyne) Funding is also being provided for capacity building among poor, rural and vulnerable vegetable farmers , in Region 2 (Pomeroon/Supenaam) Region 3, (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara) Region 4 (Demerara/Mahaica) and Regions 5 and 6 by providing training and setting up demonstration facilities in Hydroponics and Grow Box/ Shade Houses. The SGP, funded by GEF, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and executed by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) was established in Guyana last year. The projects that were awarded SGP grants in 2013 were introduced during a ceremony at Cara Lodge last week.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

CCI embarks on new initiatives to obtain recyclable cardboard waste

By Clifford Stanley LOCAL company Caribbean Containers Inc. (CCI) has said that it is embarking on new initiatives to expand its purchasing of cardboard waste for recycling, moreso in the context of current solid waste disposal and management problems affecting communities. The CCI, located at Farm, East Bank Demerara, recycles old corrugated cartons (OCC) often discarded as waste to make bio-degradable boxes and packages for a multiplicity of purposes, including commercial packaging, fresh food and fast food boxes, seafood and office packages. The cardboard waste is responsible for producing 80% of the paper utilised in the making of corrugated packaging in the CCI box plant

facility. The company sells these environmentally friendly products across Guyana and the Caribbean. Ms. Patricia Bacchus of CCI said that recycling is a key component of modern waste reduction. She said that the CCI, formerly known as SAPIL, collects approximately 100 tonnes of cardboard waste and bond paper which is white ledger paper or office paper. “Because we are not getting enough supplies locally, we have had to resort to importing solid waste from other countries. We import waste from Trinidad and Suriname and we actually pay a lot of money for this,” she said. She said that based on trade information on items coming into the country, that is packaged using corrugated boxes, the company feels that

it is collecting only about a quarter to a third of what is actually available for recycling. She pointed out that Guyana does not have a plan which compels business people and households to sort out garbage

to 75% of its requirements being satisfied locally; with a very small supplement from Trinidad or Suriname. She said that, that would lower the company’s cost of production drastically and the

in order to make it easier to retrieve recyclable materials. This, she said, is impairing the ability of the company to acquire more needed cardboard waste. She said that the CCI has the capacity to recycle an additional 12,000 tonnes per year and added that if the system of sorting is established, possibly by law, the company can look

company will then be able to pay more for cardboard waste for the benefit of generators of such waste and the environment. She disclosed that the current purchasing arrangement is that CCI gets supplies from locals who would pick up

Four-lane expansion projects moving apace -despite weather, materials challenge

THE dismal weather conditions over the past weeks and delays in the supply of materials have presented challenges to contractors working on the four-lane expansion projects on the East Bank and East Coast of Demerara. However, Chief Roads and Bridges Officer of the Public Works Ministry, Ron Rahaman, told the Guyana Chronicle that works are progressing, nonetheless. According to him, works on the East Bank of Demerara are approximately 40 per cent complete. The East Bank four-lane project is divided into three lots. The first is being done by Dipcon Engineering; lot two by General Earth Movers in association with Geico Construction and General Construction Services; and lot three is being done by BK International. Rahaman pointed out that since the contracts for works on the East Coast of Demerara, which got underway earlier this year, were awarded differently, works are at different stages for different sections of the roadway. “For Lots One and Two, works are about 70 per cent complete and for Lots Three, Four and Five we are looking at 75 per cent completion. Works on Lot Six are about 80 per cent complete,” he said. Lots One, Two and Five are the responsibility of Dipcon Engineering Services Ltd, although Falcon Engineering Services was initially tasked with Lot One. However, Falcon’s $468 million contract was terminated after engineers from the Works Ministry found that the contracting firm was behind schedule and was allegedly carrying out substandard work. Lots three and four are being undertaken by Courtney Benn Contracting Service. Salba Engineering is responsible for works on Lot Six. Completion of all road works is slated for 2014. (Vanessa Narine)

OCCs from around the commercial areas around Georgetown and also from companies which generate large quantities of OCCs; for example Banks DIH; Demerara Distilleries Limited (DDL) and the New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (New GPC). She said that in terms of encouraging an increase in supplies in 2014, CCI wants to set up collection centres in Georgetown, Linden ,Parika, New Amsterdam and Skeldon and other outlying areas where there is a great deal of commercial activity in order to make it easier for persons to support recycling.. She said that the CCI has applied to the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development for small plots of land in targeted outlying

areas that can accommodate a container which would make it easier for businessmen, residents and otherwise unemployed persons to sell their cardboard waste. “We want to get going but we would first need the lands to be identified and allocated and so we are waiting for the responses from government agencies, to whom we have submitted these proposals,” she said. She said that the CCI has also submitted proposals to the City Council to help it retrieve cardboard waste and paper waste from the market places and so help to acquire supplies, help people to make some cash and reduce the pressure on the landfill all at the same time.

Ali assures: adequate chicken supply for Xmas ACTING Tourism, Industry and Commerce(TIC) Minister, Irfaan Ali, has given the assurance that consumers will not have issues with high prices for chicken during the Christmas season. He said last week that there is unlikely to be a shortage or significant increase in prices during the season. He said: “We have constant supply of poultry. There is no shortage on the market. Based on the projections, we are in a situation where demand and supply is[sic] meeting each other nicely.” The TIC Ministry through its Consumer Affairs Division monitors the prices for poultry on the local market.

During September last the ministry had granted 18 licences which are valid up to

in short supply on the local market. The licences had been is-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Aries March 21 - April 19

Still chatting away? Dashing around and having fun? Bet you are. The good news is that it’s officially time to play. Now you can do it with a clear conscience. Get yourself dressed, get out there and enjoy the company of dear ones you haven’t seen in far too long. With the heavens as full as they are of spontaneous, impetuous energies, you’d better not take the night off. What if you missed something?

Taurus April 20 - May 20

Your work week looks to be starting on a terrific note, and it’s all because of you. You’ve been hitting it hard for a while now, doing your job and someone else’s, too -- at least one someone else, if not more. But now, finally, the recognition you deserve is en route. Don’t worry if it doesn’t happen immediately. It’s in the works. The higher-ups have been watching you, and they’re well pleased. Stick out that chest!

Gemini May 21 - June 21

You’ve had your suspicions for some time, and now you’ve got more. What you’re wondering about isn’t a bad thing, however -- you have the feeling that someone is planning something delightful for you, and you’re probably right. Just don’t do anything to ruin the surprise. This has probably been some time in the making, and it may not quite be ready for you. Sit tight, and keep quiet. You’ll be glad you did when you see what’s going on. January 2014 for importation of chicken which had been

sued only for the quantity that both the poultry association and the ministry assessed to be the gap in the market at that time. Minister Ally said that this strategy has been vindicated.

Cancer June 22 - July 22

If you’re not in the mood to hit the town and whoop it up, then you’re not going to be much fun doing it, are you? This is the logic you should use when you tell your friends that they should count you out of the latest big social scheme. You’re feeling more introspective right now, and the idea of going out and making small talk with strangers is not striking you as the recipe for a good time. You need to do what you want, not what they want you to do.

Leo July 23 - August 22

That ordinarily charming way you have with words will be even more lethal now, so you should definitely be careful about flinging those casual comments around. You might think you’re kidding around -- not really flirting, just teasing a little. But to them, you may be the best thing that’s come their way since ice cream. Think before you speak, even if you’re just being nice. This stuff you’re putting out is easier to turn on than to shut off. CHANNEL 11

For Monday December 16,2013 -14:30hrs For Tuesday December 17,2013 -05:00hrs For Wednesday December 18,2013 -05:00hrs

05:00 Inspiration 05:30 Newtown Gospel 06:30 BBC 07:00 Guyana Today 08:00 A Tribute to Mandela (r/b) 09:00 Stop the Suffering 09:30 Cartoon 10:00 Food Networks 11:00 History 12:00 CNN 12:30 NCN Newsbreak 12:35 Political Scope (r/b) 13:00 The Beauty of Christmas 14:00 NCN Newsbreak 14:05 Movie – Home Alone -4 16:00 NCN Newsbreak 16:05 Debate Series on Corruption 17:00 NCN Live with Wanita 18:00 NCN News Magazine – Live 18:30 Political Scope 19:00 Al Jazeera 19:30 GGMC Science & Technology Quiz 20:00 3d/daily millions/play de dream/lotto draw 20:10 NCLO/Nipping it in the Bud 21:05 NCN Night of Carolling (r/b) 22:00 NCN Late Edition 22:35 Caribbean Newsline 23:00 Matrix.com 23:00 Movie

GUIDE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE

Virgo August 23 - September 22

Did you wake up in the mood to spend some money on either your home or your family? Well, whether you’re redecorating, adding a room or a wing or just planning a surprise for a dear one, you’ll want to do it up right. That’s fine, but don’t spend what you can’t afford. Remember, it’s the thought behind what you do -- not the price tag -- that counts. You can make a place beautiful or a moment special without breaking the bank.

