Guyana chronicle november 17 2013 by Chronicle

SUNDAY No. 103653 SUNDAY NOVEMBER 17, 2013

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

GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

AG on AMLCFT impasse …

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Guyana now at the mercy of CFATF –-‘It is out of my hands’

Ex-soldier gunned Page 12 down, execution style, outside city nightclub

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Attorney-General, Mr. Anil Nandlall

Yesu Persaud announces his retirement from DDL Page 16

At UG’s 47th convocation…

Valedictorian urges fellow graduands to be trailblazers Page 2

Acting President Samuel Hinds presenting valedictorian Eileen Marray with the President’s Medal

PPP stalwart, Pooran Persaud, passes away Page 13

Labour Page 3 Minister represents Guyana at OAS meet in Colombia

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

At UG’s 47th convocation…

Valedictorian urges fellow graduands to be trailblazers --to try uncharted waters, rather than ‘go with the flow’

By Vanessa Narine THE 47th convocation of the University of Guyana (UG) turned out 1,376 graduands, who were conferred with their degrees and diplomas yesterday in a ceremony conducted at the Turkeyen campus. Eileen Marray from the Faculty of Social Sciences copped the President’s Medal and was this year ’s valedictorian. In her address to the thousands gathered for the occasion, Marry said the importance of education becomes clearer with its pursuit at a tertiary level; and it is an awareness that was accompanied by questions that would shape the direction of the graduands’ lives. She noted that the first step towards having their lives shaped was their enrollment with the University, which led to a journey marked by hard work, long hours, and many stressful moments.

Quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson, Marray urged her peers to use their knowledge, and “not go where the path may lead; but go instead where there is no path, and leave a trail.”

She acknowledged that, after graduation, each individual heads off to a different path, be it furthering their education or pursuing a profession; and she encouraged that they relentlessly pursue

Guyanese-born Dr. Ivelaw Griffith, President of the Fort Valley State University

A cross-section of the 2013 graduands the next chapter of their lives. Marray called on her peers to maintain the curiosity of a child, and embrace opportunities that come their way as they move forward. T h e P r i m e M i n i s t e r ’s

Award for the best graduating student in the School of Medicine was taken by Linbert Anslem Lewis. Jewel Cheong took the Prime Minister’s Medal for the best graduating student with a Degree in Public Man-

agement. Felina Sarah Maikoo of the Faculty of Social Sciences was awarded the Chancellor’s Medal, while the P ro - C h a n c e l l o r ’s M e d a l went to Eleanor Luckhoo, the best graduating law

student. Several other awards were given to graduates who had recorded noteworthy performances. D r. I v e l a w G r i f f i t h , President of the Fort Valley State University, lauded the accomplishments of all the graduands as he delivered the feature address. “Your dreams have come true. Your basis for moving up socio-economic and career ladders have been affirmed and confirmed,” he said. D r G r i ff i t h , h o w e v e r, quoted Sir Isaac Newton as a reminder to the graduands: “If I have seen further, it’s because of standing on the shoulders of giants.” “No achievement by any of us derives from only what we put into the pursuit… Whether or not you take the time before now to appreciate this, I remind you that your success in graduating today is attributable to the work done by many people See page 10

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

AG on AMLCFT impasse …

Guyana now at the mercy of CFATF –-‘It is out of my hands’

“GUYANA is now left at the mercy of the discretion of the CFATF…It is out of my hands!” declared Attorney-General, Mr. Anil Nandlall Thursday of his impending meeting with the regional watchdog, the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force. The meeting at reference, which begins tomorrow in Freeport, Bahamas, and ends Thursday, will see the Attorney-General Anil Nandlall having to explain to the CFATF why the proposed Anti-Money Laundering and Countering of Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) (AMLCFT for short) Bill has not yet been passed into law. The Opposition, in the National Assembly on November 7 by way of vote, rejected the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering of Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill. They also rejected the petition being presented to the House by the Private Sector Commission, as well as calls from the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), the Rice Producers Association (RPA) and the ‘Man-in-the-street’. Addressing the issue during a televised programme Thursday on the National Communications Network (NCN), Minister Nandlall said that in May during a meeting with the CFATF in Nicaragua, he had been granted a six-month reprieve to get the Bill passed. “Not in my wildest imagination did I predict that the Opposition

would have behaved the way that they have done,” he said. He now has the unenviable task of reporting to a group of approximately 40 persons representing the interest of 26 countries. As he was at pains to explain, he has no sensible reason to put forward as to why the Bill was rejected by the Parliamentary Opposition. He said the reasons put forward by the Alliance for Change (AFC) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) would be reflected in the parliamentary proceedings and meetings which would be presented to CFATF. The AFC’s call for a Procurement Commission does not link to the AMLCFT Bill, while the APNU’s call for the return of the Bill to Select Committee would see minutes reflecting that the Bill had already been there. “I may very well be asked,” he noted wryly: ‘Are you speaking of a National Assembly? Or are you speaking of a National Asylum?’” The AG expressed interest in the reaction of Guyanese when the consequences of the sanctions would have to be borne by all persons on the social and economic ladder. AG Nandlall reminded that the draft report that has already been prepared declares Guyana non-compliant and countries have been invited to adopt counter measures to protect themselves from the risks of money laundering and financing terrorism emanating from Guyana.

The recommendations from CFATF are in two sections, legislative (the Bill) and non-legislative (the Financial Intelligence Unit- FIU, and Special Organised Crime Unit -SOCU), he pointed out, and added that while CFATF is already aware of this, the Bill would allow the Agencies to exercise their mandate. Government is trying to put in place some of the recommendations contained in the Bill, through mechanisms that will not require parliamentary intervention or will minimise it, “since the National Assembly has become a hazardous

place. CFATF will be informed that their recommendations have been rejected by the Parliamentary Opposition”, the AG stated. He added that CFATF had reviewed and approved the Bill. AG Nandlall said the situation with respect to the non passage of the Bill was bizarre and questioned whose interest the Opposition was representing. “Having rejected the voice of the business community, the voice of the labour movement, the voice of the farmers and the voice of the man in the street, the opposition has effectively rejected the voice of the Guyanese constituency. These groupings represent almost all of

Labour Minister represents Guyana at OAS meet in Colombia

GUYANA’S Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda K. Gopaul participated in the XVIII Inter-American Conference of Ministers of Labour of the Organisation of American States (OAS) in Medellin Colombia early last week. The Inter-American Conference of Ministers of Labour is the premier hemispheric forum for the discussion of labour matters at the ministerial level. Celebrating 50 years of inter-American dialogue on labour and employment, the conference provided opportunities for reflection on advances achieved, as well as future challenges. Among the relevant issues addressed were the articulation of economic and labour policies for the promotion of decent work and social inclusion, employment as a keystone of equality and development, the protection of workers’ rights, and social dialogue, all of which permeate the Declaration and Plan of Action that was adopted during the November 11-12 meeting in Medellin. This conference was preceded by two preparatory meetings, the last of which was held in Washington in September to negotiate the Draft Declaration and Draft Plan of Action.

Guyana. I am now forced to conclude that they are representing the interest of a few who wish to continue to hide monies derived from illicit activities and the criminals, while wounding the interests of all Guyanese. This injury inflicted upon Guyana and its people must not go without a remedy,” he said. The CFATF has already prepared a draft report, which will constitute the evaluation report of Guyana. In the conclusion of that report, Guyana is scheduled to be declared a non-compliant jurisdiction and member states worldwide are invited to implement against Guyana such countermeasures that they deem necessary to protect

Attorney-General Mr. Anil Nandlall themselves and their business entities within their respective jurisdictions from the money laundering and terrorism risks which Guyana will pose. (GINA)

Labour Minister, Dr. Nanda K. Gopaul (left) with one of his colleagues during the meeting in Medellin last week

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

House passes Republican health bill with 39 Democratic votes By Mark Felsenthal and Susan Cornwell (REUTERS) - In the most significant legislative rebuke to President Barack Obama’s healthcare overhaul, 39 members of his Democratic Party

voted for a Republican bill in the House of Representatives on Friday aimed at undermining his signature domestic policy. The measure, which would allow insurance companies to renew and sell inexpensive, limited-coverage policies that

have been canceled because they don’t meet the standards of the new healthcare law that took effect on October 1, passed 261-157. The 39 Democrats who supported the bill - nearly one-fifth of the party’s caucus - reflected the alarm that spread within Obama’s party last week over the political damage from the botched rollout of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. Republicans have vowed to make Democratic support for

the troubled law the top issue in the 2014 elections. Twenty-nine of the 39 Democrats who voted for the Republican bill are running for re-election in competitive races, according to rankings by the nonpartisan Cook Political Report. Obama’s approval ratings have plunged during the past six weeks, as the rollout of the healthcare program that is his top domestic achievement has been beset by technical glitches with the federal online insurance website designed to allow

consumers to shop for policies. In recent days, HealthCare. gov’s problems have been overshadowed by reports that insurance companies were canceling the policies of millions of Americans whose policies did not meet the new law’s requirements that policies cover

PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA emergency treatment, hospital stays and prescription drugs, among other things. For years, Obama had promised that Americans would be able to keep their policies if they liked them. But the wave of cancellations has fueled the biggest political crisis of Obama’s presidency and led to an extraordinary scene at the White House on Thursday, as a contrite Obama took the blame for the healthcare program’s dismal start. He said he believed that he had to win back the confidence of the American people, and offered an administrative “fix” that would allow some people to retain their non-conforming

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insurance policies for at least a year. Obama’s plan dismayed some of his supporters who say that the cheap, limited-coverage plans that the new law aims to phase out often give consumers a false sense of having meaningful health coverage. It also created concern in the insurance industry - which for years had planned the health insurance exchanges created by Obamacare - and among state insurance commissioners. Industry advocates warned that Obama effectively was tinkering with the delicate and complex funding behind the healthcare law, and that premiums could begin soaring in 2015 if millions of consumers who were projected to be in Obamacare’s health exchanges continued to hold limited-coverage policies instead. Obama met with health insurance chief executives at the White House on Friday to discuss his proposal’s potential impact on the insurance market. “What we’re going to be doing is brainstorming on how do we make sure that everybody understands what their options are,” Obama told reporters in a brief photo opportunity as the meeting began. “We’re going to be soliciting ideas from them.” Friday’s bill, introduced by Republican Representative Fred Upton of Michigan, represented the latest in a series of legislative attacks on the healthcare law by the chamber, which has held more than 40 votes to limit or curtail Obamacare.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Surinamese help contribute to Guyana’s economic growth (De Ware Tijd, November 9, 2013)

LOCAL entrepreneurs have in recent months done well to take part in the economic opportunities offered by neighbouring Guyana. Agri Gold Suriname is the fourth Surinamese company that has established itself in Guyana within the last eight months. This is according to Nisa Kurban, Suriname’s Ambassador to Guyana, who spoke on Friday, November 8, at the opening ceremony of the company’s Gas Plant in Corriverton, Guyana. The diplomat expressed delight that more and more Surinamese are investing outside the country’s borders. Gold Agri Guyana is now a subsidiary of Suriname Agri Gold, which is located in the district of Nickerie, and is the brainchild of entrepreneur Djamoenapersad Roepram, who, just one year ago, entered the market for the sale of Oxygen, Acetylene and propane gas products.

The Surinamese models (Photos courtesy of Dagblad Suriname)

Surinamese well received at Guyana Fashion Week

VIABLE MARKET According to Mr. Roepram, they did a survey, which found that there is a viable market in Guyana for their products. “We want to capitalize on the Guyanese market and sell our products for up to five U.S. dollars cheaper than the cost of comparable products produced in Guyana,” he said. JOBS CREATED With the opening of his new business, the entrepreneur also created new jobs in Guyana. The ambassador said she has be focusing on what the neighbours can do for each other in the agricultural sector, and is further exploring opportunities in the rice and coconut sector in Suriname. The Ambassador also stated that even though the two countries may encounter obstacles, “We are a team, and we do work together.” Guyana is a very friendly nation, the Surinamese envoy said. “The people are open, and always help where needed.”

(Dagblad Suriname, November 2, 2013) SEVERAL Surinamese faces were seen during the Guyana Fashion Week which took place recently. Our c ountr y w as r e pr esented by designers Warda Marica and Rem-Ko, as well as by Surinamese catwalk models, Ferdinand Nahar and Adelio Bold -

Guyana impresses Suriname with its gender-specific laws (Dagblad Suriname, October 29, 20130) “THE implementation of gender- specific laws in Guyana, applied on specially adapted election arrangements, have created the framework for women to feature strongly in politics. “This unique legislation led to a greater participation of women in the political process, and resulted in a more than 30% representation of women in the 65-member Guyanese parliament.” This was the conclusion drawn by Ms. Jenny Geerlings-Simons, who, as chairperson of the Suriname Parliament, led a parliamentary visit to neighbouring Guyana. “In the Surinamese parliament, the ratio is extremely skewed, as women only represent 13% of the members. We looked at that particular legislation to see how this arrangement could be accommodated in the Surinamese system,” she told Dagblad Suriname. According to Geerlings-Simons, the legislation can’t simply be adapted, because the Suriname political system is fundamentally different from Guyana’s. The visit of the Suriname parliamentary delegation to Guyana took place from October 24 to 26. The invitation was made ??two years ago by Guyanese Parliament Speaker, Mr. Raphael Trotman. Preparations are now being made for a return visit to Suriname early next year by Guyanese parliamentarians. However, the current political situation in the western neighbour will determine whether this visit will still go ahead. Guyana is in a political crisis; the government of Donald Ramotar is governing with minority of seats. Geerlings-Simons says there are several areas where the two discussed how their respective parliaments could cooperate. The fact that both countries are part of UNASUR and CARICOM can serve as a basis for entering into parliamentary partnerships. The DNA President also finds the alignment with her fellow Guyanese important because of the intense movement of people between the two states.

ewijn. ABSORBED LIKE A SPONGE Ferdinand has been modeling for several years; seven years to be exact. And for the last three years, he has worked as a catwalk model. During the Guyana Fashion Week, he walked for Tyrone Nelson, a designer from the Bahamas, as well as for Neilson Nurse and Gift Line, both from Guyana itself. It was a very special week, with the models gaining a lot of experience. “It was very instructive. I really learned a lot about what goes into an event like that, and what is expected of you as a model,” Nahar said, adding: “You should be on time for the fitting and makeup, but you should also have the right attitude. I absorbed everything like a sponge, so that I can be a better model. It was a very motivating and inspiring weekend.” JEWELLERY Jewellery designer, Warda Marica is very satisfied with his participation at GFW. “It is the first show where I’ve immediately sold jewellery. I still get compliments on the presentation and the jewellery itself; that feels good. We were very well received, especially since we arrived a day earlier, and the news quickly spread that the ‘Suriname representatives were inside!’” REM-KO Rem-ko also looks back at GWF with a good feeling. “I did not have the opportunity to sell immediately,” he said. “My colleague, Warda, had that, fortunately.

“But for me, it was just good to get involved. There are several pictures of my clothing collection which now move around the world. In addition, I was very pleased with the models that I got, as well as the cooperation I got from the organizers. My work was also featured in The Wall Street Journal!” MISTAKES According to Ferdinand, the GFW was very well organized, but there were a few minor flaws. “Well, actually, it’s not worth mentioning them, but they started a few times too late. For example, when it rained on Saturday, we continued, because, as the saying goes: The show must go on!” Wa r d a f e l t that the programme was too long. “People stopped paying attention at 12:00hrs when we still had to go to four. But apart from that, it was very professional.” (Translations by Jimmy Roos)

EDITORIAL

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

GUYANA

Is Granger ‘leading’ Party from behind? THERE are politicians who lead from the front, in good times and bad times, taking deserve credits, or perhaps coping, as necessary, during a seasons of disenchantment, and worse. In our current national political scenario, Mr. David Granger, leader of the Peoples National Congress and parliamentary Opposition Leader, appears to have settled to ‘lead from behind’ when seemingly unable to come forward with creative ideas to help overcome problems in Guyana’s national interest. Two most outstanding examples, easily referenced, would be his Party’s role in defeating the government’s initiatives to make a reality the Amaila Hydro-Electric project, followed, a couple months later, by the killing (with help from the AFC) of the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill (henceforth referenced as the “Money Bill”). Briefly, after engaging in classic double-speak utterances, followed by some clumsy political tactics designed to ridicule the nation’s vital private sector organizations, Mr. Granger, aided by his Party’s primary spokesman on fiscal/economic issues, Carl Greenidge, was to make known the PNC’s interest in communicating its concerns over the “Money Bill” to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF), as reported in the media. This posturing, let it be reiterated, was AFTER Granger, as Opposition Leader, had permitted the defeat of this vital ‘Money Bill’ in parliament. The Guyanese people are quite familiar with the adage about closing the paddock AFER the horse has bolted. What a caricature of ‘leadership’! Vociferous in anti-gov-

ernment and anti-CFATF rhetoric, and without any significant indication of awareness about the grave implications for Guyana’s future social and economic progress in defeating the AML/ CFTI legislation, Granger’s PNC is now indicating, post-facto, interest in communicating with the regional body that it had hitherto ignored; or worse, damned in ‘Comrade’ Greenidge’s vitriolic outbursts. Nevertheless, if Granger’s PNC is truly serious about pursuing matured dialogue with the government and representatives of the CFATF, with a view to enabling a reconsideration by parliament of the “Money Bill’ it has killed, in cooperation with the AFC, then we must hope that serious efforts would indeed be pursued in that direction, in Guyana’s interest. But wait! There is something else that Mr. Granger would need to pay attention to! It’s the need for adjustment to his understanding of the history of the local labour movement under the long years of rigged elections and “party paramountcy”, when it was the norm to undermine the labour movement and foment social and political divisions among trade union officials and workers. That adjustment must deal with today’s social, political and economic REALITIES when trade unions are quite FREE to function without interferences from a freely elected and democratic government. Granger’s understanding of Guyana’s party political history should at least temper his current obsession with denigrating the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), and, curiously, blaming the PPP-led government for, as he said, prevailing divisions and weaknesses of the labour movement.

One does not have to be an ‘historian’ to appreciate how “paramountcy” politics, under PNC’s long rule — while ‘Comrade’ Granger was a Brigadier of the GDF and personal National Security Adviser to a Head of State — to know how the independence of the Guyana Trades Union Congress was suffocated under successive governments of the PNC. It’s quite intriguing to know that ‘Comrade’ Granger is now engaged in seeking to malign the government and FITUG for a perceived “weakened” labour movement. FITUG is quite well placed to defend itself, if it considers it really necessary. Its broad-based membership and timely interventions on fundamental issues of national interest would be known by the few better known affiliates of the GTUC, for example, within the GPSU. Perhaps, Mr. Granger should be humble enough to focus a little attention on the constant, prejudiced, vitriolic attacks from among GTUC executive members who seem obsessed in stirring opposition to, and even hate against the government, instead of seeking to promote unity and cooperation. Their own union members are not deceived.

Hoisted by his own petard

MR. MOHABIR ANIL NANDLALL MR. Rex McKay, SC, responded to my last letter published in the press. Expectedly, he was even more virulent than before. Rarely can reason survive in such venomous environs. In his letter, Mr. McKay felt it necessary to detail “the factual matrix of the case” for the “benefit of the public”. He then proceeded to essay a most jaundiced narration of personal information regarding the parties in the matter, injecting, as he merrily goes along, his own invectives; drawing his own biased inferences; and arriving at his own prejudicial conclusions. In so doing, learned Senior Counsel, wittingly or unwittingly, has done precisely that which the learned Judge intended to prohibit: “Trial by newspapers”, and indeed has contradicted, if not under-

mined, the very foundation of his entire argumentation. How eminent Senior Counsel could have made such a rudimentary blunder is indeed mind-boggling. Notably, learned Senior Counsel finally concedes that the order of the learned Judge was made in Chambers and in his absence. The contention that I was not there and therefore ought not to comment upon the said order is simply devoid of any logic. The assertion of mine that the Attorney General is the protector of the public interest and defender of the constitution has caused Mr. McKay some unusual disquiet. He referred to it once in his first letter and twice in his second. At first I thought it was inspired by vitriol, but after its emphatic return in the second letter, I realized that there may be a genuine case of unfamiliarity with the concept. It would be simply wrong for me not to shed some light where such darkness abounds. The role, functions and responsibilities of an Attorney General in a legal system like ours is the subject of discussion by many text writers, and the dicta of numerous decided cases. I will refer to only but a few. In the Belizean case of Attorney

General v. Marin [2011] 2 LRC, the President of the Court of Appeal of Belize posits thus at p. 471: “The Attorney General, as the guardian of the public rights, is the person entitled to institute proceedings where a public right has been infringed. In Gouriet v. Union of Post Office Workers [1977] 3ALL ER 70 at 80 Lord Wilberforce said: “It can be properly said to be a fundamental principle of English law that private rights can be asserted by individuals, but that public rights can only be asserted by the Attorney General as representing the public. In terms of the Constitutional law, the rights of the public are vested in the Crown, and Attorney General enforces them as an officer of the Crown.” These sentiments of and concerning the Attorney General were endorsed, upon appeal, by our own Madame Justice Desiree Bernard, sitting in the Caribbean Court of Justice (see Marin v AG [2011] 5 LRC p. 209 at p. 244). In De Smith, Woolf and Jowell’s Judicial Review of Administrative Actions, 5th edn (1991), the learned authors observe at para. 2-087: “Whenever a public right is infringed or threatened with infringement,

the Attorney General may institute proceedings to protect the right. What exactly are the interests of the public which may and should be protected by the Attorney General is purely a matter for his judgment, which on this question is not subject to review by the courts. This was made clear in LCC v- A-G [1902] AC 165.” In Gouriet v. Union of the Post Office Workers [1977] 3 ALL ER p. 70 at p. 83, Lord Wilberforce said: “That it is the exclusive right of the Attorney General to represent the public interest, even where the individuals might be interested in a larger view of the matter, it is not technical, not procedural, nor fictional. It is constitutional. I agree with Lord Westbury LC that it is also wise.” And of even greater relevance, in the very case upon which Mr. McKay has placed exceptional reliance, AG v. Times Newspapers Ltd [1973] 3 ALL ER 54, Lord Reid, whose judgment was quoted ad nauseam by Senior Counsel, at p.59 stated: “I agree with your Lordships that the Attorney General has a right to bring before the court any matter which he thinks may amount to contempt of court and which he considers should in the public interest be brought before the court.”

