Guyana chronicle november 11 2013 by Chronicle

GUYANA No. 103647 MONDAY NOVEMBER 11, 2013

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Remembrance Day….

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Mankind forever indebted to those who made the supreme sacrifice -President Ramotar

By Shirley Thomas HUNDREDS of Guyanese yesterday assembled at the Cenotaph, outside the Bank of Guyana, to witness and be part of the revered Armistice Day ceremony, and to pay tribute to those who gave their lives in the two World Wars (19141918 and 1933-1945) so that others left behind might live in peace. President Donald Ramotar in his statement on the occasion emphasised that mankind is forever indebted to those who made the supreme sacrifice for peace and freedom. “On this Sunday of Remembrance we meet again to remember all those gallant men

and women who gave their lives in two world wars. We are forever indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice in the cause of peace and freedom. “We also recall with gratitude those who, through the years, have made similar personal sacrifices in the continuing struggle for human dignity. social justice and prosperity for all peoples.” “On this solemn occasion we, the citizens of the Republic of Guyana, rededicate ourselves to the search for peace everywhere and renew our commitment to the development and well-being of our beloved country,” the President declared. Joined by the diplomatic community and representatives of other international

n this Sunday of Remembrance we meet again to remember all those gallant men and women who gave their lives in two world wars. We are forever indebted to them for their supreme sacrifice in the cause of peace and freedom.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, President Donald Ramotar and Heads of the Disciplined Services at the Remembrance Day observances

Members of the Diplomatic Corps and other Heads of international and regional organisations prepare to lay their wreaths. and regional organisations it smartly attired in ceremonial and its band which substiwas a rather nostalgic occauniform, marched onto the tar- tuted for the unmistakably sion as all assembled, with an mac with pomp and ceremony absent Guyana Defence Force attitude of pride and commitand took up their positions contingents, performed with ment awaited the start of the around the Cenotaph, where distinction and regaling the ceremony. they awaited the arrival of spectators, many of whom Moments leading up to were children, and adults Prime Minister Samuel Hinds. 07:00 hours members of the On this occasion, the Guy- who had deferred Church Disiciplined Services, led by ana Police Force dominated Services, or downed activities the Guyana Police Force Band the contingents on parade, See page 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Remembrance Day….

Mankind forever indebted ... From page 2

in the home, to feast on a rare and spectacular treat by the Disciplined Services. At 07:55 hours, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds arrived at the Cenotaph to a general salute, paving the way for the arrival of His Excellency President Donald Ramotar at 7:57 hrs. On his arrival, the President was greeted and escorted by Heads of the Guyana Defence Froce, the Guyana Police Force, the Fire Service and the Prison Service.

Members of the Guyana Legion lead the parade exiting the Cenotaph for the Guyana Legion At 07:59hrs. the ‘Last Post’ was sounded, heralding the observing of silence for the dead. There were two one minute periods of silence, for the casualties of each of the war periods (1914-1918) and (1933-1945) The silence was broken with the symbolic sound ing of cannons, making way for the literally hair-raising sounds of the Reveille which painfully relived the memories of the horrific war periods. As the programme unfolded, there came the much anticipated item on Members of the Fire Service on parade the programme the laying

President Ramotar takes the salute outside State House

President Ramotar meets with kids following the Remembrance Day Parade Prayers were offered by of wreaths at the foot of representatives of Guyana’s the Cenotaph. three leading religious orgaThis distinguished task nizations: The Christians, was performed first by PresMuslims and Hindus, folident Donald Ramotar and lowed by the singing of “O followed by Prime MinisGod our Help in Ages Past” , ter Samuel Hinds; Chief of rendered by the by the GuyStaff of the Guyana Defence ana Police Force Band, and Froce, Mark Phillips; Comfinally the National Anthem, missioner of Police, Leroy again offered by the Police Burmell; Leader of the Force Band. Opposition, Brigadier Ret’d On leaving the Cenotaph, David Granger; Mayor the presidential entourage Hamilton Green and Presiproceeded north along Avdent of the Guyana Legion, enue of the Republic where Mr. Duncan Stewart, each the presidential salute was being escorted to the cenotaken outside of State House. taph and back, by a rank That programme having of the Police Force, striding concluded the day’s obserwith pride and purpose. vances continued with a The laying of wreaths Remembrance Day Recepcontinued with Members tion at COGHLAN HOUSE, of t he Di pl om at i c Cor ps, Guyana Legion, Carifesta followed by Heads of other Avenue, beginning at 11:00 international and regional hours. organiations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Survivors ‘walk like zombies’ after Philippine typhoon kills estimated 10,000 BY MANUEL MOGATO AND ROLING European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton (R) and Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif arrive at a news conference at the end of the Iranian nuclear talks in Geneva November 10, 2013. REUTERS/ Jason Reed

Rouhani says Iran rejects threats, cites red lines in nuclear talks

(Reuters) - President Hassan Rouhani, architect of Iran’s diplomatic opening to world powers, said on Sunday it had “red lines” and would not bow to threats in an apparent bid to keep hardliners on side as Tehran edges toward a deal on its nuclear program. He was speaking to the Iranian parliament, a bastion of wary conservatives, a day after the Islamic Republic and the six powers narrowed differences at talks in Geneva and decided to resume them on November 20 to try to defuse a decade-old standoff and fears of a drift towards a wider Middle East war. The sides seemed on the verge of a breakthrough - before cracks materialized among U.S. and European allies as France declined to endorse the proposal under discussion, believing it did not adequately neutralize the risk of an Iranian atom bomb. French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius told France Inter radio that Paris desired a nuclear settlement with Iran but could not accept a “fool’s game” - in other words, one-sided concessions to Tehran. Diplomats said France wanted any deal to require a shutdown of Iran’s Arak heavy-water reactor, of potential use in making bomb-grade plutonium, and the removal of Iran’s stockpile of higher-enriched uranium. Another stubborn issue was the extent and sequencing of relief from sanctions demanded by Tehran.

(Reuters) - One of the most powerful storms ever recorded killed at least 10,000 people in the central Philippines, a senior police official said on Sunday, with huge waves sweeping away coastal villages and devastating one of the main cities in the region. Super typhoon Haiyan destroyed about 70 to 80 percent of structures in its path as it tore through Leyte province on Friday, said police chief superintendent Elmer Soria, before weakening and heading west for Vietnam. As rescue workers struggled to reach ravaged villages along the coast, where the death toll is as yet unknown, survivors foraged for food or searched for lost loved ones. “People are walking like zombies looking for food,” said Jenny Chu, a medical student in Leyte. “It’s like a movie.” Most of the deaths appear to have been caused by surging sea water strewn with debris that many said resembled a tsunami, leveling houses and drowning hundreds of people in one of the worst disasters to hit the typhoon-prone Southeast Asian nation. The national government and disaster agency have not confirmed the latest estimate of deaths, a sharp increase from initial estimates on Saturday of at least 1,200 killed by a storm whose sustained winds reached 195 miles per hour (313 km per hour) with gusts of up to 235 mph.

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A boy carrying a plastic bottle of water walks past a car which slammed into damaged houses after super Typhoon Haiyan battered Tacloban city, central Philippines November 10, 2013. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco

Syrian opposition wants rebel backing for Geneva talks By Dasha Afanasieva

Bashar al-Assad in a transitional administration, opposition sources said. The 108-member coalition is to due vote on the resolution, with 50 percent plus one vote needed for it to pass. But the opposition said coalition members want to seek the backing of rebel fighting units, community leaders and activists inside Syria for the resolution, to counter criticism that they are out of touch with those battling on the ground. A team will be sent into Syria to gather views. Major Islamist rebel brigades have declared their opposition to the Geneva process if the conference does not result in Assad’s removal and some have said they would charge anyone

(Reuters) - Syria’s opposition is edging towards agreeing to international peace talks in Geneva but wants approval from fighters inside the country first to give the process more legitimacy, its spokesman said at talks in Istanbul. The leadership of the Syrian National Coalition is meeting to agree its stance on the “Geneva 2” talks, which aim to end Syria’s two-and-a-half year civil war by creating a transitional governing body. A draft resolution reaffirms the coalition’s commitment to a political solution to the conflict and echoes a declaration in London last month by the Friends of Syria pro-opposition alliance ruling out any role for President

who attended the planned international talks with treason. “One delegation will actually be going down to Syria. It’s going to be meeting with different FSA (Free Syrian Army) brigades, having a discussion with them around Geneva,” said National Coalition spokesman Khaled Saleh. “If we’re going to be in Geneva, they are going to be part of that delegation,” he said of the rebel units. The delegation will also meet with civilian groups. One member of the Syrian National Council, a grouping within the coalition, said that a draft resolution already contained tough conditions for participation in the conference, but those on the ground might want to tighten them further.

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Venezuela’s government seizes electronic goods shops (BBC News) Hundreds of bargain hunters in Venezuela flocked to the Daka chain of electronics shops after President Nicolas Maduro

ordered their seizure. President Maduro accused the Daka chain of overcharging and said it would now be forced to have “fair prices”.

He later announced the seizure of the JVG store in eastern Caracas, saying it was used by the wealthy elites of the city whom he called thieves.

The opposition blames government policies for causing high inflation. On a speech on Friday night, President Maduro promised to sell off Daka’s stock of plasma televisions, washing machines and other merchandise. “We’re doing this for the

good of the nation. Leave nothing on the shelves, nothing in the warehouses!” he said. Bargain hunters were quick to join overnight queues to buy the merchandise, some of it at a quarter of the price listed earlier in the week. Mr Maduro said government inspectors had found

goods that were overpriced by as much as 1,000%. He said a small air-conditioning unit was selling for 36,000 bolivars ($5,730) at Daka, while the same unit cost 7,000 bolivars ($1,113) in state shops. Daka’s owners have not responded to the allegations.

Colombia drug baron Palencia Gonzalez held in Spain The crowds flocked in the hope of finding a bargain

Ramlogan: PNM media agents against me

(Sunday Express) Attorney General Anand Ramlogan in responding to questions posed by the Sunday Express said the PCR 2 Range Rover was in fact sold “sometime ago” to businessman Dev Debideen. He said; “It will be transferred to the new owner in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agreement for sale at the relevant time.” Following is the list of questions e-mailed by the Sunday Express to Ramlogan and his responses: 1) Your vehicle PCR 2, a Range Rover TDV Vogue, are you in possession of it? Your colleague, Ms Anika Gumbs-Sandiford has already interviewed the owner Mr Dev Debideen in connection with this article so, as you well know, I am not in possession of same as it was sold to him sometime ago. She was invited to take a picture of the vehicle by Mr Debideen and did so. It will be transferred to the new owner in accordance with the terms and conditions of the agreement for sale at the relevant time. Mr Debideen also owns another Range Rover along with other Attorney General high-end luxury vehicles. This is also not the first time that he Anand Ramlogan has purchased a vehicle from a government Minister as he had purchased former Minister Brian Kuei Tung’s Mercedes. My vehicle was publicly advertised for sale in the daily newspapers and various car websites online.

Jack: ILP councillor offered $5m bribe By Camille Bethel (Sunday Express) The 23-year-old Independent Liberal Party (ILP) councillor for Monroe Road/Caroni Savannah Road, Simeon Mahabir, has allegedly been offered a bribe amounting to more than $5 million to cross the floor to the United National Congress (UNC), interim leader of the Independent Liberal Party (ILP) Jack Warner said on Saturday. Speaking at a media conference at the ILP’s headquarters in Chaguanas, Warner played what was described as a voice recording of the alleged bribe, Warner said Mahabir was under a lot of stress since the bribe was made last Friday afternoon. “As a party we won’t allow ourselves to fall victims to bribes and this young man—you have no idea the pressure he is under. If it had not been for a meeting on Tuesday I would have asked him to take a holiday overseas because they are coming after him. He has been offered more than $5 million in bribes; he has been offered land and house, he has been offered any other job that he wants including he will get back his CEPEP contract and for his SIMEON MAHABIR family as well. He has a blank cheque and he has refused because he has said he remains committed to the people who voted for him,” Warner said. He told the media that he intends to take the voice recording to the police because the ILP has the evidence of what is being contemplated as far as Mahabir is concerned.