Libra September 23 - October 22

You’re so darned happy you’re bubbling over. It’s a wonderful feeling, but if it’s because you’re in love, try to go easy on the rest of the world. You know how irritating it is to hear about the love of someone’s life over and over again? You know how you just want to stuff a sock in their mouth when they keep bringing the conversation back to their wonderful sweetheart over and over again? Right. That could be you if you’re not careful.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21

You’ve been far too good for far too long. Ever since the holidays, you’ve probably been watching every penny. So isn’t it time to stop being quite so neurotic about your budget and have some fun? Sure it is. Start tonight. Call the dearest of your dear ones and suggest going out. It doesn’t have to involve a limo or a bottle of Dom Perignon. Just do something that’s fun -- something outside the house.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21

You’ve never been one to refuse playtime, have you? And you’ve been good for ages -extra good, in fact. You’re probably thinking about treating yourself to something extra special to celebrate, like maybe a little trip. Even if it’s just a day trip, or an overnighter with friends, you really should let go and just do it. Nothing makes you happier than a change of scenery. So go. You’ve earned it.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

For days you’ve been dreaming about your spare time and spending it all alone at your place. Well, that’s a nice dream, but it’s not going to happen. When you least expect it -- shortly before quitting time -- you’ll get your second wind. So now what? Do you call everyone you turned down and say you changed your mind, or stay in because you said you would? Duh -- get the phone. They’ll only snicker for a second. Then they’ll be so glad to see you it won’t matter.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18

You’ve been meeting some really interesting people lately -- for the last two months, in fact. And that roll you’re on isn’t going anywhere just yet. Someone who’s recently been introduced to you by a friend may turn out to play a major part in your life, starting as soon as today. You might end up travelling with them, taking a class together or joining a group you’ve been curious about. Do something different.

Pisces February 19 - March 20

Making someone’s day has always been one of your favourite things to do, and you’ll have your chance to do it again now. A certain person who really needs a break and a smile will come your way. The good news is that without them even having to mention it, you’ll be able to use those ultra-sensitive antennae of yours to figure out exactly what they need, and of course you’ll provide it.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

New Markaz al Ihsaan Guyana branch opened on WCD

-classes for certificate in Islamic education started

By Tash Van Doimen THE Guyana branch of the Markaz Al Ihsaan of Trinidad and Tobago opened its doors for the first time last Saturday morning at the Anna Catherina Islamic Complex (ACIC), West Coast Demerara. Inaugural classes for the certificate in Islamic education course began Saturday morning at the Markaz Al Ihsaan - a theological institute to provide quality higher Islamic education from the fundamentals of Islam to the tertiary level. At a Mawlid programme held last month at the ACIC, Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall stated, “I hope that the branch of the Islamic school soon to be opened at ACIC will serve this country well.” The school offers three levels of courses - the certificate course, a one-year course designed to make the participants aware of all that is required to be an enlightened, practising Muslim; the diploma course, a one-year course open to students who have successfully completed the certificate course;

and the Aalim course, a threeyear course which enables the participants to become qualified in Islamic theology, (Aalim). In the areas of specialised subjects on contemporary issues, Markaz al Ihsaan also offers special subjects to each student, such as comparative religion, public speaking, Islamic sociology, Qur’anic psychology, Qur’anic philosophy, leadership courses and religious sects in Islam. Prospective students must meet the admission age and other requirements, as a limited number of persons will be trained at one time. All course material, including books and the like, will be provided free of charge by the Markaz. On a recent visit to Guyana last month, world renowned Muslim scholar, Maulana Dr. Hisham Kabbani, officially unveiled a plaque to establish the Guyana branch of the prestigious institution. Markaz al Ihsaan was originally established in 2000 and offers courses in some of the specialised areas of Islamic knowledge. Registration forms

BBCI celebrates five years of continuous, reliable service - provides dinner and gifts to Canaan Children’s Home

THE Berbice Bridge Company (BBCI) in celebrating five years of continuous and reliable service to the people of Guyana, provided dinner and handed over toys and gifts to the children of the Canaan Children’s Home on December 11, 2013. The company said in a press statement that it was privileged to have the opportunity to make this donation to the Canaan Children’s Home, as part of BBCI’s fifth anniversary celebrations and its calendar of activities for the festive season. Meanwhile, the company said it will continue to sponsor other events according to the availability of funds, and will be looking at a wider cross-section of sports, other charitable, non-charitable, government and non-government areas, inclusive of entertainment opportunities. The BBCI noted also that it not only collects tolls and facilitate vehicles crossing the Berbice River Bridge and vessels transiting through the retractor opening and under the high span, but also discharges its corporate responsibilities. More importantly, it has played an integral part in the development of education, sports, supported national events and made donations to charitable and non–charitable organisations. In the past the company has sponsored many events that benefited the communities, both on the eastern and western side of the Berbice River Bridge. And this year, 2013, the BBCI has so far received 101 public relations requests and managed to approve 94 of these, related to sponsorship of events such as Mashramani 2013, horse racing, donations of trophies to various non-profit and educational institutions, facilitated school tours and waived toll charges for tour buses. The company has also sponsored cricket tournaments, including donations to the Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice) cricket tournament and religious organisations, among others. The company has also sponsored events in other counties and as far as the hinterland.

are available at the ACIC and all courses are open to both males and females. Dedicated to training Muslim leaders, Imams and scholars for the Guyanese M u s l i m c o m m u n i t y, t h e Markaz al Ihsaan Guyana branch will offer free accommodation at ACIC for male students who live out of town. For more information contact ACIC on 276-0029, 276-0232, 269-0210, 693-6540 or 6284179.

Renowned Muslim scholar Shaikh Hisham, Maulana Waffee, the Imam Raffik representative of Trinidad and the President General of ACIC, Hakeem Khan, unveiling the plaque.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Hope Canal completio slated for February By Vanessa Narine

HOPE CANAL

THE completion of the Hope Canal will now go into the first quarter of next year due to challenges with the fourth component of the project-the Hope Canal’s outfall sluice, the eightgate sluice at the canal’s Atlantic end. Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, said the construction firm, Courtney Benn Contracting Services, has agreed to a six-tranche plan to ensure completion. “A mechanism is in place to ensure that works are completed and by February 2014 the bulk of the work should be done,” he said. The minister also made it clear that, in view of the fact that it was made clear that works going over the December 31 deadline will not be tolerated the liquidated damages clause will be enforced come January 2014. “We will deliver, a little later, but we will deliver and within cost,” Ramsammy stressed. He acknowledged that contractors faced genuine challenges in the construction process. “We have worked with them and they have worked with us to ensure we have completion. What we saw were genuine difficulties and it is important to note that this was a massive project that was taken on by local contractors and will be completed by local contractors,” Ramsammy explained According to him, termination of the contract with Courtney Benn Contracting Services would not be feasible, particularly considering that the challenges were genuine and a new tendering process will take longer than the three-month extension. Ramsammy said: “The work we are seeing is quality work, but difficulties caused the work to lag...it should be noted though that the project will be completed within cost. “What the public should know is that we took on a difficult project and during the project difficulties came up, but despite this its completion is within sight.” He noted that work on the other three components will be completed, save for work on the 10-kilometre channel from the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) and the conservancy head regulator – works that require the outfall sluice to be completed before they can be finished. He said the work on the channel is about 75 per cent complete, the head regulator about 80 per cent complete and the bridge stands at 96 per cent completion. “Mr. Dip Singh, of Dip Con, the contractor doing the bridge, is prepared to hand over the bridge to us on December 20 for commissioning,” he said. Construction on the project began in February 2011 with an estimated 18 months for completion, and the deadline for the project was initially set for June of this year, but was subsequently extended to the end of August,

Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy then again extended to December 31 and now to the first quarter of 2014. FLOODING CONCERNS Responding to concerns of possible flooding in the Mahaica/Mahaicony/Abary (MMA) area, Ramsammy gave the assurance that efforts are being taken to minimise this possibility. When the US$15M Hope Canal project was taken on, the expectation was the alleviation of flooding in the MMA areas during rainy periods. In the past, the Maduni sluice had to be opened to drain the East Demerara Water Conservancy when heavy rains caused it to overtop and residents in the MMA area had to battle a rise in the Mahaica Creek, making completion of the Hope Canal something that is greatly desired. “The hope is that we don’t have to open neither the Maduni nor Lama sluices,” Ramsammy

President jo citizens in C

IT was a happy day on Saturday for scores of senior citizens of Mon Repos and neighbouring communities on the East Coast of Demerara, as they were feted and provided with hampers in the true spirit of goodwill, which is associated with the Christmas season. President Donald Ramotar joined the celebration at the Mon Repos Community Centre where he was eagerly greeted by the gathering, comprising mostly former sugar workers. He extended season’s greeting to them and even joined in carol singing. President Ramotar reminded them of the numerous developments that have occurred since the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) government took office to improve t meagre $211 but today they take hom electricity. President Ramotar also mentione sectors, such as the school-feeding pr housing drive which has seen over 1 young people. Present at the event also were M Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, an

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

on now New rice export markets being sought 2014 By Vanessa Narine

said. He pointed out that in the current rainy season Guyana is experiencing, the month of November was listed as the month with the highest level of rainfall so far and due to interventions, the Maduni and Lama sluices did not have to be opened. On that note, the minister referenced the 2013 budget cuts and bemoaned the fact that the allocation for the Cunha sluice was cut. “The Hope Canal was designed to work with Cunha….this is why when the budget was cut, so was Cunha, and in doing so we put lives and livelihoods at risk,” Ramsammy said. The minister explained that the Cunha Canal plays a very significant role as it relates to the effective functioning of the Hope Canal, since the latter is highly dependent on the former, if it is to carry out its expected tasks. He noted that even after the restoration of the sluice in 2005, he said Cunha was only working at about 40 percent of its original capacity before it was filled in, and as such operations were not optimal. In light of this reduced capacity, the minister said some areas are highly dependent on the Maduni Sluice and Lama Conservancy, which still leaves several areas vulnerable to flooding. “The situation at hand now is that even with Hope there is a risk of flooding in the MMA areas,” he said. Ramsammy stressed that the Hope Canal was designed to reduce dependency on Lama and Maduni, but to do so effectively it will depend on the Cunha sluice. Considering the importance of Cunha, he stated that support from the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF) will allow works to continue. The necessary feasibility studies are currently ongoing.

RICE production to date stands at over 532,000 tonnes, far above the original target 413,031 tonnes for 2013, and Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy told the Guyana Chronicle that consequently, new export markets are being explored. According to him, a threepronged approach is being taken to increase exports in the sector: increasing market share in countries that have agreements with Guyana; re-entering old markets where the country once had a meaningful presence; and securing new markets. “I am currently talking to several countries,” he said, declining to name them as negotiations are still at an early stage. Ramsammy added that efforts are under way to have Venezuela, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, as well as countries in Europe, review existing agreements for paddy and rice exports. He explained that the Caribbean countries and Venezuela currently import rice from other countries, in addition to Guyana, and there is an opportunity to secure greater shares in these existing markets. On the matter of re-entering old markets, he said: “Countries like Cuba and Haiti used to account for exports between 30,000 and 40,000 tonnes of rice. We had a meaningful presence in those markets.” Ramsammy pointed out that in the case of Haiti, since the earthquake that devastated the nation’s capital, much of the rice entering the country was in the form of aid, but with the country in a position to purchase rice, Guyana can take advantage of this market. He added that in 2006, Haitian national, Saj-Steven Angele Jeff Khauly, began operating a mill, Saj Rice Mill

oins East Coast senior Christmas celebration

y f g f d e -

r n e r s n

d s President Donald Ramotar being greeted by senior s citizens at Mon Repos ) the standard of living of all Guyanese. In 1992, pensioners were paid a me $12,500 and also benefit from the annual subsidy for water and now

ed some of the other developments in the health, education and housing rogramme, improved health infrastructure and services and government’s 100,000 house lots distributed to citizens with a drastic increase among

Minister of Home Affairs and PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee, nd Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony. (GINA)

in Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice), under a 10-year lease; an undertaking that facilitated trade to the country. Earlier this year, the facility was upgraded with new equipment and a new generator system, among others. The company has indicated its interest in extending its lease to 20 years. “There are opportunities that we can take advantage of,” the minister said. Another area in which Guyana can make strides to increase exports in the rice sector, according to him, is the promotion of private sector to private sector agreements. “Getting the private sector

-with consistently increasing production

itself connected with private sectors in other countries can boost our exports,” Ramsammy said. He maintained that the consistent improvements in the sector are encouraging and bodes well for advances on different fronts. This year’s production reflects an increase of over 25 per cent compared to production in 2012. In 2011, the rice sector surpassed the 400,000-tonne mark for the first time in history and in 2012 it did so again, going over the 2011 production level.

RICE BEING LOADED FOR EXPORT

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Heavy rain results in minor flooding in some areas

By Vanessa Narine

HEAVY rain continued for the most part of yesterday morning following heavy showers seen from late Friday night, but according to reports up to press time while the showers affected most of the coastland, there was only minor flooding in some communities. According to a report from the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority(NDIA, the break in the weather, yesterday afternoon, allowed for flood waters and high waters in drainage systems to recede in the affected areas in Regions 2(Pomeroon/Supenaam), 3(Es-

sequibo Islands/West Demerara) and 4(Demerara/Mahaica). The report noted that both residential and agricultural areas were affected, but all affected areas and drainage infrastructure along the coast are being closely monitored. REGION 2 Reports of high waters were received from Westbury to Somerset, as well as in Anna Regina, Windsor Castle, Three Friends, Main Canal, Pomeroon River and the upper reaches of Supenaam. However, the build-up of water completely receded by the end of the afternoon.

The report noted that the NDIA completed dredging of Anna Regina, Andrews, Lima, Hampton Court and Windsor Castle outfall channels, and high waters continue to recede by sluices and pumps in the affected areas.

- NDIA relief works ongoing

REGION 3 Flooding in low-lying residential areas in Patentia and other nearby villages was reported. Also, minor flooding in the farming areas - Bagotsville, Good Hope and Tennis Farm in Canal Number 1 and some parts of Canal Number 2, as well as Ruby and Parika was reported. However, with dredging completed at Windsor Forest and Blankenburg, and pumps and sluices in operation, the water receded by the end of the afternoon. REGION 4 In Georgetown, while high waters were recorded in the drainage system â&#x20AC;&#x201C; resulting in minor flooding in South Georgetown and East and West Ruimveldt, flood waters receded by the end of the day. The City Engineerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Department reported that four pumps assisted in draining water into the Demerara River and all drainage pumps at Liliendaal and Kitty are operable. Buxton, Vigilance and some residential areas along the Railway embankment, the south section from Success and Foulis, reported minor flooding. Farming areas in Greenfield, Beehive, Clonbrook to Two Friends also made similar reports. Minor flooding in sections of residential areas of Cane Ville, Little Diamond and to a lesser extent Herstelling, was also reported. However, reports at the end of the afternoon were that the flood and other high waters in affected areas receded after being pumped from Liliendaal to Unity. There were no reports of flooding in Regions 5 (Ma-

haica/Berbice) and 10 (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice), while Region 6 (East Berbice/ Corentyne) saw minor flooding at Mara. NORMAL LEVELS Up to press time, the water level in the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) was recorded at 57.5 Georgetown Datum (GD), within the average range of 50GD and 58GD. According to the NDIA report, excess water from the EDWC is being discharged into the Demerara River at Land of Canaan and will be continued via the Cunha Sluice, in the evening, during the low tide. The report added, that buttressing of the embankment and cleaning of internal waterways are ongoing. The levels at the Boerasire Water Conservancy and the Mahaica/Mahaicony/Abary (MMA) Water Conservancy were reported to be normal. The Hydromet Office has advised that the forecast commencing 19:00 hrs, yesterday, a forecast valid for the next 12 hours indicates: cloudy to overcast conditions with light to moderate occasional showers expected over Regions 1 to 5, 7 and 10, while elsewhere mainly cloudy conditions are expected with light scattered showers. Rainfall is expected to range between 5.0 to 35.0 millimeters for the next 12 hours.