And in that very case, Lord Diplock, referring to the role of the Attorney General, enunciated: “He is the appropriate public officer to represent the public interest in the administration of justice. In doing so, he acts in constitutional theory on behalf of the Crown as “the fountain of justice”, and not in the exercise of its executive functions.” I hope those authorities shall put Mr. McKay’s obvious unease to rest. The majesty of the law always reminds us that it is never too late to learn. Mr. McKay makes great weather of a statement I made, that the European Court of Human Rights’ decision in the Times Newspapers v. AG inferentially overturned the cases he relied upon. I was simply paraphrasing the view of the illustrious Lord Denning in his book, ‘Due Process of the Law’. For the avoidance of doubt, I will set out His Lordship’s verbatim language at p.49: “The European Court of Human Rights, by a majority of 11 to 9, upheld the claim of the Sunday Times. It had a right to impart information about the Thalidomide case. Inferentially, they thought that the House of Lords was wrong, and that the Court of Appeal was right. Three cheers for the European Court. But

MR. REX MCKAY what will the House of Lords do now? Will they still regard themselves as infallible?” The reading public will decide whose opinion they wish to accept on this issue: that of Lord Denning, universally acclaimed as one of the greatest legal minds ever to have lived, or that of our Mr. McKay, whose office incidentally bears the appellation “Denning Chambers”. Mr. McKay next accuses me of attempting to scandalize the court in my writing. It would simply be improper for me to dignify such intemperate accusation with a response. This will be my last retort on this matter. MOHABIR ANIL NANDLALL Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

By Keith Burrowes THIS week, before I go into the main topic I had planned to write on, I want to touch upon the recent further troubles that have been plaguing the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare.

umental pieces of legislation in American history, effectively dropped the ball, and the President was left to pick it up since it, after all, has his name on it. Quite frankly, I don’t see this scenario playing out under Hilary Clinton. While I appreciate the historicity of Obama’s presidency as well as the tre-

Obamacare, and local gridlock contingencies in the framing of the Act. One example is the fact that while the AFA appears to have catered, through what Obama referred to as the Grandfather Clause, for Americans being able to keep their preexisting coverage as is if they wished – a key talking point and selling

KEITH BURROWES

From what I’ve read about the fairly complex set of technical and practical problems that have combined to undermine the rollout of Obamacare as promised by Obama, the key characteristic of the ones that most threaten his credibility have to do with the fact that it appears that some people responsible for the architecture of the Affordable Care Act simply did not cover all possible

point for Obama while lobbying for support for the Act – it did not cater for the expiration and renewal of preexisting coverage, an omission which has effectively taken the choice of keeping their old coverage out of the hands of a significant number of Americans, since the AFA treats renewal as a completely new coverage. Someone, somewhere, in the creation of one of the most controversial and mon-

mendous work he has done under at times rabid oppositional pressure from the Republicans, in terms of pragmatic governance of the world’s most influential military, sociocultural and economic power, I would

have gone for the former First Lady. My reasoning is simple – Hilary Clinton, (Senator Hilary Clinton before she ran in the Democratic primaries, lost to Obama, and was subsequently appointed his Secretary of State)

the hope that the gridlock of parliament presented the opportunity for new and innovative ways of getting on with the business of government in the interest of the people. Two years later, the situation, if anything,

As with Obama, the legacy of this current parliament is going to depend on the ability or lack thereof, to form meaningful consensus would not only have had the political experience but also the ability to gather the right skills to her, people who not only had the ability to craft sound policy, but to help keep her public image together during the most acute of PR crises, as they did for her husband. The key problem with Obama, and one which has resurfaced in recent weeks, is that despite his great and inspirational public oratory, he does not appear to have the ability to inspire professional commitment and consensus, even in his own camp, something he will have to learn to do if he doesn’t want to see his legacy significantly tarnished during the remaining two years of his presidency. And speaking of consensus building, I have to turn now to our own local situation in Parliament. When the recently parliamentary configuration was still fresh and new, I made the observation: “I don’t want to go into the merits or demerits of the cases of either the government or the opposition here. What I will say that a dispensation in which the government imagines itself to be an unstoppable force, and the parliamentary majority imagines itself to be an immovable object is one that cannot work.” In that article, I expressed

has actually gotten worse. I usually seek to go most safely in the middle when it comes to pronouncing upon pitched parliamentary battles – this is because we must concede that for the most part, those who serve in our parliament, no matter what side of the National Assembly they find themselves on, must be given the presumption of acting in the national interest. What I cannot fathom however is, in the light of the dire national implications associated with failure to pass anti-money laundering legislation, why the insistence on what appears to be unreasonable horse-trading. Why link the Public Procurement Commission unflinchingly to the AML, considering both the real need for further consensus on the former and the critical urgency of the latter. It’s like saying to a man who needs a bicycle to cross a narrow bridge that you can only sell him the bicycle if he immediately buys the car he needs to cross another bridge a little further down the road. When I first wrote about the issue of parliamentary gridlock, I expressed the hope

that we were going to see a change in the way our politicians dealt with each other in our most important democratic mechanism and forum. Although I’m a bit jaded, particularly over the developments in recent months, I want to close by repeating my hope that a mutually beneficial way forward can still be found. As with Obama, the legacy of this current parliament is going to depend on the ability or lack thereof, to form meaningful consensus.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Criminal and security threats --With mix of rogue cops; party politicking

This hope would be shared by Trinis’ CARICOM cousins, facing, as they do in their respective jurisdictions, frightening levels of crime that include not only gun-related murders and robberies, but the old menace of drug-trafficking, and now the comparatively new abomination to involve this region: Human

CONFRONTED with criminal rampage and related threats to their national security, some governments of the Caribbean Community have occasionally resorted to recruiting the expert services of foreign cops -- primarily from Britain, Canada or the USA -- with impressive credentials in combating criminality. Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago in particular have varyingly resorted more to such a practice. They have also had to contend, at times, with tensions among ranks of their respective police service amid rumblings about “foreign experts”, and a mix of politicking by parliamentary parties. Barbados, headquarters location for the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police (ACCP), has managed, so far, to cope without such foreign expertise, even in the face of a new wave of gun-related killings, robberies as well as climbing rape cases. Just this past week, a highly-rated American crime-buster, William Bratton, former New York police chief, arrived in Port-of-Spain for talks with the government of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on how Former New York Chief of Police, Mr. William Bratton (right) and Trinidad he could help to arrest the cur- and Tobago’s Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr. Stephen Williams during a tour last week of the newly-commissioned Duncan Street Police Outpost in rent epidemic of criminality. Well, it so happens that Mr. downtown Port-of-Spain (Photo courtesy of Trinidad & Tobago Newsday) Bratton’s arrival came some 15 months after two high- profiled cops from Canada had quit the trafficking. two top positions in the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, Bratton’s crime-fighting credentials include his service as a amid political wrangling as well as internal rumblings among former top-cop of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD). ranks. He lost no time during his initial two-day visit in reminding the local media of his “successes” in the implementation of a daShared hopes ta-driven management model in combating crime in New York, called “ComStat” (short for comparative statistics). The media blurbs on William Bratton were quite impressive, Hopefully, when he settles down to carrying out his chaland could well inspire hope among peace-loving citizens of lenging task to beat back criminality in that twin-island state Trinidad and Tobago, who are understandably quite anxious for of CARICOM (including gruesome scenes of killings, armed an affective halt to the criminal rampage. robberies, sickening rape cases, and other heart-wrenching acts

of criminality), Mr. Bratton would come forward with recommendations/strategies to effectively enable successes where failures have largely been the norm. It is of relevance to point out here that in exercising the initiative to benefit from the expert advice of Bratton, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar would also be conscious of her obligations to CARICOM, in her current role as the regional leader with responsibility for ‘crime and security’. CARICOM’s anti-crime agenda The institutional mechanism, established in the wake of ‘Cricket World Cup 2007’ to deal with crime and security issues is known by the acronym ‘IMPACS’ (Implementation Agency for Crime and Security). Granted that much caution is generally exercised in dealing publicly with matters pertaining to national/regional security, it is nevertheless a reality that precious little information of worth is shared by those responsible with the citizens of this region. They are left to consume media reports on recurring mind-blowing acts of criminality, including corrupt cops whose crimes undermine the rule of law, and consequently complicate national security efforts. There were a few glaring examples of this worrying situation just this past week in Guyana when, thanks to commendable initiatives, some of the rogue cops were arrested. It is fairly well known that from Jamaica, in the northern sub-region, to Guyana and Suriname in the south, and expanding across Trinidad and Tobago and the Eastern Caribbean, there are far too many examples of financial and, yes, sexual corruption involving police ranks. Equally dangerous is the penchant of politicians and their parties to engage in self-serving politicking over appointments, non-promotions, and/or dismissals within the national police service. Worse is when their narrow, partisan politicking contribute to sustaining corruption by cops, some with links to the criminal underworld that include gun-running and narco-traffickers. Perhaps some consideration should also be given to a Code of Conduct for politicians and parties to restrict their habit of political interference in police appointments, promotions and discipline, and not merely during periods of national elections.

Early-warning system

By Gwynne Dyer

Lucille L. Sering, the vice-chair of the Philippines’ Climate Commission, as the country struggled to cope with the after“WE’VE been telling the rest of the world we don’t want math of Typhoon Haiyan. “This is your early-warning syswhat’s happening to us to happen to everyone else,” said tem...we will all eventually be victims of this phenomenon.” A full week after the typhoon roared through the eastern Visayas, the number of people killed is still unknown. Ten thousand dead is the number being used in the media, but the area around Tacloban City alone may have lost that many. Many other parts of Samar and Leyte islands are still inaccessible to both media and aid workers. Another reason the death toll remains unknown is that the victims are still dying in large numbers, and not all of them from infected wounds and other storm-related injuries. The chronically ill are dying because vital medicines and medical procedures like dialysis are unavailable. They will soon be joined by those who die of infectious diseases like dysenChildren begging for food from passing motorists in Cebu, a region tery, cholera and typhoid fever, devastated by typhoon Haiyan (Photo courtesy of Jay Rommel Labra/EPA) which become epidemic about a

BY GWYNNE DYER

Analysis by Rickey Singh

week after sanitation services break down. Most of these later deaths could have been prevented if emergency aid had arrived more quickly after the typhoon struck, and there will doubtless be one or more inquiries later on that find various authorities at fault for responding too slowly. But these are islands, and most airports and harbours in the worst-hit areas are out of commission. There were bound to be long delays in getting aid in after a calamity of this scale. But the question that people will be asking elsewhere is: Will we really all become victims of this and similar phenomena? Is this truly an early warning of storms so big and strong that they will change the way we live? The answer, of course, is maybe. As scientists always hasten to explain, you can never attribute a particular weather event to climate change with complete confidence. Normal variations in the weather include occasional extreme events as destructive as all but the very worst storms that you would see in a world that was, See page 9

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Book Review…

Compendium of Judgments: Judicial Dialogue on HIV, Human Rights and the Law in Asia and the Pacific By HHR contributor, Prem Misir, PhD, MPH

FOR this week’s Perspectives, I present my book review, published in Health and Human Rights, An International Journal, Harvard University Press, October 2013. This new compendium from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is an effort to support lawyers’ and judges’ understanding of how the law is applied to protect human rights. Compiling the proceedings from the Judicial Dialogue on HIV, Human Rights and the Law in Asia and the Pacific, which was held in Bangkok on June 2-4, 2013, the text builds on the UNDP’s July 2012 publication, Global Commission on HIV and the Law: Risk, Rights & Health. Expressing confidence in the growing effectiveness of the judiciary’s response to HIV challenges, the author notes that members of the judiciary play a key role in protecting the rights of people living with HIV. The compendium focuses on a range of HIV-related issues including: Non-discrimination in employment, health care, and other settings; access to medicines; samesex relations; transgender persons’ rights; sex workers’ rights; drug users’ rights; prisoners and detainees’ rights; laws against transmission, exposure, and non-disclosure; discrimination against sexual orientation; and issues of privacy and confidentiality, including unwilling participation in testing. The compendium focuses primarily on court judgments from Commonwealth countries, reflecting increased judicial effectiveness to HIV-related issues. The following three cases represent the range of judgments covered in the compendium: • Case 1: In 2012, an auxiliary nurse complained to the High Court of Lagos State, Nigeria that she was terminated from a medical center on the basis of her HIV status. While the nurse was an employee at the medical center, she became pregnant and contracted a skin disorder. At her request, doctors administered tests but failed to disclose the nature of the testing or the results. She was placed on leave and sent to a hospital, which also administered tests without explanation. The nurse was subsequently advised that she had tested positive for HIV. She was not provided with any pre- or post-test counseling services. The nurse was then terminated from her position at the medical center on the grounds of public safety. The High Court ruled that the termination was discriminatory and unlawful; the medical center and the doctor’s failure to obtain informed consent before administering the HIV test amounted to battery; the nurse was legally required to receive pre- and post-test counseling services; and denial of care on the basis of her HIV-positive status was a violation of her right to health. The court ordered the medical center and the doctor to compensate the nurse 5 million naira for unlawful termination and 2 million naira for negligence and failure to obtain informed consent before administering the HIV test. • Case 2: An armed reserve police constable applied for a position with the civil police in the State of Andhra Pradesh in India. He passed written and physical examinations and was selected provisionally. After his medical examination revealed that he was HIV positive, he was denied training for the new position, in accordance with Andhra Pradesh police code, which stipulated that HIV-positive persons were not suitable for recruitment. The matter went to the Andhra Pradesh High Court, which ruled that the police code was not constitutionally valid. The police recruitment board was ordered to verify the constable’s eligibility for his position

Early-warning ... From page 8 say, 2 degrees C (3.5 degrees F) warmer. The difference is that in a warmer world, you will see a lot more of these extreme events. But, consider this: The Philippines is the most exposed large country in the world to tropical cyclones. Their tracks most often take them across northern Luzon or the eastern Visayas, and about six to nine of them make landfall each year. They do a lot of damage, but by and large, Filipinos have learned to ride them out. However, you cannot just ride out something as big as Haiyan. What did most of the killing in Samar and Leyte last week was not the high winds (although they stripped off almost every roof in the affected areas); it was the “storm surge” that submerged coastal regions to the height of a two-story building. The pressure at the centre of the typhoon was so low that a “hump”

Perspectives BY DR. PREM MISIR

pmperspectives@aol.com; themisirpost.wordpress.com based on his current health status, and to appoint him in the new position within three months of the High Court order. • Case 3: Kylie, a sex worker in South Africa, was dismissed from her job and brought the matter to the South African Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration. One commissioner explained that since sex work was illegal in South Africa, the Commission had no jurisdiction over the matter. Kylie challenged this ruling in the Labor Court, which also ruled that since sex work was illegal, the employment contract was null and void and unenforceable. She then referred the matter to the Labor Appeals Court, which ruled that the constitutional right to fair labor practices is available to all, regardless of whether there was no formal contract. The court noted that the Commission had jurisdiction to arbitrate Kylie’s complaint, regardless of the illegality of the sex work. This compendium of judgments comes at a critical time, as stigma remains a major challenge to people living with HIV and to key populations seeking access to prevention, treatment, care, and support. While the case studies in the text show a favorable trajectory toward greater support for persons with HIV, there are limitations to the power that the judiciary wields in providing an enabling human rights environment and challenging stigma and discrimination on HIV-related issues. The judiciary is only one factor in the behavior change equation. In order to effectively respond to HIV challenges, the judiciary may have to impact the individual’s intention and the influence reference groups have over that individual’s behavior. In order to effectively respond to HIV challenges, the judiciary may have to understand both the individual’s intention and that individual’s reference groups’ influence over his/her behavior. While the court rulings in this compendium are critical in impacting behavior change toward people living with HIV and AIDS, they are not often disseminated beyond the courts to the HIV workers and communities that need them. We must find a way to use such court judgments to further strengthen the human rights environment for people living with HIV/AIDS. Reference: Ajzen, I, “The theory of planned behaviour: Reactions and reflections,” Psychology & Health (2011), pp. 1113—1127.

of water 6 metres (20 ft.) high was pushed up beneath the eye, and travelled with it. Shelters are not much good against that sort of thing, unless (as in Bangladesh) you start building them on elevated platforms. Even then, you may decide that you want to move elsewhere if your city is going to be inundated and destroyed every ten years or so. The east coast of Luzon is very sparsely populated for precisely this reason, and this may be the future that awaits the eastern Visayas as well if storms of this scale become more frequent. The very worst typhoon that hit the Philippines since detailed records began in the 19th Century was Thelma, which killed about 5,100 people in 1991. But of the next worst nine, all of which killed over a thousand people, six have happened in the past decade: 2004, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2012, and 2013. So, Haiyan may really be an early warning of what is to

come, not just for the Philippines, but for China and Japan, Burma and Bangladesh, the Windward Islands and Florida; indeed, for any coastal area that is within a thousand km. (500 miles) of the usual tracks of tropical storms. And at some point, people will decide that it’s just not worth living in such constant danger. They will become, for want of a better term, “climate refugees”. In some areas, it will be frequent mega-storms that drive them out. In other areas it will be drought and desertification, or heat so great that it kills the crops that people depend on. There are going to be a lot of refugees, and not many places that are willing to let them in. Lucille Sering is right: This is an early warning of how the warming will unfold, and what the impacts on human societies will be. But we are getting lots of early warnings, and so far we are managing to ignore them all. (Gwynne Dyer is a London-based independent journalist, and military historian.)

Valedictorian urges fellow ... From page 2

before yourselves,” he said. Dr Griffith’s charge to the graduands was a simple one: that over the next 30 days, each should take the time to express appreciation in a tangible way to 12 persons who assisted them in some way. In other words, the graduates should take time to thank the giants in their lives. “They are the ones who would have inspired you; sacrificed so you could have the time, treasure, or both to pursue your educational journey…. Whoever have been your giants, this convocation is about recognizing them

too,” he said. Dr Griffith said the future may see the graduands themselves becoming giants for others, and they would want, as well as deserve, to be acknowledged. “I am sure many of you already are enabling others to stand on your shoulders; you are already other people’s giants,” he said. Dr Griffith also pointed out that while individual dreams have come true, the university’s marking of its golden jubilee, 50 years, is evidence of institutional dreaming. He referred to the then

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Premier, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, whose brainchild it was to create a basis for citizens to leverage tertiary education for social and economic mobility, and to provide a fillip to national development. Dr Griffith said: “Clearly, the dreamers and doers of the early 1960s and over the ensuing five decades acted in ways that resonated with the words of wisdom voiced by the late American educator Benjamin Mays, who said: ‘the tragedy of life doesn’t lie in not reaching your goal. The tragedy lies in having no goal to reach. It

Jewel Cheong took the Prime Minister’s Medal for the best graduating student with a Degree in Public Management

Linbert Anslem Lewis cops the Prime Minister’s Award for the best graduating student in the School of Medicine isn’t a calamity to die with dreams unfulfilled, but it is a calamity not to dream’.” He added that the achievement of the dream has not been without its challenges, including those related to budgetary allocations, facilities, staffing, quality assurance, labour relations and leadership, among other things. H o w e v e r, D r G r i ff i t h maintained that the way forward must see focus on three “maturation imperatives”: economic viability, academic credibility, and diaspora engagement. “The economic viability imperative requires attention to UG’s business model in relation to revenue

generation and more. No state university can afford to rely solely on the state…. The state must match platitudes with practice, it must p u t i t s m o n e y w h e re i t s mouth is. But whether for fiscal or political reasons, budgetary estrangement can result in circumstances akin to being simply state-affiliated; or worse, state-castigated in both financial and non-financial terms,” he said. He underscored that, in terms of the economic viability, more has to be done to enhance the university’s prospects, which, by extension, will impact its academic credibility. The class of 1980 alum

left the gathering with the words of Martin Carter: “I come from the nigger yard of yesterday, leap ing from the oppressors’ hate and the scorn of myself… I come to the world with scars upon my soul, wounds on my body, fury in my hands. I turn to the histories of men and the lives of peoples. I examine the shower of sparks, the wealth of the dreams. I am pleased with the glories and sad with the sorrows, rich with the riches, poor w i t h t h e l o s s . F ro m t h e nigger yard of yesterday I come with my burden. To the world of to-morrow I turn with my strength.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Smyth Memorial celebrates 170th Anniversary this month

By Shirley Thomas

National Drama Festival…

Secondary Schools segment sees exceptional performances

By Jimmy Roos THE National Drama Festival segment for secondary schools ended Wednesday on a high note, with two schools offering exceptional performances in plays that touched on social issues affecting the nation, to which the audience could relate. The audience on the day in question was treated to two performances, which started at 10:00hrs and concluded just before 14:00 hrs. The first play, entitled “The Lost Hope”, was written by Ms. Taneka Caldeir and was performed by students of the West Demerara Secondary School. This play chronicles the story of a young girl who, after both her parents died, was left in the care of an aunt. After some time, the aunt began to resent the responsibility placed on her, and decided to prostitute the young girl to a businessman she knew. The neighbours noted the girl’s unhappiness and notified the Child Protection Agency, which promptly arrived with the police, arrested the evil aunt and her accomplice, the unscrupulous businessman. The play ended on a positive note, with a song and a dance to signify the girl’s redemption. As the name of the play suggests, it is about never losing hope, no matter how dire one’s situation may appear. And, judging by their enthusiastic response, the audience got the message and will apply it in their own lives. The second play is a work by playwright Jean Kingston, and was entitled “I should’ve known”. This play, which started off with a brilliantly illuminated scene, made use of mime and other imaginative theatre techniques, which are not normally used to great effect. The theme of the play was the prevention of HIV/AIDS, the deadly sexually-transmitted disease for which there is currently no cure, and hence it stressed the use of condoms. As we all know, this disease affects not only adults, but anyone who engages in unprotected sexual behaviours, including students. Therefore, it is a timely reminder to all of us to be diligent, and to always protect ourselves. According to the playwright, she was inspired to write the play after observing students who, because of the minibus situation, are unable to get a bus to take them home after school. These youths while remaining stranded at the minibus park fall prey to older men frequenting this location, and ultimately become infected with the HIV virus through these liaisons.

