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– who allegedly took ‘hush money’ to let cocaine pass P.9
A lot being done to address…
Prisons overcrowding, discord – Ramjattan assures P.8
‘SHADOW BOXING’: Prison athletes (boxers) displayed their skills yesterday for Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan during a march to kick-start Prisons Week activities (Adrian Narine photo)
Frustrated worker threatens Minister Broomes P 3 .
Man gets 12 years for killing lover P.2
Minister Simona Broomes
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
Man gets 12 years for killing lover By Jeune Bailey Vankeric JOSEPH Anthony Singh was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, after he confessed to inflicting bodily injuries to his lover, after he saw her with another male at Ankerville, Port Mourant on December 6, 2013. Singh was indicted with murder, but he pleaded to the
lesser count of manslaughter, which was accepted by State Counsel Natasha Baker. Justice William Ramlal, initially imposed 15 years, but made deductions for the prisoner’s guilty plea, his period of incarceration, and his remorse through a handwritten letter to the Court. In his statement, taken under caution by Sergeant
Lawrence Thomas, Singh spoke of his intimate relationship with 26-year-old Jasmattie Ramotar, who he saw with another man during a visit to her home on that fateful night. “Me see she with him, he run away when he see me. Officer, me get vex. And me tell she leh we go tek a walk before me behave bad right
at the house. Me put she on me bicycle and me carry she at the back of Ankerville. Me ask she how long she and de man bin deh. Me ask she fuh tell me the truth, and me go away. But, she lied and me get vex.” Singh confessed to grabbing a piece of wood and inflicting several lashes about the woman’s head, back and hands, resulting in her falling into a nearby drain. “I took her out of the drain. Me put she on the bicycle and carry her to the Port Mourant Hos-
pital, but the doctor said she look bad. Shortly after she dead.” In a mitigation plea, Defence Attorney Mr. Raymond said his client is an orphan without siblings. His formative years were spent at an orphanage and at age 14 was employed as a cattle ranger. Describing the act of his client as being impulsive, and out of character behaviour, Ali noted that the prisoner is a candidate of rehabilitation, who remains remorseful. Meanwhile, in his re-
sponse to the judge, Joseph Singh said his relationship with the now deceased spanned two years. Accounting for the absence of the victim’s relatives during the court hearing, Singh said her parents lived in Trinidad. “Sir, I was jealous of her.” “But, if you were so jealous, why you did not marry her,” the Judge questioned. “That is not love...If you were so much in love why you did not do the right thing. The person who opposed you is walking the street free and the person who did not fight back is dead,” Justice Ramlal remarked. Further, the court was informed that the now deceased had mothered five children, the eldest being aged 10 years at the time of her death. A post-mortem report, prepared by Dr Vivikanand Brijmohan, Registered Forensic Pathologist, said death was due to shock and haemorrhage along with multiple wounds.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
Frustrated worker threatens Minister Broomes By Leroy Smith STEPHEN Ramcharran of Success Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara, has reportedly threatened to “kill” Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Simona Broomes, when he visited her Brickdam Office yesterday. The father of two reportedly did not make the threat directly to the minister, but allegedly uttered the words which caught the attention of a security guard on duty at the time, who immediately informed the minister’s security detail. The minister was informed, and she instructed her security detail to contact the police. Speaking with the Chronicle yesterday afternoon at Minister Broomes’s office, the 28-year-old said he was frustrated at having to make several visits to the Labour Department for settlement following an industrial action, especially since no satisfaction has been coming his way. He admitted to using profanity on the premises, but said he never threatened to “kill” the minister. He said that after he was allowed into the compound to check on his matter, he had remarked, “I hope I get through today, because like somebody got to dead first before the minister look at you.” His matter has, however, been ongoing long before the coalition government took office, and from information the Chronicle has received, he had been informed by the Department of Labour (Then Labour Ministry) prior to May 11 that nothing can be done to force the company he had worked for to pay him a settlement. Ramcharran had worked as a delivery boy at a store on Regent Street, and while on the job, he had gotten into an accident that had caused him to be bed-ridden and unable to work for approximately nine months. His NIS contributions were reportedly also not up to date, and he had engaged the then Minister Dr. Nanda
The frustrated Stephen Ramcharran
Minister Broomes speaking with journalists at her office yesterday afternoon
The Department of Labour, Ministry of Social Protection
Gopaul in the PPP Administration. Ramcharran said he did not behave disorderly, but admitted that frustration caused him to say the things he had said while at the Department of Labour. He said he has never seen the minister, and does not know what the minister looks like. FED-UP The security guard on the premises, who also spoke with the media, said that after Ramcharran had entered the compound and was proceeding up the stairs, he made comments
which suggested that he wanted to kill the minister. “He said that he coming two years here now and he fed up running, and if he ain’t get through, he will kill the minister and no one will know he did,” the security guard related to the media. He said that at that point he informed the minister’s security detail, and the necessary actions were taken, which saw two policemen arriving at the location on motorcycles. Minister Simona Broomes has said the incident was very disturbing to her, and brings into focus
the need for additional security at the premises. She said she was alarmed by the man’s decision to show up at her office and allegedly make threatening remarks to ‘kill’ her when all the months and the two years which he was not receiving the assistance of the office he never saw the need to show up and make threats against any of the two ministers who had run the ministry at that time. “If he is frustrated -- I do not know him, he said he has a matter two years ago -he was not frustrated when the ministers before who
were dealing with his matter before. Why he was not frustrated to come here and make threats to say that he would kill them if they don’t deal with his matters? How is it now that he is coming here with his frustration, after two years, to make threats to kill me,” Minister Broomes questioned. She also lashed out at the police, whom she said had treated the report as if it were a joke, and she stated that had it been any other minister, she is certain that the way the police had handled the matter would have been deemed unacceptable.
“The policemen said that the Commander instructed them to leave the man and to proceed and not take the man to the Brickdam Police Station. If was another minister and (this) was in the past government, they (police) would have come here like an entourage. I don’t want an entourage, but it is a serious threat…” Contacted for a comment yesterday afternoon, ‘A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken told this publication that he was aware of an incident at the Ministry, but was not the one who had given any orders to the ranks who had visited the location. He said Deputy Commander Ian Amsterdam had instructed the ranks. He, however, defended the decision of Amsterdam after being briefed on the situation as was reported by the police ranks who had showed up at the location. Commander Hicken said that ranks, after arriving at the location, were informed of the development by a security guard, who said that the man told him, “Like somebody got to dead before the minister act?” Hicken said it was based on the account the security guard had provided that the police had decided that no offence had been committed after they were related the exact words of Ramcharran, as reported by the security guard. The Commander also reported that, before leaving the premises, one of the ranks had taken the disgruntled man upstairs and had asked the staff and other members of the public if the man had been abusive to them, since the intention was to charge him with that offence. They had all, however, responded in the negative, according to Hicken. By late yesterday afternoon, ‘A’ Division police had also sent ranks from the Criminal Investigation Department back to the Minister’s office to secure a statement from the security guard who was on duty at the time of the incident, and who had reported the matter both to the police and to the ministry staff on Thursday.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Ramjattan tells Guyanese…
Bring In Your Illegal Weapons ‘Your Christmas will not be nice if you don’t, and if you get caught’ By Michel Outridge THE gun amnesty period has been extended to October 14, and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, yesterday urged citizens to bring in their illegal weapons and ammunition, since the administration “will not let up” after the two weeks’ amnesty extension is over. Following the Guyana Prison Service parade march on Brickdam, Minister Ramjattan told reporters that if citizens want a nice holiday, they should bring in their weapons and ammunition forthwith.
The minister said the gun amnesty period has been extended because of its good results, especially seen within the last week, when 50% of rifles and guns were handed in. He said, “People are getting more aware as to the necessity of bringing in firearms and ammunition, and because of that, it was decided we should extend it, after speaking to some stakeholders.” Ramjattan added that the legal process entails making an order by the subject minister and gazetting it. He said the gazetting process occurred on Wednesday, and the order took effect from Thursday and will last until October 14.
Minister Ramjattan is hoping that, with the extension, more weapons will be handed in at police stations across the country. He said his gun amnesty message is resonating, and he suspects that, after his announcement last week, there will be a crackdown and people will decide to hand in their firearms in that final week. He opined that more people are realising the seriousness of it all, hence their positive response, and thus it makes a lot of sense to give the people another two weeks’ respite. “I suspect lots more (guns) will come in in terms of where we see more arms coming in from -- the ‘F’ Division -- that is, the interior; and the message might have gotten out late in that area, but we are seeing a couple coming in from the Coast as well,” Ramjattan said. The following Police Stations remain places where the firearms could be handed in during this amnesty period. The period of acceptance is between 09:00 hours and 16:00 hours daily: A Division – Georgetown and East Bank Demarara Police stations at: Timehri, Ruimveldt, Providence, East See Page 5
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Bring In Your... From Page 4
La Penitence, Brickdam and Alberttown. B Division - Berbice Police stations at: Fort Wellington; Blairmont; New Amsterdam; Albion; Whim; No. 51; Springlands, and Mibicuri, Black Bush Polder. C Division – East Coast Demerara Police stations at: Sparendaam, Beterverwagting, Vigilance, Cove and John, Mahaica and Mahaicony. D Division – West Demerara Police stations at: La Grange, Vreed-en-Hoop, Leonora, and Parika. E Division – Linden, Kwakwani and related areas Police stations at: Kwakwani, Mabura, Wismar, and Mackenzie F Division - Interior Police stations at: Bartica, Kurupung, Aranka, Enachu, Issano, Lethem, Annai, Aishalton, Karasabai, and Monkey Mountain HOW THE WEAPONS WERE HANDED IN ‘A’ Division (Georgetown/East Bank Demerara) 1,192 rounds of 7.62 x 39 ammunition; three .22 pistols and three magazines, along with 78 rounds of .22 ammunition; three shotguns and 23 cartridges; one 9 mm Luger pistol with nine matching rounds;
Members of the Guyana Prison Service (GPS) salute Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan, Director of Prisons Welton Trotz, Deputy Director of Prisons Carl Graham and Permanent Secretary Angela Johnson yesterday on Brickdam (Adrian Narine photos) four .32 pistols, along with one magazine and 347 matching rounds; three (3) air rifles; one .25 pistol and six rounds; one .22 revolver; one .38 revolver and 20 rounds; and one .357 revolver. ‘C’ Division (East Coast Demerara) Two air rifles; three 9mm spent shells. ‘D’ Division (West Demerara/East Bank Essequibo) One air rifle; one 9mm magazine; three 16-gauge shotgun cartridges; three 20-gauge shotgun cartridges. ‘E’ Division (Linden/Kwakwani) One air rifle; one improvised shotgun; two shotguns ‘F’ Division (Interior Locations) One hundred and fifteen shotguns; one AK-47 rifle; one .32 pistol; one cartridge; eighteen .32 rounds; ten 7.62x39 rounds
The Welfare Section of the GPS in the march yesterday to kick-off Prisons Week activities
Summary (Firearms) collected during Amnesty Shotguns - Pistols - Air rifles - Revolvers - Rifle (AK-47) - Total:
121 10 7 3 1 142
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Guyana
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
City Hall needs to be more organised Dear Editor
CITY Hall seems to have a huge void when it comes to having capable, knowledgeable and experienced administrative officers. Just a few days ago, I was at the council’s Finance Department, where there was quite a crowd of citizens wishing to benefit from the amnesty being
EDITORIAL
In defence of small states
PRESIDENT David Granger’s call on the United Nations to help protect small states from being bullied by more powerful countries is a timely reminder that, while much has changed in the world, some problems never go away. Unequal economic development brings with it unequal power; and stronger states have used unequal power as a licence to bully weaker states. The United Nations came into being with the expressed objective of making the world community a safer place for all. The presence of the UN has, however, not deterred some powerful countries from getting their way, especially when it comes to relations with less powerful countries. Defence of the weak against the strong is a contested political phenomenon, but most powerful western countries reject it as an integral role of government. They argue that to assume such a role is to diminish the freedom of the individual. Such argument assumes a level of equality in society that is virtually non-existent. Equality of opportunity and an equal playing field are not a natural outgrowth of the free market, they have to be engineered; but engineering in politics and economics flies in the face of the accepted notion of freedom. It is not surprising, therefore, that that ideological outlook is transferred to international relations. The very structure of the UN, where powerful countries have an absolute veto, is evidence of this thinking. This structural marginalisation of weak countries in the premier international organisation opens up space for bullying of small states by stronger ones. Venezuela, by virtue of time of independence and a stronger economy, is much more powerful than Guyana. It is a country that has never been shy of using its economic power as a form of hegemony. In so doing, it mimics what is accepted behaviour in international relations. Small, vulnerable countries such as Guyana are at the mercy of hegemons, global and regional. They lack the economic strength to match the hegemons militarily. Such countries have to depend on the more powerful allies for defence of their territory. Powerful countries rush to the defence of weak countries only if they deem such countries to be geopolitically strategic, or if they have economic interests there. President Granger is calling on the UN to take on that task in a serious and systematic way. The issue is whether the UN, as currently constituted, has the will to do so. It all comes down to the thinking: Do powerful countries believe in a collective duty of the strong to defend the weak?