(BBC News)The notorious leader of one of Colombia’s most violent drug gangs has been arrested in Spain, police say. Cipriam Manuel Palencia Gonzalez, the head of the Urabenos gang, is wanted for a string of crimes including the murder of a police officer in Colombia. He was detained in Madrid on Friday while planning new drug routes to Spain, according to police. Gonzalez, 34, broke out of jail in Colombia in 2009 and was wounded in a police raid there earlier this year. Six members of the gang were detained in the raid and a police captain was killed. Colombia police allege Mr

Gonzalez then hatched a plot to kill more police.

PALENCIA GONZALEZ He escaped, travelling first to Venezuela and then

to Brazil before flying to Madrid in recent days under an assumed name, a police statement said. An international arrest warrant issued by Interpol warned that he could be armed and dangerous. The Urabenos gang he is alleged to have run was partly formed from members of old paramilitary groups that were established in the 1980s to tackle left-wing guerrillas during Colombia’s long civil war. Mr Gonzalez, also known as Visaje, is accused of drug-smuggling, extortion and ordering the murder of police officers. Colombian authorities have reportedly linked his gang to 52 murders.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

GUYANA

Suggestions on easing traffic congestion

EDITORIAL

Infantile political plays

THE defeat of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Bill will undoubtedly engage the attention of the public in the months to come as the fallout of the vote unfolds itself. The efficacy of the new dispensation in the National Assembly, 32-33 in favour of the Opposition, comes now under greater scrutiny, with the interest of your average Guyanese man and woman hanging in the balance. The entire debacle reiterates the fact that Guyana needs statesmen and women, not politicians whose playbook reflects infantile politics. There is something disturbing about infantile political plays. It is like watching a screaming toddler reject the arms of strangers, making clear “I don’t want this.” The resemblance to the proceedings in the National Assembly is uncanny, with the majority of key stakeholders in Guyana making clear: “We don’t want the Bill to be defeated” and the combined Opposition remaining intent on forcing this unwanted notion down the throats of the Guyanese people. The position of the Alliance For Change (AFC) is understood to an extent. Their contention was that the government should deliver on the Public Procurement Commission before they support the Bill (that is the understandable part). However, in the House, last Thursday, the party’s leader Khemraj Ramjattan supported A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) call for the Bill’s re-committal – a call whose basis is still to be made clear. APNU, on the other hand, has in the eyes of the Guyanese people toyed with this piece of legislation from the start. The Attorney General (AG), Anil Nandlall, in a last-ditch attempt to save the Bill stressed in the House last Thursday that the Bill should be passed, even if to meet the “minimum” requirements of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and assured that the opportunity to make other amendments will be available. The play of politics usually goes over the heads of the average man on the street, the reasoning of actions advanced not truly understood, at least, until the results undesired or not are realised. And here is where we have to acknowledge the real impacts of infantile politics: the “certain” blacklisting of Guyana, according to the Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh; and real consequences for the Guyanese people, according to President Donald Ramotar, including the functioning of banks with external links, already being seen with the cessation of operations by the Citi-Bank group in Guyana. Most disturbing of the impacts of the fallout for Guyana is the deepening chasm in the political divide and the heightened level of distrust among political factions. Alas, the circus seems to be remaining in town for a few more years, unless snap elections are called. The pressing question now is whether or not political parties

IN order to help ease the traffic congestion, the long number of seconds on traffic lights should be reduced to forty seconds and you will see a major flow of traffic. One way streets are good too in helping to ease traffic congestion. Remove those illegal vendors who vend on roadways and sidewalks period. Charge drivers and fine and/or jail them severely when they sit in their vehicles doing their shopping from those vendors on the sidewalks. In Georgetown and surrounding areas the streets are really small, so make all intersections a four-way stop. Put up the red stop signs where every motorist will see it. Paint the intersections and mark stop ahead where every motorist can see it clearly. These will not only help move traffic but will reduce deaths and injuries.

I am happy to read a government minister finally waking up to cold hard facts about drivers’ licencec being sold. Mr. Rohee said: “It was also identified that some persons driving on the roads have not attended driving classes both theoretical and practical ones, but have acquired their licences. If these persons are caught breaching the law, they will be dealt with by the Guyana Police Force. It’s not a matter of if, but when they are caught. Mr. Rohee, you have to find those that are in authority and charge them and try them in a court of law and once found guilty of selling drivers’ licences must be jailed for life to set the example for all others. Those that sell drivers’ licences are fully responsible for tremendous deaths and injuries to many innocent Guyanese who lost their lives while walking the streets of Guyana. T. KING

Granger has a funny way of showing support WHAT is the opposition really saying or believing? Mr. Granger likes to start his comments with “What I was trying to say.” This may be necessary because he either does not believe what he is saying or is simply unsure of what he is saying. Mr. Granger told Stabroek News that the anti-money laundering legislation needs to be considered and the Procurement Commission will need to be also studied. He claims that they want both to pass and that they are committed to both and that there should be no doubt of their support of both. He has a funny way of showing his support when he voted down the AML/CFT Bill. Since the amendments to the bill were at least satisfactory to CFATF, why hold it up for public input and further opposition consideration, knowing the damage that could be done to the country if not approved by a certain date? Why did he not add the amendments to correct whatever the opposition knew about sooner, then add later what amendments he receives from the public and prevent the current damage caused to the country? There is no valid excuse to defeat this bill if politicians really care about people

Whether the Parliament had its own legal counsel to review its bills or not, the President could still request the AG to confirm its legality and see if they were in conflict with other laws before signing them. Is the issue really, whether the President should return the bills within the required time with a yes or no and possibly an explanation? Shouldn’t the same thing be applied to the procurement legislation? Why can’t the GoG or Finance Minister question the advisability of accepting any procurement award in Parliament, if there is good cause to question them for financial or other legitimate reasons? This should be true whether the Bill excludes the Cabinet approval or not. Both sides should have the right to question approvals regarding procurements. The GoG does have responsibility for the budget and cannot be completely removed from any approvals by Parliament. Continuing, the question regarding Mr. Jagdeo’s pension can be challenged in the courts, even if signed by the Presi-

will manage to justify themselves against their party policy lines and platform for change. Compromise must make sense for all stakeholders and must resonate with your average Guyanese, with whom the real power lies. No compromise would ultimately mean that no one wins, regardless of the indignation with which politicians boast their positions. Both sides have to be wary of pushing their lines too hard and too fast and move swiftly away from the practice of infantile politics – the Guyanese people deserve more. The crises facing Guyana demand ‘all hands on deck’, not political plays that violate the responsibility to advance sustainable development. Almost two years into the 10th Parliament, the perception that we are still in ‘silly season’ needs to be dispelled – the sooner the better.

dent with the understanding that he believes it is illegal but is doing so if it will avoid the stalling of important legislation. The stakes are too high for the nation to allow pride,

personal animosities or power-seeking to derail the nation’s progress. N. AUGUSTUS

Region 2 garbage collecting contractor providing inadequate service THE Canadian government donated a new garbage compactor less than a year ago to the Anna Regina Town Council, yet for all the the garbage collection was given to Puran Brothers, who then sub-contracted out the contract to Naipaul Brothers with only one garbage truck to service Region 2. Puran Brothers has an office at Bush Lot, Essequibo Coast. They will collect our money one month in advance to collect our garbage but most of the time our garbage is left to overflow and stink on the roadside or our yards without the service for a week. The sub- contractor, Naipaul Brothers, has only one small garbage truck which has to service the township, five NDCs and five markets which is impossible. Most of the time the lorry is in the repair shop for weeks, without the service being provided, although the company will take our money in advance. Legislation (28:01)provides for garbage collection, rates and taxes and other major activities which are billable by the municipalities. Garbage collection delinquency by Puran Brothers has created serious problems for all businesses in the township and the region as a whole since the privatisation. Many times we have to call the head office in West Coast Demerara to address our garbage collection, because most of the times the local office telephone here is either turned off or not working, which is very unsatisfactory. No analysis was undertaken by the Minister of Local Government to determine the privatisation of the garbage collection in the region; rates and taxes also cover costs the township incurs in collecting garbage and providing other services. It is simply impossible for one truck to undertake all the garbage collection simultaneously given the base of the township, NDCs and five markets. This means that Puran Brothers will have to be sure it has brought into its organisation more garbage trucks for the collection of garbage to service the region. MOHAMED KHAN Former Deputy Mayor

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Rashleigh Jackson’s ‘Compromise is not a four-letter word’ has inspired some critical questions R A S H L E I G H J a c k s o n ’s “Compromise is not a four-letter word” in the SN of 10-18-13 inspired some critical questions, hopefully, which can lead to the quest for a meaningful compromise. Ken, a blogger, commented about another blogger’s reaction to Jackson. He observed that the response was “dripping with suspicion and mistrust... you are not the only one in this boat”, he implored. Most (SN) APNU bloggers are in your ship paddling in the opposite direction. To this Mr. Jackson is recommending ‘compromise’ Ken explained. Now, I have no problems with acceptable compromises. Ken asked some refreshing questions which are followed immediately by my re-ordered responses, offered in hopeful return my many concerns will be addressed. Compromise is not a four-letter word we all know. Concerning the necessity of racial balance in the armed forces, Ken wrote: “I must say I am baffled. 1 - Is there a strategic effort by our armed forces to exclude Indians? Yes, under The PNC government, Guyana’s predominantly black armed forces, pledged loyalty to Forbes Burnham, not to Guyana by its PNC Sophia declaration of