SMITH Memorial Congregational Church, standing resplendent on the lush green lawns of the parish situated on the southeastern shoulder of Brickdam in Georgetown, will celebrate its 170th year of existence this month with an anniversary service on Sunday, November 24, starting at 9:00 hrs. The church was erected in tribute to the memory of the Rev. John Smith, a London Missionary Society Minister who was sentenced to death by hanging for the role he allegedly played in the notorious East Coast Insurrection of 1823. He died a prisoner on Death Row on February 6, 1824, and subsequently came to be referred as the “Demerara Martyr” because of the circumstances surrounding his death. Smith arrived in Demerara in February 1817, to succeed the Reverend John Wray, pioneer Missionary at Bethel Chapel at Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara. Like his predecessor Wray, Smith gave instructions to the slaves, teaching them to read the Holy Bible and Catechism. As in the case of John Wray, Smith did much to lay the foundation of schooling and education for those congregations. Quamina, a slave, was Senior Deacon at Bethel Chapel, then located at Le Ressouvenir, ECD. His son, Jack Gladstone, and other slaves suffered death for the role they had allegedly played during the 1823 Uprising, which had as its goal the freedom of the slaves. On November 24, 1843, exactly 20 years after the Reverend John Smith had been sentenced to death, Smith Memorial Church was opened as a tribute to the work and suffering Smith had to endure on behalf of his deacons, members and other followers.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Ex-soldier gunned down, execution style, outside city nightclub --incident sends patrons ‘diving for cover’

By Michael DaSilva TWENTY-three-year-old Denzil Mingo, a former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) second lieutenant was early yesterday morning riddled with bullets after leaving the Edge Night Club, housed in the Hotel Tower building on Main Street, Georgetown. The incident reportedly occurred at around 04: 00hr s. Reports reaching this publication are that Mingo, of Third Street, Alberttown, Georgetown, had just entered a w h i t e To y o t a A l lion when two men, armed with what appeared to be AK-47 rifles, opened fire on the car, injuring Mingo. He was later pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital. Eyewitnesses told The late Denzil Mingo this publication that the gunmen had earlier been seen having drinks at a table in the Edge Night Club, and might have been observing Mingo’s movements. “It was when we were about to leave the place that we heard what sounded like gunshots, and we stepped back into the hotel, “ one eyewitness said, adding: “Then we realized that two persons were firing shots at a white car. We did not know who was the person in the car, until after the gunshots stopped, and we went out and saw this boy with blood all over his skin.” Yesterday morning’s shooting reportedly sent nightclub patrons scurrying for cover. “A lot of people were running for cover when that nonsense happened! I don’t know what is wrong with some people,” one eyewitness lamented. M i n g o , a f o r m e r s t u d e n t o f t h e C h r i s t C h u rc h Secondary School, had successfully completed a GDF Cadet Officers’ course and, in 2011, had been stationed at the GDF base in New Amsterdam, Berbice as Base Commander. During that time, he had allegedly assaulted radio announcer Nerissa Pearson when he should have been at his post in New Amsterdam, and had spat on a police officer, for which offence he had been charged. Mingo and another man had, one year earlier, been charged with unlawfully and maliciously wounding one Clive Atwell in Alberttown. He had been dishonourably discharged from the GDF in 2011, and according to a senior GDF officer, Mingo had been a very indisciplined individual. Mingo and others had allegedly robbed a man of his car in Albuoystown; and he had also been charged with robbery under arms in 2012, for which he had been placed before a magistrate at the Wales Magistrate’s Court, West Bank Demerara. However, the victim did not offer evidence, and had allegedly been paid $800,000 to settle the matter. (Additional reporting by Alex Wayne)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Post-mortem PPP stalwart, Pooran done on victims Persaud, passes away of Middle Street shooting

FOLLOWING a brief illness, Mr. Pooran Persaud of Devonshire Castle, Essequibo Coast, Region 2, a loyal, dedicated and longstanding member of the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP), passed away. He died at a private hospital in the city on Thursday afternoon at approximately 16:00hrs, several hours after having reportedly undergone surgery at that facility. Persaud had been a vibrant and outspoken councillor who had worked diligently for development of the Anna Regina Town. He had received the Medal of Service from the Government of Guyana for his sterling contribution to development of Guyana, and had served on the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) as a PPP/C councillor under the Chairmanship of former Region 2 Chairman, Mr. Alli Baksh. He had also served as Chairman and member of several subcommittees of the RDC, and had played a great role in development of the rice industry on the Essequibo Coast. This late PPP/C stalwart was also a sports personality who had contributed immensely to development of sports on the Essequibo Coast. He had been a member of the Devonshire Castle Cricket Club, and had contributed to development and management of the Walton Hall Sports Ground and the Essequibo Cricket Board. During his years of service to Guyana, Persaud had been employed as a Clerk II at the Regional Administrative Office in the seventies and eighties, and had also worked as a supervisor at the Sea Defence Department for several years, before serving as Vice President of the National Union of Public Service Employees (NUPSE). At time of his death, Persaud had been based at the GECOM office at Anna Regina to look after the party’s interest in terms of the registration process for new voters. He had also been a

--PM on Kanhai scheduled for tomorrow

By Leroy Smith

Pooran Persaud Councillor on the Interim Management Committee of the Anna Regina Town Council, and had been serving as Chairman of the Works Committee and member of the Social Development Committee. Persaud had also been serving as an executive member of the Devonshire Castle Land Co-op Society, and had been its recording secretary. He had been serving the PPP as a member of the District and Regional Committee in the Essequibo district, and had been Chairman of the Devonshire Castle PPP group. (Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)

GOVERNMENT Pathologist Dr Nehaul Singh has performed post-mortem examinations on the bodies of the victims of last Tuesday’s Middle Street shooting rampage. His findings are that pensioner Hugh Allister Paul and taxi dispatcher Vanessa Williams had both died from a single gunshot wound to their respective chests; the cause of death for police Lance Corporal Michael Forde was stated as a single gunshot wound to the head; and Police Constable Sherwin Pantlitz had died from gunshot wounds to the head delivered by a shotgun. Paul was said to be walking along Middle Street when he was gunned down by the businessman, who allegedly went berserk and began shooting indiscriminately. Vanessa Williams was killed as she sat at her workplace waiting for her relief to come and take over, while the two policemen were killed when they responded to the scene of the shooting. Policeman Forde had sustained his deadly injury while attempting to enter the salon in which the berserk businessman had been holing out. Deryck Kanhai had battled police officers for more than three hours in an intense exchange of gunfire which had crippled a large section of the city, restricting movements as bullets filled the air.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

For Sunday November 17, 2013 -14:30hrs For Monday November 18, 2013 -05:30hrs

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Changing trends…

Waste Management in Guyana: The elimination of Styrofoam TODAY, with a rapidly growing working-class society, the emergence of fast foods restaurants and road-side food vendors has escalated to suit changes in lifestyles. A quick meal on the go and convenient packaging seems to be the order of the day, replacing traditional practices. With more women joining the working class, there seems to be less time for food preparation and eating at home and the cleaning that comes with it. This changing practice however, is not without its cost to pockets, health and the environment. Increasing consumption, impulse buying and craving for more material things - “stuff”- may appear harmless but in have in fact created a society that generates enormous amounts of solid waste and other environmental problems. Tackling solid waste management in modern society is costly but with the challenge comes opportunities to find creative and effective ways to help solve the problem. The problem

From parks to parapets to drains to canals, it is evident that plastics and Styrofoam occupy almost any available space. Of course, these materials did not get there on their own but through our unscrupulous habits. Those who have been following the news recently would have heard of the plans by the Government of Guyana to ban the use of Styrofoam. This decision was no doubt taken since drastic measures are needed to address our waste management issue. This week we will examine the implications of this decision to ban Styrofoam and opportunities for all Guyanese to restore our environment. What is Styrofoam? Parties, picnics, weddings or even simply family gathering all have one thing in common; the use of Styrofoam for the most part, is inevitable. Styrofoam is a disposable product made of polystyrene, which is a petroleum-based plastic. Styrofoam is made through a process of heating and cooling. It is convenient, cheap and provides excellent conditions for storage of food and beverages; however, Styrofoam is harmful to the environment and human health if not used properly. Opportunity for alternatives

See page 18

Fast facts

Styrofoam does not break down easily and some studies indicate that it may release chemicals when it gets wet, contaminating our precious water sources. It also takes up much more space than paper in our landfills. While recycling of Styrofoam is possible, it is extremely expensive and many recycling plants do not accept it. Styrofoam cannot be recycled to make new Styrofoam products. It can only be used to make other products such as packing filler. Less water and energy is required to produce Bagasse than Styrofoam, paper, and recycled paper. Less CO2 is emitted by creating Bagasse over Styrofoam and paper. Trees can take up to 30 years to mature, while sugarcane only takes one year making it a very renewable resource.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

After five decades at the helm…

Yesu Persaud announces his retirement from DDL --names Komal Samaroo his successor

By Vanessa Narine

FTER five decades of sterling service to the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Yesu Persaud announced his retirement yesterday, passing the mantle of leadership to Vice-President for International Marketing, Mr Komal Samaroo. At a press briefing in the Essequibo Room of the Pegasus Hotel, Dr Yesu Persaud said: “I stand here very proud to be leaving a company, or rather companies…. They are not only profitable, but they are producing the best of the best (in) the

world.” Prior to taking the reins of leadership of the Demerara Distillers Limited in 1975, when the company was called Diamond Liquor Limited, Dr Persaud worked as Finance Director of the Sandbach Parker Group, as well as in other private sector capacities. He said there were hiccups in managing the DDL along the way, but those were overcome, as evidenced by the successes recorded each year. “Today, DDL is not only a spirits company, but we are in soft drinks…. We are also in (the) distribution business, along with cash-and-carry.

We’re (also) in shipping and several others,” Persaud said. The Demerara Distillers Group is made up of local and overseas subsidiaries, including Diamond Distillers Limited in the USA(DDL USA); DDL Europe; DDL India; DDL St. Kitts; Demerara Shipping Company Limited (DSCL) Guyana; Distribution Services Limited (DSL) Guyana; Tropical Orchard Products Company Limited (TOPCO) Guyana; and there are also linkages in Toronto, Canada. Dr. Persaud pointed out that the highpoint of his years with the company was when the company moved

Dr Yesu Persaud making the announcement at yesterday’s press briefing to producing items under its own brand – the El Dorado brand -- which is world-renowned. He said the success of the brand is reflective in its performance at the annual International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC), held in London this year. The El Dorado 8-Year-Old Rum won the ‘Best Rum Trophy’, while the El Dorado Special Reserve 15-Year-Old Rum and the El Dorado 12-YearOld both won Gold Outstanding Trophies. Dr Persaud considers his years at the helm of the company as being in the “fast lane”. He contends that his retirement would allow him to ‘slow down’. “I have reached an age where I can continue, but I don’t want to. I have to slow down a bit, because I’ve been going in the fast lane too long,” he said. A HELPING HAND Asked about his post-retirement plans, Dr Persaud acknowledged that he has the option of returning to the United Kingdom (UK), which is home to bodies he is affiliated with as a Fellow of the ACCA, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, and a Companion of the British Institute of Management. He had also lived and worked in the UK for 10 years. However, Dr Persaud maintains he would remain in Guyana. He said: “I have many places to go, but I have decided to stay right here at home, doing

what I can as long as I can to help people….It is gratifying to help others.” His work in helping others through establishment of the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED), an institute that develops, stimulates and finances entrepreneurs and small businesses, has been a point of mention. “IPED has helped over 40,000 people,” Dr Persaud disclosed. His work in helping others saw his act as: founding member and chairman of the Indian Anniversary Committee and the Indian Monument Fund; Chairman of the University of Guyana’s 30th Anniversary Endowment Fund; past Chairman of the Cheshire Home For Disabled Children; Chairman of the Cheddi Jagan Children’s Fund; and Founding Member and Executive Vice Chairman of an organization named the Guyanese People Of Indian Origin (GOPIO). Aside from his work with organizations that support others, he serves currently as Chairman of Trust Company [Guyana] Ltd.; the Guyana Unit Trust; Bev Processors Inc., and the Guyana Youth Business Trust. Persaud has also been Chairman of Guyana’s first indigenous private sector bank, Demerara Bank Ltd; the first Chairman of the Private Sector Commission of Guyana; past President of the Guyana Manufacturers Association; the founder and past

President of the West Indies Rum and Spirits Association; and a member of the Advisory Group to the (former) Caribbean’s Chief Trade Negotiator, Sir Shridath Ramphal, on Caricom international negotiations. He was past Chairman of CAIC (Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce), and during the 1980s and 1990s, he and colleagues such as Sir John Goddard, Sydney Knox, Tommy Gatcliffe, Ken Gordon and Pat Thompson were instrumental in moving CAIC from being a dormant organisation into a thriving entity. Dr Persaud was also Chairman of the Caribbean Council for Europe (CCE), and remains a Trustee of CCE. At 85 years old, Dr Persaud contends, his involvement in other organizations would keep him busy. Mr. Rudy Collins, a DDL director, also make remarks at the press briefing, hailing Dr Persaud as a significant contributor to the company’s development, and by extension that of Guyana. Collins said: “His work has led to the transformation of DDL from a rum and beverage company with a domestic base to a virtual conglomerate that has international reach…. Dr. Persaud’s contribution to the industry and Guyana has been outstanding.” Collins said Dr Persaud’s retirement comes at a time when DDL is well positioned for sustainable growth. Dr Persaud is expected to function in his current capacity until December 31.

Chronicle Pepperpot November 17, 2013

Short story…

ANNE

By Maureen Rampertab

SHE walked along the dusty road, the little girl, her skin brown from the sun, her sandals worn, a straw basket on her arm. The sun seemed hotter today than yesterday, in mid-August, and the turn in the road seemed further away, a torture for her feet, heavy with tiredness. A huge almond tree, like a landmark, stood at the turn in majestic silence, its huge branches a welcome shelter from the sun and the rain. Anne sat down wearily in the shade, kicking off her sandals and resting her bare feet on the soft, fallen leaves. It was where she stopped every day from the market to rest, and she drank thirstily the mauby a kind food vendor had given her. The cherries she had taken to the market had all been sold, and so it would be until the bearing season was over. Then, it would be the season of guavas, mangoes and carambola, the unending hard work stealing from her one beautiful thing in life: Her childhood. Anne closed her eyes, a lone tear trickling down her cheek, and whispered, “Where are you, dear brothers? Please come for me; I want to go home.” The car crash three years ago had shattered their lives, having lost their mother and father so young. No family wanted them for too long, so the orphanage had become their home. It was a sad day, indeed, when her brothers were sent to different foster homes. She had cried for days and nights, her heart so sad the beautiful sunshine paled in her eyes, and colours of life seemed dull. She lived each day with the undying hope of one day seeing her two brothers again. A beautiful little family separated by a tragedy crashing in their lives, like relentless waves in a stormy sea . One year had passed for the little girl before a foster home was found for her; and as she left, her heart laden with grief, she asked herself quietly, tears in her voice,

“Where have you gone, brothers? And where am I going?” Not a day passed without her prayers, “Please, dear God, let me be with my brothers again in the home we shar ed.” The family who had given her a home had seemed kind and caring, but it wasn’t long before the little girl realised she was more of a servant than a part of the family. Anne missed so much the beautiful little home she had lived in: The flower garden and the fruit trees; the ‘love-birds’ and the little fish pond at the back of the yard. But most of all, she missed her pet rabbit. “Where are you now, Cuddles?” she wondered sadly. She got up, her short rest over, and, picking up her basket, she continued on her way home. She couldn’t be late; not any day. It was late in the night when she tumbled into bed, tired from the afternoon chores; too tired to read any of her books. Her eyes closed, and a soft breeze blew through the windows, fluttering the thin curtains. A blessed light filled the room, and a little smile touched her lips as she sle pt. “Your brothers will find you, little darling,” an ethereal voice said. “You’ll be happy again; just a little more.” The light stayed in the room as the child slept, for Heaven had heard her prayers and sent her a pair of guardian angels: Her own mother and father! Anne awoke the next morning, a smile on her face and cheerfulness in her voice, for, in her dreams, a promise had been made to her. She now had something wonderful to look forward to: An answer to her prayers. She said nothing to anyone; she just waited for the day; the moment when her little life could once again be filled with happiness, The guava season began, and she walked to the market every day with her straw basket. It was on one of those days that, while selling the fruits, she heard her elder brother’s voice: “Anne?” She gasped and spun around, her heart racing, the guavas falling from her hands. There they stood, her two brothers, all grown up, and saddened at the sight of their little sister, once a fair princess in their home, now a sun-burnt fruit vendor! She cried and ran to them, and they held her in their strong arms, rivers of emotion overflowing their young hearts. Now, after three long years, they were seeing each other again.

“I prayed every day to see you again,” she Maureen Rampertab cried. “I want to go home, to our home.” “Yes, I’m taking the three of you to your own home,” a strange woman, who had been standing with the boys, said. Anne looked at her through tears, not quite understanding. “She’s mom’s second-cousin from the Netherlands,” her second brother explained. “She didn’t know what had happened to us; now she’ll be taking care of us. No more foster hom es.” Anne sighed with deep relief, happiness filling her heart, for she was now reunited with her brothers. Prayers answer ed! The guardian angels in Heaven smiled as they watched their children walk hand in hand to their home, to the beautiful life they had shared, like scented roses.

Chronicle Pepperpot November 17, 2013

III

By Petamber Persaud

2014 Walter Rodney Award for Creative Writing His contribution to children’s literature included ‘Kofi Baadu Out of Africa’ and ‘Lakshmi Out of India’. Rodney’s literary output has elicited numerous and varied responses, adding to our literature. And this new award for creative writing will add to our literary heritage.

IN recent times, I’ve done a few articles, mainly book reviews, on Walter Rodney as a writer of children literature. Here is something I had to say about the man as a writer: ‘Rodney knew the importance and value of writing our own history, against the distortions peddled by our colonial masters who reported a history in a conqueror/vanquish relationship.’ In 2005, I wrote a short biographical sketch of Rodney to mark the 25th Anniversary of his passing. Now, I am happy to use this column to pass on a significant initiative made in Rodney’s honour, to further enhance the literature of this country. The Walter Rodney Foundation has established a literary award to sustain the legacy of Rodney. The name of that award is the ‘2014 WALTER RODNEY AWARDS FOR CREATIVE WRITING’. Please find below terms and conditions of the Award. For more information, contact: walterrodneyfoundation@gmail.com

(To respond to this author, either call him on (592) 226-0065 or send him an email: oraltradition2002@yahoo.com)

WHAT’S HAPPENING

• Your are invited to the launch of ‘An Introduction to Guyanese Literature’ by Petamber Persaud on Friday November 22, 2013, in the Conference Room of the National Library. Starting time: 5 pm (17 hours). • ‘An Introduction to Guyanese Literature’ is an up-to-date guide featuring significant literary landmarks, from the 16th Century to the new millennium. This 150page book, including over 100 photographs, is an attempt at bringing to the fore little known facts about lesser known aspects of our literature. The big books, the big authors and the big success stories in Guyanese Literature are also featured.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF 2014 WALTER RODNEY AWARDS FOR CREATIVE WRITING: 1. Name: The Walter Rodney Awards for Creative Writing (Short Story and Poetry Competition) 2014. 2. The Walter Rodney Awards for Creative Writing are named in honour of the scholarship, research and writings of Dr. Walter Rodney, a Pan-Africanist historian, educator and political activist, recognized as one of the Caribbean’s most brilliant minds. Rodney spoke about research, scholarship and creative writing, noting that even in challenging times, great literature has been produced. 3. The inaugural Walter Rodney Awards for Creative Writing (Short Story and Poetry Competition 2014) will be awarded to current UG students or UG graduates within the past three years that are currently living in Guyana. 4. All entries must be original unpublished works of the applicant in prose (2000 words or less) or poetry (a maximum of 60 lines). There is no restriction on the subject matter of the writing, i.e. writers are free to choose whatever themes/topics/subjects they wish. 5. Entries can be extracts from longer works. 6. Writers are invited to submit one entry only. A writer cannot submit for both categories. 7. Award Values: The winner of each category will receive a cash prize of G$100,000. The runner-up of each category will receive a cash prize of G$50,000. Up to six ‘Special Mention’ awards, each worth G$15,000, will be given to writers of merit and promise, from each category. 8. Entries must be submitted, via email, to walterodneylegacy@gmail.com with the subject heading: Walter Rodney Creative Writing Award – Short Story or Walter Rodney Creative Writing Award – Poetry, as appropriate for the type of submission. 9. Name, Address, Year of Study or Graduation, Email address, telephone and any required contact details must be placed in the body of the email. 10. Entries must be submitted on or before midnight on the 15th day of February, 2014. Entries will not be accepted after this date and time. 11. Winners will be notified at the email address stated in their entry. 12. Submissions will be not returned. 13. The Walter Rodney Foundation has ongoing permission to publish the works of all award winners in any format that the WRF determines. Copyright will remain at all times with the writers. Apart from publication by the Walter Rodney Foundation, writers are also free to publish elsewhere. 14. A total of 500 copies of the winners’ entries will be pub-

Dr Walter Rodney lished. Twenty copies will be given to each prize winner; remaining copies will be donated to schools and libraries in Guyana. 15. Winners agree to participate in publicity events in connection with the competition. 16. Winners of the inaugural competition will be notified in March 2014, in conjunction with or at the 11th Annual Walter Rodney Symposium. 17. The decision of the competition judges will be final and no correspondence will be entered into. 18. Judges will be provided by the Walter Rodney Foundation and include a minimum 3-judge panel; pre-judges may be used to short-list the entries depending on volume. 19. The Walter Rodney Awards project is a non-profit, non-commercial one. 20. By submitting an entry, the writer agrees to all terms and conditions of the competition. Earlier, I had indicated my delight at promoting this Award because of my ongoing interest in local literature; all of my projects are biased towards the appreciation of literature, on the whole, and, in particular, the appreciation and enhancement of local literature. Rodney was a man of many parts, but in my mind, in my book, I have always associated him with books; a gifted man of letters, since I came to the realisation that he triggered a ‘literary revolt’ in the Caribbean region. And while in Guyana, attending Queen’s College, Rodney made the Carnegie Library (now the National Library) his second home, from whence he started a dialogue with local, regional and international thinkers. This reading eventually led to his writing, expanding the dialogue for present and future generations. His literary output included ‘A History of the Upper Guinea Coast, 1545-1800’, ‘How Europe Undeveloped Africa’, ‘Groundings with my Brothers’, ‘People’s Power, No Dictator’, ‘Guyanese Sugar Plantations in the 19th Century’ and ‘A History of the Guyanese Working People, 1881 – 1905’.