Georgetown/ Vreed-en-Hoop passenger boats to operate at nights until 20:00 hrs-MARAD THE Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has given approval for the small passenger boats operating between Georgetown and Vreed-en-Hoop to operate at nights until 20:00 hrs with effect from December 1, 2013. All of the vessels that are operating during this period were re-inspected and are equipped with all the required navigation lights and the necessary equipment to operate at nights. Lights have also been installed at both terminals to further enhance the safety and security of persons using this service. MARAD is continuously monitoring this situation with the view of a thorough evaluation early in the New Year. The Guyana Police Force, also, is playing an integral part in this exercise to assist in the maintenance of law and order.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Ninvalle charges GBA officials to do more and give 110% in 2014

-Khan and Eastman named Best Boxers By Calvin Roberts PRESIDENT of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle, yesterday, said if he was to grade the work of his fellow administrators of the sport at the amateur level, he would give them a C, since he felt they could have done far more than what was achieved in 2013. Ninvalle was at the time, delivering brief remarks prior

to the presentation of awards, when the GBA hosted for the first time, an awards ceremony in seven years at the Andrew ‘Six Heads’ Lewis Gym in Albouystown, which Ninvalle described as the home of amateur boxing in Guyana. “First of all, let me start by saying ‘Charity begins at home” and having said that I wish to point out that we decided to host this awards ceremony here today, since this gym is known as the home of amateur boxing in Guyana. Over the past year, we were able to achieve much, undertaking to run off 13 tournaments, which we did. But if I was to give the GBA a grade for the work done in 2013, it would be a C, since I felt we as an Association could have done more,” said Ninvalle. He added, “Come 2014, I think it is only right that we have zero tolerance as it relates to what we plan to achieve, how we plan to achieve it and the way we take to achieve it. I say this because many times we have set out to achieve things and during the course of that

Racing Tips ENGLISH Plumpton 08:10 hrs Minority Interest 09:15 hrs Call The Cops 09:45 hrs Itoldyou 10:20 hrs Absolute Shambles 10:55 hrs Goring Two 11:30 hrs Our Phylli Vera WOLVERHAMPTON 09:55 hrs Aldwick Bay 10:30 hrs Matraash 11:05 hrs Montjess 11:40 hrs Jazzy Lady 12:10 hrs Power Up 12:40 hrs Severiano 13:10 hrs Heezararity SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Clairwood 08:10 hrs Sparkling Mood 08:45 hrs Hard Rock 09:25 hrs Red Rosette 10:05 hrs Devon Gold 10:40 hrs Resolution 11:10 hrs Umleeu AMERICAN RACING TIPS Philadelphia Park Race 1 Starry Storm Race 2 Bugsky Race 3 Mission Doll Race 4 Alluring Lady Race 5 Major Highway Race 6 Jaguar King Race 7 Golden Punch Race 8 Tanivan Race 9 The Great Milenko

journey for one reason or the other, we ran out of fuel and it is not right.” Ninvalle reminded his executives that being elected as a body to oversee an Association means they are tasked with running that entity effectively and it is not right for them not to give 110% to the respective Association. “NO, I have not seen 110% during the course of 2013 from my fellow executives of the GBA. So come 2014, my charge to the executives along with the officials and boxers, we will have to work harder, more harder to bring success to the sport,” stated Ninvalle. He said the GBA, through the kind compliments of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), has extended to and received confirmation from Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, to send a team to Guyana during month of February for a Goodwill championship. “We’ve asked them because

of the fact that we believe it is important that our boxers have as much international competition as possible. We cannot be in Guyana fighting amongst ourselves all the time and expect to get better, that cannot happen. “In this regard, I have spoken to the president of the GOA who asked us to submit a proposal to host this competition here in February and the three invitees have agreed positively to come on board as well with us.” “In addition, January 14th 2014 would see the return of James Beckles from the International Amateur Boxing Association (AIBA), who has been constantly changing their rules of the sport, here to Guyana to conduct a four day workshop for our referees/judges,” added Ninvalle. While he thanked the officials/judges for their tangible support during 2013, he told the boxers present that the GBA will be having more competitions for them in 2014, including at the international level, to aid with their development.

“Rest your mind assured, we will have much more encampment for you next year. First of all, there is the South American Games being held in Chile in March from 14th to 18th 2014 and we expect to commence the encampment period for that in January.” Ninvalle took the time to thank the sponsors who partnered with the GBA, whose Technical Director Terrence Poole said, they had set out to at the start of 2013 and successfully completed the 13 championships, including three GBA/Pepsi/Gatorade Under-16 tournaments which culminated yesterday and they are looking to do the same and even more next year. Demerara Distillers Limited Larry Wills was on hand to present a few of the awards to the respective recipients and prior to doing so, said his Company was pleased to be associated with the GBA in the three tournaments this year and hopefully will look to have an added one next year. Meanwhile, Imran ‘Magic’ Khan and Jamal Eastman were

named the Best Senior and Junior Boxer respectively, and Michael April the Best Youth Boxer at the Awards ceremony, with Khan and Eastman receiving trophies that were donated by the US based Seon Bristol. Also receiving accolades were Jermaine Craig (Best Referee/Judge), George Moore (Most Discipline Referee/ Judge), Wincell Thomas (Best Coach), Kaieteur News’ Michael Benjamin (Best Journalist), Essequibo Boxing Gym (Most Discipline) and Harpy Eagles and Guyana Defence Force, Best Junior and Senior Gyms respectively. GBA’s Novices, Intermediate and Open Championships winner Desmond Amsterdam was named the Most Improved Boxer, while the Association handed plaques of recognition to Ninvalle, GOA, Siebert Blake, GDF, Guyana Police Force, Guyana Prisons Service, National Sports Commission and Guyana Boxing Board of Control, for their contributions to the sport.