1976, But the armed forces are taxpayer- funded and directed by the political party in power. Can you see why Indians find their exclusion? Repulsive? Indians’ exclusion was predetermined by loyalty not to Guyana. But to the PNC which had usurped political power by rigging elections. Indians were considered unqualified by black standards but required to be loyal to the PNC. 2 - Would Indians feel more comfortable with an Indian-dominated? police force or a fully professional police force? Yes, Indians right now want a professional, armed force that is racially and ethnically balanced. Balsam Singh Rai as Guyana’s first Home Affairs Minister had made excellent progress. Minister Rohee’s SWAT is the second coming and the PNC

fears losing their advantages. Now my question is: do you want (a) a professional and Indian-dominated force or (b) a professional Indian government or (c) a professional Indian business class equally duplicated

in shared governance? At what time period, did the current GDF/GPF becomes confirmed professionals? Was it under stewardship of the PPP/C? Ken, no country or ethnic group has placed their security exclusively in the hands of another. The PPP/C government

must find a way to conscript Indians into Guyana’s armed forces by affirmative action, unlike National Service by the PNC did with ulterior motives. Federalism will do that. Additionally, is there any study that blacks can develop business skills or is it a genetic requirement? An idiotic question, isn’t it? This only shows that Indians too are capable of asking idiotic questions and our common Guyanese linkages. 3 - Is it the desire of Indians to join the armed forces, but

their(armed forces) current demographics dissuade them from participating? Yes,. many Indians were forced out of the armed forces by their black officers who gave them ridiculous tasks, like climbing up a coconut tree. Recently, three Indian recruits died under mysterious circumstances and it has been hushed up. The Special Service Unit (SSU) was racially balanced by Dr Cheddi Jagan. The PNC d e s t ro y e d t h a t original nucleus racial balance and fired Major Abdul Sattaur, its first Sandhurst-trained commander. The current top-heavy black brass has no sensitivity or training to accommodate Indian foods, needs or cultural practices and the PNC had cared less to rectify it. The PNC preferred Indians planting rice and pineapples where they posed no threat. 4 - Do you have any study that demonstrates that an increase of Indians In the armed forces would increase its efficiency? A very provocative and

unnerving (actually offensive) question. Has any study demonstrated otherwise and vice-versa for Africans? Indians are poised to achieve near racial equal representation in Trinidad. Why? Eric Williams rapidly moved to ensure increased Indian recruitment After the 1973 black power disturbances, so that an all-black armed forces could not overthrow him. With Granger’s PNC currently in a war mode it’s only predominantly black Guyanese, who will, by PNC preference, be thrown against any Venezuelan invasion. 5 - I do have lots of theories that I share with friends about (a) black men and their “child father” syndrome and (b) Indians and suicide rates, but without a study I concede that I have no authority on the issue and gladly retract. One of my theories is that Guyanese Indians have a higher sense of family values and maybe the armed forces don’t seem attractive to them in light of the risks to them and family. Do you believe that this could be a deciding factor for the racial imbalance in our armed forces? The theories shared by you to friends on the (a) black “child-father”syndrome

are not my immediate interests except when it impacts upon me adversely. (b) One of the main reasons why Indians have a higher suicide rate is a component of your accurate view of Indian family values. Shouldering family responsibilities is paramount, unlike the reneging syndrome of the black “child father”relationship which emancipates them from responsibilities. Among other things, Indian suicides are due to their rigid cultural and religious ways. Indian conservative culture still disavows a loose life unlike the creolised dating, illicit sex and street carnival whining up which makes it objectionable. There is massive pressure for Indians to excel in academics. Cognisant that we are considered the country side dregs of society who cannot speak proper English and do not wear shoes when we go to town, we become automatic targets for bullying. Isn’t the PNC guilty of committing the original sin which destroyed Guyana? Indians were not the beneficiaries of eating the forbidden fruit. Responses are invited and are most welcome. VASSAN RAMRACHA

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Opposition shoots down AML/CFT Amendment Bill in historic debate

By Vanessa Narine ALMOST two years into the Tenth Parliament, the rift between the two sides of the House continues to widen, with the latest pronouncement by the Head of State, President Donald Ramotar, being that “it can’t be business as usual,” given what his administration calls an “arbitrary” use of the combined Opposition’s one-seat majority. The hot-button issue at the last sitting of the House, last Thursday, was the third reading and passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/ CFT) (Amendment) Bill, which was defeated in a unanimous vote by the Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs). HISTORIC DEBATE Preceding the vote was a historic debate, as, according to House Speaker Raphael Trotman, no bill has been debated at the level of its third reading – precedence being that after the second reading, the legislation in question is sent to a Select Committee, which presents its report for adoption by the House, at which time MPs vote. Government’s Chief Whip and Chair of the Select Committee that considered the AML/CFT Bill, Ms Gail Teixeira, tabled the Committee’s

Report in the House, and the anticipation to get to the AML/ CFT Bill was seen when several other matters on the agenda were deferred by MPs on both sides to bring forward the matter listed on page 20 of the 32page Order Paper. Attorney General Anil Nandall moved a motion for the Bill to be read a third time and passed, a motion that was not put to the House by the Speaker, given the fact that Opposition MPs indicated that they would like to address the House. The contention of the Alliance For Change is that they would support the Bill in exchange for the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission. AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan said the matter has been publicly ventilated, and the conditions for support of the Bill have been made clear. The Government’s position, however, is that the Procurement (Amendment) Bill 2013, which was also tabled on Thursday and seeks to preserve the Cabinet’s ‘no objection’ say in the award of contracts, has to be passed through the National Assembly before the Public Procurement Commission is set up. MPs from A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) proffered the argument that the input from the Opposition was not considered at the level of the Select Committee, where the Amendments were sent for

review;, and, as such, the party could not support the Bill. APNU MP Carl Greenidge, who led off the party’s arguments on the passage of the bill, made this point clear, and called for the bill to be sent back to the Committee for “proper” deliberation. Acknowledging the deadline set by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), he said the recommendations are not the “tablets Moses received on the mountain,” and as such Parliamentarians are duty bound to pursue improvements using local knowledge. At this point, Ms Teixeira interjected that the impression being given by Greenidge that the Opposition was not given ample time to deliberate is false. “I am willing to go tit for tat with every point that the Member has made,” she said. The Chief Whip stood on a point of order and stated that entertaining a debate is in contravention of Standing Order 58 (4), which addresses the consideration of a bill at the level of a third reading. Other Government MPs raised procedural concerns, followed by a cross-talking by both sides of House while the Speaker conferred with the Clerk of the National Assembly. Afterwards, the Speaker said he was aware of the Standing Order’s provision, but given the fact that the matter has widely engaged

the attention of the public, it is only fair that MPs be allowed to speak on the matter. LET’S DO ‘UM’ Ramjattan rose to point out that the proposition on hand is to “at least” have the proposition sent back to the Committee. Agreeing with the call for the Bill’s re-committal to the Select Committee, he said that refusing this option would see the legislation voted down. A Government MP heckled, “You do um nah,” to which Ramjattan’s response was, “Let’s do um.” Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh rose to stress the time constraints the Parliament was facing, and called the call for the bill to sent back to the Select Committee the latest effort by the Opposition to drag its feet on the legislation – particularly since the bill has been with the committee since May. APNU’s Greenidge, interrupting Singh, moved that the motion for the third reading be put to the floor, since the Government has no intention for it to be returned to the Select Committee. The Finance Minister returned that he “will not be muzzled,” before the Speaker

interjected and called for a 10-minute suspension before proceeding to address the “political conundrum”, as the debate’s intensity was undoubtedly increasing. During the suspension, the Speaker met with MPs of both sides, and reported to the House that no consensus position could be reached. APNU’s Basil Williams moved to suspend the Standing Orders that were cited, and was seconded by Deputy Speaker Ms Deborah Backer. Government MPs were heard questioning the point of suspending the Standing Orders, as the call for the bill to be sent back to the Select Committee was one that came with a time frame, which could still see Guyana meeting the November 18 deadline. The Finance Minister rose to add that while the Opposition is calling for the Bill to be sent back to the Select Committee, there has been no “material suggestion” made, other that the “vague” contention that the bill needs to be strengthened. He argued that the time constraint was not being considered a cause for concern, particularly when CFATF have been definitive in their st at em ent s t hat Guyana would be blacklisted. Williams rejected this, and said recommendations were

made, a statement Teixeira dismissed from her seat, while she called for him to read the Committee’s report. The APNU MP proceeded to withdraw his call for a suspension of the Standing Orders, and said the House should be allowed to proceed with the vote. The AG took the floor, and in reiterating the time constrains and the impending consequences, stated that any further amendments the Opposition are in favour of can be made at a later date. He urged that the bill be passed, so that Guyana meets the CFATF deadline. According to him, the review of the legislative framework is an ongoing process, and he assured that there would be opportunities for the legislation to be further amended. “I am not saying the model is crafted in stone, I am saying that for now, to meet minimum requirement and avoid exposing Guyana to perilous consequences, we have to pass this….We have 10 more days,” Nandlall stressed. The Speaker put the vote to the House, and the bill was defeated. According to the Finance Minister, the bill cannot return to the House in this session, unless certain Standing Orders are suspended to allow its reconsideration.

Local government bills would impact positively on local government environment–Minister Ganga Persaud

By Savitri Laikram

MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Ganga Persaud has indicated that after President Ramotar would have assented to three of the four local government bills the next step is to bring these bills into effect by way of an order. The minister made this disclosure last Thursday while speaking to media representatives in his Ministry’s compound. The minister said the bills would definitely have significant and positive impact on the local government environment, although in themselves the bills have nothing to do with holding local government elections; and that is because the bills have everything to do with modernising the way in which business is done at the level of the local democratic organs, including the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and the municipalities. The minister said that if the bills have to be singled out there would be a Local Government Commission Bill that would seek to handle according to the constitution and that most of the human resource issues affecting local authorities across the country that the Municipal and District Councils Act would have brought in among other things. Persaud said there would be

Minister Ganga Persaud significant increases in fines and penalties providing avenues for greater collaboration between councils and residents covered by the municipalities. He pointed out that the Fiscal Transfer Bill brought in an objective mechanism by which Government can provide support to local authority areas across the country. “No longer will this acrossthe-board, one- coat-fits-all or one-shoe-fits-all (situation) operate because a formula will kick in now and determine how much of Government’s support will go to each area and that figure has the probability and possibility of changing year after year, depending on performance of the NDC or municipality.” Persaud said.

He added that a lot of the government support that will go to the municipality now in the form of subventions will be determined by and large by the council themselves and how well they work with the residents within their various local authority areas in terms of collection and payment of rates and taxes and providing services. He said these bills do not bar the holding of local government elections noting that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)is presently in its fifth cycle of continuous registration which this is being monitored to know when there is an updated list that will determine when “we are ready to go.” The minister said that many things are contingent to each other and most important is that the Minister of Local Government, acting on behalf of the Government of Guyana, must take into consideration the readiness of all the stakeholders with regard to the holding of elections. He noted that a new system is being brought on board and it is important that each resident in the local authority areas be brought ‘up to speed’ and made fully aware of what are the uniqueness and special gratifications of these new systems.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

President says ‘no objection’ provision not unreasonable By Vanessa Narine THE Procurement (Amendment) Bill 2013 was read for the first time in the National Assembly on Thursday evening. In addressing the Amendment which is to be debated at the next Parliamentary sitting, President Donald Ramotar maintains that the provision is not an unreasonable one. At a press briefing on Friday at the Office of the President, the Head of State said: “All the Cabinet is asking for is to have a ‘no objection’ to any contract or procurement that is awarded. This is based on the principle that if we are the ones who will be held responsible and are answerable, then the minimum we have to have is a ‘no objection’… we do not think it is unreasonable.” The bill is am act to amend

the 2003 Principal Procurement Act by making the change of deleting Subsection Six of Section 54. Section 54 deals with Cabinet’s involvement in reviewing the award of procurement contracts, and the phasing out of its functions with the establishment of a Public Procurement Commission, in the interest of decentralising the procurement process. Sub-section Six states thus: “Cabinet’s involvement shall cease upon the establishment of the Public Procurement Commission, except in relation to those matters referred to in Sub-section One which are pending.” The President thinks the

-ahead of debate on Cabinet’s role in public procurement

President Donald Ramotar amendment provides for Cabinet’s involvement at a minimum–an allowance that is grounded in the principle of accountability. He references

ers, operate in a similar way. “All of them have to give a ‘no objection’ before any contract is awarded…we are moving on this in a very principled way,” he said. The Head of State made it clear that Cabinet is not seeking the legislative power to award contracts, as is the misunderstanding in some quarters. Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, who moved the motion for the Amendment Bill to be read, was asked why Finance Minister the Bill was brought to Dr. Ashni Singh the House with changes the fact the Guyana’s partner that the Opposition have already agencies, including the Caribindicated its non-support of. In an bean Development Bank (CDB) invited comment, he said: “The and the World Bank among othamendments proposed to the Pro-

curement Act are grounded in principle. There are strong arguments in favour of the amendments, and there is good reason why those amendments should be enacted. We intend to make those arguments in the House and to the people of Guyana. If the Opposition elects to go against the merits of those arguments, then the people of Guyana will judge them on that basis. We will not shy away from doing what is right and good for Guyana simply because we think the Opposition will vote against it.” The Finance Minister said. The Principal Act seeks to regulate the procurement process to promote fairness and transparency, and government’s position is that the amendment should be passed through the National Assembly before the Public Procurement Commission is set up.