Chronicle Pepperpot November 17, 2013

What every woman should know --about Obstetric Fistula

By Michelle Gonsalves

OBSTETRIC fistula is the most devastating and serious of all childbirth injuries. It happens because most mothers in poor countries give birth without any medical help; and so, many are young girls. Complications from pregnancy and childbirth are among the leading causes of death and disability for women of reproductive age in these places. Obstetric fistula was largely eliminated in the United States in the latter part of the 19th and early 20th centuries with improved obstetric care in general and the use of C-sections in particular to relieve obstructed labour. After enduring days of agonizing, obstructed labour, a woman’s body is literally broken by childbirth. During labour contractions, the baby’s head is constantly pushing against the mother’s pelvic bone, causing tissue to die from lack of blood flow to that area. All of that pushing creates a hole, or in medical terms a “fistula”, between the birth passage and an internal organ such as the bladder or rectum. This makes a woman unable to hold her urine, and sometimes bowel content as well; and her baby is unlikely to survive. If she survives, a woman with fistula is likely to be rejected by her husband because of her inability to bear more children and her foul smell. She will be shunned by her community, and forced to live an isolated existence. Such women suffer profound psychological trauma resulting from their utter loss of status and dignity, in addition to suffering constantly from their physical internal injury. The numbers are staggering. Right now, hundreds of thousands of women are suffering from this heartbreaking, treatable childbirth injury because they are too poor to afford surgery, which costs about US$450. This number keeps growing. It is estimated that each year, between 30,000 and 50,000 women develop this childbirth injury. The international capacity to treat fistula patients has been estimated at just over 14,000 a year, less than half the amount of new women who develop a fistula each year. Surgeons would describe this as an enormous backlog of untreated patients. There is clearly an overwhelming need for treating far more women. Ana’s Story Today, Ana is 18 years old, with an enthusiastic outlook and bubbly smile. That wasn’t always the case. Ana was just shy of 16 years old when she became pregnant. Everything went well, until it was time to deliver. Her labour was excruciating, and lasted for days. On the fourth day of labour, nurses pushed and pulled, and pulled, and pulled so hard that eventually the baby’s arm was detached. After this, the baby no longer moved. Ana survived this horrific delivery, only to discover that she had begun to leak urine. Her incontinence prevented Ana from leaving her home; she never went out, until one day after her aunt told her about a proAna gram she had heard about, provided by Fistula Foundation grantee partner Centro Evangélico de Medicina do Lubango (CEML). Here, women could access fistula repair surgery. Full of new hope, Ana showed up at CEML for surgery. It went very well, and staff at CEML describe her recovery as nearly instant, noting that she nearly bounced out of her hospital bed to announce that she was dry! While she was recovering, Ana had the opportunity to practice

her letters, and began to recognize some words. Today, she has hope for the future — as well as that enthusiastic outlook and bubbly smile. Hamida’s story

Hamida is a young woman of twenty-five from Teknaf in the Cox’s Bazar District, a town remotely located at the southernmost point of mainland Bangladesh, at the Myanmar border. When Hamida was only thirteen years old, she was married. She became pregnant and gave birth at home with no medical help, preferring home as a safe place for delivery, as more than 95 percent of women do in her region, for fear of hospital costs. The population of the region is made up of farmers who are unable to afford regular medical care, except in emergency situations. Most women here never see a doctor once during their entire pregnancy. Hamida’s labour became obstructed, and she endured three Hamida days of excruciating pain. Her

baby did not survive. Teknaf’s remote location makes emergency obstetric intervention nearly impossible. There are no hospitals in the area capable of performing a Caesarian section, and the population relies on Cox’s Bazaar for emergency medical treatment – which requires a three-hour drive to reach. This difficult labour left Hamida with a fistula, leaking urine from her incontinence. Her husband divorced her because he could not stand the continuous odour. She suffered a life of misery and isolation, occasioned by her fistula and other complications that made her life unbearable. She lived with her parents but was supposed to have a family of her own. Eventually, Hamida was able to seek treatment for her fistula. After a failed surgery at another institution, in 2012, Hamida was introduced to Hope Hospital. The hospital is a network of medical facilities that provide care to underserved rural areas of Bangladesh. Hope Hospital has been a partner of The Fistula Foundation for more than two years, receiving support for patient identification and fistula education, funding for fistula repair surgeries, and advanced surgical training to allow the hospital’s fistula surgeon to deepen his skills and perform more complicated fistula surgeries. Here at Hope Hospital, Hamida received a successful operation that would allow her to start a new life of her own, one filled with hope and opportunity. She no longer needs to suffer a life of misery and isolation simply for trying to bring a child into the world. Nirmala’s story

Nirmala

Nirmala is 25. She lives in Doti, in the far western region of Nepal. For many years, she lived in India, where her husband had found work. While living in India, she gave birth to her first child, a stillborn baby that was delivered after 24 hours of difficult labour that left Nirmala with a double fistula, in her bowels and bladder. Her husband took her to the best hospitals in India, where they spent all of the money they had on multiple complex operations, X-rays and doctors’ visits – none of which were able to heal Nirmala. Suffering through the misery of her double fistula, Nirmala and her husband learned of a fistula camp

being run by Fistula Foundation’s grantee partner, International Nepal Fellowship (INL). “They may have had doubts about what they could expect from a set-up in a tent after the grand hospitals in India had failed, but they didn’t say so, and they had no money left,” reported a representative from INL. Surgeons involved with the camp were able to successfully repair both of Nirmala’s fistulas, and she is now dry. She returned home cured and thinking about her future, that perhaps in a few years, she and her husband might be able to bring a baby into their home. (INL is hopeful for her and inspired, having learned this year of their first “fistula baby,” born to a patient healed in a 2010 fistula

camp, who delivered safely by C-section). 10 facts on obstetric fistula Each year, between 50,000 and 100,000 women worldwide are affected by obstetric fistula, a hole in the birth canal. The development of obstetric fistula is directly linked to one of the major causes of maternal mortality: obstructed labour. Women who experience obstetric fistula suffer constant incontinence, shame, social segregation and health problems. It is estimated that more than two million young women live with untreated obstetric fistula in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. by:

Obstetric fistula is preventable; it can largely be avoided

* delaying the age of first pregnancy; * the cessation of harmful traditional practices; and * timely access to obstetric care. Preventing and managing obstetric fistula contribute to the Millennium Development Goal 5 of improving maternal health. Fact 1 Obstructed labour occurs in 5% of live births, and accounts for 8% of all maternal deaths. It is one of the four major causes of maternal mortality and morbidity. Fact 2 Obstetric fistula is a hole in the birth canal caused by obstructed labour. It is estimated that more than 2 million young women live with untreated obstetric fistula in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Fact 3 Each year, between 50,000 and 100,000 women worldwide See page IX

Chronicle Pepperpot November 17, 2013

Meet Cecil Cunha

Cecil Cunha, 99, pleasant and with a ready smile

Guyanaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest serving World War II veteran

By Shirley Thomas EX-SERVICEMAN Cecil Cunha, who was born on June 25, 1914, is today the longest serving veteran. At 99, he incredibly musters the strength and will-power to be present at every Remembrance Day ceremony hosted in honour of the Guyana Legion of Ex-Servicemen. And this he considers his duty, being a loyal serviceman. Last Sunday, Mr. Cunha headed a list of four of the longest surviving servicemen who attended the reception to commemorate Armistice Day 2013 at Coghlan House on Carifesta Avenue. The four oldest, in order of highest ranking, were: Cecil Cunha, 99 yrs 6 months; Benjamin Durante (who on Friday turned 97); Edgar Mittleholzer, 89; and Joseph Rodney, 88. Mr. Hector Bunyan, who passed away on Sunday, August 19, 2012, 48 hours ahead of his 90th birth anniversary, would have been the third oldest, had he lived. Bunyan was a member of the British Guiana Contingent that formed part of the South Caribbean Forces during the days of World War II, (spanning 1939-1945). That body, comprising conscripted members from the various Caribbean territories, was put together by the English during 1945, and functioned as a support or back-up group to frontline soldiers. Mr. Cunha spent practically all his working life as an employee of the Postal and Telecommunications Department, which was then headed by the Post Master General. Today, it is with pride and perhaps a degree of nostalgia that he reflects on responsibilities that devolved on him during the period of World War II.

Benjamin Durante, 97 It was at approximately 10:00 hrs on that auspicious Sunday morning at Coghlan House, where the crowd was fast building up, that Cecil Cunha, a stickler for discipline and with the highest regard for time, arrived in the auditorium in good time, under the escort of his youngest son. He was

The Cenotaph on Remembrance Day following the parade

The Police Band regales the audience during the Reception

readily recognized by literally all and sundry, and a few persons spontaneously gravitated towards him to greet and pay their respects to a serviceman who had performed his duties with distinction. As I walked across to greet him once more, and naturally

invite a few comments from him, the Police Band, which by now has earned the enviable reputation of singularly regaling the audience with their choice symphonic renditions, was just beginning to warm up. But on realizing

that this distinguished son of the soil, who has a hearing impediment, was about to be interviewed, the bandsmen graciously withdrew to allow him some time; and naturally, I kept it short and crisp. This gesture I considered very no-

ble and dignified, and would like to record our appreciation to the members of the Police Band. It was with an aura of pride, and indeed a sense of accomplishment, that he See page XVI

Chronicle Pepperpot November 17, 2013

(A look at some of the stories that made the news ‘back-in-the-day’ with CLIFFORD STANLEY)

Farine export this month

STOLEN

(Guiana Graphic: January 3, 1962)

A ROSARY and a Bible were among a quantity of articles stolen over the holiday weekend. The Rosary was stolen from the home of Mrs. Dias, of the B.G Credit Corporation, and the bible from William Sue-A-Quan of Robb Street. Detectives have arrested and accused a schoolgirl of stealing $47 from Lillian Francis, a Stallholder at the Stabroek Market. From the home of Mr. Toolsie Persaud, a timber merchant, a “Grundig” radio and a bottle of champagne were stolen. On the Courentyne, a bull, the property of Harripersaud Mohabeer, was stolen from the No. 57 Village Cattle Pasture. Four men are accused of the offence.

(Guiana Graphic: January 16, 1962)

GOVERNMENT has obtained its first export order to supply Bermuda with about two tons of farine monthly. The first shipment will leave later this month. The Director of Marketing, Mr. Jack Alli, said that their latest order would provide a ready market for about 16,000 pounds of local farmers’ cassava. The farine, a by-product of cassava, will be manufactured by Augustine Cassava Factory at Plaisance, on the East Coast of Demerara. Mr. Alli said that the sale of farine would bring in about $1200 monthly, and also provide employment for a number of people. The order had been placed, following negotiations with the Government of Bermuda by the Marketing Division.

$7 lead police to $3,000 (Guiana Graphic: January 4, 1962) A BOY who was seen with $7 at school one day was detained by his teacher and the Police called in. This action by the teacher led to the recovery of most of $4,000, said to have been stolen from a vault at Rose Hall Estate, Courentyne, eight months ago, the Police alleged before a Magistrate in Berbice yesterday. Assistant Superintendent Norman McLean told Magistrate Mungal Singh that when he questioned 13-year-old Seedarson Singh, the boy told him that the money was hidden in a fowl-pen in a yard at Adelphi Village, Canje, but no money was found there. However, after he was questioned again, he suggested to the Police that they search in a drain at the back of his home. After digging for some time, Supt. McLean said, they found $3,111 in a Glucose tin. Mr. McLean said that after the money was found, both Mangala Mahadeo, the boy’s father, and Balkissoon, his brother, claimed the money, and said that they had worked hard to save it. Mahadeo is also alleged to have later said that the money was not his, and he had claimed it only to help his son.

Illegal dentist fined $150

(Guiana Graphic: January 11, 1962)

ARNOLD Henry, of Hadfield and Hardina Streets, Wortmanville, was yesterday fined $150 for the illegal practise of dentistry. The Prosecutor told Magistrate Dhan Jhappan that the Police sent a decoy to Henry to arrange for an extraction and the making of a plate of dentures. When Henry had extracted two teeth from the decoy’s mouth, the Police caught him with a marked $5 bill.

Work to start on farm school soon

The end of a railway

Guianese ham eaters increasing

(Guiana Graphic: January 10, 1962)

And in its place, buses and cars

(Guiana Graphic: January 7, 1962)

A NEW era has dawned at Port Mourant, Courentyne, and buses and cars and other means of transportation have come into their own. For the Estate train-line has been dismantled, leaving workers who have been accustomed to making use of this facility to turn to other forms of travelling to get to work. The passing of the train is an event which many, no doubt, will badly miss.

HAM and bacon bought for last Christmas was double the amount purchased by Guianese for Christmas 1960. Figures from the Government Marketing Division yesterday showed that for the holidays, housewives purchased: 10,000 pounds of beef; 12,000 pounds of pork; 3,500 pounds of bacon; and 4,500 pounds of ham. The number of people who use ham is jumping up daily, as the popularity of local ham increases.

(Guiana Graphic: January 22, 1962)

CONSTRUCTION work is expected to start shortly on Government’s new $80,000 farm school at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. An official of the Department of Agriculture said that all arrangements to erect the school were being made by the Public Works Department. He added that it was likely that the PWD will soon select tenders to carry out the project. In the meantime, the various laboratories of the Mon Repos Agricultural Station have almost been completed. These will be used to carry out experiments in agriculture and animal husbandry. At the new farm school, over 50 young farmers will be admitted on a long-term basis, and others on a short-term basis to be trained in modern methods and techniques. Residential accommodation will be provided in the compound for those farmers who will attend the school on a long-term basis. (Clifford Stanley can be reached to discuss any of the foregoing articles at cliffantony@gmail.com or by cell-phone # 657 2043)

New face at gas station

(Guiana Graphic: January 10, 1962)

MR. HERBY Phang has been granted the franchise to operate the Esso Service Station at D’Urban Street and Louisa Row. He was formerly employed as Chief Maintenance Mechanic at the ESSO Standard Oil Company for over six years. Mr. Phang has been in the mechanic field for about 25 years. He recently attended a service station training programme.

Chronicle Pepperpot November 17, 2013

Appeal Court significantly reduces five-year sentence --But warns: ‘Court must not be weakly merciful’

GODWIN Patterson, who, in 1996 committed an offence of causing death by dangerous driving while his disqualification for holding or obtaining a driver’s licence was still in force, was given the maximum penalty by a magistrate of five years imprisonment. Patterson appealed, on the grounds of severity of sentence. The Guyana Court of Appeal, constituted by Chancellor Cecil Kennard and Justices of Appeal Mr. Lennox Perry and Mr. Prem Persaud, heard the case. That Court lamented the prevalence of such offences, especially with respect to minibus drivers, plus the fact that the accused had committed the offence while being disqualified; but because the accused had p l e a d e d g u i l t y t o t h e o ffence, the Appellate Court did not interfere with the Magistrate’s disqualification of 10 years, but reduced the sentence from five (5) to four (4) years. E a r l i e r, t h e A p p e l l a t e Court had asked whether it was wise that the appellant should be sentenced to maximum penalty of imprisonment for causing death by dangerous driving while disqualification from holding or obtaining driver’s licence from a previous offence was still in force. The facts of the case disclosed that the appellant was convicted of the offence of causing death by dangerous driving, and was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment. He was also disqualified from obtaining or holding a driver’s licence. At the time he committed this latest offence, a disqualification from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence was still in force against the Appellant. The Appellant appealed against sentence. The Appellate Court held: In all the circumstances, to sentence the Appellant to the maximum term of five years, even though he had previous convictions, and bearing in mind that he was also ordered to be disqualified from driving for 10 years, was to give inadequate consideration to the fact that he had pleaded

guilty to the offence. Cases referred to: R. v. D e H a a n ( 1 9 6 7 ) 3 A l l E.R. 618; R.v.Radich (1954) NZIR 84; Ramphal v. Thomas (1955) LRBG 234. Mr. Mor-

timer Cumberbatch appeared for the Appellant, while Mr. Ian Chang, Director of Public Prosecutions (Ag.) represented the Respondent. Chancellor Kennard, who delivered the judgment of the Court, said: “ I n t h e M a g i s t r a t e ’s Court, the Appellant had pleaded guilty to the offence of Causing Death by Dangerous Driving, for which he was sentenced to a term of imprisonment for five (5) years. “Additionally, he was ordered by the magistrate to be disqualified from obtaining or holding a driver’s licence of any class for a period of ten (10) years. “The facts, as narrated by the prosecuting officer, revealed that on Tuesday 9th of April, 1996, at about 8:30pm, the Appellant drove Minibus No. BFF 2479 at a fast rate of speed, north along the western half of Friendship Public Road, and in his attempt to overtake another

minibus, which was ahead of him on the said western side of the Public Road, he went across to the eastern half of the said road and struck down Jermin Johnson, who was riding a pedal cycle southwards on the eastern side of the said Public Road. Jermin Johnson died shortly after being struck down. “The Appellant, a few months before, had been convicted by the said magistrate for the offence of Dangerous Driving, and had been fined a sum of $750,00 or two months imprisonment in default. In addition, he was ordered to be disqualified for a period of three months from holding or obtaining a driver’s licence. “At the time of the present offence, this disqualification was still in force. In addition to the present offence, the Appellant had been charged with the offence of driving whilst disqualified, to which he had also pleaded guilty before Magistrate William Ramlal. “The appellant had pleaded guilty to all the offences referred to earlier in this judgment before Magistrate Ramlal. The Appellant has appealed to this Court, on the ground of severity of sentence. It is a notorious fact that the incidence of Dangerous Driving on the roads of this country has been increasing with alarming proportions within recent times, particularly among minibus drivers, and, therefore, those

of us who are involved in the administration of Justice in this country must constantly bear this in mind when imposing sentence for such offences, as life is sacred; and once taken, can never be restored. “In the Court of Appeal of New Zealand, Fair; J, said in R. v Radich [1954] NZLR 84: One of the main purposes of punishment is to protect the public from the commission of such crimes by making it clear to the offender and to other persons with similar impulses that if they yield to them, they will meet with severe punishment. “In all civilized countries, in all ages, that has been the main purpose of punishment, and it still continues to be so. The fact that punishment does not entirely prevent all similar crimes should not obscure the cogent fact that the fear of severe punishment does, and will, prevent the commission of many that would have been committed, if it was thought that the offender could escape without

punishment, or with only a light punishment. “If a court is weakly merciful, and does not impose a sentence commensurate with the seriousness of the crime, it fails in its duty to see that the sentences are such, as to operate as a powerful factor to prevent the commission of such offences. “In deciding whether or not I should interfere with any part of the sentence imposed by the learned magistrate, I bore in mind that the Appellant had been under disqualification from driving at the time when he had committed the present offence. “The behaviour of the Appellant clearly demonstrates that he has no regard for t h e laws of this country, and, therefore, he must be kept away from the wheel of a motor vehicle for a long time. “In the circumstances, I see no justifiable reason for interfering with the period of disqualification ordered by the learned magistrate. “There is no doubt that credit should be given when a person pleads guilty to the fact that that person is facing up to realities, and shows some sign of repentance to justify a reduction from what would otherwise have been

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By George Barclay the sentence. “The maximum period of imprisonment which the magistrate could have imposed is five (5) years. In R/ v/. De Haan (supra), Edmund Davies, LJ, said at 619: ‘It is undoubtedly right that a confession of guilt should tell in favour of an accused person for that is clearly in the public interest.’ “I have come to the conclusion that, taking an all-round view of the circumstances of this case, to sentence the Appellant to the maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, even though he had previous convictions, and bearing in mind that the Appellant was also ordered to be disqualified from driving for a period of ten (10) years, is to give inadequate consideration to the fact that he had pleaded guilty to the offence. “In the circumstances, the sentence of imprisonment imposed by the magistrate is reduced from five (5) years to four (4) years.”

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What every woman ... From page IV

develop obstetric fistula.

Fact 4 Women who experience this preventable condition suffer constant urinary incontinence, which often leads to social isolation, skin infections, kidney disorders, and even death, if left untreated. Fact 5 Obstetric fistulae can largely be avoided by delaying the age at which a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first pregnancy occurs; by the cessation of harmful traditional practices, and by timely access to quality obstetric care. Fact 6 Most fistulae occur among women living in poverty in cultures where a womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s status and self-esteem may depend almost entirely on her marriage and ability to bear children. Fact 7 Obstetric fistula still exists because health care systems fail to provide accessible, quality maternal health care, including family planning; skilled care at birth; basic and comprehensive emergency obstetric care; and affordable treatment of fistula. Fact 8 In 2008, over 2000 health professionals were trained in preventing and managing obstetric fistula. Fact 9 Patients with uncomplicated fistulae can undergo a simple surgery to repair the hole in their bladder or rectum. The treatment cures up to 90% of obstetric fistula patients. However, since 2003, only 12,000 women in over 45 countries have received obstetric fistula treatment in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Fact 10 Preventing and managing obstetric fistula will contribute to improved maternal health, the fifth Millennium Development Goal. Sources: http://www.fistulafoundation.org/, http://www.who.int/

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‘Viagra’ goes local (Part II) By Clifford Stanley HERBS, which are natural aphrodisiacs, help to raise libido and increase desire. There are quite a few of these natural viagras growing in the rainforests of Guyana, the most well known, which are reputed to be the most potent, are Kapadulla, Granny Backbone, Sarsparilla, Cockshun and Monkey ladder. Others less well known but said to be equally potent for men are Woman Piaba, Devil-doer, Kufa-rope, Wife Puller and Ow-me-daddy. There are some known facts, according to Guyanese folklore, about those local viagras: Kapadulla: The scientific name of this herb is doliocarpus dentatus. It is a rope-like vine found in the many thickets and forests of Guyana. It‘s taste is reminiscent of chocolate milk. The stem and the bark are used to make a tea or drink which is said to be a natural Viagra, a cure for impotence in males. According to the Evergreen Nature Study Club booklet on medicinal herbs, the chopped stem and bark of the Kapadulla have to be soaked in wine and drunk for the purpose of increasing libido and curing impotence in men. The bark of the Kapadulla tree is also said to be a great tonic for men ‘to strengthen their backs’, particularly when mixed with Sarsaparilla, Devil-doer, Kupa Rope, and Monkey Ladder. The potency of the tonic is said to be enhanced if one were to add one teaspoonful of steel-drops into the mixture. Kapadulla capsules, in strengths of 250 and 500 milligrams, are being sold at the Bakja Health Movement at Dr Miller St., Triumph, East Coast Demerara. Granny Backbone: Scientific name is Lygodium sp. It is a climbing fern, the leaves and stems of which are used to make a herbal bark tonic to treat erectile dysfuntion. Potency of the Granny backbone drink is said to be enhanced if mixed with Sarsaparilla and Kapadulla bark, honey and steel-drops and/ or ginseng. Sarsparilla: The scientific name of this herb is Philodendron Sp. It is epiphytic, which means it is a plant which grows on another plant, upon which it depends for mechanical support but gets its moisture and nutrients from the air and rain. According to ‘Evergreen’, the roots are boiled together with the stem of the Devil-doer, root of Cockshun, stem of Kapadulla, Kupa-rope and Granny Backbone to make a very powerful aphrodisiac. Cockshun:The scientific name of this plant is Smilax Schomburgkiana: An aphrodisi-

ac is obtained from a decoction of the root or bark, or woody stem. Cockshun is said to be another good source of tonic for men with problems of sexual libido, again especially when mixed with other barks, like Sarsaparilla and Kapadulla, along with some steel drops and honey. It is said also that an infusion of the root is used to treat diseases of the bladder and nervous conditions. Monkey Ladder: The Evergreen Nature Study Club Booklet states that Monkey Ladder has the scientific name:

Bauhinia scala-simiae. It is a vine which is seen frequently on trees along the Essequibo River. A decoction or tincture of the stem in wine is used as an aphrodisiac and/or tonic. The decoction is also said to be particularly useful for patients suffering from headaches.