offered on interest accrued on outstanding property taxes. Expecting to see a well organised system in place to collect these outstanding taxes as it was the council itself who declared this amnesty offer so the crowd would have been no surprise to them, I was instead confronted with a most chaotic scene with very long lines, citizens being attended to by
clerks who obviously knew very little or nothing at all about what they were doing and with management and supervisory staff being invisible. To compound this already disorderly situation, was the presence of an obese and boisterous man who kept barking orders to the staff and who continually insulted them. Quite shocking I am told that this person
was not a senior officer, but rather a mere councillor with no authority to be interacting with staff. This obviously embarrassed and even intimidated the clerks who became even more inept as they started scampering all over the place in fear. Can’t Hamilton Green control his councillors? SEAN MONIZ
Elizabeth Harper should be picked for a diplomatic post Dear Editor, I HAVE been following with considerable interest President Granger’s recent statements in New York City of his intention to look to new diplomats whom he will be appointing over the coming weeks to advance Guyana’s interests internationally, Guyanese diplomats who shall be able to propel our country’s economic diplomacy much more quickly than it is being propelled currently. This is very inspiring news, and causes one to engage in nostalgia and makes us remember when our foreign service was in capable hands of the likes of Fred Wills, Shridath
Ramphal, Rashleigh Jackson, Dr. Cedric Grant, Sir John Carter, Sir Lionel Luckhoo, ER Braithwaite, Pat Thompson, Dr Anne Jardim, RB Gajraj, Winifred Gaskin, Sir Edward (EV) Luckhoo, Lloyd Searwar, Harry Dyett, Rudy Insanally, Noel Sinclair, Dr Bobby Moore, Cedric Joseph, Rudy Collins, Dr Denis Benn, Dr Barton Scotland, James Matheson and Ronald Austin, Guyana’s diplomatic corps was a thing of admiration for the world to see for a prolonged period of time. Now with Guyana’s territorial integrity and sovereignty once again being challenged, it is critical for us to solicit the support of all small and large nations at the UN, the Com-
monwealth, the AU, the OAS, NAM and CARICOM etc. In leading and coordinating such a charge it is my hope that President Granger and Minister Greenidge remember and consider appointing one of Guyana’s most experienced, influential and skilful career diplomats Elisabeth Harper, to be the backbone in the building of this new cadre of diplomats who will be responsible for making sure that Guyana is heard. Over the years, as the Director- General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Harper’s intellect has contributed in no small measure to building a committed, and professional corps of foreign service
officers who have worked quietly but assiduously in the background; and she has consistently shown herself as willing to share her knowledge and experience in the national interest, serving several presidents, governments and foreign ministers. It would be a shame if in such a small country, with such limited human and other resources, we fail to capitalise and fully exploit the talents of our patriots and public servants such as Ms. Harper, as we seek to pursue an activist foreign policy and to maintain a diplomatic firewall. Sincerely DEBRA GIBSON
Region 2 councillor calls for fire tender boat
- for Pomeroon communities
REGION 2 Democratic Councillor Mr Brian Basil Persaud is calling on the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) to set up a fire tender boat in the Pomeroon river to provide services to residents
in the Upper and Lower Pomeroon river communities in the event of fire. Speaking at a recent statutory meeting of the Council, Persaud said the banks of the Pomeroon river are populated
with hundreds of farmers who source their electricity supplies from large generators, and the Guyana Fire Service has no fire tender boat to offer assistance to residents in event of fire. The councillor pointed out that fire service officers also need to visit the Pomeroon
river communities and conduct inspections on homes, businesses, sawmills and processing operations, to ensure that fire safety measures are in place when generators are being used. (Rajendra Prabhulall in Essequibo)
Progress in Region 2 continues under new coalition gov’t THE construction boom on the Essequibo Coast in Region 2 is continuing under the APNU/AFC coalition government, as the pri-
vate sector shows great confidence in this government’s sound economic policies. Another massive concrete structure is under
Venezuela would cease to torment Guyana only if it knows that it would pay a heavy price for so doing. And its recent action suggests that it does not think it will pay such a price. It has used its economic power to mute some of Guyana’s sister allies in CARICOM; and it is obviously banking on the belief that the powerful countries would not come to Guyana’s defence unless they consider our country to be geopolitically strategic. While Venezuela is aware that the USA is perhaps the only powerful country that may have an interest in standing in its way, it knows that the USA is tied up in other parts of the
construction at Henrietta, and reports are that, when completed, the structure is expected to house a furniture store. The private sector’s
investment on the Essequibo Coast has shown that there is progress and development under the new government. (Prabhulall)
world, and may not see defence of Guyana as important to its own interests. In such circumstances, Guyana is correct to seek support and assistance from all quarters, in particular the UN. In this regard, President Granger’s call for the UN to adhere to the principle of defence of the weak in word and deed is a call for a new International Relations’ praxis that, if adopted, could serve as a deterrent to wanton aggression by regional hegemons such as Venezuela, and, in the process, guarantee small states such as Guyana some degree of security.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Following is His Excellency President David Granger’s address to the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly(September 29, 2015)
The security of small states in the international system Mr. President, The United Nations General Assembly, on May 9th 1994, in its 49th Session approved a Resolution (A/ RES/49/31) which (inter alia):
1. Recognises that small states may be particularly vulnerable to external threats and acts of interference in their internal affairs; 2. Stresses the vital importance for all States of the unconditional respect by all States of all the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, including the principles of sovereign equality, territorial integrity, non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and the peaceful settlement of disputes and their consistent application; 3. Stresses also the importance of strengthening the regional security arrangements by increasing interaction, cooperation and consultation; 4. Appeals to the relevant regional and international organisations to provide assistance when requested by small His Excellency President David Granger States for the strengthening of their security in accordance addressing the 70th session of the United Nations with the principles of the Charter; General Assembly on September 29, 2015 5. Requests the Secretary-General to continue to pay special attention to monitoring the security situation of Mr. President, small States and to consider making use of Article 99 of THE United Nations - established seventy years ago and the Charter; 6. Calls upon the Security Council and other relevant a mere five months after the formal end to the Second World War - became the midwife of a new international organs of the United Nations to pay special attention to the protection and security of small states. order. Mr. President, Guyana is a small state. Guyana is a new The new order of world peace was depicted symbolically and powerfully in the form of a bronze statue located on the state - a product of the post-World War II promise of peace. Guyana is a child of the United Nations. Guyana will, eight grounds of this, the Headquarters of the United Nations. It embodies the vision revealed in Isaiah 2:4 of the Holy months from now, on May 26, 2016, mark the 50th anniverBible: “...And he shall judge among many people, and re- sary of its independence. For fifty years, our small country has been prevented buke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks: nation from fully exploiting our rich natural resources. Venezuela shall not lift up a sword against nation; neither shall they has threatened and deterred investors and frustrated our economic development learn war anymore.” For fifty years our territorial integrity has been violated This prophetic verse became the philosophical basis of the United Nations. The UN became the organisational by Venezuela which has occupied a part of our territory, foundation for a global order which saw the emergence of the most recent incident being on the 10th October, 2013 a plethora of newly-independent states, resulting from the when it sent a naval corvette into our maritime zone and decolonisation process after the end of the Second World expelled a peaceful, petroleum exploration vessel which War. One hundred and twenty-six states have gained their was conducting seismic surveys. For fifty years Venezuela has promulgated spurious deindependence in the years following the establishment of crees claiming our territory, the most recent being on May the United Nations. The United Nations began in 1945 with a membership 26th, 2015, our independence anniversary, when it issued of fifty one countries but today it has almost quadrupled to Decree No. 1.787 with specified coordinates purporting to one hundred and ninety three states. The majority of new annex almost our entire maritime zone. That decree constitutstates are mini-, micro- and small states. The undemocratic ed a reassertion of its claim to five of Guyana’s ten regions. Guyana rejects the threats and claims by Venezuela and warlike empires of which they had been colonies were which are in defiance of international law. Guyana resists dismantled after two World Wars. Venezuela’s acts of aggression in defiance of the Charter of The questions which small states ask of the United Na- the United Nations which prescribes the peaceful settlement of disputes and proscribes the use of armed force. tions at its 70th anniversary are: Mr. President, Guyana’s border with Venezuela was settled 116 years ago. The whole world, except the Bolivarian • How will our peoples be protected from foreign Republic of Venezuela, accepts our borders. aggression? Guyana, at the 23rd Session of this Assembly in 1968, • How will our territories be safeguarded from invasion? explained to the world how, in 1897, a Treaty of Arbitration • How will peace among nations be preserved? was signed between the United Kingdom and Venezuela. • How will the independence of the new small states That treaty provided for the establishment of an arbitral tribe sustained? bunal “to determine the boundary-line between the Colony The Charter of the United Nations enjoins this organi- of British Guiana” and Venezuela. That treaty committed the sation with the responsibility to: “...bring about by peaceful parties “to consider the result of the proceeds of the Tribunal means and in conformity with the principles of justice and of Arbitration as a full, perfect, and final settlement of all international law, adjustment or settlement of international the questions referred to the Arbitrators.” The tribunal issued its award on the 3rd of October, disputes’’. This responsibility is essential to the existence and sur- 1899, giving Venezuela 13,000 square kilometers of our vival of small states that are threatened by powerful states. territory, an area bigger than Jamaica or Lebanon. Venezuela Small states risk being subjugated unless the international was bound under international law to respect that award, community can demonstrate the capability and commitment which it did for the subsequent six decades. Venezuela, however, at the onset of Guyana’s independence to provide an effective deterrent against domination by resorted to various stratagems to deprive Guyana of its territory. larger, stronger states.
There has been a series of acts of aggression by Presidents of Venezuela against my country - from the time of President Raul Leoni Otero’s Decree No. 1.152 of 15th June 1968 to the time of President Nicolas Maduro’s decree of May 26th, 2015. Venezuela — more than four times the size of Guyana with armed forces that are more than forty times the size of Guyana’s Defence Force — mindful of its superior wealth and military strength, and unmindful of its obligation as a member state of the United Nations, of the Union of South American Nations and of the Organization of American States, has pursued a path of intimidation and aggression. Venezuela is unsettling a settled border. It is destabilising a stable region of the globe by the use of armed force against a peaceful, small state. Venezuela has retarded Guyana’s development by threats that are intended to force a small state to yield its birthright. Venezuela’s expansionist ambitions cannot be allowed to unsettle the principle of inviolability of borders, undermine the tenets of international law and unravel borders which have been undisturbed for decades. Mr. President, Guyana recommits to preserving the Caribbean as a zone of peace. • Guyana renews its pledge before this august General Assembly that it will pursue the path of peace for all time. • Guyana reaffirms its commitment to the peaceful settlement of international disputes. Guyana reposes total confidence in international law. • Guyana seeks a resolution of this controversy that is consistent with the Charter of the United Nations. Mr. President, the Geneva Agreement of 1966 signed between the governments of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Venezuela and British Guiana on February 17, 1966 provides for the Secretary General to take action to bring a resolution to the contention occasioned by the claim made by the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela that the Arbitral Award of 1899 is null and void. Mr. President, Guyana has the fullest confidence in the judgment and capacity of the United Nations, through the Office of the Secretary General to identify solutions that will validate the ‘just, perfect and final’ nature of the award. We thank the United Nations and the Secretary General for appointing various Good Officers to help to resolve this controversy over the past twenty-five years. We feel that this process has now been exhausted. Guyana does not wish that this obnoxious territorial claim should obscure the prospects of peace and obstruct the possibility of growth for the next fifty years. We need a permanent solution in order to avoid the fate of perpetual peril and penury. Guyana seeks a juridical settlement to this controversy. Guyana reposes its faith and places its fate in the international system of peace that was promised by the Charter of the United Nations seventy years ago. We want to bring an end to Venezuelan aggression. We want to develop our country, all of our country, in accordance with international law. Guyana calls upon the United Nations to give real meaning to Resolution A/RES/49/31 of May 9th 1994 by establishing a collective security system not merely to “monitor’ but, more so, ‘maintain’ the security of small states. The United Nations remains our best hope. The United Nations is our best prospect of peace. The United Nations is our best assurance of security for a small state. The United Nations is our strength, support and succour in our time of danger. We pledge Guyana’s adherence to the Charter of the United Nations. Mr. President, Guyana seeks nothing more than the solidarity of this international community, the assurance of the Charter and the safety of international law. Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen for your attention.
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Norton highlights perils in mining sector – at Washington confab WORKERS’ safety in the bauxite industry in Guyana was put under spotlight when Health Minister Dr George Norton addressed the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) 54th Directive Council in Washington on Wednesday. Addressing health ministers and delegates from Canada, the US, Latin America and the Caribbean, Dr Norton told the Council that air pollution in the industry exposes workers to chronic respiratory illness. “There is no doubt a need for increased training and education to sensitise all who work in the mining industry of the occupational risks and hazards. In the gold mining sector, accidental deaths among miners are frequently reported, ranging from drowning after accidents by boats piloted by unlicensed captains to being buried under loose earth as walls of excavated pits collapsed,” he said, speaking on the issue Plan of Action on Workers’ Health. Some 25 persons here have died in 16 accidents from June 2014 to June 2015, with 18 of them dying as a direct result of pits collapsing. The “work and collect money” culture prevalent at small and medium-sized gold and diamond-mining operations leads to fatal accidents, the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) has said. Government has since moved to halt the dangerous practices. “Although our Geology and Mines Commission has developed guidelines which mining operators should follow, the Ministry of Social Protection of our new government will make every effort to ensure that safety regulations are followed and protective gear made available to workers,” Minister Norton said. In Guyana, agriculture, sugar and rice production industries are major sources of employment for many persons along the northern coast where the majority of the
Minister of Public Health, Dr George Norton
period 2015-2025, which aims to address the current situation resulting from the challenges and changes that the world of work imposes. The new Plan of Action is consistent with the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Plan of Action on Workers’ Health 2008-2017. It is based on the PAHO conceptual framework on health and human rights (Resolution CD50.R8 [2010]), regional guidance on the social determinants of health, the Plan of Action on Health in All Policies (Resolution CD53.R2 [2014]), the new United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the PAHO Strategic Plan 20142019 (Resolution CD53.R3 [2014]), and the Strategy for Universal Access to Health and Universal Health Coverage (Resolution CD53.R14 [2014). The plan contains strategic lines of action, and specific objectives and indicators aimed at protecting workers’ lives and promoting their health and well-being, with emphasis on workers in inequitable conditions of employment and those exposed to hazardous working conditions. It seeks to reduce occupational risks and non-communicable diseases, targeting actions in certain critical economic sectors, as well as to address access to health and universal health coverage and the social determinants related to workers’ health.