Engaging the Diaspora (Part II)

IN previous articles in this series, I mentioned and expanded retired persons are a collective treasure trove of human resource skills and upon a proposed tracking mechanism that would serve to information, and a structured programme would serve to categorise and monitor the development of our human resources. In addition deploy those skills, the majority of which would be voluntary, in enhancing to this, one area our human resource capacity. that we desperately need to look at in terms of transforming our Another area of human resource development, as I touched human resource environment regards our engagement with our Diupon in the last article, had to do with the management of foreign aspora. The Jamaicans have, within the CARICOM Region, gone direct investment in developing human resource skills locally. the furthest, from the little I’ve observed and researched, in not My solution with regard to FDI - and indeed this is the subject simply courting but creating a mechanism of engaging Jamaicans that really inspired the original article in this series - was the living abroad, the Diaspora Advisory Board(DAB). establishment of a mechanism to funnel funds into a training What I want to note here is that among other things, the Board and skills development mechanism, a consolidated fund that is mandated to “Increase the human resource potential available to would distribute resources as required within whatever area of Jamaica through skills and attributes of returned nationals.”This development. month, the DAB will be hosting its third Jamaica Diaspora ConTo modify that - and I have to state here that I am not speaking ference in Ocho Rios, under the theme “One Nation: Jamaica and in my capacity as Chairman of GO-Invest - we should have a system Its Diaspora in Partnership”. where we could geographically map our human resources and skill Now the argument can be sets. When an investor is seekmade that Jamaica is physically ‘If there is a single tool that has been designed to enable a ing out information on Guyana, closer to North America where network and database of skills within the Diaspora, it is the my belief is that the same sort of the bulk of its Diaspora - as Internet. And there is no time like the present to proactively information that we make readily does that of Guyana and vir- employ it in gathering in the scattered skeleton of our people available with respect to the distritually every other Caribbean so that we could operate,as much as possible, as one nation’ bution of natural resources, should territory - resides, and hence a also be available with regard to sustained physical engagement human resources. with Jamaicans in America and Canada is more viable. That With regard to donor funding, the reality of the situation now is argument might have been valid about 15, maybe even 10, that while some ministries - with ministries being the main conduit years ago but in this era of high-speed broadband Internet, for donor programme support - attract a large amount of support, and free or cheap VOIP provided by virtually every online others do not due to the fact that their mandate may not fall into the e-mail provider, and Skype, we have the tools at our disposal donor’s scope of outreach. What we therefore have is a situation to leap distances and to coordinate across continents as we where the tide of funding is not one which raises all boats equally, have never had before. something a holistic approach to negotiation and implementation If there is a single tool that has been designed to enable a netwould seek to correct, in this specific case, labour development. work and database of skills within the Diaspora, it is the Internet. Granted that there are greater strictures which govern the final And there is no time like the present to proactively employ it in distribution of resources supplied by the donor community, there gathering in the scattered skeleton of our people so that we could is nothing that says that we cannot negotiate the TORs of certain, operate, much as possible, as one nation. or all, donor projects to reflect a more holistic mechanism for their Subsidiary to this idea is the specific engagement of remigrant retirimplementation. ees, something I’ve explored in columns previous to this series. Skilled, Finally, all this would be contingent upon a greater sophistication

Keith Burrowes with regard to labour information and intelligence. What we need is a database that ascertains or determines the kind of labour force that is needed across sectors. This would, to recap our key solutions with regard to preparing our human resources for the future, be the basis for a system that can track our human resource capacity from the secondary education to the workpool; facilitate the enhancement of our human resources by the continuous enhancement of locally available skills and the proactive involvement of those from the Diaspora; creatively utilise funding from both foreign direct investment as well as donor funding to prepare our workforce, whether local or imported, for upcoming industries; and, most importantly, develop a culture of forward planning policy formulation when it comes to preparing our human resources for the future.

Duo jailed for four years for robbing QC student of Blackberry in cutlass attack

GAVIN Hickeson and Orin McKenzie who robbed a Queen’s College student of his Blackberry cell phone after attacking him with a cutlass a month ago, will each be spending the next four years in prison after they were found guilty before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry last Thursday for robbery under arms. Prosecutor Bharat Mangru told the court that the two accused on October 5 at Water Street, while being armed with a cutlass, robbed Queen’s College student Danraj Baljit of a Blackberry cell phone valued at $30,000. The facts read that Baljit was walking along Water Street with two of his cousins when the two defendants approached them with a cutlass and told them to “pass it” and they took the phone.

Prosecutor Mangru said that a police officer in plain clothes saw what had transpired and went to their rescue, giving chase behind the two accused. The prosecutor also stated that McKenzie who was armed with the cutlass attacked the policeman and he was shot in his right leg. Both men were subsequently arrested and charged. At the trial at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, Hickeson, who resides at 185 Pike Street, Kitty and McKenzie of Cooper Street, Albouystown, were found guilty and the magistrate remarked that the men had shown no remorse for the robbery. She also took into consideration that Baljit’s attackers were positively identified by the schoolboys.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Barber killed in early morning accident By Leroy Smith

Widow of Gopaulram Dass seated in hammock is comforted by one of the many persons who showed up to sympathise with the family yesterday.

THIRTY-FIVE year old Gopaulram Dass, of 77 Tyman Street Better Hope North East Coast Demerara was killed after being struck by a car as he was leaving a night spot two villages from where he live d. He w as s truc k on the Vryheid’s Lust Public Road, East Coast Demerara. The man’s father Tullahram Dass told this newspaper yesterday afternoon that he was at home when he got a call at approximately 01.30 hrs yesterday morning informing him that his son was involved in an accident. Tullahram and his now dead son both worked together as barbers in Al-

-driver fled scene leaving number plate behind berttown and would usually communicate often. He said that after receiving the call yesterday he arrived at the scene 10 minutes after but his son was not on the scene. He said that the friends who were drinking with the man at the time of the accident rushed him to the hospital. They told relatives that the man was attempting to cross the road when the car came out of nowhere and slammed into the man. This newspaper was told that after hitting the man the driver continued on his way but the impact caused his number plate to be separated from the vehicle and was retrieved by persons in the area who handed it over to the police. The vehicle number is PRR 4441. According to the father of the dead man when he arrived at the Woodlands Hospital where the man’s friends had taken him he already appeared to be dead. According to those who were present when the accident occurred, Dass was in the process of crossing the road and was almost in the corner when he was hit by the vehicle and its driver refused to stop and render assistance to the victim. They said that the man had moments ago telephoned his wife to inform her that he was on his way home and she reportedly got up from her bed and waited to open the door for the arrival of her husband.

Gopaulram Dass, his wife and eight-year-old son in happier times According to relatives, the fact that the man was sober enough to call his wife and speak in a normal manner with his wife before his death vindicates their point that the man was not drunk at the time he was hit by the vehicle. The barber leaves to

mourn his parents, wife, child and one sister. His father said that he has already given the police a statement in relation to the matter Yesterday the police in a statement said the man was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

Mash 2014 sub-committees tweak plans for grand festivities – Canterbury - Secretariat to target sponsors and Diaspora By Alex Wayne SINCE the recent official launching of Mashramani 2014 under the theme: “Cultural Folklore, Celebrating 44” , the Mash Secretariat and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport have been engaged in a number of planning exercises for the grand festivities next year. In an exclusive interview last week with Coordinator of the Mash Secretariat, Lennox Canterbury, this newspaper learnt that the sub-committees met last Monday to plan the festivities and to arrive at a final breakdown on the 2014 celebrations. A further meeting was scheduled to finalise plans in relation to the planning and coordination of Mash 2014 festivities. According to Canterbury, however, Mash 2014 festivities will feature the traditional Calypso, Soca and Chutney competitions and will also portray a Steel Pan Contest, while there would be a Children’s Essay Competitions and the Children’s Road competition. There will also be a Republic Lecture series and workshop geared to encourage Guyanese to ‘go back into history’, and redisMashramani cover their rich traditions, culture and customs which seem to be Secretariat’s Lennox rapidly disappearing. Canterbury SPONSORS Canterbury said also that the Mash Secretariat would be engaging in discussions with potential sponsors in an effort to get the Diaspora involved in Mashramani 2014.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Fifty-six-year-old cocaine addict on abusive language charge to get help in rehab programme

By Jenel Rockcliffe A FIFTY-SIX-YEAR-OLD self-admitted cocaine addict was given a fresh start last week when Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry had her enrolled in a rehab programme after she appeared before her on an abusive language charge. Patricia Grose (no address given) appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court accused of using abusive language to Paula Canterbury on November 5 at Georgetown.

Grose pleaded guilty to the offence and told the magistrate that she did abuse the woman. “Ize live with she son and Ize smoke drugs and cocaine. I didn’t sleep for eight days my Worship, I was under the influence of alcohol too.” The magistrate later inquired of Grose if she had indeed not slept for over a week and she replied, “Yes.” The magistrate then asked her if she would like to be rehabilitated at the Georgetown Public Hospital and she responded affirmatively. There were no objections to

bail but the magistrate put her on a bond to keep the peace. The magistrate then made the application for her to undergo treatment at the Georgetown Public Hospital. She subsequently informed a probation officer who works at the Ministry of Human Services of her decision to have Grose admitted. Grose left the courtroom with words of appreciation as she was guided by the probation officer out of the courtroom.

Minibus driver jailed for 18 months for causing death of 70-year-old pedestrian

- driver’s licence also revoked for four years By Jenel Rockcliffe MINIBUS driver Derrick Da Silva was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment last Thursday after he was found guilty before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry “for failing to be a competent driver”, thereby causing the death of a 70-year-old pedestrian. DaSilva of Lot 672 Foulis Street, Enmore, East Coast Demerara, also had his driver’s licence revoked for four years when he appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. The charge read that the defendant, Derrick DaSilva, 36, of Lot 672 Foulis Street, Enmore, East Coast Demerara, drove a motor vehicle in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Philbert Adonis. Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry found DaSilva guilty of the offence and stated that he had “failed to be a competent driver” since he was not under the influence of alcohol, and he was not using a cell phone nor was he speeding in a prolonged, persistent course to cause him to meet the point of impact of the cyclist. However, she considered the mitigating factors which were given by DaSilva’s lawyer, Glen Hanoman. Hanoman stated that his client is a 36-year-old husband and father of two children, nine and 16 years old respectively, and he is the sole breadwinner of his household. The lawyer asked that his client not be sentenced to prison since “The degree of recklessness was at the lower end of the spectrum but when-

ever a life is lost it’s a serious thing,…however, I wish to say that a non-custodial sentence is better.” Hanoman argued that persons who were found guilty for deliberately wounding persons were fined before and have not served a sentence. Likewise, these persons were unlike his client who was coming home from a hard day of work on that day without the intention of wilfully hitting the cyclist down.

The lawyer said further that the accused had no antecedents of any kind and was never placed before the court. The magistrate pointed out that the bus had collided with the pedal cyclist in the middle of the road. The prosecutor also objected to a non-custodial sentence, citing the seriousness of the offence, its prevalence and the fact that a life had been lost.