High fives as Suarez and Liverpool run riot at Spurs By Justin Palmer LONDON-(Reuters) - Irrepressible Luis Suarez scored twice in Liverpool’s 5-0 rout of 10-man Tottenham Hotspur yesterdayy that suggested the former aristocrats of English football may have the pizzazz and swagger to end their long wait for a league title. Champions Manchester United ended a poor run of results with a comfortable 3-0 win at Aston Villa but it was Suarez who made all the headlines. FINRevelling in the role of captain in Steven Gerrard’s absence through injury, the Uruguayan produced another virtuoso display which put Liverpool above Chelsea into second place on goal difference, two points behind leaders Arsenal who have 35 from 16 games. Suarez began the season late after serving the end of a ban but the striker has made up for lost time - his 16th and 17th Premier League goals more than powderpuff Spurs and nine other top-flight teams have managed. “It was a brilliant allround performance. The players worked tirelessly. The level of football was superb,” enthused Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers. “We got five goals and arguably we could have had seven or eight. That’s the beauty of team, it has goals in it. “We spoke before game that were missing outstanding

players in Steven Gerrard and Daniel Sturridge but I said winning teams support each other. We’ve shown it’s the team that is most important for us.” Liverpool have not been crowned champions since 1990 and trips to Manchester City and Chelsea this month could go a long way to revealing whether

score the fourth and provided the cross for Raheem Sterling to ice the cake with a late fifth. Spurs remained seventh and manager Andre Villas-Boas shrugged when questioned about whether his job was safe. “I don’t need to convince anyone. Our run is magnificent in the other competitions but not

Liverpool’s Luis Suarez celebrates after scoring a goal during their Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane in London, yesterday.. Credit: Reuters/Toby Melville the Anfield club have the stamiin the Premier League,” he said. na and class for a sustained title “Regarding my position, it challenge. is not for me to decide. I can Suarez, flourishing without only work to make things better. injured partner Sturridge alongRARE START side him, netted an 18th-minute England striker Danny Welopener with a precise finish into beck made the most of a rare the bottom corner. start for Manchester United with Philippe Coutinho struck the a first-half double at Villa as the bar but Jordan Henderson added champions ended a run of four a second five minutes before Premier League games without halftime after Hugo Lloris had victory. palmed away a Suarez shot. Welbeck, recalled in place Spurs then capitulated to of the injured Robin van Persie, their worst home defeat in 16 struck twice in three minutes years after Brazil international for United who moved up one Paulinho was shown a straight spot to eighth, 10 points behind red card for catching Suarez in Arsenal. the chest with a high foot. United had suffered sucSuarez crossed for young cessive home defeats by Everdefender Jon Flanagan to net his ton and Newcastle United first Liverpool goal, he lifted the which followed draws at Carball over an outrushing Lloris to diff City and Tottenham but

they outclassed the hosts and made the game safe when Tom Cleverley struck on 52 minutes. “It was a good job from us. The players did well and the only thing I would criticise is that we didn’t score more goals,” United manager David Moyes told Sky Sports. “We were a bit sloppy in the first five minutes but after that played really well.” United received another boost when Scotland international midfielder Darren Fletcher, battling a chronic bowel condition, came off the bench for his first appearance for nearly a year. Villa, who began brightly but carried little threat once they had fallen behind, have won just one of their last 36 Premier League games against United. Nathan Dyer scored for Swansea City but suffered a suspected fractured right ankle in the 1-1 draw at Norwich City. Dyer flicked past John Ruddy on 12 minutes but was carried off on a stretcher late in the first half after a challenge with Sebastien Bassong. “We have to wait a couple of days for an X-ray and a scan, and we all cross our fingers to hope it is not that bad,” said Swansea manager Michael Laudrup. “That will overshadow everything else. It is just a game of football.” Norwich earned a point thanks to Gary Hooper’s spectacular volley in first-half stoppage time.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Bowlers and Warner put Australia in charge By Nick Mulvenney PERTH, (Reuters) - David Warner punished a depleted and dispirited England with a brilliant century to help drive Australia to 235 for three and a dominant lead of 369 after the third day of the third Ashes Test yesterday. The hosts reached stumps with Shane Watson, who had made 29 not out, and Steve Smith, unbeaten on five, at the crease and looking well on their way to a victory which would secure an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. England’s hopes of keeping the series alive by avoiding defeat at the WACA had all but melted away in the fierce morning heat when they were skittled for 251 in their first innings. They plummeted even further when their best bowler Stuart Broad was taken to hospital at lunch for scans on an injured foot, which will prevent him from bowling for the remainder of the match even if he might bat again. “I don’t think we could be in a better position, that’s for sure,” said Chris Rogers, who shared an opening partnership of 157 with Warner.

“Today was an amazing day. Probably as good a day as we’ve had in the Ashes so far.” Warner took full advantage and, revelling in the lack of pressure afforded him by another superb performance by his bowlers, bludgeoned his way to his fifth Test century in 127 balls with 16 fours and one six. The 27-year-old brought up the milestone by cutting Graeme Swann for a boundary and celebrated with an extravagant leap into the air and a flurry of bat pointing towards the home dressing room. It was the opener’s second hundred of the series and a sixth by an Australian batsman to none from the tourists, whose entire team have been outscored by Warner, Michael Clarke and Brad Haddin. England, a pale imitation of the side that won the home Ashes series 3-0 earlier this year, had their chances to stop his progress but wicketkeeper Matt Prior missed two stumping opportunities when the batsman was on 13 and 89. “The heat and being so far behind, it takes its toll,” said Rogers. “It’s almost they realised perhaps that a victory is out of their grasp. From there you get a bit defensive and

someone like Davey is going to take advantage of that.” England finally had their man for 112 when Warner holed out to Ben Stokes at mid-on attempting to smash Swann for a second huge six in one over. Rogers scored his fourth Test half century at a more pedestrian pace before being caught for 54 by Michael Carberry at point off the bowling of Tim Bresnan. “He makes me look a bit stupid at times,” Rogers said of Warner. “It’s not that easy out there, so for him to be playing the way he is - I don’t think anyone can play as well as he is at the moment. “It’s unbelievable and takes the pressure off me.” MISERABLE DAY Australia captain Clarke departed for 23 as the evening shadows crept across the sunbaked ground, bowled through the gate by Stokes. The wickets were rare high points on a miserable day for England, who had resumed in the morning on 180 for four in reply to Australia’s first innings 385. It was not much of a chase, though, and they lost their last six wickets for the addition of just 71 runs as Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris and Peter Sid-

dle reprised their aggressive but disciplined pace assault. Ian Bell was out leg before for 15 from the third ball of the third over and his overnight partner Stokes followed for 18 soon afterwards to give Johnson his first victim in more than 40 overs of play. Prior (eight) was caught behind to give Siddle his second wicket and Broad (five) lasted 23 minutes before he was dismissed lbw by Johnson (2-62) with a full delivery that smacked into his boot. That dismissal took on an extra dimension after lunch when Broad failed to come out to field having been sent off to a local hospital to have an X-ray. Harris (3-48) had Bresnan caught behind for 21 to take the first wicket with the new ball and Siddle finished with 3-36 after James Anderson (two) spooned one to George Bailey at short leg to bring an end to the innings. “It’s a bad one, there’s no hiding away from that,” said Broad. “We came here this morning knowing that we had to get close to Australia, and believing we could, but losing those three wickets before the new ball was obviously very disappointing.”

Opener David Warner celebrates his hundred on the 3rd day in Perth.

SCOREBOARD AUSTRALIA first innings 385 England first innings (overnight 180-4) A. Cook c Warner b Lyon 72 M. Carberry b Harris 43 J. Root c Haddin b Watson 4 K. Pietersen c Johnson b Siddle 19 I. Bell lbw b Harris 15 B. Stokes c Haddin b Johnson 18 M. Prior c Haddin b Siddle 8 T. Bresnan c Haddin b Harris 21 S. Broad lbw b Johnson 5 G. Swann not out 19 J. Anderson c Bailey b Siddle 2 Extras (b-11, lb-7, w-5, nb-2) 25 Total (all out, 88 overs) 251 Fall of wickets: 1-85 2-90 3-136 4-146 5-190 6-198 7-207 8-229 9-233

Bowling: Harris 22-10-48-3 (nb-1), Johnson 22-7-62-2 (nb-1), Watson 12-3-48-1, Siddle 16-5-36-3 (w-5), Lyon 16-6-39-1. AUSTRALIA second innings C. Rogers c Carberry b Bresnan 54 D. Warner c Stokes b Swann 112 S. Watson not out 29 M. Clarke c Stokes 23 S. Smith not out 5 Extras (b-8, lb-4) 12 Total (for three wickets, 70 overs) 235 Still to bat: G. Bailey, B. Haddin, M. Johnson, P. Siddle, R. Harris, N. Lyon Fall of wickets: 1-157 2-183 3-223 Bowling (to date): Anderson 13-538-0, Bresnan 12-3-49-1, Stokes 14-1-65-1, Swann 23-7-51-1, Root 8-1-20-0.