Safety concerns It should be noted, however, that there are some safety concerns about the side effects of the abuse of these aphrodisiac herbs. (To be continued next week)

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Body Work and Arthritis restricted mobility.

By Sally Habeeb

ARTHRITIS is an inflammation of the joints surrounding tendons, ligaments and cartilage. It is among the oldest afflictions of human beings, and can affect actually every part of the body, from the feet to the knees, to the back, shoulder, and fingers. The effects of Arthritis range from slight pain, stiffness and swelling of the joints to crippling and disability. And it is important to note that Arthritis affects people of all ages. Types of Arthritis There is variety of arthritis conditions, with the three most common forms of the disease being osteoarthritis, rheumatoid and gout. Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease of the large weight bearings joints. It is often associated with old age, in which small bong growth, calcium spurs and occasional soft cysts appear on bones and in the joints. As the disease progresses, the joint cartilage deteriorates, and this finally interferes with movement. The symptoms of Arthritis include mild early morning stiffness; stiffness following a period of rest; pain that worsens on joint use; loss of joint function; local tenderness, and soft tissue swelling; creaking and cracking of joints on movement; bony swelling and

Rheumatoid arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis, while less common than Osteoarthritis, is a serious and very painful joint disease, often resulting in crippling disabilities for young and old alike. It is a very painful jointsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; disease, often resulting in crippling disabilities for young and old alike. It incapacitates the synovial tissue, which is the membrane that lines the joints and secretes the lubricant which normally allows bones to move painlessly against other bones. With the condition, joints â&#x20AC;&#x201C; most commonly the small joints of the hand -- become tender, swollen, and even deformed; night sweats, depression, and lethargy are among the other symptoms. Over time, the condition can also spread to the other parts of the body. Gout Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup in the body of uric acid, found in meats and other foods, and also produced by the body. When this production is out of balance, or there is inadequate elimination of uric acid, gout occurs. When the level of uric acid

rises to an unhealthy level in the body, it crystallizes in the joints, cartilage and synovial tissues and fluid, causing sharp, needle-like pain on the joints, as well as fever, chills, and loss of mobility. Some of the health problems caused by gout include constipation, indigestion, headaches, depression. Sufferers from gout also run a much higher risk of heart and kidney problems. Treatment and prevention The primary keys for treating and preventing arthritis are proper diet, nutritional detoxification, and stress reduction. Pain management and correction of skeletal/postural problems can also be addressed through a variety of other modalities, including herbal medicine, chiropractic, body massage and Ayurvedic healing. (The author is a qualified massage therapist, and can be reached @ 649-4227)

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Meet Cecil... From page V

began the interview, and this is how a man at 99 put his experience in context: “I am the sole surviving member of the British Guiana/ Brazil Boundary Commission which was established by the British Government in 1929

and got into execution in 1930. I was invited to join the Commission in 1934, and served until 1938, when the Commission came to a close - from Mount Roraima to the source of the Corentyne. “I was appointed assistant

commissioner by the Government, and was in charge of the Government wireless telegraph station at Mackenzie, and served all through the period of the war, from 1939 until 1945. I had, vested in me by Government, the power to meticulously read every tele-

Colonel Carl B. Morgan pins a poppy on Edgar Mittleholzer’s lapel gram passing through the system, as a form of surveillance, to detect if they contained any subversive information. I had the power to refuse any telegram that was considered subversive. “Every telegram that I transmitted using International Morse Code had to be signed by me. I had to stamp and sign it as having been checked by me, and not even the Demerara Bauxite Manager nor the Police could cause the message to be transmitted unless I so

complied. “We had to guard against information getting to Germany to Hitler,” he stated. That spoke volumes for his responsibility, and highlighted the seriousness of his job; and with such discipline inherent in him, Cunha, throughout the remainder of his post-war period, though polite, has continued to be a person with the highest level of discipline. He is a man of integrity, probity and rectitude, having all the values

that make for an admirable serviceman. For the greater part of his working life, he worked at the Postal and Telecommunications Department, which was then headed by the Post Master General. And just what would be his advice to young servicemen at this time? “Learn all that you can; be skilled, pleasant; but above all, be loyal to your organization and country.”

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Charity…

Farming continues to be a popular form of livelihood for residents of Charity.

--Beautifully picturesque; stirringly simple By Alex Wayne THERE are certainly many locations around Guyana that are captivating in their beauty and yet maintain an impressive simplicity that is arresting to the senses. One such location is Charity, the small township on the Essequibo Coast in the Pomeroon-Supenaam area of Region Two. Actually situated on the Pomeroon River, Charity provides a gateway to the north-western reaches of Guyana’s interior and to Venezuela, which many Guyanese use to commute between Guyana and Venezuela, where they work. Charity is a strategic location for farmers who live in this area. They bring their products to this location, and from here it is trans-shipped to other townships, including Anna Regina and Parika, and to the capital city of Georgetown. Life is simple in Charity, but does not lack the customary trials and travails that beset us all. However, this does not deter the residents of Charity from employing their best efforts to ensure at least a comfortable life for themselves. And while there seems to be a high level of disgruntlement among residents in some areas of Charity, the majority of residents were more ready to deal with life’s vicissitudes and devise ways to rise above the disappointments life can sometimes challenge us to face. Our arrival The speedboat trip from Parika to Supenaam was very exciting, especially experiencing ‘the humps and bumps’ as we seemed to soar through the air, sometimes crashing into the large waves of the Essequibo river, heading for the bustling locating of Supenaam. I must, in all honesty, confess that this aspect of the journey almost scared the life out of me, because I had no idea that speedboats were capable of travelling that fast. As such, my ‘blood grew cold’ at intervals, and I think my heart floated around in my stomach. Then disaster struck, and I was all but ready to die when I found out that one of the twin engines on our boat had just gone dead!! We were thereafter forced to travel at a much slower pace, and I was very thankful for that development. However, it was quite clear that this boat captain was having serious engine problems when, not very long afterwards, the other engine sputtered and conked out entirely. By then everyone had become alarmed and began to raise loud voices to express their concerns. The boat caption desperately fiddled with the engines, and about twenty minutes later, one of the engines gurgled and started a ‘half hearted humming’. There we were, just moving as slowly as ever, a far cry from the pace of our earlier travel. As large waves buffeted our vessel, a group of ladies pleaded with the captain to transfer us to another

boat; but the greedy man would have none of it, and kept cranking that engine until he got us moving at a turtle’s pace towards our destination. He kept mouthing under his breath that if he did what they wanted, he would lose big time, since no passenger would pay him for a journey not completed. It was almost sunset when a boatload of very irate passengers pulled up alongside the Supenaam Stelling, swearing to ‘mark the boat and never travel with it again’. The minute we arrived there, we were literally swarmed by squabbling taxi drivers who almost fell over themselves in trying to solicit us to travel in their waiting vehicles. As we travelled to Charity, an unseen hand guided by a definite purpose seemed to be moulding an aura of excitement around us, as lush, green rice fields rushed by, and horses and cattle, purposely ignoring the moving vehicles, grazed lazily by the roadside. Luckily, the Perez family comprised patient people, and they waited for me all around the village. They were the ones who were going to take me around Charity to get a first-hand experience of what the village had to offer. At almost nightfall, we retired to a dinner of fried bakes and salted fish, washed down with some hot Milo tea. I decided to rest a little since, in the next few hours, I would have to begin conducting the night life aspect of my exploration. Nightlife in Charity Charity has a vibrant nightlife. The area is gripped in frenzied revelry and various party concepts as the weekend begins. Zenon and Purple Heart hotels have now become the generators of ‘riveting entertainment specials’, and their nightclubs are packed to capacity on weekends. We were lucky to be in the village when the popular X-Factor dance group out of Georgetown was putting on a few shows at various locations, and their presence seemed to be creating quite a stir in the community. Visiting the Zenon Hotel, we learnt that it was customary for that entity to host regular comedy shows. From time to time, villagers would talk about these shows and the lasting impressions left by comedians like Kerwyn Mars, Miranda Austin, Leeza Singh, Mark Kazim and many others. The Purple Heart Hotel, just next door, is also popular for hosting entertainment ventures of the same nature. That aside, there are several other locations where residents can either relax and have fun, or engage in frenzied revelry. The more popular of these hot spots is the Sky Bar. However a few house parties and birthday celebrations are welcoming events in this community. Charity of old

One would certainly want to ask what this community was like in bygone years. ‘Uncle Maco’, the Charity boat builder, told us a little about the evolution of Charity. He related that in years gone by Charity had the appearance of a very quiet settlement, with just a demure simplicity to its existence. While houses were scattered here and there in no particular order, the abundance Boat builder ‘Uncle Maco’ was ready to share his insights on the making of fruit trees and general foliof Charity.

age strangely lent a feeling of contentment, coupled with the ever-ready smiles of residents as they toiled relentlessly to put food on the table. “Charity was a community that was very bushy, and even swampy in the low-lying areas. While just a few persons possessed very large houses, others lived in smaller cottages and other makeshift buildings that sheltered them from rain and sun. None of those fancy roads existed, and many areas became impassable during heavy rainfall. However, things changed as time went by, and we began to see development. And here we are today in a community where we are seeing great signs of an economic climb,” he proudly said. He said a few shops were found in the township, all of which had limited supplies of grocery items, but that never bothered residents, since catching fish and crabs was the ‘in thing’ for most families, thus not only providing added food choices, but also paving the way for diverse sources of livelihood. Soon more shops began to pop up in the area, many of them well established businesses, as the village gradually began to wear its prized coat of modernization. Farming continued to be a major form of occupation for many residents, and some throve on this immensely, since they can market their produce not only in Charity, but also at Anna Regina and at the outlying Parika. Economic development Every village, Popular Calypsonian Edward over time, sees both Perez originated from Charity. economic and social growth, and Charity was no exception. Residents informed that even in the early 1970s, things were beginning to change. By the late 1980s, Charity had taken on a more unique appearance, and there was a distinct improvement in its infrastructure. Then came shopping malls, supermarkets, Internet cafes’ and the Charity Amazon Market, which was welcomed by farmers near and far. The swampy areas in Charity soon became very busy and populated zones as squatters began erecting houses in the blink of an eye. Many spent their hard earned dollars and did work on the swampy lands, building it somewhat to accommodate houses, shops and other structures. Today Charity is a buzz of activity as shoppers rush to cash in on deals at the supermarkets, or grocery outlets, especially now that the Christmas season is here. The massive Alfro Alphonso and Son’s entity now supplies all with every imaginable household need or article. Residents no longer have to travel distances to conduct cash transactions, since the Citizen’s Commercial Bank in the village now attends to all their ‘money needs’. The Big Bird Supermarket now allows shoppers ‘various shopping options’ and an opportunity to compare prices; and the ‘Lil Indian Sound House’ is doing wonders for local musicians in the area, since folks there are supporting and selling the original songs of talented singers in Charity. To date, Charity Calypsonian Edward ‘Young Fyah’ Perez’s hot reggae single, ‘I am not the Man’ is a hit at this location, amongst the selections of many other musicians. Delip Singh’s Shopping Mall is also another massive structure See page XX

Charity…

From page XIX

that meets the kitchen and household needs of villagers. And residents enjoy protection and high levels of justice provided by persons manning the Charity Police Station, Post Office and the Magistrate’s Court, all situated close to the Charity Main Road. And just on the outskirts of this commercial haven is the Charity Tarmac, on which taxi drivers ply their trade around the clock.

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spirited youths of Charity. Organisers of such events relate that, when this happens, they expect thousands of people, including overseas visitors, to be present at the colourful Masquerade competitions. The annual contest is reputedly normally sponsored by the Alfro Alphonso Group of Companies and the Region Two (Pomeroon/Supenaam) Regional Democratic Council (RDC). At one point, several bands from across the Essequibo Coast competed among themselves for $900,000 in cash prizes and

Decrease in crime Not so long ago, residents were rushing into their homes quite early, especially those residing around the Charity Dam. And they were doing this because of a series of events that was sweeping that township. Residents told stories of young girls being raped and males robbed on the River Dam, which is not properly lighted. It is said that an unfortunate male resident was murdered and robbed while traversing the area several months ago under influence of alcohol. He had allegedly received his salary the evening before the murder, and was mugged and killed by perpetrators who reputedly did not succeed in getting booty since the man had left his cash at another location. Flooding during the rainy season has kept residents in the Squatting Area locked in for The X-Factor Dancers kept residents riveted while performing in Charity. fear of contracting water-borne diseases. During this dilemma, outside latrines are flooded and human waste floats around. Residents are requesting that the infrastructure of that area be developed, to encourage comfortable existence.

Masquerade bands are rehearsing for performances in Charity, now that the Christmas festivities are imminent. suspects were nabbed with guns that matched the bullets used in the shooting. Reports surrounding this incident suggest that the dead woman’s husband went to Georgetown to conduct some business and left his wife at a city hotel. It is said that when he returned to the hotel, he found his wife in bed, so he went to take a shower, and when he was finished, a friend called and invited him to take a few drinks. Sources said he was reluctant to go and he did not force his wife to accompany him.

Culture Residents of Charity, whatever difficulties they face in life, still hold on to, and showcase, their rich culture. As a matter of fact, this community is very popular for hosting Masquerade competitions, which create quite a ‘feisty bacchanal’ among the

Leisure time opportunities are abundant in Charity. trophies. Masquerading, which is part of the Christmas Season celebrations, gathers Essequibians together in an atmosphere of joy, peace, love and laughter. Not so long ago, one leg of the competition was hosted at the tarmac of Xenon International Hotel, Restaurant and Bar and included a Black Cake and Ginger Beer competition as well. Unfortunate occurrences

Breadfruit reaped from their very own backyards.

And Charity would also have seen individuals meeting grave and cruel deaths, as related by resident Calypsonian and entertainer Edward Perez. He said that imprinted on his mind is the incident wherein a Charity woman was killed last month execution style. Two persons were taken into police custody in relation to that crime. This unfortunate incident occurred while the deceased was at a location in Georgetown. Shelly Basir-Lall was gunned down execution-style at a bar in Kitty, Georgetown. According to information received, the two

However, when he started to dress, she decided to go with him. The couple, it is said, met three friends at the bar at 23:00h, and at around midnight, a white car pulled up and two masked men came out and started to shoot. The dead woman had been running to safety when she was shot. Employment at its best Fishing, farming and crab catching continue to be the main sources of employment in Charity; but here of late, several employment gateways have been opened with the erecting of several new business structures in the area. Young children are offered spiritual education along with craft skills, made possible by a branch of the Spirit and Truth Church operating there for the past two years. Added to that, the Alfro Alphonso and Sons’ Enterprise now offers tremendous See page XXV

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! s k c o r t h g i N n a Inaugural Legu --Presidential entourage ‘spice up’ things

By Telesha Ramnarine

T was quite a historic event last Sunday night, when hundreds of residents of Leguan Island, in the Essequibo River in Region Three, came together for the first ever ‘Leguan Night’ celebration! The event did not disappoint its attendees, and this was mainly due to the well coordinated events that took place at the Greens Park Ground, aback the Leguan Secondary School. This venue saw not just the islanders, but a significant number of people who travelled from other destinations, including Georgetown and Parika, to share in the event. One would have expected certain glitches because something of this magnitude was being staged for the very first time on the island, but nothing spoiled the event! The Leguan Organising Committee, along with its Neighourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, collaborated to truly make the event an unqualified success. Notably present were His Excellency President Donald Ramotar; Acting Tourism Minister, the Honourable Irfaan Ali, Chairman of Region Three (Essequio Islands/West Demerara), Mr Julius Faerber; and President of the Guyana Rice Producers Association, Mr Dharamkumar Seeraj. The presence and quite active participation of these individuals spiced up the proceedings President Donald Ramotar and Tourism Minister (Ag), Irfaan Ali and made things a lot livelier. Who could deny perhaps his courage was instrumental in leading all of the other that President Ramotar’s dancing shots and his officials on stage. singing of folklore did not add to the excitement? Furthermore, Adding to the fun were impressive performances from the who could disagree that Minister Ali’s wining and curling at one Shakti Strings Orchestra. Talented, handsome young men, all point was not thrilling? The crowd just loved it, and went wild! clad in pink shirts, wowed Seeraj boldly took to the stage when called, and

at the event the crowd as they delivered performances that were enjoyable and full of life. Leguan’s very own Aaron Dasraj, of the One Man Band, also delivered to the satisfaction of the audience, along with well known belly-dancer-turned-singer, Sandella. Harvey Gobin opened proceedings with the song “Welcome to Leguan.” Other attractions at the event included a number of food booths and a Banks DIH Bar. Art and craft in the form of ladies’ accessories, hats, bags and an assortment of other items were also on sale. Games and the famous ‘chic chic’ board were on hand as well. A Genequip Booth featuring John Deere products was also present. This company is known for, among other things, supplying farmers with fertilizers, spreaders, and cannon sprayers. The National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) also was on board, promoting the use of a shade house. NAREI staff took names of interested persons and promised to keep in touch to provide further details on keeping a shade house. Those officers explained that such a facility provides for better production, even double the yield of other methods used to farm. Moreover, a health booth was set up to answer any questions about physiotherapy, environmental health, and other issues. Gizmos and Gadgets and Shoe Haven were also on board, showcasing their items. ‘Thriving Leguan’ President Ramotar, in a short address to the crowd, referred to the many changes he observed, among which was increase in the number of motorcycles and vehicles on the island. He also observed that one boat is no longer enough to carry all the rice produced on Leguan. “This is proof of development. Leguan is thriving and making bold steps,” the President remarked. He acknowledged the efforts of all who shared in organizing the event, and noted what a pleasure it was for him to return to Leguan. He recalled that he was a frequent visitor to the island since he was a child, and that some of his first memories of life were right on Leguan. “I always have a deep love for the two

use of a shade house NAREI was on board promoting the

See page XXII

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. . . t h ig N n a u g e Inaugural L From page XXI

islands, Leguan and Wakenaam.” The President encouraged the residents to make their voices heard on certain issues affecting the country, and said he was looking forward to their support in preventing the country from moving backwards. Minister Ali said it was a privilege for him to share in the celebration. “Leguan is a very beautiful place, with beautiful people,” he declared. He also said the island contributes to the country’s economy, and has produced many leaders. He expressed his interest in building a “strong tourism product” in Leguan, and urged the residents to examine the richness and potential of the island. “We would ensure that all is put in place to build Leguan,” he promised. The Pageant Of the nine lovely young ladies who participated in the pageant, Indranie Rampattie, 21, of Endeavour Village, was

Face painting at one of the booths

Art and craft on sale at the event

Staff at the health booth crowned queen. She was sashed and crowned by Minister Ali. Tajewantie Rampersaud, 22, of Doornhaag copped the first runner’s up award; Adiola Austin, 19, of Louisiana was second; Tabitha Persaud, 19, of Cheltenham was third, and Serika Parsram, 16, of Blenheim copped the fourth position. The other girls who participated were Taramattie Oudit, 22, of Good Intent; Natasha Sookraj, 21, of Doornhaag; Devika Mahase, 16, of Endeavour; and Roxanne St. Hill, whose particulars this reporter was unfortunate not to obtain. The Chief Judge of the pageant was Amanda Rafeek. Other judges were Anita Singh, Kevin Persaud and L. Ross. All of the girls did their best, and each participant took home gifts. The queen received $100,000 from the Tourism Ministry, along with a trip for two to the renowned Kaieteur Falls. Sponsorship for the girls came from Mr. Fredrick Freeman of the USA; Mr. Fizul Khan; LP Doobay and Son; Chand’s Rice Milling Enterprise; Mr. Ronnie Baichu; Fast Relief Pharmacy; Tularam and Sons; Blue Choice; and Pulse Entertainment. The Guyana National Newspapers Limited (Chronicle) also contributed to the event in the form of a cheque to the Leguan Organising Committee.