One dead, another injured following shooting fracas at Baracara, Canje River By Michel Outridge POLICE are reportedly probing the murder of 53-year-old Titus Sutton, a farmer of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara which occurred at about 15:30 hrs last Friday at Baracara, Canje River, Berbice. Sutton was reportedly involved in an argument with another man, who allegedly shot him to his chest with a shotgun. Sherwin McAlmont, 34, of Melanie Damishana, ECD, was also shot and injured to his right thigh before the suspect escaped. He is hospitalised at the New Amsterdam Hospital for medical treatment.

Man kills reputed brother-in-law in bid to harm reputed wife

POLICE are investigating the murder of Mulchand Munilall, 16, of Patwah Scheme, Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara which occurred in his home village at about 21:00 hrs onFriday last. Mulchand Munilall was reportedly confronted by his sister’s reputed husband, who was armed with a knife, and was fatally stabbed to his chest and under his left arm before the attacker turned his attention to Munilall’s sister who fortunately was rescued by residents and escaped unhurt. The suspect fled the scene but was arrested by police at Springlands, Corriverton, Berbice at about 09:00 hrs on Saturday and is in police custody. The suspect had been remanded to prison on a charge resulting from assaulting his reputed wife and was released from prison only on Friday.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Aries March 21 - April 19

It’s time to do some reading between the lines. A friend who’s an expert at this can help you detect the signs, and then it’s time to figure out how, exactly, you’re going to handle this potentially sticky situation. Your conservative, practical side may be in denial that there’s something funny going on, but on a more intuitive level, it’s hard to refute.

Taurus April 20 - May 20

You need a respite from the break-neck pace of your life. Seek some downtime -- you may even find yourself lost deep in thought. What you’re mulling over now may be puzzling, but the process is definitely productive. Take some free-form notes about what’s going through your head so you can refer to them later when you’re back in full operation.

Gemini May 21 - June 21

You may feel as if you can’t quite put your finger on what’s holding you back, but look a little deeper and the source may become clear. You usually know what you want, and you’re usually ready to latch on and not let go. A little indecision every so often is only natural, however, and if you’re feeling it, don’t try to deny it. In fact, it’s probably worth investigating further. Suddenly, everything will become clear.

Cancer June 22 - July 22

Your most recent brainstorm absolutely deserves attention. But when it comes to acting and following through, you can get a little sidetracked. Set your priorities and make a schedule. Ask a friend with a lot of determination to join you for the ride. Your curious and intelligent nature provides you with all sorts of avenues for exploration and amazing ideas.

Minister Baksh meets with fisherfolk ...

Ice shortage stymies fishing industry on Essequibo Coast

FISHERMEN on the Essequibo Coast have informed Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Alli Baksh, that the difficulty in getting ice when they are going to sea is the biggest problem facing them. According to the fishermen, the shortage of ice is a serious problem and they called for the Lima Fish Port Complex to be handed back to them so that ice can be made readily

available. One fisherman said that fisherfolk are not getting facilities or services from the Lima Fish Port Complex. He complained to Minister Baksh that fishing boats cannot get ice to go to sea from the complex. Baksh in responding said that the complex was leased to private businessmen because it was run down by members of the Lima Fishermen Coop

For Monday November 11, 2013 - 12:00hrs For Tuesday November 12, 2013 - 13:00hrs For Wednesday November 13, 2013 - 14:00hrs

Society. He said the complex was leased with an agreement in place to provide fishermen with ice and other essential services for the fishing industry. He then called on the chief fisheries officer to re-examine the agreement to see where the businessmen had breached the contract. However, the minister was informed by the fisheries officer that the lease for the complex was renewed about two years ago for another five years. Minister Baksh then agreed with Region 2 Chairman Mr. Parmanand Persaud for a big meeting to be held in the region with all fisherfolk and ice producers to address the burning issues facing the fishing industry on the Essequibo Coast. Fishermen also brought to the minister’s attention that the Alfro Alphonso Ice Complex at Charity is selling fishermen ice at $20.00 per pound which they cannot afford to purchase to go to sea. They said the Charity Fish Port Complex has ice in large quantities, but in order to get ice, fishermen have to do all their business at the complex. Ice is sold to fishermen at $6.00 per pound but it was also reported that another producer of ice at Lima sells one bucket of ice for $300 and this is inadequate for fishermen to take to sea. At the end of the meeting, Baksh interacted with the fisherfolk and encouraged them to continue their hard work on the high seas to catch fish to feed the nation. He said the government is now exporting more fish to many countries because there are markets available. Former Vice Chairman of Region 2, Mr. Heeralall Mohan, also attended the meeting.

Leo July 23 - August 22

Allowing yourself a little latitude lets you do some of your best work -- and not only when it comes to your career. Give your inner critic the day off. How about some freewheeling interpersonal exchanges? Suspend your serious side and your undying quest for perfection. Someone’s oddities may strike you as sweet and interesting -- tell them about it.

Virgo August 23 - September 22

The idea is to get things expanding -- your mind, your regular routine, your circle of friends. Doing just one thing different will have a very effective ripple effect. Invite someone unusual to lunch, take that knitting class, or try skydiving. Once the ball is rolling, it’ll be hard to stop it -- not that you’d want to. The new possibilities are tremendous.

Libra September 23 - October 22

You’re bringing even more of your patented intensity to every arena of your life, particularly in the realm of romance. Whatever you have going on now, you can expect things to heat up suddenly to a boil. Get out the oven mitts -- you’ll be eager to pull off the lid, because it’s likely to be burning hot. And you won’t want what’s cooking inside to cool off before you sneak a taste.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21

The good karma you’ve been cultivating is about to come back around in a very nice way. Balancing what you want and need with selflessness is one of your specialties. A person close to you may do you a big favour completely out of the blue, or someone from your past might suddenly help something sweet land in your lap. Knowing you, you’ll keep the excellent energy flowing.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21

It’s all about keeping the cycle of good karma going, without regard to the benefits you’ll serendipitously enjoy. You’re always eager to help -- your empathetic nature can lead to an interesting and fertile connection now. Sign up to volunteer, and the next thing you know, a fellow volunteer just happens to know someone who can help you with a special project, and so on, and so on.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

Who needs a specific reason to celebrate? Especially for someone who’s had the last few weeks you’ve had. Bet you can easily talk someone into taking the day off with you. When was the last time you took a nice, long drive with a friend with absolutely no destination in mind?

Aquarius January 20 - February 18

Your glow is bound to attract all sorts of wonderful things and delicious people. In all the hubbub, make sure you keep your compassionate side engaged. Though you’re just testing the waters, someone else may be in too deep. Don’t let it go too far without letting them know where you’re coming from -- and that you don’t know where this is going. You’re lit up from within right now.

Pisces February 19 - March 20

Fascinating detours threaten to sidetrack you at the moment. Don’t let those sparkly lights and loud noises distract you from the road. If you can bring yourself to buckle down to the existing tasks at hand, you can accomplish a great deal now. And afterward, one of those alluring detours will still be available. So strap yourself and go for a ride. Don’t forget to bring your favourite pal along with you.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Julian Walton 2013 El Dorado National Bartenders Champion

By Alex Wayne LAST Friday night’s competition was riveting when the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), in association with Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) hosted the 2013 leg of the El Dorado National Bartenders Contest. Though it was evident that all the contestants were talented and creative, it was Julian Walton of the Spice Garden entity who was eventually declared winner of the competition. This event was hosted at the Guyana Pegasus International Hotel. In second position was

Second place winner, Devon Ramlakhan Devon Ramlakhan of the Edge Nightclub, while Anil Singh of the Gravity Nightclub was adjudged third.

Third place winner, Anil Singh. All the contending bartenders were tasked with preparing their own rum and vodka-based cocktails,

Evergreen Adventures presents GuyExpo competition winners with tours to various destinations

By Tash Van Doimen

EVERGREEN Adventures presented three lucky winners of their GuyExpo promotion with all-inclusive trips to various destinations at a presentation ceremony held last Tuesday at Trans Guyana Airways, Ogle International Airport, East Coast Demerara. The three fortunate winners

GuyExpo 2012. Mr. Wilson said that the promotion was launched by Evergreen Adventures as a way to give back to the community for visiting their booth at GuyExpo. He said the aim is “to give the locals the opportunity to visit these places and show the public that these trips are inexpensive, contrary to common thought.”. The competition winners

were presented with all-inclusive trips for two to Kaieteur Falls, Baganara Island Resort and Suriname by the General Manager of Marketing and Customer Service Manager for Evergreen Adventures, Alvin Wilson and Diana Poole, respectively. The GuyExpo-launched competition is the second of its kind to be promoted by Evergreen Adventures, a tour operator managed by the Correia Group of Companies, the first of which began at

included Mr. Chandra Shekar Jainarain of Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara, who was presented with a one-day trip to Kaieteur Falls; Ms. Carmen Laud of Alberttown, who got a two-day trip to Suriname; and Ms. Fiona Sancho, who was absent from the presentation ceremony, but won an overnight trip to Baganara Island Resort. The winners were selected randomly by the pilots pulling the coupons from a box on the 25th October, 2013. According to Mr. Wilson,

the competition procedure was a simple one that required participants to visit the Evergreen Adventures GuyExpo booth, decide which destination was most desired and fill out a coupon with a location-specific question for the trip. Therefore, each trip had a specific question: for the Kaieteur trip the question required the participant to name the administrative

region in which Kaieteur Falls is situated, while the Baganara question required the name of the closest town to the resort and finally, the last question requested the name of the local carrier that travels to Suriname. This year is the first time that a trip to Suriname was included among the prizes. According to Wilson, this was a tribute to Trans Guyana, a sister company of Evergreen Adventures, which is one of the few carriers that travel to Suriname.

Julian Walton is the new El Dorado National Bartenders champion. and their scores were tallied by television and radio personality Gordon Moseley; former Miss Guyana Jamzone Queen Shonette Moore; and Lennox Caleb, a master distiller at the DDL. Julian Walton created a splendid rum-based cocktail, dubbed ‘Flora and Fauna’ while in the vodka-based corner his cocktail was titled ‘Kiss the Rainbow.’ That cock-

tail also won the prize for the ‘Most Creative Cocktail.’ Second place winner Devon Ramlakhan, submitted a rum-based cocktail called ‘By the Creek’ while his vodka-based creation was called ‘Greenhouse Effect.’ Coming in third, Anil Singh brought to the platter his special rum-based cocktail, which he called ‘Tropical Fusion’while he titled his vodka-based entry ‘Zero Gravity.’ The winner in this event was awarded a trip to a Caribbean destination, compliments of DDL; while his trophy was donated by Wilderness Explorers. The runner-up won a refrigerator, compliments of Courts Guyana Inc. and his trophy was sponsored by the Roraima Group of Companies. The third-place winner was given a brand new Citizens wrist watch, compliments of King’s Jewellery World and a trophy donated by the Herdmanston Lodge. Other contestants who

entered but did not place were last year ’s winner, Roland Beckles, whose rumbased cocktail was named ‘Unblemished’. For the vodka side of things, he submitted ‘Vodka my Eyes’. Ian Robinson of Club Altitude entered with his rum and vodka-based entries named ‘Rum Punch, and ‘Altitude Rush’ respectively. Balram Sidnauth came into the competition with ‘El Dorado Revolution’ (rumbased cocktail), and ‘Mellon Ball’ (vodka-based cocktail). For Paton Rose of the Upscale Restaurant it was ‘Orchid’, and ‘Teramishu Satisfaction’ respectively; while Stevin Marks submitted ‘Koker Zeelandia’ and ‘Caribbean Breeze’. The trophy for the Most Creative Cocktail was presented by Ronald Smith of the GTA, while the trophy f o r t h e ‘ C ro w d F a v o u rite Cocktail’ was donated by seven-year-old Myeisha Williams who is the daughter of the organiser, Kemie Williams.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Pupils of the Den Amstel Primary School with teachers Jenelle Anthony (at left) and Sophia Ally.