Region 2 RDC seat for opposition five seats. However, party to be filled soon won only 11 of the 12 seats REGION 2 Chairman, Devanand Ramdatt, has reported that a vacant seat on the Regional Democratic Council [RDC] will shortly be filled. Speaking at the most recent RDC meeting, the Chairman said the Guyana Elections Commission
[GECOM] was written to in regard to the vacant seat on the council being filled. The PPP/C won 12 seats on the Region Two Democratic Council at the National and Regional Elections of May 11 last, while the governing APNU/ AFC coalition
A lot being done to address…
Prisons overcrowding, discord – Ramjattan assures By Michel Outridge
population reside. Bauxite mining is also a major source of employment in the coastal region, while gold mining and timber exploitation are sources of employment for those in the tropical rainforest areas in the south and western regions of Guyana. INFORMAL SECTOR “Like a number of other member states in the Region, we also have a high proportion of people employed in the informal sector; those who are exposed to hazardous working conditions and those who suffer from occupational related injuries and disease. “The incidence of occupational injuries, especially among sugar cane harvesters and others in the field of agriculture is high. We have noted that in general, suicide rates are high in Guyana but apparently higher among those working in the agricultural sector, and may be associated with greater accessibility to herbicides,” Minister Norton told the Council. More than 60 per cent of persons who commit suicide in Guyana do so by consuming a poisonous substance. The Council also heard that malaria is an epidemic here and is notably prevalent among workers in the mining and timber industries in virgin rainforest areas, where the majority of the population is of indigenous heritage. “In our view, malaria is a work-related illness in those areas. Madame Chair, ensuring workers’ safety is a high priority for our government and therefore we support the proposed resolution on the Plan of Action on Workers’ Health, CD54/10 as we are convinced that the proposed strategic lines of action are all relevant and can be used in our efforts to improve workers’ health in Guyana,” Dr Norton told the esteemed gathering at the PAHO headquarters in Washington. Document CD5410 presents the new Plan of Action on Workers’ Health for the
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
allotted to the PPP/C were occupied at the first meeting of the RDC after those elections. The candidate who was to occupy the currently vacant seat, Mr Khemraj Khandai, never showed up at RDC meetings. (Rajendra Prabhulall)
A LOT is being done to address the issue of overcrowding and discord within prisons, Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan told reporters yesterday. He said that at the Camp Street Prison they are trying to open up the Brick Prison section where a brand new wing was added to accommodate 160 inmates, noting that recently a trestle fell and damaged a section of the jail. The minister stated that they have to remove prisoners from that part since it was weakened and they will be re-located to the new Brick Prison section which needs renovation. The doors are being strengthened and in two weeks time inmates would be placed in that holding section. HUGE PROBLEM He disclosed that overcrowding is a huge problem since there is need for a new prison, but the capital works for that would be huge. At this time government is not in a position to afford that so they will have to make do with what they have, he said. Ramjattan said, in the meantime, transfer from the damaged section to the Brick Prison will require some rehabilitation works and he will have to get Cabinet’s approval. He explained that the Cabinet papers are being presented for approval and thereafter the section will be re-constructed which was very dilapidated along with the trestle and so on. Ramjattan said the money may sum up to $150M and in view of the needs
of a better structure at the Camp Street Prison they will definitely need Cabinet’s approval while considering the building of a new prison elsewhere. GANG FIGHTS In addition to the rehabilitation works, there are reports of inter-gang fights within the prison in which prisoners were injured and hospitalised. Ramjattan said it requires a stronger wall to divide Capital A from Capital B blocks of the prison. He told the media that the inmates from these two blocks are at ‘loggerheads’ on most occasions for some most extraneous reasons. “I have heard some people are throwing in items over the fence during the course of the night and some Capital A prisoners feel that it was their items.” Ramjattan said they have to put more patrols around the prison to prevent outsiders from throwing prohibited items over the walls and within they will construct a stronger wall to divide the two blocks. He stated that a solid cast concrete wall will be constructed to separate the Capital A from the Capital B blocks of the Camp Street Prison and they are in the process of getting monies to prevent further gang fighting in that section of the jail. The minister added that during a visit last week at the Camp Street Prison, he spoke to several prisoners in the Capital A Block where he saw the conditions they were residing in and many told him they are hard-pressed having to wait so long for trials in the courts. Ramjattan stated that one prisoner told him he has been
awaiting trial for seven years and many said they have been there for more than five years. He told reporters that he pleaded with the inmates and after a little exchange they handed in about 50 pieces of prohibited items. It was the first time they actually saw a government minister visiting the prison. Within recent times there have been tension in the Camp Street Prison where prisoners ignited mattresses among other things to secure the attention of the media over their concerns about ill-treatment being meted out to them. Ramjattan said prisoners can become very explosive at any given time in prison and they cannot guarantee anything. He noted that the prison was not made to accommodate so many inmates. He said, “With that in mind I can say all the nice things to you all today and tomorrow we can have a very explosive situation in jail and I could be embarrassed by it but having spoken to them [prisoners] they promised to keep their part of the deal by waiting for early trials and so on.” The minister said that vocational training is part of the prison system in which prisoners are equipped with a life skill before they are re-integrated into society upon their release. He noted that in the prisons they have various training programmes in carpentry, masonry, electrical installation, numeracy and literacy in addition to a drug counselling programme where they try to get many prisoners to be enrolled, especially inmates who would have applied for parole.
Teenager gets 12 months jail for stealing phone E I G H T E E N - y e a r- o l d Glenford Hart was yesterday jailed for 12 months by city magistrate Judy Latchman after he was found guilty on a breakand-enter-and-larceny charge which detailed that, between Thursday July 9, and Friday July 10, at North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, he broke and entered the dwelling house of Charlotte Elliot and stole
one Samsung tablet valued at $100,000. The unrepresented mason pleaded not guilty to the charge on his first court appearance, but had been denied pretrial liberty. The matter was prosecuted by Police Inspector Vishnu Hunt, and the teenager, who had no prior convictions, was informed by the magistrate in her ruling that the court disbelieved his
evidence when he said that he did not steal anything. The court, however, acted on the evidence of Charlotte Elliot, which was found to be safe and reliable. After sentencing the convict, Magistrate Latchman warned him not to commit this type of offence again, quoting one of the commandments, “Thou shall not steal”. (Geeta Rampersaud)
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Corruption charges for rogue cops
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- who allegedly took ‘hush money’ to let cocaine pass By Leroy Smith
FOUR police ranks including an Assistant Superintendent, Corporal and two constables will appear in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court today, charged with Corruption Transaction by Agent as recommended by the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP). This was confirmed by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum who told the Chronicle that the police received the file yesterday afternoon with the advice from the DPP chambers.
the DPP’s office since Monday of this week, a few days after the police launched an investigation into the matter that they had collected a total of $6 million cash to allow a minibus with cocaine to pass them without intercepting it or detaining the occupants of the vehicle. On the day in question, September 10, 2015 the ranks received information that the vehicle which frequently transports cocaine across the Corentyne corridor was on its way to Springlands with a shipment. The ranks quickly placed themselves into
operation mode and when the vehicle was spotted they intercepted it following which they carried out a search. The ranks then found the illegal substance and demanded from the occupants of the minibus that they will accept the six million to give them a free pass. One of the occupants then reportedly left the Corentyne Coast and travelled to the city where he collected the cash from someone in Republic Park and returned to Berbice and made the payment. The bus with the cocaine was then allowed
to pass and the ranks reportedly divided the money. The story however, broke out after a rank who was promised a certain amount of cash was not given the amount and the matter was reported to the Divisional Commander. During the course of the investigation, two of the ranks cooperated with the police throughout and more than one million of the money was returned. The cocaine was however not returned as the occupants who also cooperated with the police stated
that they handed the illegal substance over to two nationals from Suriname. The ASP, whose name was given as Brown, was at the time functioning as the sub divisional officer for the Corentyne Coast. It has long been rumoured that some ranks who work along the Corentyne corridor especially in the Springlands area are in the habit of corrupt practices where they collect cash and other handouts to turn a blind eye to certain illegal activities. Minister of Public Se-
curity, Khemraj Ramjattan who has been following the matter closely has since stated that he was happy that junior ranks are speaking out about wrongdoing and that will encourage others to do the same and work with some sense of pride and professionalism. He also stated that “who has to go to jail will have to go to jail” since the government is not into entertaining corrupt ranks within the force and those persons who are bent on such practices will have to be weeded out.
PM’s convoy in minor accident Files back …wings out on private US visit with police The file was sent to
PSM multi-million-dollar fraud…
THE Crime Chief has confirmed that the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) has returned to his office the files pertaining to the investigations into the multi-million-dollar fraud at the Ministry of Public Service, which has been under probe for some time now. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum said the files were returned to the police so that some other minor details can be included. He described the request of the DPP Chambers as looking to have the police clear up some points. Numbering approximately 25, the files were
sent to the DPP’s Chambers for advice after the police had conducted some intense investigation into how more than 600 million dollars which had been issued to the minister were never spent and is now unaccounted for. The monies had been issued to the Public Service Ministry after it had been indicated to then Office of the President that the cash was needed to conduct a review of the services offered by the Public Service Ministry. That review was never done, although the cash had been issued over a period of time, all at the request of the then Min-
ister, Dr. Jenifer Westford. The then Personnel Manager of the Public Service Ministry has also been fingered in the fraud. Both Westford and the PSM Personnel Manager have an ongoing matter in the magistrate’s court where it was reported that they had illegally transferred several State vehicles to their personal use and to persons closely associated with them. That matter is still engaging the attention of the courts, even as the former minister’s lawyers have moved to the courts to have a stay of execution in that matter.
THE security convoy of Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo on Wednesday suffered a minor accident enroute to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, his office has confirmed. No one was injured and the extent of any damage to the PM’s vehicle could not be ascertained. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister’s Office also confirmed that Nagamootoo and Mrs Sita Nagamootoo have travelled abroad for a private visit to the United States. In a release the OPM said contrary to speculative media reports the Prime Minister will not travel either to the Middle East or Texas. Prior to his return to office on Tuesday October 13th, Prime Minister Nagamootoo will conduct official business when he attends and delivers
Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo
an address at a Business Forum in Toronto, Canada on October 10th. Ministers Dominic Gaskin and David Patterson will also attend the Business Forum. “Prime Minister Nagamootoo looks for-
ward to engaging with the National Tree Planting programme upon his return and encourages all Guyanese to plant a tree for a greener and cleaner Guyana,” the release stated.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
slackers’ among Female driver ‘No drainage workers hospitalised – following two-vehicle accident By Michel Outridge MRS Priya Narine’s red KIA vehicle received the brunt of the impact of a collision with a police pickup yesterday afternoon at the intersection of Mandela Avenue and Norton Street in Georgetown, and it ended up in a small drain. After substantial efforts had been expended, the vehicle was eventually removed from the drain and placed in a truck to be transported to the East La Penitence Police Station. At the accident scene
yesterday, her husband, Ramroop Narine, told this newspaper that his wife was driving south along Mandela Avenue, and was in the process of turning west into Norton Street when the police pickup came from behind on her right hand side and slammed her vehicle into the drain. He said the injuries Mrs. Narine had sustained to her head rendered her unconscious. She was, however, taken to hospital, where her condition is being monitored. Eyewitnesses concurred that police vehicle, PTT 5967, was speeding when it
hit the other vehicle headon and caused it to careen into the roadside drain. They added that the impact of the collision caused the female driver to lose consciousness, and she was transported to the hospital; after a few minutes, the police vehicle reportedly drove away from the scene and was observed parked at the East La Penitence Police Station. The police pickup did not sustain extensive damage, but the KIA vehicle was smashed on the right side, and its window was shattered. The police have refused to comment on the accident.
Town Clerk Royston King addresses drainage employees during the meeting
– Town Clerk warns
The KIA vehicle is lifted from the drain into a truck to be transported to the police station, yesterday afternoon, following the two-vehicle collision
TOWN Clerk Royston King has sounded a warning to drainage workers that “slackers will not be allowed to ride the system.” The town clerk was addressing staffers at an early breakfast meeting on Wednesday at Sleepin Hotel on Brickdam, where he focused on employees who are assigned to desilt and clean street drains, alleyway drains and canals. He said the Council is working assiduously to restore the integrity of the drainage system in George-
town, which requires hard work and the cooperation of employees and citizens as well. The town clerk noted that drainage workers are important in the restoration process and they have a responsibility to be punctual, dedicated and committed to this cause. Previously, he observed, an attitude of irresponsibility had developed among many employees of the City Council because they felt neglected and did not have adequate tools and protective clothing. However, employees are now being equipped with the requisite tools to get the work done and so the callous attitude towards work
must be reversed. The town clerk said that since each worker in the drainage section has a critical role to play in the restoration of the drainage system, it is time for employees to move away from mediocrity and embrace a spirit of excellence. He also reiterated that the Council has a responsibility to provide an excellent service to the valued ratepayers. And calling for a change in the work attitude, King warned that “persons who are non-compliant would not be allowed in the system. The system has no room for lazy people; therefore, employees must come to work with an attitude to work.”
Guyana stands to reap tremendous benefits from eco-tourism – Minister Hughes
WITH Guyana now set firmly on the path towards development, its tourism sector stands to reap tremendous benefits, Tourism Minister Catherine Hughes has said. Though the country is still in its infancy when compared to its neighbours in the Caribbean, the Tourism Minister is comforted by the fact that the country’s product is uniquely different, and has the potential to attract a sea of tourists in search of a great vacation experience. “While Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Grenada, St. Vincent, The Bahamas and islands in the Eastern Caribbean offer white sandy beaches, sun and Caribbean-flavoured hotels, Guyana appeals to adventurers, to lovers of nature, to birding and wildlife aficionados,” Minister Hughes said in a press statement ahead of World Tourism Day which was observed on Sunday, September 27. She pointed out that un-
are awestruck by the rolling savannahs and the tiered and thundering waterfalls that dot the hinterland. Bird watchers who indulge for the sheer pleasure of it and those who search the world to find new species have found Guyana to be a haven.”