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Charity… From page XX employment packages for youths, and adults. The Big Bird Supermarket, Zeon and Purple Heart Hotels, WD Shopping Mall, and Alfro Alphonso Fish Complex are all entities which have helped Charity residents to garner and maintain proper professions. Some prefer to be employed at the Kasia Crystal Ice Factory, the Pomeroon Oil Mill, or will settle for employment at boat building entities which allegedly pay well. Camaraderie The people of charity are very generous and hospitable, and good laughter and happy smiles abound always. Children can be seen frolicking in the sun, or sharing fruits and other goodies. The love and harmony amongst neighbours is enjoyed mostly in the Squatting Area, which is much closer to the River Dam. There we were mesmerized by the cheery chatter of children, mothers chatting over their fences, or women in groups enjoying a good gossip under a mango tree. Children would rush off in the evenings to purchase items at a few small stalls where young girls sell pulouri, egg balls, black pudding, and other items. Some students would gather together for group studies in the afternoons, while others busy themselves with afternoon chores, for fear of screaming mothers brandishing belts and tamarind whips. Natural supply Many years ago, inadequate water supply was one of the problems faced by residents of Charity. Even though this problem has

been tackled considerably, residents still seem to prefer turning to the Pomeroon River for most of their water needs. On weekends, mothers and daughters would fetch large tubs of laundry to various small water landings (gaaths) which families had erected at the Pomeroon Water Front, and spend sometimes the entire day washing and chatting in wild abandon. The young children would frisk about in the shallow areas of the river under the watchful eyes of their mothers, who seemed naturally able to record their every move, even as they divulge the juiciest gossips of Charity. The water of the Pomeroon The Charity Magistrate’s River is also used in the making of coconut oil, and for many other purposes in many businesses. Some families even related that they boil and drink that water, or otherwise treat it before drinking. Scope Charity may have become reasonably developed over the years, but there is still dire need for infrastructural development

Court in many areas. Villagers are complaining of the need for access roads to certain areas of the township, and also bridges to link outlying areas to the ‘commercial locations’ in Charity. There is need for some side streets to be properly paved and covered with asphalt to effect smooth transport from one area to another. With a little sprucing up by the relevant authorities concerned, Charity can be made to hold its own against Linden, Georgetown, New Amsterdam and the other townships in Guyana.

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Quantum memory ‘world record’ smashed

By James Morgan A fragile quantum memory state has been held stable at room temperature for a “world record” 39 minutes - overcoming a key barrier to ultrafast computers. “Qubits” of information encoded in a silicon system persisted for almost 100 times longer than ever before. Quantum systems are notoriously fickle to measure and manipulate, but if harnessed could transform computing. The new benchmark was set by an international team led by Mike Thewalt of Simon Fraser University, Canada. “This opens the possibility of truly long-term storage of quantum information at room temperature,” said Prof Thewalt, whose achievement is detailed in the journal Science. In conventional computers, “bits” of data are stored as a string of 1s and 0s. But in a quantum system, “qubits” are stored in a so-called “superposition state” in which they can be both 1s and 0 at the same time - enabling them to perform multiple calculations simultaneously. The trouble with qubits is their instability - typical devices “forget” their memories in less than a second. There is no Guinness Book of quantum records. But unofficially, the previous best for a solid state system was 25 seconds at room temperature, or three minutes under cryogenic conditions.

In this new experiment, scientists encoded information into the nuclei of phosphorus atoms held in a sliver of purified silicon. Magnetic field pulses were used to tilt the spin of the nuclei and create superposition states - the qubits of memory. The team prepared the sample at -269C, close to absolute zero - the lowest temperature possible. When they raised the system to room temperature (just above 25C) the superposition states survived for 39 minutes. What’s more, they found they could manipulate the qubits as the temperature of the system rose and fell back towards absolute zero. At cryogenic temperatures, their quantum memory system remained coherent for three hours. “Having such robust, as well as long-lived, qubits could prove very helpful for anyone trying to build a quantum computer,” said co-author Stephanie Simmons of Oxford University’s department of materials.

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Guyana’s Rum Industry on an economic high --has economist calling for expansion

By Imran Khalil GUYANA’s rum industry is a source of national pride for many. And, with good reason! With only two rum producers, this tiny English-speaking South American nation is currently the world’s 14th largest exporter of the spirit, and has racked up a multitude of international accolades for its El Dorado and XM brands. According to the West Indian Rum and Spirits Association (WIRSPA), rum is defined as

“any spirit distilled solely from the fermented sugars derived from the sugarcane plant, and distilled below 96% alcohol by volume.” In other words, in the context of the Caribbean, it is only truly rum if it is produced from molasses, explained 28-yearold economist, Dianna Da Silva-Glasgow. Speaking at a recent forum hosted by the University of Guyana’s Institute of Development Studies (IDS) at the Education Lecture Theatre on the Turkeyen

Campus, Glasgow examined factors responsible for the local rum industry’s stellar performance, and prospects for the sector’s improvement and expansion. This performance is all the more significant since, in spite of the erosion of preferential access to markets and the global financial crisis, Guyana’s exports have grown steadily, she indicated, adding: “Exports to the Netherlands rose from US$5 million in 2005, and have grown over the years at an annual average of US$9

million.” Strategic positioning According to Glasgow, a lecturer attached to UG’s Department of Economics, the successful performance of the rum industry is attributed to the strategic positioning of the local rum producers, Banks D’Aguiars Industries and Holdings (Banks DIH), and Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), in the global value chain for rum. The global value chain for rum comprises the “main stages that come together to produce a bottle of rum,” Glasgow explained, adding: “These are the main processes; these are the main inputs that go into the production of rum.” By order of production, these stages include molasses production; bulk rum production (which entails the fermentation and distillation of molasses, and ageing); blending; bottling; and distribution. A graduate of the University of the West Indies (UWI), Glasgow iterated that the rum

“Given the fact that Guyana has been so successful on the world market on the efforts of only two firms, I think the scope for expanding the industry and allowing for more firms to come in is significant. Imagine how much further up the ladder we can go if we have a lot more players involved in the local rum industry.” producers have been able to “successfully identify good segment[s]” of the rum value chain. For instance, in the bulk rum production stage, producers set their rums to age in oak barrels for lengthy periods. The oak barrels are what give rums that “nice brown hue,” she disclosed, adding that since brown (dark) rums “dominate in the rum industry, accounting for 61.2% of the market share, it means that Guyana has been able to effectively get into the right segment of the global rum market.” In addition, the lengthy ageing period is very important to the quality of rum that is produced, since the very old rums are regarded as premium spirits, the lecturer posited, noting also that aged rums are “gaining ground” over other spirits, such as whiskies, bourbons and Armagnac. “It is in this regard that

Guyana has been able to stand out successfully on the global market,” she said, adding: “DDL has been able to successfully carve a niche for itself through the export of dark, aged rums as old as 25 years.” Glasgow also mentioned that white rum is growing in preference to vodka as a mixer, and that during the bulk production stage, white rum is made by simply ageing the rum in steel containers. Thereon, it can be marketed on the basis of its colour alone. “Banks DIH, which has only recently launched its XM label in the UK,” she said, “can actually successfully tap into this segment of the global rum market.” Flavoured rums are also becoming popular, she noted. Competitive edge The IDS researcher explained that both firms inSee page XXXIII

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Dr. Shivanie Persaud and her brother, Prem, another doctor in the making

Dr Shivanie Persaud blazes stellar academic path --for young brother to follow

By Shirley Thomas TWENTY-FOUR-year-old Shivanie Persaud, a former student of Queen’s College, who emerged as the nation’s best graduating student at the 2006 Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) sitting with 12 Grade Ones and one Grade Two, has again done Guyana proud when she graduated with an MD from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad. Persaud had proceeded to do the Sixth Form studies at Queen’s College, after which she graduated in 2008. On the basis of her performance, she was awarded a CXC Scholarship to pursue studies in Medicine at St. Augustine, where she underwent her degree programme. Having successfully completed her studies, she graduated from the University in October with an MD (Doctor of Medicine). But even though she graduated in October, she had commenced working at the Port-of-Spain General Hospital in July, and has been doing well. “So, I have already had about five months working as a doctor at the Port-of-Spain Hospital, where I’m doing my internship,” she modestly told the Sunday Chronicle. Shivanie says her ambition has always been to become a medical doctor. She recalls probably ‘playing doctor’ ever since she was at nursery school, and felt good at being referred to as ‘Dr. Persaud’. And now, with mission accomplished, when alluded to as ‘Dr. Persaud’, she knows from deep within that it’s the real thing. She harbours a feeling of satisfaction, knowing that this was wrought through hard work, diligent application, sacrifice, and an incredible support system. She’ expressed gratitude to God; her parents, for their abundant love, support, and tender nurturing; the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), for awarding her the scholarship to pursue studies; the administration and staff of Queen’s College; teaching staff at the University of the West Indies; her teachers at Montrose Primary School, who prepared her for admission to QC; and not least, her only sibling, Prem. Prem, who’s walked closely in Shivanie’s footsteps, is one year her junior. The year after she entered Q.C., he also excelled at the Common Entrance Examinations and qualified for Q.C. When he wrote CXC, even though he did not top QC, he passed with ‘straight As’. He also opted to do Medicine, and entered St. Augustine Campus, where he’s currently in his final year of studies. Prem looks forward to graduating as a medical doctor, come October 2014. Most regrettably, however, tragedy struck the Persaud home just weeks after Shivanie graduated from university. Their father, Prem Persaud (Snr), suffered a heart attack and died. That misfortune brought Shivanie and Prem (Jnr) home to attend their father’s funeral. The Sunday Chronicle extends its heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved Persaud family. Shivanie and Prem are children of Bernadette and the late Prem Persaud of Vryheid’s Lust North, East Coast Demerara.

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Improper solid waste disposal: Georgetown’s Sword of Damocles By Tash Van Doimen OVER the years, the impact of improper solid waste management has evolved into a critical environmental problem in Georgetown, becoming more acute over time, creating unpleasant aesthetic conditions, and threatening the health of the urban population. Although the problem prevails, the drive to conquer it has seemingly dwindled at the level of the powers-that-be. It would seem that most of the strongest advocates for proper waste management have lost their zeal to confront the problem, leading to a situation where a team, comprising members of the Diplomatic Corps, led by the United States Ambassador, Mr. D. Brent Hardt, spearheaded a passionate and energetic drive during last year, with the aim of mobilizing city dwellers to take the initiative to keep the city clean. Touted as the ‘Pick It Up’ Campaign, that initiative started with schools across the city, and moved to encompass specific communities as well. The embassy visited schools, sensitized the youth population, established a physical presence, and provided cleaning materials to get the job done. Regrettably, the experience was that members of the respective communities rarely came out to play their part in the cleaning activities; most of the persons cleaning invariably comprised volunteers invited by the diplomatic delegation. Hence, it was concluded that the energy and drive to ‘clean up the city’ had waned. MAJOR ISSUE Waste disposal in Georgetown has been a major issue for many years, particularly after the January 2005 Flood, during which the negative impact was felt strongest. Because of improper waste disposal practices, drainage canals were heavily clogged with solid waste of every conceivable kind, not least Styrofoam boxes and cups, plastic bags and other poly-based matter. Because of the heavy buildup of garbage and improperly disposed sludge, sluices and outfall channels were blocked, severely aggravating the water accumulation on the land; and that situation continued throughout the period of the flood. Over the last few years, solid waste management in the city has deteriorated, to the point where almost every street is lined with waste, and their corners decorated with a garbage heap. In several Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), waste is not collected, forcing residents to burn or bury it, or dump it in vacant lots, along roadsides, and in drainage canals. Our public buildings and national monuments have not been spared; every facet of our society has been affected by the improper management of solid waste in the city. The glaring garbage situation in Georgetown has been blamed on everything, from corrupt practices at City Hall, to the insensitivity of urban businessmen, and the indifference of the private sector to the inefficiency of solid waste collection and disposal regime. Whatever the case might be, it is obvious that there is a problem; and that everyone should do their part in resolving it. CABINET’S COMMITMENT Last August, Cabinet approved US$185,000 (about G$37M) for the acquisition of 827 waste disposal bins in an effort to strengthen the capacity of the 15 NDCs in Region Four and the Georgetown Municipality to better provide solid waste management. The purchase of these bins was funded under the Georgetown Solid Waste Management Programme, a project financed by the Government of Guyana (GoG) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and aimed at addressing the issue of See page XXXI

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Improper solid waste... From page XXX

littering around Region Four. The project is responsible for construction and full implementation of the Haags Bosch Landfill site, a Master Plan for waste management, and training of public and private entities in the waste management sector. Through this programme, a US$20M loan was extended by the IDBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fund for Special Operations in 2006 (US$18 million at first, and later an additional US$2 million was approved by the IDB Board of Directors in 2010). But while the Haags Bosch Landfill site, put in place to take off the garbage created in the city, continues to perform the function for which it was intended, unless there is a regular and sustained process of garbage collection and disposal, coupled with the energy and drive to get the job done, an imminent threat of outbreak of illnesses in the city looms large.

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Guyana’s Rum Industry... From page XXVIII

creased their competitiveness by upgrading their respective productive capacities through investing in human capital. She noted that both companies run scholarships and graduate management trainee programmes to equip their personnel with skills in chemistry, engineering and management. In addition, she disclosed that the companies had added to their respective productive capacities by investing in the installation of several capital-intensive equipment that increase the automation of the rum manufacturing facilities, as well as in quality management systems certified by the International Organization for Standardization (known by its Greek-inspired acronym, ISO). Glasgow posited that unlike other local manufacturers, who have to contend with costly and unreliable energy supply from the state-owned Guyana Power and Light Inc., both Banks DIH and DDL are energy self-sufficient, and this has augured well for their competitiveness. DDL operates a biomethanization plant that provides power for the company’s boilers, while Banks DIH runs a number of Bunker C fuel generators. The East Bank Demerara location of both Banks DIH and DDL also adds to their competitiveness, the economist asserted, since it gives them easier access to seaports and customs facilities. DDL controls a wharf at Diamond, and although “DDL still has to go through Trinidad to access the UK markets, but there’s still easier access to seaport facilities, given where they are located.” Glasgow also credited shifts in the macroeconomic policy framework with boosting rum producers’ competitiveness. She said that, with the liberalization of the financial sector in Guyana, both companies have been able to own their own commercial banks. Banks DIH and DDL have controlling stakes in Citizens Bank and Demerara Bank Limited respectively; and since, under the European integrated development programme for rum, a portion of the funding has to be provided by the companies before they can access assistance from the EU, both companies were able to do so, because “access to finance is not a problem for them, because they have their own commercial banks.” She disclosed that Banks DIH and DDL are both part of the Public Private Dialogue Body (which was established under the National Economist, lecturer and Competitiveness Strategy) as well IDS Researcher Dianna as Industry Associations, e.g. WIRDa Silva-Glasgow SPA, forums from which they influence the formulation of policies at both national and regional levels. Other policy initiatives by Government which have helped make rum producers’ businesses more competitive, Glasgow iterated, include the establishment of a Commercial Court to deal specifically with commercial disputes. In addition, the Guyana Revenue Authority’s Total Revenue Integrated Processing System (TRIPS)and the Single Window Automated Processing System (SWAPS) helps to boost the administrative capacities of various institutions responsible for trade and investment issues. Prudent fiscal policies that have kept the inflation and exchange rates stable have helped, she stated. Another boost to rum producers’ competitiveness comes from multilateral policy efforts such as the Lomé I agreement and the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) which give rum producers’ exports duty-free and other preferential access to EU and US markets respectively. Scope for expansion Glasgow believes that “there is a lot of concentration” in the local rum value chain. From ageing to distribution, Banks DIH and DDL jointly control all aspects of the rum producing business, she insisted. She added that she was “quite surprised” to learn that the distillation and fermentation of molasses was monopolized by DDL. She suggested there isn’t a desire to change that, because Angostura out of Trinidad had tried to establish in Guyana a distillery which would have given DDL competition, but it was actually blocked by the High Court. “Given the fact that Guyana has been so successful on the world market on the efforts of only two firms, I think the scope for expanding the industry and allowing for more firms to come in is significant,” she opined. She said: “Imagine how much further up the ladder we can go if we have a lot more players involved in the local rum industry.” Glasgow also suggested that policymakers ought to seek out key areas where key support can be provided to firms and public-private partnerships’ developed e.g. in education, and infrastructure development, particularly a Deep Water Harbour. She advised, too, that there be continued production of aged rums, which is showing growth globally, and that markets, such as in Australia, which are large importers, blenders and bottlers of rum, be tapped. The diaspora should be used to expand presence in current markets, such as in Canada and the US, she concluded.

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Will this be just one award among many this season for Sandra Bullock?

THE 25th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival has announced that it will present Bullock with the Desert Palm Achievement Award at its annual gala Jan. 4 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Matthew McConaughey will receive the male equivalent of the achievement award. “Sandra Bullock is the epitome of cinematic talent and versatility,” festival chairman Harold Matzner said in the announcement. He cited Gravity, nothing that, “Throughout the entire film, her determination to survive is masterfully portrayed.” Past actress recipients of the Desert Palm Achievement Award include Halle Berry, Marion Cotillard, Anne Hathaway, Natalie Portman, Charlize Theron, Naomi Watts and Michelle Williams. (usatoday.com)

DNA hint of European origin for dogs

THE results of a DNA study suggest that dogs were domesticated in Europe. No-one doubts that “man’s best friend” is an evolutionary offshoot of the grey wolf, but scientists have long argued over the precise timing and location for their emergence. The new research, based on a genetic analysis of ancient and modern dog and wolf samples, points to a European origin at least 18,000 years ago. Olaf Thalmann and colleagues report the investigation in Science magazine. It adds a further layer of complexity to the story. Earlier DNA studies have suggested the modern pooch - in all its shapes and sizes - could track its beginnings back to wolves that attached themselves to human societies in the Middle East or perhaps in East Asia as recently as 15,000 years ago. The problem with these claims is that palaeontologists have found fossils of distinctly dog-looking animals that are 30,000 years old or more. Dr Thalmann, from Finland’s University of Turku, and his team, have had another go at trying to sort through the conflicting DNA evidence. They compared genetic sequences from a wide range of ancient animals - both dogs and wolves - with material taken from living canines - again, from both dogs and wolves. This analysis reveals modern dogs to be most closely related to ancient European wolves or dogs - not to any of the wolf groups from outside Europe, nor even to modern European wolves (suggesting the link is with old European wolves that are now extinct). And because the dog remains used in the research are dated to be more than 18,000 years old, it indicates a timing for domestication that is much older than some researchers have previously argued. If correct, it means dogs started to diverge from wolf populations when humans had yet to settle into fixed, agricultural communities and were still hunting and gathering. It is possible there were wolves that would follow these hunters, may be at a distance at first, living off the scraps and discards from the humans’ big-game kills such as mammoth, before eventually being incorporated into the human groups as they became less wary. “You can see how wolves benefitted from living near humans because they got these carcases, but humans too would have benefitted,” said Dr Thalmann. “You have to remember that 18,800-32,000 years ago, Europe had much bigger predators than even wolves, such as bears and hyenas. And you can imagine that having wolves living close to you might be a very useful alarm system,” he told BBC News. “It’s a plausible scenario for the origin of the domestication of dogs.” The latest study is unlikely to be the last word on the subject, however. Using DNA - and the subtle changes it undergoes over time - to examine animal origins and relationships is a very powerful tool, but far from fool-proof. One of the problems scientists have is that dog populations have become very mixed over time, as a result of being moved around by their human owners. This complicates the genetic signal.

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A r i e s You’re just going to love today’s astrological blend of energies. Permanence and stability are in the air, and promises made will undoubtedly be promises kept. So, just this once, instead of automatically expecting people to go back on their word, you can expect that they won’t. In fact, you and a dear one can even establish a deeper trust if you have that conversation you’ve been putting off. Oh, go ahead. It’s about time, isn’t it?

Taurus A work-related matter that’s been on hold -- making you absolutely crazy for the past several weeks -- is about to come to a happy close. Not quite yet, however, and not nearly soon enough. If you can manage to pull together just a bit more of that legendary ability to wait things out, you’ll be golden. How about it? Got it in you? You bet you do.

G e m i ni You may need to do some impromptu counselling this afternoon, so prepare yourself. The heavens have arranged for a good dose of jealousy to circulate around you, so if you’re not directly involved in the fray, consider helping whoever is -- especially if it’s obvious they need it. Not everyone has a doctorate in relationships, like you clearly do, and now’s the time to put your studies to work. C a n c e r A few emotional conflicts will be distracting you a little bit today, and they could keep you from focusing on the tasks at hand as much as you need to focus on them. You have some tough choices to make and some tough feelings to work through, but you need to have faith in yourself that you can do it! Try to put your feelings aside long enough to get your work done, and then get back to them at the end of the day when you can be alone with your thoughts.

L e o A mixed bag of energies is circulating in the heavens above you. On tap, for example, are a nice, grounded dose of stability, a heady potion tailor-made for romance and a collaboration between two particular planets determined to get you worrying about whether your sweetie is being faithful. Sure, it sounds a bit confusing, but it’s going to make for an unpredictable day -- which, of course, is exactly what you love best.

VirgoWith the possible exception of some fireworks on the job, you’ll have a fine time today. So if jealousy or resentment comes up, don’t feed any of your valuable energy into it, and it will go away. It’s a waste of time, because right now you’re particularly set up for romance, passion and a renewed closeness to the ones you love. Better try to sneak some rest after work, because it’s probably going to be a late one.

Libra Today could get a little tricky, but only if you let it. The most important thing you can do is to separate yourself from negative energy, gloomy people and harmful or depressing circumstances. That means no falling prey to anyone who’s jealous, resentful or even plain old whiny. Offer advice, but if someone keeps coming up with reasons why they can’t take it, put some distance between you and the bad attitude. Fast.

Scorpio You’ll be in the unique position of yielding to your elders today, and it may feel weird at first. So if you find yourself in the position of backing down from a dispute with an authority figure -- don’t feel bad about it. Be proud of your wisdom and your ability to deign to the sagacity of others. Respect is a quality that’s earned, and someday you’ll be the experienced leader.

Sagittarius Despite someone’s efforts to dissuade you, what you’re still after, first and foremost, is quiet time. You don’t want any noise, confusion or ruckus from the maddening crowd. Right now, silence is the only thing you want to hear. That, and maybe the sound of running water -- either nice, hot and bubbling into your tub, or crisp, cold and flowing down the side of a tranquil mountain. Either way, enjoy!

C a p r i c o r n There’s definitely something to be said for keeping quiet when you have a wonderful secret -- you know, the kind that keeps you grinning and staring out the window when you’re supposed to be working. Still, no one’s saying it’s going to be easy to bite your tongue. So if you absolutely must say something to someone, why not talk to your best friend? Remember, just your best friend, no one else.

Aquarius You’re putting out some pretty high-octane vibes at the moment, attracting the attention of just about everyone who happens to amble by. Do them -- and yourself -- a favour. If you’re already attached, or just not interested, don’t even think about flirting. And if anyone has a hungry, vaguely disoriented look about them, and a silly, sappy grin, too? Run, don’t walk, in the other direction. This is the behaviour of a prospective groupie, not a potential partner.