West Coast Demerara students target adults in road safety awareness exercise By Michelle Gonsalves

Students of Leonora Secondary with teacher Leasel Mackene.

IN observance of National Road Safety Month, teachers and students of secondary schools on the West Coast of Demerara came out in full last week to promote road safety awareness, targeting a wide cross-section of adults. Stationed strategically on the Vreed-en-Hoop ferry stelling where many people pass in a rush to board a ‘speed boat’ to get to the capital, the students held signs with various slogans and messages about safe driving. Meanwhile, Den Amstel Primary School teachers Jenelle Anthony and Sophia Ally had indicated that the pupils would march to the West Demerara Secondary School for a rally on safe driving. And many more schools were expected to join the activity. The Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) and the Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force on Friday last launched National Road Safety Month 2013 under the theme: “Alcohol, Speed and Inattentiveness Cause Accidents; Drive Wisely and Save Lives.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Quest Medical Centre Laboratory certified by GNBS

Quest Medical Centre Laboratory was presented with a Certificate of Compliance by the Guyana National Bureau of Standards on Friday last. Members of the Guyana National Bureau of Standards, staff, patients and friends attended a simple and private ceremony at the Queenstown, Georgetown location, to witness the presentation of the certificate which fulfilled the requirements of the GYS 170:2009 standard.

In the various presentations, the importance of Quality, Commitment and Job Satisfaction was re-emphasised. In presenting the Certificate of Compliance, Ms. Evadnie Enniss, Director of GNBS expressed hearty congratulations to both management and staff for their hard work and achievement. She urged management and staff to maintain certification and to improve by way of accreditation. Quest Medical Centre, an out-patient facility, commenced oper-

ations June 2012 and has taken the bold initiative to provide its patients with quality health care and support using modern technology, training and research. The scope of testing includes Biochemistry, Haematology, Serology, Microbiology, Urinalysis and Immunology. Quest Medical Centre is also licensed by the Ministry of Health as per The Health Facilities Licensing Act of 2007 that also encourages certification of laboratories by the GNBS. One of the owners and General Manager, Mrs. Ratna Budhu conveyed immense gratitude to Quality Manager Mrs. Kulwantie Mohabir, physicians, suppliers, contractors and all staff for their discipline and commitment, in achieving optimum standard, so as to be certified. She pledged to maintain and improve a system of the highest quality that ensures patient satisfaction and reliance.

More opportunities for small-scale farmers through market-based approach - as GMC partners to have products displayed once monthly

Director of GNBS, Ms. Evadnie Enniss (third from left), Laboratory Manager Kulwantie Mohabir, General Manager Mrs. Ratna Budhu, Medical Director Dr. Chetram Budhu and staff of Quest Medical Centre.

In photo, from left, are Director of GNBS, Ms. Evadnie Enniss, Laboratory Manager Kulwantie Mohabir, General Manager Mrs. Ratna Budhu and Medical Director Dr. Chetram Budhu of Quest Medical Centre.

FARMERS are soon to benefit from assistance in having their products and services marketed through the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC). The Ministry of Agriculture through a collaborative approach with the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), and the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), has been working to ensure that farmers, especially small-scale farmers, have access to market opportunities. Last Friday, the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), held a “Honey Exposition” that allowed entrepreneurs from near and far to showcase their local products in a structured approach. “This initiative has been a tremendous one which has assisted not only my business to access market, but everyone else who has products out here…we have been able to sell our products as persons have been supporting this venture,” Apiculturist Linden Stewart said. Agriculture Minister Hon. Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, who graced the occasion, committed to having the GMC on a monthly basis promote local products and services. He lauded the agro-processors for being highly organised, and noted that much work has been put into this area which has significantly aided them in accessing market opportunities. The Guyana Shop will soon partner with major supermarkets in Regions 2, 3, 5, 6 and 10 to allow persons access to local products. The exhibitors were also encouraged to work together with the aim of further expanding the sector. Meanwhile, IICA’s representative to Guyana, Mr. Wilmot Garnett, spoke of the marketing aspect, which IICA has been playing a major role in developing. He added that previously, the marketing aspect by farmers had been significantly lacking but IICA has been playing a role in working with the farmers to have this remedied. The next event slated for December 6, 2013 will see pineapple producers showcasing their products. Honey producers exhibiting their products. Candles and wine made of honey – Pandama Products Virgin Honey – Produced in Guyana Bees wax used in tie dye (decorative art on fabric)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Nadal and Djokovic in final as Swiss melt away

(REUTERS)-Switzerland’s challenge at the ATP World Tour Finals melted away like an Alpine glacier in a heatwave yesterday as Rafa Nadal and Novak Djokovic marched on to the grand finale Nadal muscled past Roger Federer 7-5 6-3 before Djokovic extended his hot streak to 21 consecutive victories with a routine 6-3 6-3 defeat of Stanislas Wawrinka. Fittingly the regular season will end with a $1.92 million shoot-out between the two dominant forces in men’s tennis who will go head-to-head for the 39th time. Djokovic, who like Nadal had a 100 percent record in round robin play, will be desperate to retain his title after ceding the world number one ranking to the relentless Spaniard in October. “We are both having a great season this year. This is probably the best possible final we have here in London. We’ll see what happens tomorrow,” Djokovic, who was rock solid against tournament debutant Wawrinka, told a news conference. “This is probably the most

competitive tournament that we have after grand slams in our sport, and we both want to end this season in the best possible way and end it with a title.” Predicting a winner will be a tough task. Australian Open champion Djokovic is unbeaten since losing the U.S. Open final to Nadal in September while Nadal, whose 10 titles this year include the French Open, hopes to cap an astonishing comeback following a seven-month injury lay-off. “The most important thing for me is that on the toughest surface for me, the most difficult one, I was able to win four matches against top-eight players,” Nadal, whose bulging CV is only missing a Tour Finals title, told reporters. “Now there remains one more match, probably the hardest, and I need to play my best match to have a chance tomorrow.” Nadal boasted a 21-10 career record over Federer but Sunday’s victory was his first on the kind of indoor court that has proved problematic to the 27-year-old during his career. Former world number one Federer began in positive fashion, hardly dropping a point in his opening three service games and having a golden chance to break Nadal in the sixth game, only to send a wild forehand whistling over the baseline. “I went for it when I had a chance for a breakpoint in the first set. Maybe I shouldn’t have, but I did. No regrets there, I guess,” Federer, who has ended the year with a solitary title, his worst haul since 2001, told reporters. “I just struggled to stay consistent enough throughout the match, and that’s why he deserved to win. He was better today.” Federer offered hope to his fans when Nadal served for the opening set, winning a scintillating baseline exchange at 15-30 with a sweetly-timed forehand winner and scoring a break when his opponent ballooned a forehand out. NO REPRIEVE It was one step forward and two back, however, for the 32-year-old who double-faulted in a poor service game to hand Nadal another chance to serve for the set and this time there was to be no reprieve. When a limp Federer forehand nose-dived into the net on break point at 2-2 in the second, the belief seemed to drain out of the Swiss and the end came quickly as Nadal maintained his stranglehold over the 17-times grand slam champion he has now beaten on eight of their last 10 matches. Nadal was typically generous, offering some encouraging words for Federer who has at least ended the year looking a little more like his old self having beaten Juan Martin del Potro and Richard Gasquet here. “I think he should be happier about the way he finished the season than compared how he was three months ago,” Nadal said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Trophy Stall takes Open ...

From back page

bowled out for 126 which was scored off 17.3 overs, with Amir Nizamudin 29 (2x6, 1x4), Greg Singh 28 (1x4) and Azad Azeez 18 (1x6) leading their batting. Mark Dutchin and C. Budhu took 3 wickets each for 14 and 17 runs respectively for Trophy Stall, who in their reply lost the pugnacious Wasim Haslim for 6, bowled off the third delivery of the first over. However, it was the lone success for Wolf Warriors, as Rafiek who struck five sixes and three fours in his unbeaten 59 and Deosarran whose 45 was decorated with three fours and two sixes, carried their team to 130 for 1 from 15.4 overs, to complete the win. With it, Trophy Stall took home $800,000, a trophy and

ENGLISH Southwell 08:30 hrs Shalamiyr 09:00 hrs Midnight Macarena 09:35 hrs Ballyvoneen 10:05 hrs John Reel 10:40 hrs Motou 11:10 hrs Corkage 11:40 hrs Houndscourt CARLISLE 08:45 hrs Camden George 09:15 hrs Top Billing 09:50 hrs Little Glenshee 10:25 hrs Imperial Vic 11:00 hrs Maybe I Won’t 11:30 hrs Riguez Dancer 12:00 hrs Stonebrook FRENCH RACING TIPS Toulouse 08:50 hrs Sisyphe 09:20 hrs Cricel Wood 09:50 hrs Vita 10:20 hrs Keegsquaw 10:55 hrs Thatside 11:25 hrs Plural 11:55 hrs Kenmour 12:25 hrs Fracassee 13:00 hrs Polarsturm AMERICAN RACING TIPS Philadelphia Park Race 1 Classic Review Race 2 The Laurels Race 3 Christinas Charm Race 4 Miss Ravalo Race 5 Dragon Tattoo Race 6 Wils Reward Race 7 What a Delight Race 8 King Henry Race 9 Turini

15 medallions, while the Managing Director of Trophy Stall Inc. Ramesh Sunich handed them an additional $200,000 at the presentation ceremony, while Wolf Warriors received $200,000, a trophy and 15 medallions. For his Man- of- the- Match efforts, Deosarran received one Wellman Hamper and a trophy compliments of Mike’s Pharmacy, while Rafiek was the recipient of one 14k gold bracelet, presented with the kind compliments of Steve’s Jewellery World. In the Master’s category, Industry Super Kings batted first and were bowled out for 117 in 19.3 overs, with Jagdesh Persaud 23 (2x6, 1x4) and D. Latchman 15 (2x4) leading their batting. R. Evelyn (3 for 19) along with R. Gafoor, R. Etwaroo and E. Dodson who took 2 wickets each for 19, 21 and 26 runs respectively, led New York Better Hope’s bowling before Gus Gordon struck four sixes and one four in his 47 to steer them to 120 for 5 from 19.1 overs. K. Sanichar offered support with his 28 (1x4), even as David Harper and G. Prasaud took two wickets each for 27 and 21 runs respectively for Industry Super Kings, who were forced to settle for the second placed prize of $150,000, a trophy and 15 medallions, while New York Better Hope carted off $600,000, a trophy and 15 medallions. Gordon was named the Man- of- the -Match for the Master’s final while Jagdesh Persaud was named the Player of the Series, receiving for his efforts, one 14k gold band, which was also presented with the kind compliments of Steve’s Jewellery World. Prior to the playing of the Open category final, Trophy Stall Angels defeated Mike’s Wellwoman in the female 10/10 exhibition contest, to take home the $50,000 top prize and trophy in the process. Mike’s Wellwoman batted first and scored 85 for 5, thanks to Zola Telsford’s 37 (3x6, 2x4) and Amanda Bobb-Semple’s 21, even as Alicia Allen took 3 for 18 and Anisa Persaud 2 for 15 for Trophy Stall, who in reply scored 86 for 1, with , with Kavita Yadram 40 (3x4, 2x6), June Ogle-Thomas 26* (1x4) and Heema Singh 14*.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Van Persie sinks Arsenal, City lose at Sunderland By Alan Baldwin LONDON:(Reuters) Manchester United striker Robin van Persie’s soaring first-half header secured a 1-0 win over his old club Arsenal yesterday that pricked the visitors’ bubble and thrust the champions back into the Premier League title race. The Old Trafford defeat checked Arsenal’s breakaway and left them with 25 points from 11 matches, two clear of Liverpool who

thrashed Fulham 4-0 on Saturday, with United moving up to fifth place on 20. Manchester City suffered a stunning 1-0 setback at struggling Sunderland, who had taken just four points from their 10 previous games, and dropped to eighth on 19 points. A m b i t i o u s To t t e n h a m Hotspur also hit an unexpected roadblock in losing 1-0 to Newcastle United at White Hart Lane, with visiting goalkeeper Tim Krul making

a stunning 14 saves to keep a clean sheet. Arsenal’s Old Trafford trip was a litmus test for both sides, with the North Londoners arriving as the form team eager to end years of hurt at United and charge 11 points clear of old rivals under new management. Alex Ferguson may have been watching from the directors’ box rather than shouting on the bench but David Moyes’ side ensured the outcome remained depressingly familiar

for the Gunners, who have now won only one of their last 10 league games against United. “This was a big result for us today. Arsenal have been in terrific form this season,” said Moyes after his biggest success so far at United. AWAY DEFEAT It was Arsenal’s first away