Tourism Minister Catherine Hughes
like its neighbours, Guyana’s territory is lush with thousands of varieties of colourful vegetation, some of the largest living untamed creatures and hundreds of species of winged beings that themselves add a different kaleidoscope of colour to the forests, some of which are still pristine and carefully preserved. “This is our product eco-tourism - that attracts adventure seekers to the dense jungles. They revel in the numerous meandering rivers, tributaries and creeks and
VISIONARY ENTREPRENEURS In capitalising on Guyana’s natural beauty, visionary entrepreneurs are successfully operating innovative nature resorts that provide a constantly changing repertoire of nature tours. These include cycling along paths through the jungle, rafting or canoeing down the brown rivers – some as smooth as finished glass, others fast-flowing on the approaches to waterfalls, and getting a rare bird’s eye view of the forest canopy from the walkway in the Iwokrama Conservation reserve. Hughes gave a reminder that the tourism industry has dual responsibility to contribute to the socio-economic development and simultaneous-
ly assist as the renewal driver of the country’s aesthetics. On the socio-economic front, it was explained that this industry presents numerous opportunities for citizens to create income-generating tourism-related businesses with the added incentive of creating jobs. CARE ENVIRONMENT “Our success with community tourism initiatives in places like Surama and Rockstone is testimony to the national potential for economic growth. On the environmental front, we recognise that a clean, manicured environment in town and hinterland is equally important to the tourist’s experiences which s/he subsequently communicates to the world. As such, every citizen bears some responsibility for the care of their environment.” RE-BRANDING In November 2014, the Tourism Ministry through the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) launched a new
marketing strategy with the aim of boosting the country’s global visibility under the brand ‘Guyana – South America Undiscovered’. Re-branding and marketing Guyana throughout the broad international tourist market can only bring us great benefits, she emphasised. This year, World Tourism Day was observed under the international theme: ‘One Billion Tourists – One Billion Opportunities’. This theme, developed by the World Tourism Organisation (WTO), was premised on the undeniable fact that billions of people cross borders in search of new experiences and new exotic sights, for rest and relaxation, to renew friendships, to reconnect with loved ones, and often in search of ingredients to boost their business ventures. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC “A significant number of nature lovers have already discovered Guyana, a gem under the equatorial sun, and
they are spreading the word across the globe from South Africa to Australia, across the Middle East to Scandanavia and Europe, from Alaska to Texas,” Hughes added, noting too that the country’s brand of tourism has already attracted television documentary producers of the ilk of National Geographic (USA). “Over the past year, ‘Destination Guyana’ was featured in the television hit series “Naked and Afraid” in the BBC television film “Britain’s Secret Slave Owners”, and in the Blue Paw documentary “The Source of the Essequibo”. The world’s leading news producer, CNN, featured Guyana in its production of “Big Earth - 101 Amazing Adventures of the World”. In addition, Guyana was featured in National Geographic’s “Best Trips 2014” and named in the American TV Special “Animal Planet”, the Tourism Minister said as she reflected on the major achievements made within the sector.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
Gov’t testing pilot phase of E-Governance project By Rabindra Rooplall GOVERNMENT commenced testing its pilot phase of the E-Governance project yesterday with bandwidth now being provided from the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) network, according to advisor on E-Governance Floyd Levi. Levi said GT&T has given the government a favourable price for the purchase of bulk bandwidth as plans are afoot to roll out services throughout all government agencies. Acknowledging that there are ways to monitor its use and protect the service being offered, Levi said the E-Governance Unit will be putting measures in place to protect its network. “We have an agreement with GT&T for the provision of internet services and that started today (1st October, 2015). What we intend to do is conduct various tests on the network with the internet provided by GT&T. When these tests are complete, it’s our intention to distribute internet services and other network services to all ministries and government agents,” Levi stated. He said further that there are 4G LTE sites that were built and not utilised. “We are in the process operationalising that network and building it up to the stage of ‘full operational’ so we will also distribute the E -Governance network with the internet we are receiving from GT&T.” CONNECTED SOCIETY Long Term Evolution, commonly marketed as 4G LTE, is a standard for wireless communication of high-speed data for mobile phones and data terminals. Levi said the eventual vision is to provide a monitored, open network for all who visit government buildings and agencies, which will promote a connected society. Under the previous administration, the E-Governance project headed by Alexei Ramotar, son of former President Donald Ramotar, suffered many failures. GT&T in 2010 spent US$30M to bring the Suriname/Guyana Submarine Cable System. The cable has tremendous potential for bandwidth delivery in Guyana in keeping with the APNU+AFC government’s national ICT objectives.
GT&T had also submitted a request to the previous administration for spectrum allocation to facilitate a phased 3G/4G rollout. This submission included field-test data, economic analysis and a macro project plan, inclusive of geographic phases for the planned rollout. The 3G/4G would allow for faster internet speeds to smartphones and tablets since there are incessant complaints now that the current service to smartphones offered by both GT&T and Digicel, leaves much to be desired. ECONOMIC GAINS The economic possibility of the ICT sector in an enabling environment, in terms of new businesses and innovation, are endless. This is especially critical when one takes into account the challenges being faced by the other productive sectors. Meanwhile, last year the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) focused on unveiling the Single Information Communication Technology ICT Space as the digital layer of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The Community’s efforts
to boost development through the use of ICT would be undertaken in tandem with the reform process for the years 2014-2019. The roadmap includes elements such as spectrum management, bringing technology to the people and transforming them to digital citizens, diaspora re-engagement, cyber security and public-private partnerships. Developing a single CARICOM ICT space to enhance the environment for investment and production was identified as one of the key areas that the Community should undertake in the shortterm to become competitive. As envisioned by its framers, the single ICT space will encompass the management of regional information, human resources, legislation and infrastructure in the sector to elicit maximum benefit for the Region’s populace. The single ICT space and the Region’s digital agenda 2025 will be constructed on the foundation of the Regional Digital Development Strategy (RDDS) which was approved in 2013 and will also have inputs from the Commission on the Economy and the Post2015 Agenda.
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U.S. Ambassador presents credentials today
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
Hearing of elections petition motion
– to President Granger
THE new Ambassador of the United States of America to Guyana H.E. Perry L. Holloway, will present his credentials to H.E. President David Granger, today. Ambassador Holloway arrived in Guyana on Thursday last, after having been confirmed by the U.S. Senate in August. According to the Georgetown-based U.S. Embassy, he was sworn in as Ambassador to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana on September 18, 2015.Ambassador Holloway, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counsellor, most recently served as Political-Military Counsellor at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan (2013 – July 2014). “Known as a talented leader, consensus-builder and manager with broad, high-level policy experience in Latin America and in managing the inter-agency process, Ambassador Holloway will bring essential skills to the task of furthering bilateral relations with the Government of Guyana, an important U.S. partner in Latin America and within the Organization of American States,” the embassy stated. Previously, Ambassador Holloway served in the Department of State as Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy Bogota, Colombia (2010 – 2013); Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy Asuncion, Paraguay (2009 – 2010); Director, Narcotics Affairs Section, U.S. Embas-
Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield
Ganga Persaud
– to continue in Chambers on Oct. 6 By George Barclay
U.S. Ambassador Perry Holloway arrived in Guyana with wife Rosaura, just over a week ago
sy Bogota, Colombia (2007 – 2009); Deputy Director, Narcotics Affairs Section, U.S. Embassy Bogota, Colombia (2005 – 2007); Andean Counterdrug Initiative Coordinator, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Washington, D.C. (2004 – 2005); Director, Narcotics Affairs Section, U.S. Embassy Guatemala City, Guatemala (2000 – 2003; General Services Officer, U.S. Embassy Quito, Ecuador (1997 – 2000); Administrative Officer, U.S. Consulate Tijuana, Mexico (1994 – 1997); General Services Officer, U.S. Embassy San Salvador, El Salvador (1992 – 1994); Ambassador’s Staff Assistant, U.S. Embassy Bogota, Colombia (1990 – 1991) and Consular Officer, U.S. Embassy Bogota, Co-
lombia (1989 – 1990). Before joining the Foreign Service, he was a manager of Radio Shack stores in Georgia and South Carolina Ambassador Holloway earned a B.A. in foreign languages from Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina, a M.A. in International Business Sciences from the University of South Carolina, and a M.A. in National Resources Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in Washington, D.C. He is the recipient of three Senior Foreign Service Performance Awards, eight Superior Honour Awards and two Meritorious Awards from the Department of State. He speaks fluent Spanish. Ambassador Holloway, and his wife Rosaura, have two children.
LAST month when the parties involved were discussing points ‘in limine’ (Latin for ‘threshold’, or a motion made at the start of a trial) taken in the Elections Petition brought by Petitioner Ganga Persaud, lawyer Roysdale Forde, representing Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, was speaking on his call to strike out the election, when the hearing was adjourned to October 6. On the resumption, Mr. Forde will continue addressing Chief Justice (ag.) Mr. Ian Chang, S.C. In his affidavit, petitioner Ganga Persaud said, “I request this Honourable Court that it conducts a scrutiny of the votes cast as well as the statements of poll in order to arrive at a just determination.” Among other things, the Chief Elections Officer, Mr. Keith Lowenfield, had said, “That I am advised by Mr. Roysdale A. Forde, attorney-at-law, and verily believe that Paragraphs 8 16
(xvi) to 29 (xxviv) of the Election Petition also discloses no reasonable cause of action and are frivolous and vexatious and also ought to be struck out.” It was lawyer Forde who had issued a summons inviting all parties concerned to attend the Chief Justice in Chambers on the hearing of an application on the part of the First-Named Respondent, The Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield, for the following Orders:That Paragraphs 8 (i), (ii), (iii), (iv), (v), (vi), (vii), (viii),(ix), (x), (xi), (xii), (xiv), (xv), (xvi), (xvii), (xviii), (xix), (xx), (xxi),(xxii), (xxiii), (xxiv), (xxv), (xxvi), (xvii), (xxviii) and (xxix) of the Election Petition dated the 23rd day of June 2015, be struck out on grounds that they: (i) Disclose no reasonable Cause of Action, and are (ii) Frivolous and vexatious; That the Election Petition dated 24th day of June, 2015, be struck out; That Paragraphs 8 (xvi), (xxi), (xxii), (xxiii), (xxiv),
Chief Justice (ag.) Mr. Ian Chang
(xxv) and (xxvi) of the Election Petition dated the 23rd day of June , 2015, be struck out as being in breach of Section 140 (2) of the Representation of the People’s Act, Cap. 1:03; Such further or other Order as the Court may deem just: The Summons which was issued by Mr. Roysdale Forde and was filed in the Supreme Court Registry will continue to be heard on the resumption in Chambers. Mr. Ganga Persaud said in his affidavit in support of the summons “I am the Petitioner in the Election Petition filed herein on the 24th Day of June 2015. of Elections) Act Cap 1.04. “That the nature of the Election Petition filed herein requires the Court to conduct a scrutiny of the election papers and documents for which an Order is being requested by your humble petitioner for the Chief Elections Officer to produce same for inspection and examination”. Further hearing of the matter in Chambers will take place on October 6, 2015.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
54th PAHO Directing Council told…
Effective leadership key in combating Region’s health challenges and model these reforms.”