Prior’s plight exemplifies England’s travails Down Under

Wicketkeeper Matt Prior missed the chance to stump David Warner on the 3rd day. By David Brett PERTH-(Reuters) - Australia wicketkeeper Brad Haddin is having an Ashes s e r i e s t o re m e m b e r b u t the contrasting fortunes

of his opposite number Matt Prior were as glaring as the Perth sunshine on day three of the third Test yesterday. Prior is enduring what can be politely described

as a torrid time in the two Ashes series against Australia this year. His batting average over the eight tests is under 20, well below his overall average which is hovering over 40.

On Sunday at the WACA h e s u ff e r e d p r o b a b l y h i s worst six hours on a cricket field since he was dropped following a problematic tour of Sri Lanka six years ago. His day began in ignominious fashion when he was out for a turgid eight, under-edging a ball to Haddin trying an injudicious pull shot. A major cog in England’s demolition of Australia on the 2010-11 Ashes tour, he is now a significant part of the all too familiar batting collapses. The latest collapse saw England lose their last six wickets for 61 runs and concede a first-innings deficit of 134 runs, which Australia pushed out to a lead of 369 by the close of play. “We obviously haven’t played the cricket we want to play, Australia have been fantastic, they’ve been aggressive and changed their fortunes around from the E n g l i s h s u m m e r, ” s a i d P r i o r ’s t e a m m a t e S t u a r t Broad, whose injury was yet another blow to the tourists on Sunday. “We obviously played some brilliant cricket six months ago. We created

a lot of pressure with the ball and got enough runs to survive. “Whereas this time around we’ve obviously lost three big tosses but haven’t been able to apply the pressure when we’ve needed to and Australia have been attacking enough to take the game away from us.” Needing quick Australian wickets yesterday, Prior spurned a golden opportunity to make early i n ro a d s w h e n h e m i s s e d the simplest of stumping chances with David Warner on 13. He also missed stumping Warner again when the belligerent batsmen was on 89 and conceded eight byes through his legs. Warner was finally out for 112. He was one half of a guilty party when England captain Alastair Cook dropped Warner ’s opening partner Chris Rogers at first slip. Rogers went on to make 54. They say catches win matches and England have spilled far too many already in the three matches so far. To compound Prior ’s day he was part of a tri-

umvirate that decided to challenge a not out decision against Shane Watson. There were giggles in the press tent as replays showed the ball pitching about three inches outside leg stump and hitting the pad outside leg stump - further evidence of England’s scrambled mindset. Prior does not stand alone as the only England player suffering on this trip. His plight is just emblematic of a team that now looks frazzled. The England keeper’s misfortunes have been magnified due to his importance to the team. He has long been considered one of England’s ring leaders, the drummer that maintains the beat to which the rest of the team plays along to. But the wheels have well and truly fallen off the English wagon. Everything seems to be going Australia’s way and mentally England look fried. “The heat and being so far behind takes its toll and it is almost like they realise a victory is out of their grasp and from there you get a bit defensive,” said a sympathetic Rogers after the day’s play.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Tevez triple fires Juventus six clear By Terry Daley ROME `(Reuters) - A Carlos Tevez hat-trick helped Juventus bounce back from their Champions League elimination in midweek and go six points clear at the top of Serie A after crushing Sassuolo 4-0 yesterday. Tevez, overlooked by Argentina since 2011, struck with simple finishes in the 15th, 45th and 68th minutes to move Antonio Conte’s side up to 43 points, six ahead of unbeaten AS Roma, who travel to AC Milan on Monday night (7:45 p.m. British time). He tapped in on the rebound after great skill from Arturo Vidal, before capitalising on a weak back pass on the stroke of halftime to shoot home his side’s third and touching home an inviting Mauricio Isla cross to seal the win. The 29-year-old also set up Federico Peluso’s first Juventus goal in the 28th minute, sending in a beautiful free-kick that the midfielder headed home with the help of Sassuolo defender Luca Antei and was given a standard ovation when substituted shortly after netting his

Juventus’ Carlos Tevez shoots to score against Sassuolo during their Italian Serie A match at the Juventus Stadium in Turin, yesterday. Credit: Reuters/Giorgio Perottino third. The win put the reigning champions 11 points clear of third-placed Napoli, who need a win in yesterday’s late game against Inter Milan (1945 GMT) to keep alive any realistic hopes of their first Serie A title since Diego Maradona

WICB excited by Warner Park upgrade Basseterre, St. Kitts (SKNIS): The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has endorsed, and is very enthusiastic over the plans to upgrade the Warner Park Cricket Stadium in St. Kitts. In speaking to SKNIS after a WICB meeting held at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort last Saturday (December 07), President Dave Cameron told SKNIS that additions to the facility will greatly enhance the cricket environment in the region. “We’re very, very excited about the investment by the Government of St. Kitts [and Nevis] into Warner Park,” he said. “… they have said to us that when completed, this facility with the lights on will almost be as good as daylight and so we want to test that so hopefully one of these day night matches as early as February or March will be played in this facility.” President Cameron referred to the Under 13 Cricket Festival held every year in St. Kitts which welcomes teams from across the Caribbean; as well as other developments and indicated that the twin-island Federation has demonstrated a fervour to advance the cricket agenda. “St. Kitts-Nevis continues to take cricket and cricket development and cricket playing very, very seriously and we applaud them,” Cameron expressed. “The facility we saw … or the making of it is second to none and we look forward to playing inside the facility very, very soon.” “I can assure you that going forward St. Kitts continues to be one of our major grounds in the region,” he emphasised. The WICB President stated that he would like to see more persons from other territories traveling to neighbouring islands whenever a match is held in order to give additional support to various cricket teams from the West Indies. He explained that discussions with regional carriers LIAT and Caribbean Airlines, as well as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat, which is the principle administrative organ for the regional Heads of Government, was important in facilitating hassle free movement of people in this regard.

led them to triumph in 1990. Two goals from Germany striker Miroslav Klose, on his return after more than a month out injured, helped Lazio to a 2-0 win over Livorno. Klose struck twice in the space of seven first half minutes, relieving the pressure on coach

Vladimir Petkovic who had looked like facing the sack after six league games without a win. Lazio climbed to eighth place on 20 points and Vincenzo Montella’s Fiorentina went fourth on 30 points, only two behind Napoli. Klose’s first for Lazio

came in the 19th minute when he broke the offside trap and, after fluffing his first effort, slotted home on the rebound. He pounced again in the 26th minute when a week effort from Hernanes was deflected into his path. ‘ VA L U E - A D D E D ’ KLOSE “We talk about Klose as added value not only for his goals but the push he gives the team. The other players benefit from that,” said Petkovic. “With a champion like him everything becomes easier.” Lazio chairman Claudio Lotito said Petkovic could rest easier: “I was at Formello (the team training ground) for three days and I realised that the team needed a win to get going again,” he said. “I don’t think that we are now in the position where we should fire the coach. “I Fiorentina closed in on the Champions League places with a 3-0 home win against Bologna with Giuseppe Rossi scoring his 13th goal of the season. Fiorentina had no problems with lowly Bologna and opened the scoring after 13 minutes through Josip Ilicic, who fended

off two defenders to fire his first goal of the season. Borja Valero doubled the hosts’ lead just before the half hour and chipped the ball to Rossi who lobbed Livorno keeper Giancarlo Curci for the third in the 64th minute. Torino moved to within six points of European football after goals from Alexander Farnerud and Ciro Immobile gave them a 2-0 win at Udinese. Udinese coach Francesco Guidolin suggested he might quit if results did not improve. “If it turns out that I am the problem then I am prepared to walk away. I have done it before in my career and I’m ready to do so again if needed,” he said. Genoa failed to build on their recent good run under manager Gian Piero Gasperini, dropping points at home when an injury-time header from Giuseppe De Luca earned Atalanta a 1-1 draw after Andrea Bertolacci had put the hosts in front. A goal from Eder early in the first half moved Sampdoria four points from the drop zone with a 1-0 win at relegation rivals Chievo while Parma drew 0-0 with Cagliari