Key players to prepare in Brisbane

CRICKET Australia (CA) yesterday advised that Australian captain Michael Clarke and fast bowlers Ryan Harris and Peter Siddle will prepare for the first Commonwealth Bank Ashes Test at CA’s new high performance facility at Allan Border Field in Brisbane, and will not take part in the third round of Bupa Sheffield Shield matches for their respective states. Australian team coach Darren Lehmann said: “We’re very pleased with Michael’s preparation ahead of the first Test. The plan for his Ashes build-up was to play

Coach Darren Lemann pleased with Michael Clarke’ preparation. two Sheffield Shield matches, which he has done successfully. He has spent valuable time in the middle batting and

fielding. Importantly his back has coped well in both matches, but we will continue to take a sensible and cautious approach to managing him. As part of his preparation for the first Test, he will go to Brisbane for training. “On the fast bowling front, Ryan and Peter are both in great condition. As part of their management plan they will continue their preparation under the guidance of national coaching staff in Brisbane over the coming days.” The squad for the first Commonwealth Bank Ashes Test will be announced tomorrow.

OSCL remembers late prominent Guyanese By Frederick Halley TORONTO - Special tributes were paid to the late Guyanese Norman Sue when the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) staged its 18th annual presentation dinner and dance at the Easton Banquet Hall in Scarborough, Toronto on Saturday November 2 last. The late stalwart and prominent businessman, who was the founder and owner of Norman Sue Bakery situated in Scarborough, Toronto, passed away on October 7 last.

According to OSCL president Albert Ramcharran, the late Sue played an integral part in the sponsorship of competitions run by the organisation and was also a shining example in the Guyanese community as a whole. And In recognition of Sue’s contribution to the sport, Ramcharran took the opportunity to hand over a plaque to his wife Lynette. Sue’s daughter Kim, who is also the treasurer of the OSCL, was also loud in praise of her late father’s role in the Toronto community and expressed

sincere thanks to the OSCL for the tremendous support in his passing. Kim, reminded the gathering of her father’s strong support of the Guyanese culture, pointing out that he was an icon and a pioneer in that respect. She also alluded to the fact that he gave selflessly, not only financially but through his kind deeds. The late Sue, who died at age 66 after a prolonged illness, migrated to Canada in 1971 after living in Georgetown and later Linden, Upper Demerara.

LYNETTE Sue, wife of the late Norman Sue, poses with the plaque along with executive members of the OSCL. President Albert Ramcharran is second from right and on his right is Kim Sue. (Picture by Bobby Ramlogan).

ROBIN VAN PERSIE defeat since March after a run of 15 games unbeaten in all competitions while United showed they were picking up pace after a shaky start to the new era under Moyes. Former Arsenal favourite Van Persie bagged his seventh league goal of the season when the Dutchman rose to deftly head home a Wayne Rooney corner at the far post in the 27th minute. He celebrated the goal with abandon, sparing the visiting fans no agonies by racing away in delight and pumping the air with a clenched fist. Arsenal failed to live up to expectations, creating few chances on a strangely muted evening for their record signing, Germany midfielder Mesut

Ozil, and could even have found themselves 2-0 behind after an hour when Rooney shot just wide. The visitors were without their defensive rock Per Mertesacker, sidelined before the start with a stomach virus that also affected three other Arsenal players. United had to replace Nemanja Vidic at halftime when the central defender suffered a head injury. “He’s gone to hospital,” said Moyes. “It’s a terrible clash, it’s an accident but hopefully he’ll be OK.” SUNDERLAND SHOCK On a day of surprises elsewhere, Swansea City fought back from 2-0 down at home to Stoke to go 3-2 ahead but drew 3-3 after Charlie Adam’s stoppage time penalty for the visitors. Ivorian striker Wilfried Bony scored twice in the second half for Swansea. Gus Poyet’s struggling Sunderland pulled off an electrifying 1-0 win over big-spending Manchester City at the Stadium of Light to give their supporters hope of better times ahead. Second from bottom, Sunderland chalked up a fourth successive 1-0 home win over City thanks to a 21st-minute goal slotted in by Phil Bardsley from the left side of the box. With Uruguayan manager Poyet pacing around on the touchline as Sunderland faced a late City barrage, the Black Cats held on for their first clean sheet in 15 matches and a stunning win over a side who hammered Norwich City 7-0 last weekend.

“They were outstanding,” beamed Poyet, who had defender Wes Brown making his first Premier League start in nearly two years, after his third win in as many home games since replacing sacked Italian Paulo Di Canio. “We tried to plan the game in three days and tried to convince them it was possible, especially to keep a clean sheet against a top, top team.” HERO KRUL Krul was the hero at White Hart Lane in what he said was the game of his life. “I’m delighted, I’m over the moon... this is a highlight of my career,” grinned the flying Dutchman who was man of the match after making more saves than any Premier League goalkeeper in a match this season. “These kind of games don’t happen very often. Three points away at Tottenham is a fantastic result.” The focus was on both goalkeepers from the start, with Hugo Lloris left out of the Tottenham squad on medical advice after the French international had been knocked unconscious at Everton last week. His 42-year-old replacement Brad Friedel had to make a couple of saves early on but was powerless to prevent the livewire Loic Remy firing Newcastle in front after 13 minutes. The France striker picked up a beautifully-measured pass from Yoan Gouffran to dart around the American keeper and stab home for his seventh league goal of the season.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Suknanan wins 2013 MACORP Invitational Golf tournament

CANADIAN based golfer Jaipaul Suknanan was precise with his drives, he chipped with purpose and putted with confidence, the end results were 14 pars, a birdie and the top prize in this year’s edition of the MACORP Invitational Golf Tournament at the Lusignan Golf Course. The 2007 Guyana Open winner shot two over par last Saturday to finish with a net

score of 65 (playing with a handicap of seven); he won on a count-back against Dave Mohamad (with a handicap of 25) who had also finished with a net score of 65. Archbishop Dr Philbert London (28 handicap) placed third, as his last nine holes proved better than two other performers (Mattie Wesslin and R. Persaud) with similar scores of net 67.

No extension for Whatmore as Pakistan coach

THE PCB will not renew Pakistan head coach Dav Whatmore’s contract, when it expires ahead of the Asia Cup in late February 2014. His last assignment with Pakistan will be the upcoming Sri Lanka series in the UAE, between December 2013 and January 2014. ESPNcricinfo understands that PCB had been mulling releasing Whatmore after the Champions Trophy in June, in which Pakistan didn’t win a match, but held back on such a move to avoid the compensation (three months’ salary) they would have had to pay him if they terminated the contract. “We are not against a foreign coach,” PCB Interim Management Committee head, Najam Sethi, recently said in the UAE. “Our problem is, with foreign coaches our players are not able to communicate freely. The players are not that well educated when it comes to English. So there is a lot of problem in communicating with each other and they don’t understand fully.” Whatmore was appointed head coach in March DAV WHATMORE 2012 and Pakistan have failed to win a Test series under him, and have only won two out of the 10 matches they’ve played so far. After feedback from various players in the team, it is learnt, the PCB is not satisfied. A top PCB official said that some players are not quite comfortable around Whatmore and the suggestion is to bring in a local coach. (ESPN Cricinfo)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday November 11, 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: (1) Conrad Hunte and Collie Smith (2) WI vs NZ, Auckland, 1992

Today’s Quiz: (1) How many times Alvin Kallicharran was dismissed in the 90s in Tests? (2) Who is the first Pakistani to face a delivery in an ODI game?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

MACORP Invitational Golf tournament winner Jaipaul Suknanan (fifth from right) poses with the other winners and MACORP representatives. In the ladies department it was all Christine Sukhram as she walked away with both the net score and gross score trophies. Sukhram, who is the country’s most dominant female player for almost a decade, ended with net 73 playing with a handicap of 10. The Macorp tournament, one highly regarded

on the golf calendar, was also played by brothers Avinda Kishore and Avinash Persaud. The former, who won the prestigious Guyana Open title the week prior, could not replicate his winning feat. The five-handicapper made consecutive birdies early in the back-nine, but faltered towards the end to finish with a gross

score of 76. His older brother, Persaud, who has won the Guyana Open four times, made two under in his back nine to win on a count-back against Suknanan in the gross scoring department. Both had finished with a 72. The closest to the pin award was won by Robert Ha-

numan while the longest drive prize went to Roger Rajkumar. Managing Director of MACORP, Jorge Medina, a player himself, spoke about the importance of golf and tourism at the presentation ceremony. Along with the trophies the players were treated to several prizes from a free raffle along with food and drinks.

Pietersen has treatment on a knee injury KEVIN Pietersen has rejoined the England squad in Sydney after having a cortisone injection in his knee in Melbourne. The batsman had to have the injection after feeling discomfort in the draw with Australia A. Pietersen, 33, is expected to be available for the final warm-up game before the start of the Ashes, against New South Wales XI on Wednesday. He was sidelined for three months with a knee problem earlier this year. Pietersen, who has scored 7,887 Test runs at an average of 48.38, last had an injection between the fourth and fifth Tests of the victorious Ashes series in August. He has previously had cortisone injections to help tackle spine and Achilles problem Pietersen’s right knee became a major concern when he was forced to fly home from last winter’s tour of New Zealand with deep bruising around the bone. He missed home and away series against the Black Caps as well as the Champions Trophy, but rejected the option of surgery because it would have ruled him out of consecutive Ashes series. Pietersen first felt the problem in training before

the start of the Australia A match on Wednesday and went on to make eight before falling lbw on Saturday. England coach Andy Flower is confident Pietersen can manage the problem. “I don’t think it’s going to be a huge issue,” Flower said. “He’s had a couple of these injections before, and they’ve been successful [and] quietened the problem down. “It’s obviously an ongoing issue for him but we anticipate this one being successful and anticipate him playing a full part in the Ashes tour.” The concern over Pietersen follows the news that wicketkeeper Matt Prior will have a scan after suffering a calf injury against Australia A in Hobart. England spinner Graeme Swann says he’s not concerned about the injury concerns. “I think Kev’s fit for Wednesday and Matt will be fine,” said Swann. “You tend to get that a lot. Most of the players will carry a niggle, but the press don’t find out about most of them. “I would be a bit worried obviously on the eve of it, but knowing these two they are two of the fittest guys in the squad despite being among the older guys - and they’ll bounce back as quick as anybody.”