PAHO Director, Dr Carissa Etienne addressing the 54th Directive Council on Monday (PAHO/WHO photo)
THE countries of the Americas have been world leaders in collective action to advance public health goals, top health leaders said on Monday at the opening session of the 54th Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), Regional Office for the Americas of the World Health Organisation (WHO). But overcoming persisting and new health challenges will require stronger health systems, universal access to healthcare and effective coordination and leadership of regional public health action, they said. “We have collectively achieved much - ranging in the early years from intense capacity-building of national human resources for health to the eradication of smallpox, the elimination of polio and more recently rubella and congenital rubella syndrome, to the application of low-cost technologies for the prevention and control of cervical cancer in underserved populations, to a
2014 commitment to universal access to health and universal health coverage,” said PAHO Director Carissa Etienne. “Clearly, the Americas Region is a trailblazer.” “In our Region, 27% of the population has no regular access to health services, and 46% has no comprehensive health insurance,” said Luis Almagro, Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States (OAS). “This represents enormous economic, social and human costs, not only for those who lack health services, but for society as a whole. That’s why it is essential to dialogue and reach agreements about our Region’s main health challenges.” The 54th Directing Council brings together ministers of health and other high-level delegates from countries throughout the Americas for five days of discussions and decisions on regional public health. This year the meeting will examine priority health issues ranging from violence
against women and dementia in the elderly, to anti-microbial resistance, workers’ health, tuberculosis and viral hepatitis. President Juan Orlando Hernández of Honduras, a special guest at the Council’s opening session, described his country’s efforts to improve health by addressing people’s living conditions. His government has established a programme called Vida Mejor (“Better Life”) that promotes the use of “ecostoves” that reduce low-income families’ exposure to indoor air pollution, while also reducing deforestation. The programme also installs cement floors to protect against parasitic infections and latrines to provide basic sanitation, and includes family- planning and nutrition education. “With small changes,” said Hernández, “you can achieve major improvements.” EMERGING CHALLENGES U.S. Secretary of Health
and Human Services, Sylvia Mathews Burwell, said recent global health challenges, especially West Africa’s Ebola epidemic, have taught the lesson that strong health systems are essential to prevent or mitigate the impact of outbreaks and health emergencies. “Another lesson we’ve learned is that the world needs a nimble, effective World Health Organisation. The United States will continue to push for changes that make WHO better equipped to respond to the health needs of our world,” said Burwell, adding, “PAHO and the Americas Region are well-positioned to champion
EMERGING HEALTH THREATS WHO Assistant Director-General Hans Troedsson warned that emerging health threats “are much bigger and more complex than the problems that dominated the health agenda 15 years ago.” He noted that two such challenges - growing anti-microbial resistance and tuberculosis - are on this week’s Directing Council agenda. Others include the health impacts of climate change and the rise in non-communicable diseases such as cancer, heart disease, stroke and diabetes, which are now leading killers throughout the world. “As in the past, we can look to this Region for leadership in overcoming these and many other difficult challenges,” Troedsson said. “In doing so, member states can draw on two of the Region’s unique assets: a strong sense of solidarity throughout the Americas and a great spirit of optimism.” Héctor Salazar Sánchez, chief of the Social Protection and Health Division of the
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), noted that health inequalities continue to be a major problem in the Americas. An important challenge for the Region’s countries, he said, is to build political will for expanding access to healthcare and reducing out-of-pocket spending on health. During the morning session, the 54th Directing Council elected Minister of Health Elvia Violeta Menjívar of El Salvador as its President. The PAHO Directing Council brings ministers of health and other high-level delegates from member countries to Washington, DC, to discuss and analyse health policy and to set priorities for PAHO technical cooperation programmes and regional public health collaboration. PA H O , f o u n d e d i n 1902, is the oldest international public health organisation in the world. It works with its member countries to improve the health and the quality of life of the people of the Americas. It also serves as the Regional Office for the Americas of WHO.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
2nd Rupununi Music & Arts Festival ends on a high MUSIC was the message as the Mighty Gabby rounded off a weekend of diverse, interesting, popular and dynamic melodies from around the world at the 2nd Rupununi Music & Arts Festival. The Brazilians shared capoeira, samba and Brazilian “jazzed up” popular music to the delight of the audience; Suriname’s quintet, MAYA, performed with panache captivating the audience with their soulful renditions; nine-time calypso monarch in Barbados the Mighty Gabby, had both the young and old grooving late into the night; JJ Kent, of the Oglala band in the USA, served up a mixture of traditional music and chants and country music that left the crowd wanting more and these were all complemented
by dozens of young, talented, Guyanese artistes who danced and sang from their souls to add style to the weekend’s activities. Over 36 hours of music, dance, spoken word, arts and craft workshops, food and glorious sunshine! For Gavin from the band, O B E, “the festival was a huge success, a beautiful weekend that brought together so many different people from different cultures for one collective experience. Each day had a unique glow about it, and for those as adventurous as my group, the days were made even better by our own agenda - such as exploring the savannahs and swimming in the river.” It was Friday evening and the sun was slowly bidding farewell as Rock View came alive with sounds, rhythms
and movements when the audience was invited to share a slice of Amerindian life in the specially built Macushi village on site. The village scene was the setting for the opening of the festival with music, dance and poetry with cultural groups from Surama, Rupertee and Wowetta, culminating with the Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs Hon. Sydney Allicock, entering on horseback to share one of his powerful poems, his memories of cattle- ranching in the area. Tradition with modernity in music and dress and you knew you were in a Macushi area. The village activities gave way to a few words of welcome from Minister Allicock and Minister of Tourism Hon. Cathy Hughes who assured the audience that they were fully supportive of the festival becoming an annual event! The evening continued in a traditional cultural vein with Group Capoeira Angola Turn to page 15 ►
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
2nd Rupununi Music & Arts...
From page 14
Scenes from the recent Rupununi Music & Arts Festival
Palmares enriching the space with skills, chants and movements that started slowly and gradually accelerated to show dexterity and agility. And then….OBE, a young band from Georgetown with some “wicked” Rock ‘n’ Roll that evolved into Guyanese folk and more “up tempo” rock music. The high- energy evening mood was set and Ras Camo on pan took the audience to another level around the Pool Side Bar and many folk, including friends from various government ministries were observed “moving and swaying’’ to the rhythms of calypso. The youthful RegioJazz added their special Brazilian flavour to keep the night “rocking,” but it was “Chuckie” from Buxton Fusion and Gavin Mendonca from OBE who belted out some punchy Guyanese folk songs to bring down the curtain in the wee hours of Saturday morning! For Ramona, “I wanted to thank you for the amazing opportunity you’ve given us as volunteers to participate in the Rupununi Music and Arts Festival. It was a wonderful experience and it’s safe to say that I’ve fallen in love with the Rupununi!” Saturday and Sunday mornings were particularly special; J J Kent (flute) and Ras Camo (pan) were programmed to start at 5.30 am on top of Inspiration Rock and…they did. Sunrise greetings, blessings for another beautiful day and lilting musical sounds that spoke to the power of creation, surrounded those on the Rock and those in bed. An experience of a lifetime! Saturday early- morning activities continued in spiritual mood as Monica Brinn and the Capoeira group offered open classes in Yoga and Capoeira. Bodies and minds were being catered for and nourished! When the activities began in the afternoon, the hot sun had many sitting in the shade, a distance from the main stage, but still enjoying the quality music and having opportunities to meander around the site. They dipped into a wide range of arts and craft
workshops, observing many at work and having the time to chat and make purchases; all the visual- arts activities orchestrated by George Simon, Patron of and performer at the festival and a superb visual artist. Creative “keepers of traditions” shared ideas with other craft and visual artists and there was a buzz of excitement in the shady space they occupied. Sunday very much followed the Saturday model with the early- morning session attracting more folk to the Rock to share in the experience and an even larger audience throughout the day. A packed, possibly overpacked programme, awaited everyone. Inevitably there were hiccups and issues, but when these were brought to the attention of the organisers, they were positively, quickly and satisfactorily remedied, allowing the thousands who attended over the weekend to enjoy themselves. Given the logistics involved and appreciating that it was only the second event of this nature, the festival was a huge success on may levels and so said hundreds of visitors from within Guyana and the visitors from abroad. Alas….. it had to end on Sunday evening and what better way to do so than with the Mighty Gabby who closed the event by sharing his many calypso hits with the excited audience. Sponsors, artistes, staff, volunteers, tutors, vendors, families and friends – a big thank you to ALL – as almost everyone who spoke to and contacted us…sent out the call…see you in 2016… and so they shall! With so much positive feedback, Liz and Arthur from Georgetown added the icing on the festival with their beautiful summary: “Thank you for an awesome lifetime experience! For us, the festival was the bomb the content was great, the atmosphere fabulous and the people wonderful! What more is there to say.” (Submitted by Dr. Bob Ramdhanie, Festival Director, on behalf of the Rupununi Music & Arts Festival team)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Is St. Cuthbert’s Mission los - residents there think so By Shivanie Sugrim
RESIDENTS of St. Cuthbert’s Mission, one of the few developed indigenous villages in Guyana, are complaining of a host of problems that have, over the years, contributed to the loss of their indigenous culture within the community. When this publication visited the village last Saturday, residents apprised this reporter of the problems faced, the most pressing of which is unavailability of adequate lands to
accommodate large-scale farming. They contend that the lands are used for building infrastructure, among other developments. There is also the contention that the community’s Arawak language is being depleted and that the community is suffering from a shortage of trained teachers at its secondary school. Eighty-year-old Charlotte Oselmo is the niece of the village’s first Toshao Johnson Bernard. She said that because the lands have been used principally for development, large- scale farming in the community has suffered, especially for the women. “Sometimes if we want make cassava bread and other food, we does have to buy cassava from other people, because
we don’t have enough lands to grow these things,” Oselmo pointed out. The elderly woman said she would love to see the younger generation do more to restore the farming tradition in the community. Before St Cuthbert’s Mission was developed to suit the urban lifestyle, residents strictly relied on farming for produce as opposed to today, when produce such as cassava is purchased by just a few to be used for events within the community. “Life was so nice because, long ago, we used to farm and get the produce; but now we don’t get anything at all, because we don’t have proper lands to farm on. I would like to see back farming,” Charlotte demurred. The community’s Arawak language has been replaced by Guyanese Creole English, leaving just a minority who can speak the Arawak dialect. “There used to be programmes available for teaching of the [Arawak] language, but they don’t bother with it anymore,” Oselmo said. Crafting, a main activity of indigenous women, is gradually fading, Oselmo disclosed. She said girls in the community are often distracted by “other things,” and this has contributed to less productivity when it comes to craft production. A concerned single parent who wishes to withhold her identity, said the St. Cuthbert’s Secondary School is packed with untrained teachers, and this has contributed to students failing exams. That parent suggested that government should create paths for those untrained teachers to further their education, in order for them to become qualified teachers and serve the people of the community. Residents are also calling for “easy transportation” for the community, particularly for students studying outside of St. Cuthbert’s Mission. The mission has three schools, and residents revealed that there is currently one trained teacher in the secondary school, three trained teachers at the primary school, and no trained teacher in the nursery school. The community is equipped with a health centre, but medication is hardly ever sufficient for villagers, according to another resident. Though some are complaining about the sloth in business, logging, on the brighter side, is blooming in the community. The logger making this revelation identified himself as ‘Sheldon.’
At the recent Heritage Day celebrations, reside culture alive (Adrian Narine photos)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
sing its indigenous culture? “Logging going good, you know; it going fast here,” he disclosed, and added that logging is the main occupation in the community, followed by mining. Lennox Shuman, the community’s toshao, said at the village’s 30th Heritage Day celebrations last Saturday that, indeed, the indigenous culture is dying. For this reason, the community has made culture the highlight of the celebrations, as thousands of villagers came out in their numbers, decked
Eighty-year-old Charlotte Oselmo, the oldest relative of St. Cuthbert’s first Toshao, Johnson Bernard
ents of St. Cuthbert’s Mission are keeping their
in their traditional wear, to party heartily. At the celebrations, Indigenous People’s Affairs Minister Sydney Allicock announced that St. Cuthbert’s Mission would be used as a model village for pilot projects, given that the village is within reach of all other indigenous communities in reasonable proximity to Georgetown. “Here we can have pilot projects to showcase to others how things could be done so as to achieve economic and
academic strengths,” Allicock said. He also assured the Arawak-speaking village that the languages of all the various groups of indigenous peoples, as well as their cultural practices, will be pursued and supported by both the government and the Indigenous People’s Affairs Ministry. He said, too, that government in its quest for unity, promises to settle indigenous land claims once and for all as time progresses.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 2, 2015
Global Citizen Initiative launched – as TVET hosts first career fair By Rabindra Rooplall THE local leg of the Global Citizen Initiative was launched on Wednesday as the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) joined the Technical, Vocational Education Training (TVET) in hosting its first career fair. The event was held at the
Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. The Global Citizen Initiative is an international non-governmental organisation (INGO) with members in 75 countries. The Global Citizen Initiative (TGCI) is an effort to build a network of people who see themselves as glob-
al citizens and want to build a better world. Such a network responds to an urgent need for better grassroots mechanisms that engage people in the processes of advocating global values, finding global solutions to global issues and building more participatory global governance institutions. The Guyana Government
Members of the Burrowes School of Art also participated in the career fair
This Bio-ethanol Demonstration Plant was one of the many interesting displays at the fair (Samuel Maughn photos)
through the Education Ministry is preparing to adopt sessions within classrooms. Since Monday schools globally will be teaching about the new Global Goals with the world’s largest lesson under the Global Citizen Initiative. Speaking at the launch, Education Minister Dr Rupert Roopnaraine said Global Citizenship is an idea that is needed within society. Commenting on the career fair, the Education Minister noted that the event displays creativity and capacity of young people who have been involved in innovative production. “Some of the most interesting exhibitions have had to do with the use of waste material and converting it into something useful. There are a variety of exhibitions and what is seen is a commitment to innovative education,” he noted. Ritesh Tularam, the Education Ministry’s coordinator of the Secondary Competency Certificate Programme (SCCP) labelled the fair a first and a successful venture for his unit. It was focused on sensitising youths in and out of
school for possible career opportunities that currently exist within the schools that are offering the SCCP. He said the fair was focused on encouraging youths to acquire the certificate to be gainfully employed. “The reason for having these people is to showcase what is available within their companies to help persons to make enlightened choices in terms of their career paths.” Tularam said that plans are in train for the event to become a cross- regional affair for his unit and hopefully it will be an annual unfolding. Dr Roopnaraine said he would like to see TVET programmes in every school in the country. He also gave the assurance that government is very committed to building as much capacity to further invest in the field of all aspects of technical and vocational teachings. Booths which were mostly manned by students also saw several companies including Banks DIH, Guysuco, Guyana Power and Light, and John Fernandes Ltd amongst the group.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Firefest Productions promises ‘musical inferno’ ––at ‘Guyana Night’ event EACH day that goes by, the buzz surrounding Fire Fest Productions mega event continues to escalate, causing quite a frenzy amongst chutney and soca fans. In a brief interview yesterday with Fire Fest Productions CEO, Mahendra Ramkellawan, the buzz was churned even higher when he promised Guyanese the show of a lifetime. The ‘Guyana Night’ event, set for October 31, will see a ‘musical inferno’ ,according to Ramkellawan, and by this he means a mind-boggling mix of riveting soca and chutney music. He added that the type of show was decided upon to honour Guyanese entertainers, and to create an arena where both chutney and soca fans can enjoy their musical choices in harmony at the same venue. While the public, on many occasions, have dubbed Fire Fest Productions as the giants in entertainment promotions, many have lauded their move to have several genres of music on the same stage. Many are particularly elated that at this upcoming show, fans will be afforded a variety of music as well as dance. This event, according to many, is essentially the ‘clash of the locals’, and will feature just a few international entertainers. Slated for the Betterhope Community Centre Ground, it will see dazzling performances from Mr. Ramkellawan himself; Soca King, Jumo ‘Rubber Waist’ Primo; international chutney act, Terry Gajraj; and local chutney entertainer, Rajesh Dubraj.