Sport in South Africa to return to routine after Mandela funeral By Mark Gleeson JOHANNESBURG-(Reuters) - Sport in South Africa is set to return to normal on Monday after the funeral of Nelson Mandela with the much-anticipated cricket series against India and an end to the first half of the domestic soccer season dominating a busy pre-Christmas period. Memorials over the last week for the former South African president, plus wet sombre weather, necessitated change in schedules, but no one seemed to mind. “We understand that one of the most iconic figures in the world must be remembered,” said German-born coach Ernst Middendorp, whose Bloemfontein Celtic team saw their fixtures for the rest of the year change as the South African Premier Soccer League adjusted their schedule. They did go ahead with last weekend’s League Cup final, just over 48 hours after Mandela’s death, but once plans for his funeral and various memorial services at stadiums around the country were announced, all fixtures were cancelled - at a busy juncture of the season. In the immediate aftermath of Mandela’s death on Dec. 5, golf, cricket and football events continued,

The England and Australian teams pay tribute to former SA President Nelson Mandela during the second Test in Adelaide including the Nedbank Golf Challenge at Sun City. The last seven days have been a sombre period for sport, as much for the mourning of Mandela as for the inclement weather that has wreaked havoc. The week was marked by a massive outpouring of recollections over the role Mandela played in restoring South Africa to international competition after the Apartheid era and his use of national teams to try and foster reconciliation across the colour barrier. The European Tour golf

tournament in Durban, named after Mandela, took three days to complete the first round and was eventually restricted to 54 holes because of bad weather. “Winning The Nelson Mandela at this time, when it’s sad for everyone, everyone is mourning and tomorrow’s the big day, it means a lot and it’s something I can keep close to my heart for ever,” said winner Dawie van der Walt after his two-shot triumph on Saturday. Today, which is a public holiday in South Africa, will see a set of football fixtures

and Wednesday marks the start of the first cricket Test between South Africa and India at Johannesburg’s Wanderers stadium. The Indian cricketers were due to play a two-day warm-up match on Saturday and yesterday but the game was advanced by a day to avoid a clash with Mandela’s funeral in Qunu.. But heavy rains in Johannesburg left the outfield wet and the match unplayable, robbing the tourists of valuable practice before the first Test.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Wake up, West Indies The biggest difference between them and New Zealand has been the force they radiate on the field

By Martin Crowe When the once-mighty West Indies went down limply to a frisky and impetuous New Zealand, I began looking for the underlying reason why. Beaten easily, with the conditions all in their favour, after a gallant batting fightback by Darren Bravo only days earlier in Dunedin, West Indies defied logic this time. After returning from Adelaide and concluding that Australia had superior hunger and conviction, I realised that the two Test matches revolved around one simple thing the force of energy; of vigorous activity and exertion of such power. Australia and New Zealand, the hosts, each ranked below their opponent, had significant tension that needed to be expressed. They both had built up substantial torque in their bones and sinew, which needed to be returned, rotated for positive effect. They had to see a return for their pain in recent times. This was their present status: wound up, coiled like a spring, bursting for air. They leaped into action. More than anything, what both these winning sides displayed so organically in their respective Tests was the collective art of fielding. They were simply flawless. It was as if the white line, the boundary rope, was the trigger.

The moment they all bounded on to the field together was the start of the release. No doubt, too, their preparation was building to this crescendo. Energy emerged in all shapes and forms - chatter, facial expression, speed of foot, the zing of the throw, the acrobatic dives, and the stunning catches. Superlative fielding wins Test matches. This was proved again in these recent Tests, as it has been for decades. The inseparable team aspect of cricket was epitomised splendidly in these two teams’ togetherness. They won because they cared enough for each other and for their nations’ pining. Fielding is often underestimated. It too frequently takes second place to bowling and batting. Well, it has to, by order, yet without its energetic presence the bowler may not feel a propulsion from the combined force around him, supporting him, and the batsman may not feel the squeeze of being alone as all opposing eyes are upon him. The fielding collective is massively important. It’s fair to say there hasn’t been a successful side without it. From my memory, growing up, I remember the Chappell era, and that mighty slips cordon plucking thunderbolts from the energy force of Lilleenthomson. The calypso genius at the 1975 World Cup final was a young fireball called Viv Richards, who stole the show from Ian Chappell

himself. Breathtaking energy, low to the ground, deathly zinging throws of incredible accuracy finding a tiny target at a stunning velocity. Run-outs won that final for West Indies that day. From that moment they became an

lands in the Caribbean, came with no collective force, no hunger, and definitely no energy. Their fielding was the worst I have seen in all my time. Not just the catches that went down, or the misfields, no, it was the total abject failure to

As a fielding side, West Indies are a shadow of their predecessors. Here Tino Best drops Trent Boult’s catch on the boundary in the second Test. irresistible force for the next 15 long years. Fielding propelled them into a different sphere. Energy became their antidote and no one could stop them once addicted. Fast forward to Wellington this week. The same cricket nation, selected from glorious idyllic is-

represent what we are on this planet to do - simply breathe in and breathe out. They looked as if they didn’t even tr Denesh Ramdin has a job to do as the keeper of the faith. He has to demand an energetic call to action to his troops and to lead by example in delivering his

Chico/Kashif & Shangai Secondary Schools tourney

Canadian National footballer to conduct clinics By Frederick Halley TORONTO , Canada – Canadian national player Dwayne DeRosario is eagerly looking forward to his upcoming coaching stint in Guyana where he is scheduled to conduct clinics for young footballers in the Upper Demerara region. DeRosario’s visit to Guyana coincides with the current Chico/ Kashif & Shangai Secondary Schools football tournament and has been made possible through the involvement of organisers Kashif Muhamad and Aubrey “Shangai” Major. Born of Guyanese parents, Tony and Carol-Anne, the 35-year-old attacking mid-fielder has been making a name for himself on the Canadian and International circuits over the years and in an interview with Chronicle Sport spoke of his longing to see his parents’ birth place for the first time. DeRosario, who will be accompanied by his father and brother Paul, pointed out that he is culturally aware of his roots and is looking forward to fulfil a life-long dream. An experienced campaigner, DeRosario was expected to ar-

rive in Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday and is down to conduct clinics in Tobago before leaving for Guyana on December 21 for a three-day visit. With 77 National caps under his belt, Rosario explained that he enjoys working with youths and have been doing so for several years with youngsters in the Scarborough, Ontario area where he was born and attended school. Acknowledging that he’s inspired by youths, DeRosario said he’s fully aware of the talent which exists in Guyana and the Caribbean and is eager to exploit some of that and is desirous of making his visit an annual affair. A prolific Major League Soccer (MLS) player, DeRosario started his career with San Jose Earthquakes in 2001 before moving to Houston Dynamo in 2006 where he spent three seasons. In 2009, he brought his talent to Toronto FC before becoming a part of the New York Red Bulls in 2011 and DC United from 2011 until this year. He is due to return to Houston Dynamo in 2014. Earning the reputation as a clutch player in the MLS, his career tally includes two game-winning goals in MLS

Cup finals, both for which he received MLS Cup MVP, and two game-winning goals in MLS All-Star games against foreign oppositions, including West Ham United.

Canadian national player Dwayne DeRosario In June, 2009, he scored a hat-trick to put Toronto FC ahead of the Montreal Impact 3–1.