Pieces If someone strikes you as not quite on the up-and-up, don’t try to talk yourself out of it. Your antennae are consistently pretty keen, but at the moment, they’ll be especially accurate. That means no matter what anyone else says, trust your gut first and foremost. And if a certain story doesn’t seem quite right, go ahead and do some digging. The real facts won’t be hard to find.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Roraima Airways celebrates coming of age

By Shirley Thomas

THE proud Roraima Family assembled last Friday with humble hearts of gratitude to celebrate the landmark occasion of Roraima Airways Inc’s 21st Anniversary via Thanksgiving Service at Duke Lodge on Younge Street in Kingston, Georgetown. At that simple ceremony chaired by Ms. Diedre Davis, remarks were delivered by Chief Executive Officer, Captain Gerald Gouveia, and General Manager, Captain Debbie Gouveia, while the Exultation was given by Bishop Juan Edghill. Captain Gerald (Gerry) Gouveia, lauding the contribution of the staff to the success of Roraima Airways, said the most important asset of the company is its staff. “Every one of you -- on the flights, in the resorts, in the hotels…. It’s got everything to do with the work that we do together,” he declared. Acknowledging yet another milestone in the life of the company, Captain Gerald observed with deep sadness that, for the first time in the history of the company’s celebrations, its dedicated Administrative Manager, Mr. Gerald Mc Kenzie, could not be present. Mr. Mc Kenzie, who died last July after serving the company for 17 years, has left a great void within that organization. Captain Gerald remembered him not only as a staff member, but as a friend and confidante; one who is very sadly missed. Captain Gerald said the company’s greatest achievement -- which he would want to talk about -- is the fact that his two sons are now grown men and are ready to assume roles and responsibilities within the company as it transitions in keeping with growth and development. And with a sense of gratitude, he asserted, “Thank you, Jerry and Kevin, for coming back to

your country.” Kevin, the older of the two, briefly addressing the gathering, declared his deep pleasure at being associated with the company at this time. “I love working with this company. Every day is different. It has challenges… I want to use the gifts that God gave me to overcome the challenges,” Kevin testified. Looking back at where the company began and where it is today, Captain Gerry said he felt challenged by the hurdles the company faces every day. He, however, assured staff members that the company would continue to grow from strength to strength. “We will deal with the challenges; and for me, I am facing these challenges with renewed faith every day,” he affirmed. One of the many areas in which the Roraima Airways’ indelible mark has been stamped is in the ongoing execution of mercy flights across the length and breadth of Guyana in conditions of both fair and foul weather. Captain Gerry singled out for special mention Captain Alvin Clarke, a ‘star’ employee in the company. He noted that Captain Clarke would fly in the middle of the night to dark airstrips to extract pregnant women or bring the sick to hospital in the city. He applauded Captain Clarke’s professionalism and dedication, saying it continues to be an asset to the company. “We do what we have to do, and that is (to) save lives, even if it’s through the jungles. Roraima continues to save lives, contributes to the Guyana economy, and continues to showcase Guyana,” he declared. As the entity continues its growth from strength to strength, Captain Gerry assured that in the New Year a lot of

--with simple ceremony at Duke Lodge

Captain Gerry Gouveia (in suit) is flanked by employees of Roraima Airways on the lawns of Duke Lodge. Seated directly in front of him (centre) are his wife, Captain Debbie Gouveia, and son, Kevin (Photo by Cullen Bess-Nelson) strategies would unfold. He expressed best wishes to management and staff of Roraima, and declared as a timely reminder: “We have to keep working together; thinking together, and building this team stronger and stronger.” Bishop Juan Edghill, in his Exultation, offered words of congratulation and encouragement to Captains Gerry and Debbie Gouveia and the entire Roraima Airways Inc., on having attained 21 years as a company. He acknowledged the Roraima Airways’ contribution to the aviation industry, the tourism sector and the nation

of Guyana as a whole; and congratulated Captain Gerry for being both a good corporate citizen and a good employer possessed of admirable, resonant leadership qualities. Recognizing that Roraima Airways has filled that essential niche of devoting quality time and personalized attention to the needs of its employees, Bishop Edgill credited that attribute to the company being able to attract and retain staff. He also acknowledged staff members who continue to work assiduously to make things happen for the company, noting

that it is because they love what they do. And stressing the importance of a good work attitude to the success of any company, Bishop Edghill said, “In a work organization, there are some things you could hire: You could hire skills, but you can’t hire attitude; attitude has to be cultivated.” Noting that the height reached by Roraima Airways was established on principles of integrity, discipline and excellence, Edghill stressed the importance of choices, which naturally have consequences, and how they impinge on one’s

life.

Edghill cautioned that, along life’s road, no matter what your circumstances might be, what matters most and plays a defining role in what you do or who you turn out to be is your choice. “Remember,” he reasoned, “our destiny is in our own hands, and it’s determined by the choice we make.” Bishop Edghill encouraged the management and staff of Roraima Airways to continue dreaming and to continue making choices that would differentiate the company from other companies in the years to come.

SILWF makes it easy for schoolchildren at Non Pariel

By Jimmy Roos

--commissions walkway connecting two streets

THE Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund Committee (SILWF), an entity created by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) to cater to the needs of sugar workers, last Thursday officially opened a concrete walkway connecting two streets in Non Pariel, East Coast Demerara. The new walkway will now make it easier for schoolchildren especially to navigate the neighbourhood on their way to and from school. Before this walkway was built, children had to take longer routes to their destination, walking through unoccupied lots to get to school. The community recognized the imminent danger of this situation, and channelled its concerns to the SILWF Committee, which agreed that something needed to be done, and commissioned the creation of the walkway. First Lady, Mrs. Deolatchmee Ramotar is chairperson of the SILWF Committee, and according to fellow committee member Mr. Carvil Duncan, who officiated at the ceremony, the First Lady was instrumental in the decision to build the walkway. Duncan congratulated the community on acquiring a new walkway, and urged that the walkway be taken care of. According to SILWF Committee member Mr. Jairam Petam, who also spoke at the ceremony to commission the new walkway, GuySuCo gives G$500 to SILWF for every tonne of sugar exported; hence he encouraged the community to join forces with GuySuCo, because if the company exports more sugar, the SILWF would have more money to spend on the communities they support. Also present at that ceremony was Mr. Jankie Persaud, a former committee member of SILWF; Ms. Kavita Bishun, an Administrative Manager; and the builder of the walkway.

At the commissioning of the walkway in Non Pariel, ECD

Waste Management in ... From page 15

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

reducing the clogging of drains; release of harmful gases in the air; and very importantly savings on landfill space. However, a ban on Styrofoam is not only good for the environment but also for business as it creates an opportunity to create more businesses that can make or supply recyclable food containers.

STYROFOAM WORD SEARCH

Although Styrofoam has certainly made an impression in modern-day society, there are ways to avoid this harmful product. Standard alternatives include paper and cardboard. These products can be recycled and have less of an impact on the environment. But there are other, more innovative alternatives as well, which are good for business and the environment. With the ban on Styrofoam soon to come into effect in Guyana, there are alternatives which are good for business and the environment. Take action! Being wise and moving towards the use of more sustainable resources is essential for our sustenance. Going green when you eat out or order take away food is now easier than ever. It is now possible to buy organic, compostable, and eco-friendly versions of all types of tableware products including disposable plates, cups, bowls and trays as well as take out containers – made from the renewable resource. Start today, practice using reusable, washable cutlery and crockery and if you have to take way, support that business which use eco-friendly products. In Guyana, Caribbean Containers Inc. (CCI) is one company involved in recycling cardboard and office paper; they have also introduced a line of biodegradable containers which you can capitalize on for your take-away needs. The benefits of the impending ban on Styrofoam for the environment include Cornstarch compostable containers improved aesthetics;

STYROFOAM BAGASSE SUGARCANE CORNSTARCH RECYCLED HARMFUL

ENVIRONMENT BAN REDUCE CONTAINERS POLYSTYRENE DISPOSABLE

Sources: www.greenliving.lovetoknow.com www.earthresource.org You can share your ideas and questions by sending your letters to: “The Earth Our Environment”, C/O EIT Division. Environmental Protection Agency, Ganges Street, Sophia, GEORGETOWN or email us at eit.epaguyana@gmail.com

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

KMTC sets provisional programme for Boxing Day event AS IS CUSTOMARY over the past 20 years and will be seen, the Kennard Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) Located at Bush Lot, Corentyne will be hosting their Boxing Day horserace meeting, which will see eight races being carded for the day. The feature event will cover a distance of one mile and caters for horses classified A and

Lower, with the winner set to gallop off with a first placed prize of $1.5M, while the second, third and fourth placed finishers will pocket $750,000, $375,000 and $188,000 respectively.

ENGLISH Fontwell 08:45 hrs The Young Master 09:15 hrs Court Appeal 09:50 hrs Camden 10:25 hrs Dolatulo 10:55 hrs Renvolio 11:30 hrs Princely Hero 12:00 hrs Absolute Shambles CHELTENHAM 09:00 hrs Toughness Danon 09:35 hrs Lac Fontana 10:10 hrs Dodging Bullets 10:40 hrs Sire De Grugy 11:15 hrs Flaxen Flare 11:50 hrs Storm Of Swords FRENCH RACING TIPS Auteuil 08:25 hrs Jazz De Briandais 08:55 hrs Ellie 09:30 hrs Rasique

However, with races which are being held under the auspices of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority (GHRA), including this meeting, five horses must start an event if a third placed prize is to be paid and an addi-

10:08 hrs Rhialco 10:40 hrs Anemos 11:10 hrs Ultimiste 11:40 hrs Shanango IRISH RACING TIPS Punchestown 08:35 hrs Faugheen 09:05 hrs Defy Logic 09:40 hrs Don Cossack 10:15 hrs Hurricane Fly 10:45 hrs City Slicker 11:20 hrs Wells China 11:55 hrs Harvey Logan SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Clairwood 08:50 hrs Midnight Run 09:25 hrs The Fifth Day 10:00 hrs Blouberg Beach 10:35 hrs Circle Of Speed 11:10 hrs Legend dancer 11:45 hrs Salesman

tional two horse must start, if a fourth placed prize will be paid. If there are less than five horses competing in any event on the day’s programme, the organiser reserves the right to cancel or reframe that said event or even reduce the prize money for the event, only after consulting with horse owners. Owners of two year old horses must produce that horse’s birth certificate at the time of entry, which will see all horse owners being asked to pay an entrance fee of $5,000, failure of which would see that horse’s name not appearing on the official programme and the horse being denied the privilege to compete. Entries close on Sunday December 15 and persons desirous of having their horses compete, can do so by contacting the club’s Secretary Nicketa Ross on telephone number 662-4668, Roopnarine Matadial (325-3192), Dennis Deroop (325-3301/6099143), Isabella Beaton (6937812), Ivan Dipnarine (3310316) or Cecil Kennard (6237609, 225-4818 or 226-1399).

Nigeria qualify for 2014 World Cup finals

(REUTERS):NIGERIA became the first African country to qualify for next year’s World Cup finals after a 2-0 home win over Ethiopia in their playoff in Calabar yesterday. Victor Moses converted a 20th-minute penalty and Victor Obinna added an 82nd-minute free kick for the second-leg success and a 4-1 aggregate win in the two-legged tie after Nigeria also won in Addis Ababa in last month’s first leg. The 2-0 home win in the second leg in Calabar yesterday means the reigning African champions have reached the finals for the fifth time, having played in four of the last five tournaments. Moses tucked the spot kick away in the 20th minute while Obinna provided a rare piece of magic during a dull game, curling home a free kick eight minutes from time soon after coming on as as substitute. Nigeria were runaway favourites to finish the job after winning in Addis Ababa in last month’s first leg but they were largely uninspiring. Perhaps they was because their progress to Brazil was never seriously in doubt after Ethiopia defender Aynalem Hailu was harshly adjudged to have handled in the penalty area as he took a shot in his midriff but could do nothing

Ivory Coast beat Senegal to secure (REUTERS): IVORY Coast qualified for a third straight World Cup tournament by beating Senegal 4-2 on aggregate in a play-off for next year’s finals in Brazil after a 1-1 draw in the second leg on Saturday. Moussa Sow’s 77th minute penalty in Casablanca set up a dramatic finish as Senegal tried to claw back a two-goal deficit from last month’s 3-1 first leg defeat but Salomon Kalou struck a last-gasp equaliser on the night as the Ivorians went through. Ivory Coast’s qualification followed that of Nigeria, who earlier in the day became the first African country to reach the finals after beating Ethiopia 2-0 for a 4-1 aggregate triumph. Three more teams from Africa will qualify by Tuesday. Ivory Coast competed in the last two World Cups in Germany and South Africa but failed to get past the first

to prevent it running up his outstretched arm. Hailu will want to forget the tie as soon as he can as he also gave away the penalty at the conclusion of the first leg which initially tipped the tie Nigeria’s way. Moses sent Ethiopia keeper keeper Sisay Bancha the

wrong way to the delight of the home crowd, who were drenched by a tropical storm in the second half but still celebrated with some passion after the final whistle. Obinna, recently recalled to the squad, strengthened his claim for a place in the finals with

Victor Moses of Nigeria (R) celebrates after scoring a goal against Ethiopia during their 2014 World Cup qualifying playoff soccer match at U.J Esuene stadium in Calabar, yesterday (Reuters)

a rasping effort that gave Bancha no chance. But overall it was an uninspiring performance from Stephen Keshi’s men who also missed several good chances. Emmanuel Emenike, who scored both goals in the first leg, should have put Nigeria ahead in the sixth minute as Ethiopia’s defence failed to clear a long throw, which bounced Emenike at the back post. Off balance as he struck, Bancha turned it round the post with a fine one-handed save. B ro w n I d e y e h e a d e d wide at the back post in the 31st minute, again given time and space by a visiting defence caught ball-watching. Ogenyi Onanzi produced a fine diving save out of Bancha as half-time approached with a long range shot delivered with some power. An increasingly desperate Ethiopia had two penalty appeals turned down early in the second half but never managed to produce a decent goal scoring chance.

France in danger, Ronaldo edges Portugal towards finals (REUTERS) - France’s hopes of reaching the World Cup finals are hanging by a thread after a 2-0 firstleg defeat away to Ukraine in their playoff on Friday while Cristiano Ronaldo’s late winner gave Portugal the edge against Sweden. Ten-man Iceland battled to 0-0 home draw with Croatia in Reykjavic to keep alive their dream of qualifying for a first major tournament while Greece will be confident of finishing off Romania next week after a 3-1 victory in Athens. Of the eight European nations in the last-chance saloon after missing out on automatic passage to next year’s tournament in Brazil, France are the worst placed going into next week’s second legs after a miserable night in Kiev. Second-half goals by Ukraine’s Roman Zozulia and Andriy Yarmolenko and a red card for France defender Laurent Koscielny made it a night to forget for Didier Deschamps’ side who need a vast improvement in Paris on Tuesday to repair the damage. “It’s obviously a very bad result. We have to believe (we can go through) but Ukraine are the team in the best position to qualify,” he said. France last failed to reach a major tournament in 1994

but Deschamps, who was past of that squad, remained defiant. “We still have 90 minutes at home,” he added. RIBERY SHACKLED FIFA Ballon d’Or nominee Franck Ribery was shackled closely as Les Blues toiled at the Olympic Stadium. A draw would have been a satisfactory result to take home but just past the hour Zozulia squeezed a shot under Hugo Lloris from close range to spark wild celebrations. Koscielny then fouled Zozulia in the box to allow Ukraine to double their lead and the Arsenal man’s frustration boiled over when he slapped Kucher in the face to earn a red card that will keep him out of the return match in Paris. Ukraine also finished with 10 men after Kucher was dismissed for a second yellow card for a foul on Ribery. Ronaldo overshadowed Sweden’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic in their playoff match - billed as a clash between two of Europe’s hottest strikers - pouncing late on a tense night in Lisbon. By a quirk of the draw for the playoffs, one of the biggest names in the world game will be missing next year in South America - a blow for neutrals and spon-

sors alike. However, the odds look slightly shorter on Ronaldo gracing the stage after the Real Madrid man, so often the dazzler, proved he will also put his head in the line of danger for his country by stooping to score an 82nd minute winner. He also struck the woodwork shortly afterwards as Portugal sought the comfort of a second goal. As it is, a workmanlike Swedish side still harbour high hopes of swinging the tie their way. “We created a great early chance and Sweden hit back. But in the second half it was one way for us,” Portugal coach Paulo Bento told reporters. “It was an important step to reach the World Cup but not yet decisive.” STUBBO ORN ICELAND Iceland played most of the second half with 10 men against Croatia after Olafur Skulason was shown a straight red card in the 50th minute but they hung on stubbornly for a draw. “To defend for almost 45 minutes with one less man on the pitch... I can’t describe in words what these players have done,” Iceland coach Lars Lagerback said.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

Tendulkar bids farewell with tears ... From back page speech at the presentation ceremony before completing a lap of honour on the shoulders of his team mates. “All my friends settle down, let me talk. I will get more and more emotional,” he said, his voice almost drowned by chants of “Sachin, Sachin” reverberating around his hometown Wankhede Stadium. “It’s getting little difficult to talk but I’ll manage.” A solemn Tendulkar spoke for more than 20 minutes as the 32,000-strong crowd listened intently with hands folded as if in prayer and eyes moist with tears. A day after the anniversary of his international debut against Pakistan in Karachi in 1989 as a mop-haired 16-yearold, Tendulkar finished his career as the sport’s most prolific international run-scorer. He leaves the game after playing more Test matches (200), scoring the most Test (15,921) and one-day international (18,426) runs, and compiling more Test (51) and oneday (49) hundreds than any other player in cricket history. EMOTIONAL SPEECH “My life’s been 22 yards for 24 years. It’s hard to believe that wonderful journey is coming to an end,” he said, going on to thank his family, friends and all the people associated with his career. A perfect role model for the country’s youth and the sport worldwide with his impeccable image on and off the field, Tendulkar offered a rare glimpse into his fiercely private family life through the speech. “The most beautiful thing happened to me in 1990 when I met my wife Anjali,” Tendulkar said, addressing his wife as she wept uncontrollably. “I know Anjali being a doctor, there was a wonderful career in front of her. “When we decided to have a family, Anjali took the initiative to step back and say that ‘you continue with your cricket and I will take responsibility of the family’. “Without that, I don’t think I would have been able to play cricket freely and without any stress. “You are the best partnership I’ve had in my life.” Such was India’s dominance that Tendulkar was only required to bat once in his final Test, scoring a stylish 74, but he did get to bowl a couple of overs on Saturday to at least play an active role in his last day of duty. BOWLING REPERTOIRE Responding to chants of “We want Sachin, We want Sachin” from the packed stadium, India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni tossed the ball to Tendulkar, who delighted his home fans with a brief bowling cameo in his 200th test match. A crowd-pleasing wicket was not forthcoming but he did show off a full repertoire of deliveries, offering leg-spin, offspin and an immaculate googly which tail-ender Shane Shillingford somehow fended away. The regular bowlers returned to finish off a match that will be largely forgotten as a contest but remembered as a fitting farewell for a man who may be small in stature but cast a giant shadow of greatness over cricket in India and beyond. Tendulkar said he had a simple message for his team mates and all those aspiring to represent the country when Dhoni presented him with the special cap to mark his farewell. “I feel all of us are so fortunate and proud to be part of the Indian cricket team, serving the nation,” Tendulkar added, seeking to pass the baton on to the next generation. “I know you will continue to serve the nation in the right spirit, the right values. “Each generation gets this opportunity to merely take care of this sport and serve it to the best of our ability.” In a fitting and final tribute, Tendulkar returned to the 22-yard strip of land that has defined his life and career to perform a ‘Dandavata’, an Indian form of respect requiring one to bow the forehead and stoop to touch the ground.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

We Have Been Taught A Lesson, says Sammy MUMBAI, India, Nov 16, CMC - West Indies captain Darren Sammy said his team ‘never showed up’ for the Test series against India following an innings and 126run defeat yesterday. The match, which also brought an end to the illustrious career of batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, was almost identical results from the first Test which they lost by an inning and 51 runs in Kolkata. “It is very disappointing. We never turned up in the series,” he said after India won the Mumbai Test by an innings and 126 runs. “We came here on the back of six Test victories against, Bangladesh, New Zealand and Zimbabwe. But coming here really taught us a lesson and exposed us. It told us how far we are behind the top four teams in the world. We have just not turned up,” Sammy said. He said they have been taught a lesson for the next Test series against New Zealand following the One-Day series against India. “I was speaking to a good friend of mine and he summed it up very well. He said to me, ‘we knew you were coming here for a celebration and you only brought gifts’. That is what we did. In Rohit’s (Sharma) debut Test series we gifted him two centuries. Mohammed Shami made his debut and his gifts were 11 wickets in the series. “I personally have been very disappointed not just for me, but for the team as well. It is a good lesson for us as we go down to New Zealand where we play our next Test series and there we have got to bounce back,” he said. The Windies captain, in a tribute to Tendulkar, praised the Indian star for his contribution to world cricket over a span of 24 years. He said his team has utmost respect for Tendulkar. “Tendulkar is the all-round person - all-round cricketer and the ultimate sportsman. As an opponent, when you hear of Sachin your shoulders tend to drop. As a team-mate probably you would be so happy to be in the same team as him. “World cricket, no matter which team you support, whenever Sachin is playing you have got to watch. What he brought to the cricket fraternity is just incredibly the best. Legends come and legends go, but cricket will surely miss Sachin. Not only in India. I don’t know how the dressing room of India would be when it is next Test match and Sachin is not in the XI. Opponents would be happy that they are not competing against Sachin. Cricket would surely miss the ambassador,” said Sammy. The visitors formed a guard of honour when Tendulkar walked in to bat on Day-one. Sammy said there was tremendous amount of respect in the West Indian dressing room for him. “When he came onto bat, we gave him the guard of honour. If you noticed, I took a brilliant catch to dismiss him but there was no emotion shown. That is the level of respect I have for the man. I gave no emotion because probably that was the last time the world saw him bat. We have utmost respect for Sachin. We respect what he has done for the game. Sammy said that India have shown the world how to support their own and the legacy Sachin has left will not be forgotten. “He is a special man but he has made it more special with the way the fans have treated him. I don’t think any other sportsman in any sport has gotten that kind of adoration from his or her followers. India has set a benchmark as to how you support your son of the soil. Many cricketers have come and gone but Sachin is one that will never be forgotten. Kids who are probably not born yet, they will grow up in India and know about Sachin Tendulkar. That is the legacy he has left behind. To be part of it is a wonderful experience,” he said. The West Indies and India will start the first of a three-match One Day Series on Thursday.