TERRY GAJRAJ
Goed Fortuin Village Day set for October 24 WESTSIDERZ Entertainment is at it again, and this time around with their annual feature, the ‘Goed Fortuin Village Day.’ This initiative, billed for Saturday, October 24 at the Goed Fortuin Housing Scheme Ground, will see the shiniest and poshest vehicles battling for top honours and prizes. Fans are urged to come out in their numbers to see which Ccar, SUV, or Van will cart off the coveted p;rtizes. The Ground is set to pulse with ‘festive vibes’ as Ramping Vibz Sounds, Venus, and Big Life faceoff in a fiery clash to determine which ystem sounds better. After that comes the
‘vehicle sound-off’ to decide on the Hardest Extreme Sound and Mini Extreme Sound in that category. While admission has been set at $500, patrons
will be allowed free entrance if they arrive before 20:00hrs (8pm). Finger-licking Bar-bQue will be on sale, and tickets to enjoy this succulent offer is set at $1000.
JUMO PRIMO
Carded to perform also are character dancer, ‘Granny Ivelaw’; Calypso King, Young Bill Rogers; the entertaining Charmaine Blackman; Prince JP; Aaron Dasrat; Cecilia Samaroo; and Bunty Singh. Fans can expect a wealth of dance from the Firefest Dancers, Roshini Boodhoo Dance Troupe, the Shalita Dance Troupe, and the Nach Gana Academy of Dance. The MC, of course, will be WR Reaz. Fans are anticipating the scorching presentations of local belly dancer, ‘Sandella’. The artistes will be backed by the Shakti Strings Band.
Pulse Entertainment to the rescue ––with great taxi offers ENTERTAINMENT giant, ‘Pulse Entertainment’ is here to the rescue with a new initiative which now sees the launch of the ‘Pulse Taxi Service’. While management sees this new venture as a way of satisfying the growing need to bring fresh and reliable transport to late-night revellers, they have also noted that persons using this service will not only be charged the correct fares, at all times, but will also be able to enjoy Southland International Inc products as they relax and travel in style. Southland International has come on board, and will be offering each customer either a bottle of Cran+, Blue Waters bot-
tled water, or a Moussy Malt every time they use the service. That aside, the Massey entity, through their Soldanza (plantain chips) brand, will allow passengers to travel in style since on each journey persons will receive a pack of the Soldanz Plantain Chips. This is certainly going to be a refresher for persons using the late-night taxi service, since other drivers have been in the habit of overcharging late-night revellers alarming sums of money to get to their destinations. The main aim of the Pulse Taxi Service is to maintain stable pricing, as well as allowing patrons to refresh themselves, Southland International-style by having their fill of delicious Soldanza snacks.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Traditional February 23 activities ––to feature at ‘Children Mash Parade’ in the 50th Independence celebrations. so we decided that on February 23, 2016, we will be having an all youth and children costume parade on the road,” she explained. This shift in trend, she said, will ensure that the young adults get to participate fully, so as the event will not clash with their examination period. In previous years, the children’s parade was held several days before February 23, and featured mostly nursery and primary schools with involvement from a few secondary schools.
Minister Henry said that the Ministry of Education has a responsibility to ensure that young people are engaged in meaningful activities. “We thought that we would make maximum use of this opportunity to engage them during the Mashramani period, so we are going to dedicate this period exclusively for their fun; for them to showcase their talents; for them to come out and have a grand time with as much support as possible from the adults in a positive way,” the minister said. And while she could not
say if the Mashramani route will be the same as the adult road parade, she did indicate that every effort will be made to encourage maximum partic-
Music in history...
The History of Jazz By Milton Bruce AUTHOR Ted Gioia, in his seminal work on the history of Jazz labeled it ‘The Africanisation of American Music’. Gioa recounted the first steps of this great music, all the way back to circa 1817 New Orleans, where slaves, using make-shift instruments fashioned from calabash, beat out a rhythm that was accompanied by a dance of seeming contradictions which, according to the author, was “informal, spontaneous, and precise.” This ritual, called “The Ring Shout”, was performed on the slaves “Free Day”, and was done in an open area known as Congo Square, since renamed Louis Armstrong Park. It has been revealed that Benjamin Latrobe, a famous architect, witnessed this performance on February 21, 1819. And on giving life to the event, he made several sketches depicting what transpired. His sketches showed the musicians playing percussion and string instruments virtually identical to those characteristic of indigenous African music. It could be argued that the interruption of the “ring shout” ritual by the “Civil War” gave rise to the emergence of the first Jazz bands in New Orleans. However, this transplanted African culture continued to live within the collective memories of the Black community, and even among those too young to participate. Sidney Bechet, saxophonist, clarinetist, and composer, in his autobiography, “Treat it Gentle”, said, “The slave was a musician; no one had to explain notes or feelings or rhythm to him. It was all there inside of him; something he was always sure of.” What Gioia takes pains in pointing out is that Bechet and Buddy Bolden (King of Cornet) were the early pioneers of Jazz.
The Americanisation of African music had begun, and with it came the Africanisation of American music. This blending process, called “syncretism”, the blending together of cultural elements, is very essential to the history of the music, and remains powerful, even to this day. African-American styles of performance blend seamlessly with the music of other cultures, European, Asian, Latin and coming full circle African. The history goes even further back to the 1700s, when the earlier crude instruments were confiscated by the slave owners, for fear that the beating of anything could have been a signal for a forceful breakout by the salves. This fear was enforced by forcing the slaves to become interested in hymns and spiritual songs, especially written by Dr Isaac Watts. These were published in various colonial editions during the 1700s. The initial idea was for Dr Watts’ music to be introduced to the salves in edifying examples of Western music. However, it happened the other way around. Alan Lomax, the pioneering scholar and preserver of African-American music, acknowledged that “Blacks had Africanised the Psalms to such an extent that many observers described Black Lining hymns as mysterious African music.” What is certain is that Jazz, in its journey to being labeled America’s classical music, took its lumps along the way. It must be understood that this was a new sound that was forcing an old, tried and accepted music to give way. In defence of the older music, certain characters used the medium of Jazz to either illustrate what a great music was in the offing or to ridicule it. The Minstrels shows found White performers in Black face mimicking Black people, and ridiculing the music with little or no knowledge of the people or the music. But the musicians hung in and progressed to revealing a beautiful sound. Until next week, where we continue.
ipation from all schools. Meanwhile, the other activities listed as part of Mashramani 2016 include the national schools’ competition, the chut-
ney competition, junior and senior calypso monarch competitions, a concert for the elderly, the steel pan competition, masquerade, and a street fair.
PHOTO OF THE WEEK SOME girls certainly know how to turn heads and make a grand entrance. One cannot help but stare whenever professional dancer, Lyn Ann Medford struts her stuff without a care in the world. W h e t h e r s h e ’s shopping, strolling, jogging, or just plain relaxing, this diva somehow manages to send the adrenaline pumping to alarming degrees with that certain provocative allure that seems to whirl around her persona. We bumped into her just recently, and, as always she was more than ready for our flashing cameras. This damsel is certainly a positive motivation for our females in todays’ world of fashion. She keeps it styling ‘trendy and tantalising’. And it just works for her! Every time!
Lyn Ann Medford
A CHILDREN’S float parade is slated for Mash Day 2016 in place of the traditional Mash Day float parade which has been shifted to May 27, 2016. According to Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, the decision was made to make allowance for greater participation from students from senior secondary schools. “Given that the senior secondary school students are scheduled to sit the CSEC during the May month period, they will not likely be available to participate much
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
‘Behold the Jury’ brings ‘em in guilty
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ROM all accounts, the annual Rupununi Festival at Annai Village met and surpassed expectations, and this year, fans were in for quite a treat when they were delightfully surprised by the riveting performance of Georgetown pop group, ‘Behold the Jury.’ Buzz reporter Alex Wayne caught up with band members early one morning last week over tea and cookies, and together they discussed their just-concluded exploits in the north Rupununi. Word reaching the Buzz is that although there were other entertainment bands at the festival, it was the members of the ‘Jury bandwaggon’ that brought patrons to their feet. As band leader Marquis Khan noted, the band, while not placed on the programme initially, was specially invited to perform as guest artistes. They are especially grateful to the folks from Air Services Limited for actually flying them into the Rupununi in their private aircraft, and to the promoters for accommodating them in grand style. It was a welcoming addition to the programme, as the band was able to exchange and fuse cultures with the Brazillian ‘Reggae Jazz’ band that was also in attendance. The ‘Jury’, which has been performing around Guyana, comprises four very talented musicians who continue to raise the musical bar in Guyana with their astounding skills and creativity. Comprising of guys who were randomly chosen from varying locations, based on their talents, this outfit also brings to the platter a rich serving of enticing ‘ethnic mix’ which
is the tool used to keep their fans begging for more. Not so long ago, they made their debut at State House, where their performance was televised by the National Telecommunications Network (NCN). That was actually their first televisied performance. It was this same ‘Jury’ that provided musical accompaniment to some of the contestants of the recently concluded 2015 Princess Karaoke Star Competition promoted by Princess Hotel and Suckerpunch Promotions. They continue to shine at other private functions promoted by Suckerpunch, inclusive of sweet sixteen parties, birthdays, and even weddings. Bringing ‘musical magic’ to you in this band are the band leader Marquis Khan (Rhythm Guitarist/Lead Vocalist), Ryan Roberts (Base/Rhythm Guitarist/ Backup Vocals/ Co-ordinator), Shoghie Boodhoo (Lead and Rhythm Guitarist/Base/Backup Vocals), and Avinash Roopchand (Drummer/Base/Keyboard/Producer/Mixer) These talented lads urge other musicians to persevere amidst controversy, since there is room for stardom in any genre of music. They also encourage others to learn wisely from their experiences and ultimate success will be assured. Why not savour a taste of their ‘tantalising flava’? You can do so by calling phone numbers 665 6441, 658 3697, or 673 4792. You can also check them out on Facebook and Twitter by typing in ‘Behold the Jury’. They can also be contacted by email @: beholdthejury@gmail.com
‘Must-Follow’ tips for dudes
BEING able to treat everyone you meet with respect, be they a taxi driver, a waiter or your best friend, is an impressive quality: It shows you have excellent standards for behaviour. You shouldn’t come off as someone who is rude for the sake of it, or because you are trying to look cool; you can remain strong in your convictions, but you can still be polite. DRESS WELL AND SMELL GOOD This may seem fairly obvious, but it is surprising just how many men fail to incorporate a suitable grooming regimen
into their lives. This point is doubly important on a first or second date, when you hardly know each other. If you smell of body odor or dress like a clown, you can guarantee that most women will find a reason to never see you again. On the other hand, a man who dresses in a stylish manner, and in a way that suits his body type will always look suave and sophisticated. If he smells good as well, he is demonstrating that he takes pride in his appearance, and has respect for the people he meets. KNOW HER INTERESTS; ASK QUESTIONS Being a good conversationalist is something of a dying art. If you’re capable of holding an intelligent conversation with
a woman, she will be impressed. Just as important is the ability to know what to talk about, and this involves being able to really listen to a woman. If she references something in conversation, there is a good chance she wants to talk about it. This is your chance to really impress her. Ask her open questions to which she can give a full response. Listen to what she says properly, and show a real interest in the things which matter to her. Don’t turn it into an interview; and feel free to have your own opinion, but know when to be respectful of what she
is saying. Don’t dismiss something she feels passionately about; appreciate the energy she devotes to it. FOLLOW-UP In the days following your date, it is a sign of respect if you make the effort to contact your date to thank her for the evening, and to tell her how much you enjoyed her company. Nowadays, it is acceptable to send a text message, but a phone call remains slightly more personal and more impressive. Either method of contact is better than nothing; and the mere fact that you’re being attentive, and showing courtesy and respect, is impressive. Try these valuable tips, and you are bound to impress the damsels you meet along life’s’ journey…
––at Rupununi Music and Arts Festival
Members of the Behold the Jury Band
Tonya Lee
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Changing the world with music
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The Buzz Artiste of the Week
UT of Eccles, East Bank Demerara, comes the beautiful and exceptionally talented Tonya A Lee. A seemingly shy person to the casual observer, Tonya possesses a very outgoing personality, which manifests itself when she graces the stage to represent the Creator with her music ministry. She has a passion for taking the gospel to the world through the medium of music, since this is most popular and fits her like the perfect glove. To date, Tonya has been impacting the lives of people wherever she sings; and as if to testify of her quality, she was not so long ago afforded the opportunity to perform in Suriname with the World Changers Band, and made an appearance at the last mega
show in Guyana in August 2012 (DJ Nicholas “Back to School” Praise). Devoting her time and resources to the ministry, Tonya is an aspiring businesswoman, having left the secular field to work on developing her family’s business. She has already released an album in 2013, with varying genres of music. Her songs are based on everyday issues that affect people, and her lyrical stories compel change, or speak of the character that Christ expects of His children. One of the more popular songs that Tonya has written so far is “Change around the World” Tonya has worked extensively with some of the best gospel musicians in Guyana and the Caribbean, and is loved by all.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Are you hot enough!! SO many people like to rave about their ‘hottness’, much to the amusement or annoyance of others. And ever so often some are met with the crude response, “Self Praise is no recommendation.” It’s always smart to let others be the judge, as Pulse Entertainment will tomorrow when they host their ‘Pulse Hottest of 2015’ event. While the event is slated for the Palm Court Nightclub, folks there have revealed that fans will have the opportunity of having their photos posted Online to determine the ‘Hottest of the Hottest’, among patrons. Those that are chosen will have a chance to take part in the Pulse upcoming ‘Thriller Heroes and Villians’ event slated for October 31. Music for tomorrow’s event will be supplied by Pulse DJs, and gates will open at 20:00hrs (8pm). Everyone is allowed free entrance before 21:30 hrs (9:30pm), and will be required to pay $2000 if they arrive after.