Bowler James Anderson added: “They are huge players for us. Matt’s the vice-captain and plays a crucial role at number seven, and we know exactly what KP can do with the bat. But if they’re not fit, for

whatever reason, we know we’ve got some very adequate replacements waiting in the wings.” The first Ashes Test begins in Brisbane on 21 November. (BBC Sport)

Jamaica, Caribbean proud ... From page 27

team in particular have appealed to them.” Corporate Jamaica, he signaled, “will have to take notice” that women’s football is no longer the Cinderella of the global game. “Women’s football is growing everywhere in the world, and while it struggles to gain the kind of corporate support that will take it further, it continues to grow and appeal to lovers of the game.” The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) joined in saluting in the young Reggae Girlz for their performance in the CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Championship, which concludes with the third place match (USA v Jamaica) and final (Mexico v Canada) on Saturday at Catherine Hall Stadium. “We are assured that while Jamaica might be small in size and accomplishments in women’s football, you are tallawah (large) in heart and fight,” said CFU President Gordon Derrick. Jamaica was defeated 5-0 by Canada in the semifinals of the World Cup Qualifying tournament on Thursday, the same Mexico shocked powerhouse USA 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 stalemate. Leading up to that, Jamaica topped Group A with seven points by defeating El Salvador (2-0) and Haiti (3-0) and, then, drawing with Mexico (1-1). Mexico and Canada have booked their spots to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Costa Rica next March.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday November 11, 2013

Barnwell punishes GNIC as DCC chalk up Carib Beer T20 victory

…GYO, GCC and MSC also win By Calvin Roberts A BELLIGERENT unbeaten half- century from Guyana and West Indies T20 all-rounder Christopher Barnwell, piloted defending champions Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) to a 72 runs victory over a Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) at the Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) ground yesterday. Competing in the third round of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) organised Carib Beer sponsored first division T20 competition, DCC scored an imposing 111 for 3 from their 7 overs, with Barnwell hitting 10 sixes and one four in his 72, in the rain reduced contest. Also chalking up victories in the third round were MSC, Gandhi Youth Organization (GYO) and Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC), respectively. In reply, GNIC were held to a meager 39 for 6 from their 7 overs, as the pace/ spin combination that was in operation for the defending champions, led by Dennis ‘Bitterman’ Squires’ 2 for 9, did an excellent job in containing the GNIC batting

lineup, even though Marc Nicholson hit an unbeaten 19. DCC started badly when the contest got underway, losing the wickets of Trevon Griffith (00) and Andrew

celebrated with a bigger six over the same position off the next delivery. DCC lost Sattaur, who offered valuable support to Barnwell off the second delivery of the final over, but still reached their eventual total,

The quick demise of Crandon (00), Ranole Bourne (01) and Ejaz Mohammed (01), did not help GNIC’s cause as they crawled to their eventual total at the end of their seven overs, handing DCC their

The victorious Demerara Cricket Club, led by Dennis ‘Bitterman’ Squires (forefront) leaves the field of play following their win over Guyana National Industrial Corporation at the Malteenoes Sports Club ground yesterday. Lyght Jnr (08) in quick succession to be 14 for 2 in the second over, before Barnwell and Brian Sattaur 19 (2x4, 1x6) added 87 for the third wicket from 4.4 overs. No GNIC bowler was shown any sympathy from Barnwell, who posted his 50 from 15 balls with seven sixes and one four, with a six over wide midwicket off National Coach Esuan Crandon, and

while there was a wicket each for Krishna Arjune, Royston Simmons and Rawle Merrell. Squires struck twice in the first over of GNIC’s innings, removing both Quincy Ovid-Richardson and Arjune without scoring, while Paul Wintz accounted for Rayon Griffith (10, 1x6), even though Nicholson struck Squires for a six off the third ball of the first over.

third successive victory in the tournament. At the same venue and in the second match of the day, the home team who lost both of their opening matches to DCC and GNIC, rebounded to defeat Everest Cricket Club by 25 runs in another rain truncated contest. Batting first, MSC posted 123 for 7, with Kellon Carmichael and Kareem

Gibson demands more from batsmen By Nagraj Gollapudi OTTIS Gibson, the West Indies coach, was expecting to spend Sunday watching his team fight in front of a full house at Eden Gardens, as the first Test went into the fifth day. Instead, he was overlooking a three-hour training session under a harsh sun at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The innings-and51-run defeat in Kolkata was West Indies’ first inside three days during Gibson’s tenure. He was unimpressed. “There is only so much talking any coach can do,” Gibson said, after his batsmen had wasted starts in both innings of the first Test. “When you play five batsmen, and you sit down and stress the importance of those five batsmen, and you set yourself a challenge of batting a day and a half in the first innings, it is then up to those five batsmen to negotiate whatever the opposition bowlers throw at them and hang around for five days. “(But) When you have a run-out and a couple of soft dismissals within those five batsmen then it puts pressure on everybody else. That is exactly what happened. We have to get better. We have to learn those mistakes

and try not to repeat them.” Marlon Samuels scored the only half-century for West Indies in the first Test. He was also the only batsman with a valid reason for his dismissals. In the first innings, Samuels was bowled by Moham-

though the ball appeared to be going down leg side. The other batsmen had no such excuses. The top-order batsmen Kieran Powell, Chris Gayle and Darren Bravo paid for playing loose shots. Shivnarine Chan-

Narsingh Deonarine waits to bat during a training session yesterday at the Wankhede Stadium. mad Shami after the ball was changed and suddenly began to reverse swing. In the second, he was hit on the pad by another reverse-swinging delivery from Shami and was given lbw by umpire Nigel Llong,

derpaul was ineffective in the absence of stable partners. As for Denesh Ramdin, did he even turn up in Kolkata? “Try and bat three days,” Gibson responded, when asked how the West Indies batting could improve. “We won the toss

in good batting conditions and we batted 70-odd overs. That is just not good enough. We know in India you have to bat long, put runs on the board, 400 minimum in the first innings really. So the 234 that we made was pretty average. “We were little bit rusty coming in but we are not going to use that as an excuse. We still had our opportunities to make scores - we had six or seven guys who got starts and did not carry on. Only one guy got a half-century. When India batted only one or two of those guys got starts and made hundreds. And that was the difference.” According to Gibson, the five-batsman strategy is a recent one and it has worked for West Indies. Its success, however, depended on every player sticking to the plan, Gibson said. “When you look at the result you sort of want to think that way (whether the five-batsmen plan works). That line-up is the one with which we have played the last three or four Test matches. We backed those guys and they did not perform as well as they did in the past. It is a two-match series so we have to look at the combination to make sure we still believe strongly that we can win here.” (ESPN Cricinfo).

Naughton topscoring with 20 each, while they got support from Vishal Narayan (17), Keifer Naughton 14 and skipper Shemroy Barrington who made 11. A. Mohammed (3 for 21) and Troy Gonsalves’ 2 for 26

were the leading wicket takers for Everest, who in reply crumbled to the pace of Cordell Mars who took 4 for 18 and were bowled out for 88 in 15.3 overs, with R. Singh and J. Mohammed both making 13. Across at the Police Sports Club ground, GYO defeated Transport Sports Club (TSC) by five wickets, while GCC made light work of PSC n the second contest, which like the MSC versus Everest affair, was a rain interrupted one. In the first game which was reduced to an 18- over affair, TSC posted what looked like a match winning 148 for 8 from

their allotted overs, thanks to Oslyn Batson’s 51 (5x4, 2x6), Stephen Alves’ 24 (4x4) and Sunil Singh 14 (3x4). Former Guyana Under-19 fast bowler Leon Scott took 3 for 20 and A. Rahim 2 for 18 for GYO, who in reply reached 152 for 5 from 17.5 overs, thanks to 43 from Surendra Heeralall (3x6, 2x4), 34 from Crosse (4x4m 1x6) coupled with 32 from Rahim, whose innings was decorated with two sixes and the same number of fours, even as Jonathan Alphonso snared 3 for 30 for TSC. In the second game of the day at the PSC ground, the home team who were asked to bat first by their guests, chalked up 116 for 4 from their 14 overs, thanks to skipper Royan Fredericks 41 (3x6, 3x4), Jason Heyliger 33 (2x6, 1x4) and 14 from Rawle Browne, which included one six and a four. Jamal Anderson, Joshua Wade, Raj Nannan and Leon Johnson took a wicket each for GCC, who in reply reached 117 for 2, with Johnson hitting an unbeaten 61 (7x4, 4x6) and former Guyana and West Indies skipper Ramnaresh Sarwan contributing an unbeaten 28 (1x6, 1x4).

Jamaica, Caribbean proud of U-17 Reggae Girlz MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica, (CMC) - The President of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), Captain Horace Burrell, says despite falling short in its bid for an historic World Cup qualification, he was proud of the Jamaica’s Under-17 women’s team. The United States defeated Jamaica 8-0 to take the third place in the CONCACAF U-17 Women’s Championship on Saturday. “What can I say, these girls have done themselves and

Jamaica’s U-17 Women team their country proud,” he said. “They have flown their nation’s flag high and with honor with the quality and passion of play.” Burrell, who is also a CONCACAF Vice President, stated that the exploits of the Reggae Girlz, who topped their group and reached the semifinals of a tournament at this level for the first time, made a strong statement that women’s football in Jamaica is on the rise. “There is no doubt that awareness of the women’s game has now been heightened…people, including the private sector, now see that Jamaica’s football in all areas is on the up,” he expressed. “When you look at how the people in Montego Bay turned out in their numbers to cheer the girls on speaks volume that the women’s game and the performance of this

Please see page 26

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Barnwell punishes GNIC as DCC chalk up Carib Beer T20 victory Please see story on page 27

GFSCA ‘Guyana Softball Cup 111’

Trophy Stall takes Open category title ... New York Better Hope are Masters champions By Calvin Roberts THANKS to an unbeaten 122 run second wicket partnership between Man- of- the- Series Fazal Rafiek and Man of the Match Surujpaul Deosarran, Trophy Stall were able to record a comfortable nine wicket victory over Wolf Warriors at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground. The two were meeting in

the final of the Male Open category for this year’s Guyana Softball Cricket Association organized ‘Guyana Softball Cup 111’, after witnessing New York Better Hope demolish Industry Super Kings to take the Master’s category. Batting first in the Open final after being asked to do so, Wolf Warriors were

Please see page 24

November 11 down the years

Fearless Freddo

Birth of the hard-hitting West Indian left-hander Roy Fredericks 1942

DASHING openers are ten-a-penny in the modern age, but in the days when openers blocked and middle-order batsmen attacked, the West Indian left-hander Roy Fredericks, who was born today, was a revelation. His blistering 169 against Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson on a Perth flyer in 1975-76 was one of the most audacious innings ever played in a Test, and though Fredericks was only 5ft 6in tall, he gave the ball a fearful whack. He followed up that Perth ton with a very good tour of England in 1976, when he made 517 runs in the five Tests. Fredericks played 59 Tests in all, bowing out against Pakistan in Jamaica in 1976-77 with a typically flamboyant 83. He later became sports minister of his native Guyana. Fredericks died of cancer in New York in Freddo’s blistering 169 in Perth was one of the most September 2000.(ESPN audacious innings ever Cricinfo).

We are the champions! The victorious Trophy Stall team strikes a pose with the GFSCA ‘Guyana Softball Cup 111’ Male Open title, after being crowned champions last night. Stooping at left is Managing Director of Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich (Photos by Adrian Narine.) Man of the Match in the finals Surujpaul Deosarran poses

played in a Test.

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Trophy Stall’s skipper Jagdesh Deosarran proudly displays the GFSCA ‘Guyana Softball Cup 111’ Male Open title.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2013