Windies swept aside innings and 126 runs MUMBAI, India, (CMC) - A work-man-like half-century A rush of blood, resulting in a charge down the pitch resulted in from Denesh Ramdin failed to inspire West Indies and India Marlon Samuels being stumped off left-arm spinner Ojha for 11 in gifted Sachin Tendulkar an innings and 126-run victory in the fifth over of the day, started the decline. the second Test yesterday to mark his retirement from the Opener Chris Gayle, a favourite in India due to his exploits international cricket. in the Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament, exercised Ramdin hit the top score of 53, as the Windies were bowled great restraint before he was caught behind four overs later from out for 187 in their second innings a top-edged cut off Ojha, who held on the third day before a Wanka return catch to dismiss fellow hede Stadium packed with fans left-hander Narsingh Deonarine of Tendulkar that came to wish two overs later, leaving West Indies him farewell. 89 for six. Shivnarine Chanderpaul Ramdin came to the crease and gathered 41, sharing a half-censpent close to an hour defying the tury stand with Ramdin, and Indian attack along with Chanderpaul Chris Gayle made 35, but no to put on 68 for the seventh wicket. other batsman reached 20, as But Chanderpaul was lbw, left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha playing back to Ashwin, and there ended with 5-49 from 18 overs was token resistance from West Infor match figures of 10-89 that dies captain Darren Sammy, Shane earned him the Man-of-theShillingford and Shannon Gabriel, Match award and off-spinner as Ramdin reached his 50 from Ravichandran Ashwin finished 60 balls with a drive off Ashwin with 4-89 from 17 overs. through ‘widish’ mid-off. To a tumultuous roar, the Rohit Sharma was named Manresult was formalised about 15 of-the-Series, after scoring back-tominutes past the scheduled lunch back hundreds in his first two Tests interval, when Shannon Gabriel for India. had his middle stump spectacuThe two sides now play three larly flattened by an in-swinging Pragyan Ojha exults after dismissing West Indies captain One-day Internationals, beginning delivery from Mohammad Shami, Darren Sammy. The left-arm spinner ended with 5-49 from on Thursday night (Caribbean the Indian bowling find of the 18 overs for match figures of 10-89. Time) at the Nehru Stadium in series. Kochi. The victory meant West Indies were swept in the hastily-arranged, two-match series, following an innings and 51-run defeat in the first Test which ended two Fridays ago in Kolkata, and brought a fitting end to the international career of the batting legend, whose exploits have inspired a nation and transformed the fortunes of the national team. D. Ramdin not out 53 WEST INDIES 1st Innings D. Sammy lbw b Ojha 1 (K. Powell 48; P. Ojha 5-40) Tendulkar, whose debut was against Pakistan 24 years ago S. Shillingford lbw b Ashwin 8 India 1st Innings 495 in Karachi, became the first man to play 200 Tests in this match. S. Gabriel b Mohammed Shami 0 (C. Pujara 113, R. Sharma 111 Extras (b4, lb5) 9 not out; S. Shillingford 5-179) He finished with an incredible 15,921 runs, the highest aggregate TOTAL (all out) 187 WEST INDIES 2nd Innings in the history of the longest format of the game, at an average of Fall of wickets: 1-15 (Powell), 2-28 C. Gayle c wkpr Dhoni b Ojha 35 (Best), 3-43 (Bravo), 4-74 (Samuels), K. Powell c Mohammed Shami 53.78 and struck an unrivalled 51 hundreds, the highest number 5-87 (Gayle), 6-89 (Deonarine), 7-157 b Ashwin 9 ever. (Chanderpaul), 8-162 (Sammy), 9-185 T. Best lbw b Ojha 9 Ramdin struck eight fours and one six from 68 balls in just (Shillingford) D.M. Bravo lbw b Ashwin 11 Bowling: Kumar 3-0-4-0; Mohammed M. Samuels st Dhoni b Ojha 11 over one and a half hours, as West Indies crumbled after they Shami 7-0-28-1; Ashwin 17-4-89-4; S. Chanderpaul lbw b Ashwin 41 resumed from their overnight total of 43 for three. Ojha 18-6-49-5; Tendulkar 2-0-4-0. N. Deonarine c and b Ojha 0

Samuels & Shillingford’s bowling actions reported to ICC WEST Indies pair Marlon Samuels and Shane Shillingford have been reported to the International Cricket Council for suspected illegal bowling actions. The off-spinners were reported after the second day of the second Test in Mumbai, which India won by an innings. They can continue bowling but must undergo independent analysis within 21 days. Both have previously been suspended from bowling in international cricket for illegal actions How ever, they w ere allowed to resume bowling after undergoing remedial work and further testing. Batting all-rounder

Spinners Marlon Samuels and Shane Shillingford Samuels, 32, was banned from bowling in February 2008 because his arm extended more than the permitted 15 degrees for off-breaks and quicker de-

liveries. Although the Jamaican continued to play as a batsman, he did not resume bowling in international cricket until September

2011, having served an unrelated two-year suspension from cricket between May 2008 and May 2010 for passing information to a bookmaker. Shillingford, 30, from Dominica, was reported after his international debut in November 2010 and banned a month later when his average elbow extension was found to be 17 degrees. He was cleared to return in June 2011. The pair were reported in Mumbai by English on-field umpires Richard Kettleborough and Nigel Llong, TV umpire Vineet Kulkarni and match referee Andy Pycroft. Their report, handed to the West Indies team manager, refer specifically to Samuels’s quicker deliveries and Shillingford’s doosras. (BBC Sport)

Bolt: Jamaican doping issues costing me money (REUTERS):Olympic sprint champion Usain Bolt said yesterday that controversy over Jamaica’s anti-doping programme is scaring off potential sponsors and costing him money. “There is a lot going on with this drug thing that I really feel they need to be clear (about) and clarify because now it is causing problems for me when it comes to making money in my sport,” he told a news conference in Monaco. Bolt, who is on a threeman shortlist for the male Athlete of the Year award which he won later yesterday and announced by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), has never failed a drug test. High-ranking World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) officials went to Jamaica last month to look at the country’s anti-doping efforts after weeks of criticism following positive tests from several high-profile athletes. WADA president John

Fahey had suggested the Caribbean nation could face

Usain Bolt has never failed a drug test. severe penalties if the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO) was declared non-compliant. Only WADA

code-compliant sports can participate in the Olympic Games. Jamaica’s minister with responsibility for sports, Natalie Neita-Headley, told a news conference at JADCO headquarters last month that WADA had given no indication it was non-compliant. However, Bolt said the fallout from the controversy was affecting him. “It is really costing me money now. I am not too happy with that,” he said. “Track and field is my job.” B o l t ’s m a n a g e r R i c k y Simms said rumours suggesting Bolt might not be at the next Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in 2016 had upset the sprinter and put off a potential sponsor. “I think what he was disturbed about was... the misinformation that was out there,” Simms told Reuters. “It’s a potential new sponsorship. They asked the question ‘Are you going to be in the Olympics?’ They don’t want to sponsor him and then he is not

in the Olympics.” Simms gave no details of the sponsor but, asked if there would be more discussions about signing up Bolt, he said: “Absolutely.” Three Jamaicans - former world 100 metres record holder Asafa Powell, twice 200 metres Olympic champion Veronica Campbell-Brown and London Games 4x100 relay silver medallist Sherone Simpson - failed drug tests and were left out of the team for the August world championships. The credibility of Jamaica’s anti-doping work was called into question by Renee Anne Shirley, a former senior official with the country’s anti-doping commission. She told Sports Illustrated in August the authority had carried out just one out-of-competition test between Feb. 2012 and the start of the London Olympics in July.

Fluent Dilshan helps Sri Lanka to ODI series draw (REUTERS) - Tillakaratne Dilshan scored his third consecutive half-century as Sri Lanka beat New Zealand by 36 runs under Duckworth/Lewis in the third and final one-day international to clinch a 1-1 series draw yesterday. The match was delayed due to rain and initially reduced by seven overs before a further interruption during the Sri Lanka innings curtailed it to 33 overs each. A fine opening partnership of 91 off 86 balls from Sri Lanka’s experienced batters Mahela Jayawardene and Dilshan helped them post a challenging total of 211-8. Dilshan completed his third half-century of the series scoring 53 off 50 balls, including eight fours, to take the man-of-the-series award. Jayawardene, promoted up the order to make way for all-rounder Thisara Perera, scored a fluent run a ball 46 with eight fours. New Zealand faced a tall order on a slow and turning pitch and

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

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) South Africa (1889); Sri Lanka (1982); Zimbabwe (1992); Bangladesh (2000) (2) 152*-Chris Gayle (WI vs SA, Johannesburg, 2004)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Put these in order beginning with the man who has scored most Test hundreds: Viv Richards; Ritchie Richardson; Clive Lloyd; Desmond Haynes; Gary Sobers (2) Which two teams contested the two thousandth ODI game?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

found themselves in deep trouble when spinners Sachitra Senanayake and Rangana Herath reduced them to 63-6 in 19 overs. Senanayake who opened the bowling took two top-order wickets for 14 runs to take the man-of-the-match award. Nathan McCullum, in partnership with James Neesham, gave New Zealand some hope with an unbroken stand of 63 off 36 balls. Yet despite that brave effort, they were still trailing under the D/L method on 126-6 after 25 overs when the umpires called off the game for bad light amid protests from the two New Zealand batsmen Neesham was unbeaten on 42 and McCullum on 35 off 19 balls. “We had high hopes of winning the series 2-0, but to walk away 1-1, we sort of feel empty to tell you the truth because I felt that we had a great opportunity to win but due to circumstances it wasn’t to be,” said New Zealand stand-in captain Kyle Mills. “You have a scheduled day’s Tillakaratne Dilshan raises play for a day game but the schedthe bat after reaching his uled close of the game is after fifty against New Zealand in sunset when it is not possible to play. ,Dambulla, “It doesn’t sound like common sense to me especially when we fought our way back and got ourselves into a position to potentially win it. “We were in a better position today than we were in the last game which we won,” he said. Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews said it was too dark to carry on and his fielders had difficulty seeing the ball. “The light was terrible to be honest, the fielders couldn’t actually pick up the ball,” said Mathews. “They (New Zealand) obviously wanted to carry on because they wanted to bat through to win but it was getting very dark and unsafe,” he added. The first match was abandoned due to rain and New Zealand won the second by four wickets under Duckworth/Lewis. The two teams will meet again in a two-match Twenty20 series in Pallekele on Nov. 19 and 21.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

F&H Printing Establishment $1M Country Wide Dominoes

Caricom and Limpy Lotto eliminate Mix Up

... Adventure makes great comeback By Calvin Roberts

THE NATIONAL Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue was buzzing with activity all day yesterday and into last night, as talk went around of Mix-Up being eliminated from the F&H Printing Establishment $1M countrywide dominoes tournament, thanks to the efforts of Caricom and Limpy Lotto. At the same time, Adventure made a valiant comeback to take their game from National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and one of the top teams who were favoured to advance in this tournament which has at stake a top prize of $500,000, trophy and medals. Mix-Up started promisingly against Caricom and Limpy Lotto that placed third in last year’s competition, which was won by TNT, but a late surge from Limpy Lotto, coupled with brilliant domino tactics from Caricom who was content on giving Limpy Lotto games after they had secured the top spot in the group. This saw the demise of one of the tournament favourites, as Caricom chalked up 87 games, Limpy Lotto 67 and Mix-Up 62, to send Mix-Up packing and set tongues wagging. Also making an early exit was Thunder, who on the opening night last Friday, won for themselves the Best Dressed Team at the march past, but found themselves in no man’s land against Adventure and NIS. Just like Limpy Lotto, the Adventure team that comprised Saif Baksh, Floyd Hurdle, Karanand Dass, Abdool Sattaur and brothers Walter and Edward Savory, started slowly by marking 7 games to Thunder’s 12 and NIS’ 16. However, they stormed back in the next five sittings to chalk up 15, 11, 15, 16 and 15 for a total of 79 games, while NIS got 12, 13, 11, 9 and 13 (total 74), and Thunder 13, 10, 14, 16 and 8 for a total of 73 games. With two teams going through to the next round, Thunder was left to observe things from the sidelines. Also in victors lane were B^ whose 86 games handed them victory over Blue Flame and Regal with 77 and 67 respectively, Scrambler 66 over Ravi 6 (57) and Universal Group 51, C7 with 73 over Delta Force 59 and Unruly Bunch 57 and Providence Sports Club 63 from Assassin 54 and Phantom 49. R&R had lots of reasons to smile as well, having chalked up 77 games to top their group matchup against Specialist 52 and Lions with 42, even as Police who scored 80 games arrested both West Side (77) and F&H on 76, with F&F being the lone prisoner, while Vidya’s 64 games was enough to steer them past Guyana Police Force All Female lineup on 63 and All Season in the cellar with 62. Wins were also recorded by TNT over Ansa McAl and Playboys, with Playboys being eliminated, Republic Bank and Double Deuce over Turning Point, B$ and Dream Team from Mayor and City Council and Gangster, and Snake from the wiles of Upscale Warriors, with the scores for these matches unavailable. Up to press time, several teams including the victorious ones mentioned above, were doing battle for a place in today’s quarterfinals, semi- finals and the finals respectively, with matches set to commence at 12:00hrs sharp. Apart from the first place prize, the runner up will pocket $250,000, trophy and medals and the third placed finisher will cart off $100,000, trophy and medals. The fourth, fifth and sixth placed finishers will pocket $60,000, $35,000 and $25,000 respectively, while those teams who have made it thus far in the tournament and came out empty handed, will pocket $10,000 each. In addition, the player who shares the first Double Love in the playoffs will receive $5,000, Best Female Player, $5,000, First Love (Finals) $3,000, Best Performing Team from far reaching areas $25,000 and Best Performing Corporation Team $15,000.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 17, 2013

GPF win ISAAC Championships Bolt, Fraser ––Moore, Alder, Jonas, Moses share female c/ship honour named IAAF World Athletes of the Year By Tamika Garnett

MONACO, (CMC) - Jamaica’s World and Olympic champions Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce were named World Athletes of the Year yesterday. Bolt, who won the award for the fifth time, and Fraser-Pryce, a first-time winner, received their trophies at last evening’s IAAF World Athletics Gala held at the Salle des Etoiles of the Sporting Club d’Eté. The awards were hosted by International Athletics Foundation (IAF) Honorary President HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco and IAF & IAAF President Lamine Diack, who presented the trophies to the Male and Female winners. Both athletes will also receive a prize of US$100,000. They become the third set of athletes from the same country to claim the World Athlete of the Year title simultaneously, following Carl Lewis and Florence Griffth-Joyner in 1988 and Britons Colin Jackson and Sally Gunnell in

WITH a whopping 96 points lead, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) was declared the unquestionable winners of the Inter-Service Annual Athletics Championships (ISAAC), after they overcame the efforts of the Guyana Defence Force on Friday night at the Police Sports Club, Eve Leary. The GPF amassed 639 points, while their arch rivals GDF, ended with 543 points. Of the other competitors the Guyana Fire Service ended with 103 points, the fourth place went to the Guyana Prison Service with 75 points, and the City Constabulary ended in the cellar with 41 points. In addition to walking away with the overall championship trophy, several of the GPF athletes also returned individual achievements. The police athletes were all so good that four of them ended up sharing the competition’s Female Champion trophy. Alita Moore, Natasha Alder, Tracey Moses and Jonella Jonas, all of the Guyana Police Force team, shared the honours of the Female Champion after earning 30 points apiece from events they won throughout the competition. GDF’s Karlisa Atkinson took the runner up position after she ended with 24 points. On the men’s side the police were just as fortunate, with sprint champion Winston George able to enjoy glory as the sole titleholder of the Male Champion title after he had 30 points, GDF’s Cleveland

Forde was runner up with 28 points. Contesting the final day of events in the three day competition, the GPF start-

Bobb to come in second. Not done yet, Police also ran away with third through Akeela Alves 12.05s. As the competition got

GPF prevailed well in the field events, where Ronald Payne set a new event record with his 40.95m throw in the men’s discus, and Natasha

Team GPF athletes celebrate with the championship trophy late Friday night. (Sonell Nelson photo) ed off with a 46 points lead and barely gave the GDF any chance to close the gap as they continued to rake in high wins throughout the day, beginning with Jonas first place take of the women’s 1500m after her 5:14.08s finish surpassed the efforts of Atkinson who came second in 5:26.70s. Jonas had already captured first places in the 800m and 3000m. Alita Moore followed with another win for the police in the women’s 100m sprint where she ran 11.08s, leaving team mate Leota

into the night on Friday Moore returned to arrest the women’s 200m (25.50s) and 400m (59.2s) under floodlights. For her part in the champion trophy Alder took wins in the discus, javelin and Senior NCO’s 100m race. On the men’s side Police had wins in the men’s 100m, 200m and 400m through George who ran 10.00s in the 100m to win in front of GDF’s Akeem Stewart (10.4s), in the 200m his 20.05s dominated against Davin Fraser (21.03s), and in the 400m he had a time of 49.10s.

Alder captured the women’s discus throw. Long jump winner, Troy Williams, went on to capture the triple jump. GDF won big in the men’s 1500m where Forde worked hard to win ahead of team mate Tyson Bentick. Forde was determined not to fall to miscalculations as he did when he finished second in the 800m on Tuesday, sprinting away on the final straight to the excitement of the spectators. Forde won in two seconds later. Police’s Nathaniel Giddings managed to finish third.

MoH/NAPS/NSC 7th Annual ‘Ride for Life’ Cycle Road race

Usain Bolt and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce of Jamaica pose after receiving their World Athlete of the Year awards during the IAAF World Athletics Gala in Monte Carlo, yesterday.Credit: Reuters/Eric Gaillard)

‘Obeah Man’ clings on to lead going into today’s final stage

1993. Usain Bolt, 27, previously the World Athlete of the Year in 2008, 2009, 2011 and 2012, successfully defended both his 100m and 200m titles at the IAAF World Championships in Moscow, winning the latter final in a 2013 world-leading time of 19.66. He concluded his World Championships by anchoring a Jamaican quartet to the gold medals in the 4x100m Relay. Bolt won 10 out of his 11 100m races (including heats), and was unbeaten in his five races over 200m. “This season will be the one to go for the (200m) World record,” announced Bolt. “I want to get ready to attack the World record,” he added, hinting that below 19 seconds was the target. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, 26, regained her 100m title at the 2013 IAAF World Championships, winning in 10.71 which remained the fastest time of the year. After having run the fastest time of the year in the 200m, 22.13 at the Jamaican championships in June, she went on to win the gold medal over the longer distance in Moscow. Like her compatriot Bolt, she also anchored the Jamaican 4x100m team to victory, a national record and the second fastest time in history. “I’m shocked and excited. It’s something that has been a dream of mine,” said a delighted Fraser-Pryce, who becomes the second Jamaican woman to win, after Merlene Ottey in 1990. “Not all the time do things happen that we want to happen, but this did,” she added.

a move that the others thought was too early and paid him no mind, but as he is known to be the `Obeah Man’ he was true to his name as he pedalled away from the bunch. When the others realised what was happening, they changed gears and went after him, but the move was too late and Jeffrey crossed the finish line unchallenged. Greaves and Hinds battled for second while there was a bunch finish for the other top spots. Today’s final stage is expected to be a scorcher, as several cyclists have intentions on weighing in on the lucrative prize monies that are up for grabs. While all but one of the cyclists contesting today’s final stage are riding for teams, Geron Williams who represents Continental Wheelers is all alone, as he does not have a team mate to help him. He however said he will do what he has to do today, “I don’t know why everyone is after me, but I’ll do my thing and hopefully come out on top,” Williams stated. Meanwhile, there were 72 registrants but only 62 started the race from Corriverton, Berbice and 57 finished the first stage. The 57 started the second stage and only 39 finished it, including the lone female Naiomi Singh. Thirty eight started stage three, Wales to Bushy Park, East Bank Essequibo and 37 finished it. Today’s final stage is expected to be completed by 11.15 hrs on Homestretch Avenue.

By Michael DaSilva RAYNAUTH `Obeah Man’ Jeffrey continues to cling on to the lead of the Ministry of Health (MoH)/National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS)/National Sports Commission (NSC) 7th Annual Five-Stage `Ride for Life’ cycle road race going into today’s final stage. Jeffrey who won the first stage (Corriverton to New Amsterdam, Berbice) on Friday and placed sixth in the second stage (Rosignol to Georgetown) on Friday also, won stage four (Supernaam to Charity and back to Suddie, Essequibo Coast) yesterday, to hold on to the lead with a time of two hours 29 minutes 55 seconds. He leads the other 35 cyclists that will start today’s fifth stage (Kara Kara, Linden to Georgetown) by almost one minute. Alonzo Greaves is currently second, 54 seconds adrift of Jeffrey while Barbados’ Darren Matthews is third, one minute 14 seconds behind Jeffrey. Godfrey Pollydore, Geron Williams and Orville Hinds are currently fourth, fifth and sixth, respectively, while Paul DeNobrega, Junior Niles, Robin Persaud and Colombian Jaime Ramerez make up the other places in the top ten. From the start of yesterday’s fourth stage, the 37 starters stuck together for most of the journey to Charity, but when they turned back heading to Suddie for the finish, Jeffrey made

Sport CHRONICLE

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Bolt, Fraser named IAAF World Athletes of the Year Please see story on page 31

Tendulkar bids farewell with tears and cheers ... Sombre Tendulkar makes emotional farewell speech By Sudipto Ganguly MUMBAI, (Reuters) - Sachin Tendulkar struggled to hold back the tears as he soaked up the unconditional veneration of an Indian crowd for the last time when the sun set on the master batsman’s glittering 24-year career yesterday. After his side completed the formalities of an easy victory over West Indies, Tendulkar collected a stump as a memento and slowly made his way through a mobile guard of honour formed by his team mates, head bowed and struggling to hide his emotions. As television coverage broadcast images of a huge banner in the stands proclaiming “Legends Never Retire”, the 40-year-old Tendulkar shook hands with opposing players and staff before climbing the stairs leading to the dressing room. Tendulkar later returned with his wife Anjali, daughter Sara and son Arjun to make a moving and humble farewell

Two hundred Tests, 15,921 runs, and 51 centuries over 24 years. Sachin Tendulkar has retired

Please see page 28

Sachin Tendulkar is carried on a lap of honour around the Wankhede Stadium for the last time on the third day.

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2013