Talking Healthy Living with ‘Madame Cleo’
Drop the pounds and keep ‘em off EVER so often you are elated that you have shed those extra pounds, only to slip into gloom and dismay when you are at a loss as to how to keep them from returning. As always ‘Madame Cleo’ delights in sharing, and serves up with pride ten easy ways to get you out of this dilemma. As the health magazine, ‘Bad News’ reports, the average person gains one to two pounds a year. But here’s the good news, my darlings. Even though it may sound strange, consuming just 100 fewer calories each day is enough to avert that weight gain. If you’re finding this out a little too late, and you want to actually lose some of those bulges, you have to downsize by 500 calories a day. But you don’t have to slash them all from your plate. “You can eat 250 calories less, and then burn 250 by walking for 30 to 45 minutes,” says Dr. Holly Wyatt, MD, a clinical researcher at the Center for Human Nutrition in Denver. “Over a week,” she says, “that will produce about a pound of weight loss.” You won’t see dramatic changes immediately, but small tweaks like these will pay off over time.
ORDER TWO APPETIZERS According to a study at the University of North Carolina, the average hamburger is 23 per cent larger today than it was back in 1977. So, choose a pasta dish and salad or soup from the appetizer column instead.
COFFEE The ‘fancy concoctions’ that are now the ‘javas of choice’ for many people can contain as many calories as an entire lunch.
you did this for 10 minutes every workday at a moderate 3 mph pace, you’d burn about 1,000 calories a month and lose 3 pounds a year. Isn’t that fantastic.
VISIT THE VENDING MACHINE Nibbling on single servings is better than digging your way to the bottom of a ‘mega-bag’ of chips. START WITH SALAD And eat less during the rest of the meal, says a study from Pennsylvania State University. When salads were topped with low-fat mozzarella and low-calorie Italian dressing instead of high-fat alternatives, women ate 10 per cent fewer calories over the course of the day. STICK A FORK IN IT If you prefer your salad dressing on the side, dip your fork into it before stabbing your greens. That little manoeuver could cut hundreds of calories. GO EASY ON THE
weight off than a group whose regimen didn’t include the high-fat snacks. DON’T JUST SIT THERE The average person burns 100 calories per hour sitting and 140 per hour standing. Get on your feet 2 hours a day while you work, and you could drop an extra 6 pounds over the year. SLEEP WELL, LOSE MORE Insufficient ‘shut-eye’ appears to increase production of the stress hormone cortisol, which regulates appetite. High levels seem to worsen bingeing and hunger; moreover, too little sleep could keep your body from burning carbohydrates, which translates to
more stored body fat. DOUBLE YOUR ROTEIN The high-protein, lowcarb approach may help keep you from losing muscle along with fat, according to a study published in ‘The Journal of Nutrition’. According to study author Donald K. Layman, PhD, of the University of Illinois, the amino acid leucine—found in beef, dairy, poultry, fish, and eggs—may help preserve muscle tissue. Practice these simple remedies and you are on an exciting journey of losing the weight and keeping it off. Join us again next Friday to see what helpful tips ‘Madamme Cleo’ brings to the table.
Follow these tips and you are sure to give that weight a severe punch in the forehead. And trust me…. You will enjoy watching ‘Mr Weight’ cower in defeat and disappear altogether.
WALK AND TALK When your cell phone rings, slip on your walking shoes and stroll the halls at work or ‘hoof it’ outside. If
CRACK A NUT Dieters in a Harvard University study who ate a handful of peanuts or mixed nuts daily were more likely to keep
FOR ANY INFORMATION RELATING TO ‘THE BUZZ’ CONTACT ALEX WAYNE ON PHONE NUMBERS 592 619 1952 OR 227 5216
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Charlestown Secondary gearing up for golden jubilee celebrations IN celebration of its 50th anniversary, Charlestown Secondary School at 44 ‘A’ Howes and Charles Streets, Georgetown has a calendar of activities to usher in their golden jubilee observance. Through the joint efforts of the head teacher, the staff, the Parent-Teacher Association and the overseas alumni, they have planned a week of activities that starts with a Church Service on October 4, a Rally and Teachers Day Celebrations along with a Career Day on October 5, Open Day and Exhibition on October 7, Graduation and Prize-Giving on October 8, Teachers Fun Day at midday on October 9 and a Bar-b-Que and Lime on October 10 at the school compound. Teacher Allison Cosbert told this newspaper yesterday that the series of activities, starting from October 4 to October 10, is geared to bring people together and brighten the image of the school. The funding for the activities, Cosbert said, was contributed by the PTA and the Overseas
Alumni and the list of activities is geared towards the transformation of the
school and lifting the spirits of students as well. (Michel Outridge)
Friday October 2, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Saturday October 3, 2015 - 08:30 hrs Sunday October 4, 2015 - 09:00 hrs
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Aries Squabbles may break out among members of your group. You might wonder what the big deal is since what they’re arguing over seems rather silly. Apparently it’s important to them! If you feel up to it, get your friends out of their emotional chaos and view the subject more objectively. It might not calm them down, but at least you’ll have done something! Taurus Someone may skip out on responsibilities today, causing extra tasks to fall to everyone else, including you. This might stir up some anger and resentment and it’s definitely going to cause more stress. Delegate tasks if you can. Put yours in order of urgency and then take them one at a time slowly and carefully. If the less important ones have to wait until tomorrow, so be it! Gemini If you’ve been planning to set off on a trip soon, make a list of what you need to do beforehand and check off each task as you complete it. Otherwise you might panic at the last minute because you’ve forgotten something important. Stay calm even if it seems impossible. You’re less likely to forget anything if you stay focused. Cancer You may be the party-pooper today unless you do something to remedy your serious tone. This is a day for light, social activities and fun-loving times with friends. Don’t worry if things don’t seem rational. Sometimes it’s the unlikeliest route that ends up being the best. Don’t discount the fanciful and bizarre. Take a walk on the wild side. Leo Today you might find it necessary to turn down an invitation to a social event, and the host might for some reason seem offended. Your friend is probably overworked and stressed and apt to overreact to just about any situation. Relax a little. Explain things to your friend and then propose that you get together at another time. That’s all you can do now. Virgo Have you been doing a lot of walking lately? If so, your feet may be sore. This could affect your energy level considerably, not to mention your ability to get any work done. Concentrate on routine tasks that require little thought and can be done sitting down. Stay out of any squabbles! Relax in a hot bath tonight. Libra Give your adventuresome, world-traveling spirit room to soar. This is a good time to embrace and express your dreams. Write them down, talk to others, and say them out load. Communication and information are key elements today. Things may move quickly, so stay alert and tuned into the energy that’s buzzing all around you. The best things in life may come on a whim. Scorpio Do you sometimes go about things backward? Are you caught up in the rat race of trying to have more money and security with the idea that eventually you’ll earn the freedom to do what makes you happy? The happiness factor actually works in reverse. You must first be who you are and then take the necessary actions in order to have what you really want. Sagittarius An angry call from someone who lives far away might catch you off guard today. In your mind, the person has no reason to be angry and is blowing things out of proportion. They probably won’t listen to reason. Say as calmly as you can that you’ll get in touch tomorrow and then hang up. Give this person time to calm down before even trying to straighten things out. Capricorn Today you might spend a lot of time looking for a lost object. This item may only have sentimental value. Still, it’s important to you that you find it. This isn’t a good day to search. You’re in a rather frenzied state and could look right at it without seeing it. Wait until tomorrow to look. What you seek is probably nearby and just hidden in some way. Aquarius A minor quarrel or separation could take place with a love partner, probably over something that seems trivial. It’s likely to get your dander up to the point where you may never want to see this person again. Go for a workout or brisk walk to clear your head, get the endorphins going, and view the situation more objectively. Then phone your friend and work it out. Pisces Too much stress from overwork could have your nerves on edge today. When someone makes an offhand remark, you might see insult where none is intended. Don’t get so jumpy that you imagine traitors behind every door. Work alone if you can, and take a walk to clear your head. This will put you in a better frame of mind and a more relaxed space
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Baby steps to a big track Says Stephan Sookram GUYANA has often been the crème de la crème when it comes to Motor Racing in the Caribbean and plans to put it back there have begun - baby steps but steps nonetheless. On Wednesday, a group of interested persons along with Diana D’Ornellas, an executive of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) met with officials of the Caribbean Engineering and Management Consultants (CEMCO) to assist in the upgrading of the once great South Dakota Circuit. The discussions, though not being the first of its kind, were focused on getting the 2.6 kilometre track up to the standard of its regional counterparts’ facilities. The upgrade is not entirely a ‘Guyanese thing’, with a plan being drafted and designed by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, (FIA), as their ‘boon’ to assist the development of motor sport in Guyana – something that we accept with open arms, because if the father of motor racing designs a track right down to the curbs, then once constructed to said plans, there should be no qualms about
having it certified. When it comes to fa-
STEPHAN SOOKRAM cilities, Guyana sadly lags
South Africa Racing Tips Greyville 11:20 hrs War Requiem 11:55 hrs Good Team 12:25 hrs Tanjiro 12:55 hrs Madame Justice 13:25 hrs Fleetfox 14:10 hrs Capel Top 14:43 hrs Money Penny 15:15 hrs Dance On Air Irish Racing Tips Dundalk 12:35 hrs Somebodytoldme 13:05 hrs Love In The Sun 13:35 hrs Kodiac’s Back 14:05 hrs Stroll Patrol 15:05 hrs Maudlin Magdalen 15:35 hrs Whatever It Takes 16:05 hrs Mountmills
at the bottom of the table with Jamaica introducing the Jamwest Raceway (its second racetrack in addition to the original Dover Raceway) to the Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) this year and the newly repaved and renamed Franklyn Boodram International Raceway (formerly Wallerfield) in Trinidad and Tobago being utilised as well. Barbados’ Bushy Park is in a league of its own! With an almost perfect facility rating-wise, (their downfall being the obvious small number of cars that can enter the pit area), Bushy Park is the benchmark of ‘the next level’. These ‘baby steps’ are to return Guyana as the premier
racing destination across the Caribbean and they are more than welcome by pundits. Of course, the cost of the facility will be no short order and obviously if you want to bring a track in line with the International Racing body, you’re going to have to have deep pockets and a strong plan to ensure the long-term recovering of funds. But the GMR&SC has hopes of the development of the venue as sport tourism hub and plans to bank on this as one the main recovery options. Whether that will or won’t work is an entirely other story that remains to be seen, but the real issue here is the track. If completed, ot will become
a key host to several racing series not only across the Caribbean but possibly North America. One would ask if Barbados can host a Global Rally Cross (GRC) round, why a level three South Dakota Circuit can’t do the same. Already, the idea of a completed and optimal FIA-designed track has sparked brainstorms and top of the list is the introduction of the Digicel Suzuki Radical (SR3) series which is currently only being run in Barbados. But why stop there? There’s no problem in dreaming, and based on our geographical location, (right next door to Brazil), it can be argued that having
a level three facility in Guyana may open the doors for Formula series testing and even a series itself (Formula 4 or 3); both of which the FIA deems as part of the training ground for F1. Imagine, Guyana could theoretically, be privy to a part of the training for the next Max Verstappen (Torro Rosso F1) or Daniil Kvyat (Red Bull F1) and go on to build F1 champions like Sebastian Vettel (2010-2013) or Lewis Hamilton (2008, 2014). It all comes back to these itsy, bitsy, baby steps, as the saying by Vance Havner goes, “the Vision must be followed by the Venture. It is not enough to stare up the steps- we must step up the stairs.”
Solomon to head UDFA A NEW Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA) was voted in last evening, at the LEN building, with former Regional Chairman Sharma Solomon being elected president. Collie Hercules is the first vice-president, while Claude Williams and Keon Josiah were named second and third vice-president respec-
tively. Secretary is Terrence Mitchell, treasurer is Hansworth Barratt and assistant secretary/treasurer is Dillet Marville. Vanessa Kissoon is the lone female on the Executive and will serve as Organising Secretary. The Public Relations Officer is Victor Wright. The three committee members are Clive
Brushe, Patrick Dey and James Trotman. Solomon, addressing the clubs present, pointed out that the executive will work closely to ensure the game of football is developed at all levels, both on and off the pitch. Chairman of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Normalisation Committee Clinton Urling, along
with General Secretary Diedre Davis, overlooked the process and lauded the UDFA for being the first affiliate to adopt the new constitution and hold elections. Urling, after handing over a quantity of balls to the UDFA, pledged the GFF’s financial support to help the association in its future endeavours.