Toronto had to win the game by four goals to win the Canadian Championship and move onto the CONCACAF Champions League, which they did after defeating Montreal 6–1. The following year, after a horrible first half away at Houston and down 1–0, DeRosario scored two unanswered goals in the second half, both coming from free kicks including one in stoppage time, which kept the team’s 2010 playoff dreams alive. DeRosario made his Canadian National debut in May 1998 against the Republic of Macedonia at the age of 20 prior to playing for the Uner-20 team in the 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship. In 1999 he represented Canada at the XIII Pan American Games in Winnipeg and was part of Canada’s Gold Cup squad since the North American team won the tournament in 2000. In 2007, DeRosario won the male Canadian Player of the Year award for the third consecutive year after scoring five goals in eight games, the most in a year for the Canadian men’s national team since John Catliff in 1993. De Rosario was picked for

all-important directive. Instead he said nothing, he coughed up an appalling amount of byes, and within an hour of the Test, West Indies were a weak, meek mouse of a team. All of this with conditions in their favour. It says a lot for New Zealand that they smashed the team ranked two places above them comprehensively in three days. New Zealand played the perfect game, with universal energy as their drive. They thoroughly deserved their win, especially after much recent soul-searching and rehab. However, to win inside three days by such a margin was also testimony to a lazy, careless opponent. England have dropped their standards alarmingly in their fielding too. Yes, they are ageing, that won’t help a jot. They need an injection of something, and youth will help. Probably a bloody good fielding coach, like Jonty Rhodes, would too. Get the fielding right and the bowler starts the day with a whoop in his stride, a lift in his delivery, a snap in his wrist. At present they are playing with dough in their bellies. Get the fielding right and the batsman feels entrapped, surrounded and suffocated. Playing West Indies in the 1980s was fraught with danger for obvious reasons: Roberts, Croft, Holding, Garner, Clarke, Daniel, Walsh, and the greatest of all, Marshall. That dealt with the first half-dozen pair of undies you carried. Then, for good measure, came Greenidge, Haynes, Richardson, Richards, and the leader of the pack, Lloyd. That

wore out the 25 pairs of woollen socks the bowlers packed. What lurked with vicious intent as you somehow survived all that talent and muscle was not only the smell of those fine batsmen in the field, but more so of Harper, Logie and Dujon, orchestrating it all. This was not only the finest bowling and batting combo the world has seen, it was also the finest collection of outcricketers the world has seen collectively on the field. That the present side has reduced that legacy to nothing is not only sad, it’s a sporting crime. Maybe one day when they sit in an office and earn half the amount they do now, reminiscing about what could have been, they will realise clearly what a waste of an opportunity it has been. For heaven’s sake, wake up. You are fine, athletic specimens, yet you are throwing away the very thing you were given - energy to burn. Use it to field for your Caribbean. From there your batting and bowling desires will have a better chance of coming to fruition, of rising to the ranks where your predecessors once were. Alas, the game has changed. Test cricket, for some, like West Indies, is not as important as the tiny titivating runaround in T20. Or the quick buck. Guess what, when you are old and slow, play 20-over cricket all you want. That’s what it’s good for. In the meantime, think for a minute about what you are doing. Cricket offers much. It provides the team dynamic, the individual stage, and a universal energy to express. To be truly you. (ESPN Cricinfo)

his first CONCACAF Gold Cup in four years, after being selected by coach Stephen Hart in May 2011 for the 23-man tournament roster. After a disappointing 2–0 defeat to United States in the opening game of the group, Canada failed to exit the group with a 1–1–1 record, managing a mere two goals, both from De Rosario at the penalty spot. De Rosario continued his goal scoring with two goals in the opening stage of 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification, with one against Saint Lucia and the other against Saint Kitts and Nevis.. His goal against Saint Kitts, was his

19th international goal which tied him as Canadian all-time top goal scorer with Dale Mitchell. He copped the 2011 Canadian Player of the Year award, receiving 47.7 per cent of the votes, with Simeon Jackson placing second and Josh Simpson finishing in the third spot. The achievement marked the fourth time De Rosario had been so honoured. In September, 2012 De Rosario scored his 20th goal for Canada in a 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification match against Panama making him the all-time leading goal scorer for his country.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday December 16, 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: Rohan Kanhai and Bernard Julien Roy Fredericks-105 (WI vs ENG, The Oval, 1973)

Today’s Quiz:

Who is the first West Indian to record a ‘duck’ and a century in the same Test? Put these in order beginning with the man who first captained the WI in ODIs: Deryck Murray; Clive Lloyd; Alvin Kallicharran; Rohan Kanhai; Viv Richards

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday December 16, 2013

Soggy outfield rules out play in Inter-county cricket competition -Extra day to be added By Calvin Roberts THERE was no play on the scheduled opening day of the final round of matches in the Guyana Cricket Board organised Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company/Hand-in-Hand sponsored four day tournament, yesterday, due to overnight rain, which continued yesterday morning. Berbice, who have 18 points following their 10 wicket victory over defending champions Demerara in the last round and first innings win over President’s XI, was scheduled to take on the point-less Essequibo at the Everest Cricket Club. Across at the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground, the second placed President’s XI who are on 15 points, were down to face Demerara (12 points) in a game, which will not change the position at the top, unless Berbice loses to Essequibo or if there is no play at Everest and Demerara loses the contest outright. However, the outfields at both venues were left in a soggy con-

dition from the rains, forcing the officials to call off play for the day, despite the absence of the teams. In an invited comment with Chronicle Sport, Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Anand Sanasie said once play gets underway, the Competitions Committee of the GCB will look at the possibility of replaying the lost day or days. “Once we start, we will see how it goes and if possible add on the extra days where applicable. When we look at the matches that have been played so far, only one, the first round game between Berbice and President’s XI reached the fourth day and this was because of the first day being washed out. Having said that, none of the other games have reached the fourth day, so once we are able to get in play (hopefully by Tuesday at both venues) once the weather holds, we will look at the matches and add on the days that would have been lost, since it is our aim to have four full days of cricket,” said Sanasie. Sanasie said the GCB Compe-

Semi-final lineup decided for Sunburst Linden Secondary Schools U-17 basketball By Joe Chapman THE Sunburst Linden Secondary Schools Under-17 basketball championship semi-final lineup has been decided when the preliminary round ended yesterday at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court. Seriously hampered by the inclement weather, the organisers of the tournament, the Linden Amateur Basketball Association, is hoping for a break in the weather on Wednesday for the semifinals which will involve the top ranked Mackenzie High School, which played unbeaten in winning five games, while placing second was Linden Foundation Secondary with four wins and one loss to Mackenzie High for nine points. Christianburg Wismar Secondary finished third with three wins and two losses for eight points and fourth placed New Silvercity Secondary which gained seven points from two wins and three defeats. Mackenzie High will see their best players Daniel Anthony, Tyrese Mitchell and Allister Lewis leading their charge after wins from Linden Foundation 30-22, Wisburg 44-16, New Silvercity Secondary 27-11, Harmony 57-2 and Christianburg Wismar Secondary 13-12. They come up against the number fourth ranked New Silvercity Secondary which will be led by Wayne Wilson, Branley Griffith and Darrel Fleming and their wins were against Wisburg 41-17 and Harmony 29-19, and lost to Christianburg Wismar Secondary 23-19, Linden Foundation 30-25 and Mackenzie High 27-11.

The second placed Linden Foundation Secondary will have Isaiah Semple, Nigel Plowell, Dillon Pellew and Isaiah Haynes to depend on as they take on third placed Christianburg Wismar ‘Multi’ Secondary, who won the Under- 19 version of this tournament earlier this year and have as their spearhead Dillon Patterson and Daniel Lee. Linden Foundation won against Christianburg Wismar Secondary 23-19, Wisburg by a walkover, New Silvercity 30-25 and Harmony 33-5 but they were beaten by Mackenzie High 30-22. The third ranked Christianburg Wismar Secondary qualified due to wins over Wisburg 40-7, Harmony by a walkover and New Silvercity Secondary 30-10 but lost their games against Linden Foundation 23-19 and Mackenzie High 13-12.

titions Committee will be looking at the possibility of having all games played and completed. “We need to play all the games, as there is a cost factor and timeline which we are working with. One of the timelines has to do with the submission of the team for the Regional four day championships to the WICB. So in going forward, a much better decision would be made as it relates to the days lost to the weather for this final round,” stated Sanasie.

This was what the Everest Cricket Club ground looked like yesterday. (Photo by Sonell Nelson)

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Soggy outfield rules out play in Inter-county cricket competition please see story page 27

Ninvalle charges GBA officials to do more and give 110% in 2014 -Khan and Eastman named Best Boxers

please see story page 23

President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle (centre) strikes a pose with the respective awardees who proudly display their spoils after receiving them yesterday. (Photo by Sonell Nelson)

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2013