English Racing Tips Ascot 09:20 hrs Akeed Champion 09:50 hrs Malaf 10:25 hrs Squats 11:00 hrs Mill Springs 11:35 hrs Flying Hammer 12:10 hrs Burmese Hexham 09:00 hrs Kitchapoly 09:30 hrs Teochew 10:05 hrs Nuts Well 10:40 hrs Brother Scott 11:15 hrs Serenity Now 12:20 hrs Native Optimist Wolverhampton 12:45 hrs Smart DJ 13:15 hrs Layla’s Hero 13:45 hrs Doctor Kehoe 14:15 hrs Bess Of Hardwick 14:45 hrs Scurr Mist 15:15 hrs Zzoro 15:45 hrs Ustinov 16:15 hrs Fei Kuai American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Stevie’s Moonshot Race 2 Watch the Tie Race 3 Je Ne Sais Pas Race 4 Reach for Yield Race 5 Norm the Giant Race 6 All Mine Tonight Race 7 U S Citizen Race 8 Giantinthemoonlite Race 9 Bea Bea
The recently voted in UDFA member ssit with Chairman of the GFF Normalisation Committee Clinton Urling.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Record overseas participation for Guyana Softball Cup THE Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) has announced that 26 teams, 11 of which are North American, will compete in the 5th edition of the Guyana Softball Cup set for October 30 to November 1. During the launch yesterday, it was announced that New York All Stars (NYSCL), USA Mercenary, Dant XI Canada, New York Legends (NYSCL), New York Better Hope, Tri State Masters (Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx), Brooklyn/Queens Legends, OMSCC Canada, Orlando Florida and SCI Miami are the confirmed teams for the 2015 edition of the tournament. Guyana’s teams feature 2011 winners Cotton Field Wild Oats and Invaders Masters (Essequibo) while Berbice will have the Karibee Boys and Corriverton. The Demerara teams are Regal, Wolf Warriors, Regal Masters, Farx Xi, Zameer
Xi, Princess Hotel, Savage, Industry Superkings, Floodlights, Floodlights Legends and Parika Defenders. Twelve teams will play in the open division for
a trophy. In the Masters division, the remaining 14 teams (persons 45 years and over) will compete for $600 000 and a trophy while the run-
final will take home a trophy while the player-ofthe-series will take one gold and diamond studded softball band. The tournament will fea-
GNIC, Ogle, Enmore and the Gandhi Youth Organisation while the finals will take place at DCC. Vice-president of the GFSCA Jailall Deodass
(L-R) Ansa McAl PRO Darshanie Yussuf, Clear Waters’ Atiesha Isaacs, National Sports Commission Administrative manager Gervy Harry, (GFSCA) acting president Jailall Deodass as well as members Lalta Gainda (secretary) and organising secretary Wayne Jones. a first prize of $800 000 and a trophy while the runners-up in this division will cart off $200 000 and
ners-up will take away $150 000. In both categories, the man-of-the-match in the
ture the preliminary rounds at GCC, DCC, Police (Eve Leary), Malteenoes, Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO),
said, “Cricket (softball) has grown from year to year, and this our 5th year we have attracted
more than 20 teams in all. Cricket will be played at the highest level of competition.” Another vice-president, Rickey Deonarine, indicated that the tournament will feature a total of 48 games over the three-day period. Representing the National Sport Commission (NSC), Administrative Officer Gervy Harry commended the association for the sustainability of the tournament, adding that, “It (the tournament) has to be something of quality; it has to be motivating for persons (sponsors) to want to stay with you.” He challenged the organisers in the future to focus their energies on a children’s tournament for primary schools. Public Relations Officer (PRO) of Ansa McAl Darshanie Yussuf as well as the representative for Clear Waters, Atiesha Isaacs, both expressed pleasure in having their companies on board.
2015 South American Volleyball Championship
Guyana go down to Argentina in straight sets GUYANA’S senior national volleyball team opened their campaign at the South American Volleyball Championship on a losing note, after falling to Argentina in straight sets when the tournament served off in Brazil. Argentina, ranked sixth in the world, disposed of the Guyanese 25-9, 25-9, 25-13 and, according to reports out of Brazil, the local men gave a good account of themselves - starting off
trading shots equally with the world super power as the early scores were practically even in each set. Competing at this level for the first time since the 1960s and 1970s, way before any of them was even born, the Guyanese men started off the game looking like seasoned campaigners, taking the first point from Argentina and managing to trade equal punches until the scores were about 5-5.
Part of the action between Guyana and Argentina at the South American Volleyball Championship
However, at that point the Argentines were able to detect the defect in the Guyanese armour and began exploiting their weakness in blocking and reception. The second set began practically the same as the first and again, blocking and reception proved to be the downfall of the men from El Dorado. Taking heart from sporadic shots by Creston Rodney, who appeared to be the leading Guyanese attacker on the night and crafty substitutions by the coach, the local men managed to rally the support of the mostly Brazilian crowd as they fought to a similar scoreline as the first set. In the third set, head coach Levi Nedd decided to make some changes to the starting line-up and opened with Jason Seelochan, (who turned out to be a crowd favourite) instead of seasoned campaigner Khemraj Singh. In the third set Guyana again traded shots with Argentina but their blocking and reception
Team Guyana at the South American Volleyball Championship were no match for their more experienced counterparts. Occasional brilliance in defence by Vance Harding and renewed life in the attacking through the setting of Seelochan Nedd’s men dug even deeper than the first two sets and rallied to a more respectable scoreline. Turning their sights to a lower-ranked Colombia whom they were scheduled to play yesterday, the coach intimated that he
was fairly satisfied with the team’s opening account of themselves but expressed that should his team be able to maintain their level of play while improving on certain aspects of their game, it is a realistic possibility that his team can pull off a historic upset against the 2013 bronze medallists, now rated 26th in the world. Guyana will play Uruguay tomorrow at 14:25hrs in the final preliminary
round match. The Guyanese are placed in Group B of the eight-team tournament alongside one-time winners of the event Argentina, Colombia and Uruguay. Brazil, dating back to the tournament’s inception in 1951, have won the championship 29 times; a record 24 consecutive times. In fact, Argentina are the only other country to ever win the title, doing so in 1964.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
National Men’s hockey team depart for Peru
GUYANA’S national men’s hockey team departed on Wednesday morning for the Pan American Challenge in Chiclayo, Peru. The team will take two days to reach their final destination, having to make connections in Trinidad, Curacao and Bogota Colombia before arriving in Lima, Peru this evening. Due to financial constraints the team will then have to take a 14-hour bus ride to Chiclayo, where the tournament will be staged. The players then have one day to recuperate before taking on Puerto Rico tomorrow at 12:00hrs. They have the day off on Sunday before coming up against Panama on Monday October 5, at 10:00hrs after which they will oppose the tournament’s top-ranked team, Brazil, on Tuesday October 6, at 13:00hrs. Should Guyana finish in the top two of their group, they will advance to the semifinals on Friday, October 9, with the final scheduled for Sunday, October 11.
This is the first time that the Guyanese men will be competing in an international outdoor competition in eight years, the last be-
lenge to qualify for the Pan American Cup, scheduled for the USA in 2017. Because of inactivity on the international scene over
chance of regaining an international ranking and is expected to continue fundraising drives when the team returns, to pay off its debts.
never played an international outdoor match before. Young players Jamarj Assanah, Aroydy Branford,
Guyana’s senior national hockey team ing at the Caribbean Cup and ALBA Games in 2007 where they won bronze and silver respectively. Teams ranked outside of the top six in the Pan American region are required to play the Pan American Chal-
the past eight years Guyana no longer holds a world or Pan American ranking. As a consequence the team had to commit to the monumental financial undertaking of raising the $8M tour budget, just to earn the
Although the team includes a few experienced players such as Robert France, long-time captain Devin Munroe and England-based Marvin Dannett, due to the eight-year gap, most of the squad have
Mark Sargeant, Kareem McKenzie, Andrew Stewart and goalkeeper Medroy Scotland are expected to lead the charge of the next generation of exceptionally talented players, making their international outdoor debuts.
The players are: Orland Semple, Stuart Gonsalves, Andrew Xavier, Mark Sargeant, Kareem McKenzie, Daniel Hooper, Medroy Scotland (GK), Shane Samuels, Robert France, Devin Munroe (C), Randy Hope, Rayon Branford, Jamarj Assanah, Aroydy Branford, Andrew Stewart, Hilton Chester, Ato Greene and Marvin Dannett. Manager/coach - Robert Fernandes The team’s sponsors are: National Sports Commission, DeSinco Trading, GUYOIL, Woodpecker Products, Guyana Manioc Development, Continental Group of Companies, John Fernandes Ltd, Farm Supplies, General Equipment, Digicel, NAMILCO, EC Vieira Investments, R. Bassoo and Sons Construction Company, Kares Engineering Inc., Toucan Industries, RED Entertainment, Bounty Farm Ltd, DD Mining, as well as all the private individuals who made a contribution in some way or the other.
Joseph wins Lucozade Pele FC, Slingerz to battle tonight … GFC chasing first win against GDF Handicap Squash Tournament again WHEN the Guyana Squash Association (GSA) Lucozade Handicap Tournament continued on Wednesday at the Georgetown Club Squash Courts, National Champion Nyron Joseph defeated Anthony Islam in the night’s most interesting encounter. Joseph, one of the Caribbean’s top squash players, won the game 2-2 (10-15, 16-14, 15-12) in a marathon effort after starting from a handicap of -20. Needing to recover from a first-set loss to the junior player (Joseph), the diminutive Islam fought determinedly to almost complete a win in the second set, but eventually the experience and form of Joseph proved too tall a task. Meanwhile, in another exciting contest, the skilful Reagan Pollard, starting from a handicap of -14, defeated Lloyd Fung-a-Fat 2-0 (15-12, 16-14).
NYRON JOSEPH
The other results of the night: Joe Mekdeci def. Avinash Odit 2-0 (15/5, 15/8). Anthony Islam def. Frank Vieira 2-1 (11/15, 15/9, 15/7). Alex Cheeks def. Denis Dias 2-0 (18/16, 15/12). Adam Alves def. Yang Hapoei 2-0 (15/12, 15/13). Mohryan Baksh def. Beau Fernandes 2-1 (15/11, 12/15, 15/8). Michael Alphonso def. Jason Gomes 2-0 (15/7, 15/8). Thi Fernandes def. Nicholas Narain 2-0 (15/12, 15/12). Taylor Fernandes def. Matthew Phang 2-1 (15/8,12/15, 15/12). Kirsten Gomes def. Kamir Khan 2-0 (15/12, 15/13). Paige Fernandes def. Haley Carpenter 2-0 (15/13, 15/10).
PELE FC, behind star forward Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, will look to secure their third win of the STAG Elite League against Slingerz FC, while the Guyana Defence Force and the ‘win-less’ Georgetown Football Club (GFC) will do battle tonight at Base Camp Ayanganna ground. Richardson, the league’s leading goalscorer (three), will lead an intact Pele FC team against one of the league’s favourite Slingerz FC - a tried and tested unit whose reputation is well known for their big-game temperament. The last time the two sides met was in the West Side Cup, where Slingerz FC were victorious by a 4-0 margin, but it’s fair to say that this is not the same Pele FC team. The inclusion of Richardson and Travis ‘Zorro’ Grant, along
with a few other new faces, turned Pele FC into a strong contender for the STAG Elite League title.
Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson On seven points, (one draw, two wins), though being tied with Fruta Conquerors, Pele FC are atop the eight-
team table while Slingerz FC are third in the standing. Vurlon Mills, Dwain Jacobs, Colin Nelson and Domini Garnett will lead the charges for the star-studded Slingerz FC team. Meanwhile, the GDF/ GFC encounter should provide fans with an evening of good football. In their last game, the GDF played to an exciting 2-2 draw against Fruta Conquerors. The ‘Army’ will have to do without one of the primary scorers, Delwin Fraser, after he picked up a red card in the Fruta Conquerors game. While GFC lack the ‘killer ’ instinct, they are known for playing at least 60 minutes of pressing football. Kick-off time is 18:00hrs with the GFF introducing their first ‘ladies night’, allowing women to enter the venue free until 20:30hrs.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday October 2, 2015
Deonarine confident of Red Force winning Regional 4-Day tourney COUVA, Trinidad - New Red Force signing, Narsingh Deonarine has expressed his delight in joining the Trinidad and Tobago franchise and is confident that his new team will win the West Indies Cricket Board Regional 4-Day tournament. The exciting all-rounder joined the Red Force after the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) negotiated a trade with the Leeward Islands Cricket Association (LICA) in exchange for the services of opening batsman Nkrumah Bonner. “I am very happy and delighted about being selected for the Red Force because it has been a challenge for myself and my family when playing for Guyana in terms of the new set-up of Caribbean first class cricket. “Being contracted and my family being in Trinidad was very difficult. My two children are two years and eight months old. My son is now starting school so my wife and I put a lot of thought into it and I decided to move over to Trinidad. “I was lucky that Trinidad was able to get me with the swap with Bonner so I am very happy to be a part of the Red Force squad,” said Deonarine. NARSINGH He said he was DEONARINE looking forward to this new challenge and was sure Trinidad and Tobago will be at the top of the table at the end of the 2016 regional cricket season. “We have a good group of experienced players and talented youngsters in the squad which will make us tough to beat,” said Deonarine. He also expressed his gratitude to the TTCB and LICA for coming to an agreement which allows him to play top class regional cricket and to be closer to his family. “The TTCB and LICA must be commended for the manner in which they worked together to ensure that I can play cricket and be with my wife and children. I have
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday October 02, 2015) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)
Answers to yesterday’s quiz:
(1)Charles Bannerman (AUST vs ENG, Melbourne, 1876-77) (2)ChamindaVaas: 8-3-19-8 (SL vs ZIM, Colombo, 2001)
Today’s Quiz:
Who made the first double hundred in Tests? Which two currently have more than 400 wickets each in ODI cricket to date? Shaun Pollock; Glen McGrath; ChamindaVaas; Waqar Younis; Shahid Afridi
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
a young family and it was critical for me to be there to support my wife and be a father to my children. “As a professional cricketer you have to make a lot of sacrifices but I did not want my family to suffer when there was an opportunity to play regional cricket and be with them,” said Deonarine. He said that his wife Aneesa, who is the daughter of former West Indies and Trinidad and Tobago mystery spinner, Inshan
Ali, is overjoyed that he is in Trinidad representing the Red Force. “My wife is very happy because Trinidad is her home and I will be here to help raise our family. When I played for Guyana she always said that she wanted me to do well, but that she remains a Trinidad and Tobago supporter. Now she can support me and the team I play for,” said Deonarine confidently.
Sport CHRONICLE
Pele FC, Slingerz to battle Deonarine tonight
The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com
confident of Red Force winning Regional 4-Day tourney
See story on page 30
See story on page 31
NARSINGH DEONARINE
Guyana go down to Argentina in straight sets National Men’s hockey team depart for Peru See story on page 29
See story on page 30
… GFC chasing first win against GDF
Joseph wins Lucozade Handicap Squash Tournament again See story on page 30
Avinash Odit attempts a backhand return against Joe Mekdeci. (Photo compliments of GSA).
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2015