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GUYANA

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

No. 104121 SATURDAY MARCH 7, 2015 GUYANAâ€™S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER

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President, First Lady join thousands in Phagwah celebrations

Centre

President Donald Ramotar and First Lady, Madame Deolatchmee Ramotar having the time of their lives yesterday at the ICC Phagwah celebrations. With them at right is Acting High Commissioner of India, Ms Madhumita Sengupta

Father of five found murdered along Mahdia trail Page

Two in custody after dumping dead friend at hospital

Page

Dead: Charles Major

Dead: Shem Padmore

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Father of five found murdered along Mahdia trail By Leroy Smith

THE body of 57-year-old Charles Major, a father of five who operated as a small miner in Mahdia for the past 20 years, was found yesterday morning in the Dickman Hill area with multiple chop wounds. Family members who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle contend that the man was either robbed before being murdered, or mur-

dered then robbed. They point to the excessive brutalization evident on his body and the fact that all the gold jewellery which he usually wore were missing, including a few of his fingers. T h e m a n ’s s i s t e r, Shaundell Major, who spoke with this publication at her Lot 386 Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara home, said her brother had last travelled to the city in July of 2014. She said the last time

they spoke was on Wednesday, when she informed him that he needed to travel out of the interior for them to celebrate the purchase of her new car. Prior to that occasion, she had spoken to him three weeks ago. Major’s family members on Friday morning received a call from two relatives who reside and work in the interior location, informing them of the dreaded news. Shaundell Major said her niece, who first called her,

asked if they had received a call and she responded in the negative, and her niece handed the phone to her mother, who is also in that area, and the mother asked the same question; and after getting the same response from Shaundell, the woman then informed her that the father of five had been murdered, and that police investigators were on their way into the Backdam to bring the body out. Shaundell explained that she could not recall her brother mentioning having an issue with anyone, although she did say that the family was aware that her bother had had a court matter ongoing, wherein he

Dead: Charles Major

and another man had been at odds over an excavator that the two had jointly purchased several years ago. Police sources close to the investigation explained to this newspaper yesterday that Major had last been seen alive on Thursday in the company of a man in

the Mahdia area. The police sources have also indicated that the person who communicated that information to them had indicated that the person in whose company Major had last been seen can be easily identified once spotted. After the news of the man’s death reached the city, family members, including one of the dead man’s sons, travelled to the Mahdia location to supervise the handling of the body, and to accompany it out of the mining area. Charles Major had been one of five children born to his parents. He leaves to mourn his mother, siblings, children and other relatives and friends.

Charles Major’s relatives outside his mother’s house yesterday

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Guyana reports having made ‘tremendous progress’ meeting MDGs – but Maternal Health posing a bit of a challenge

AS THE Millennium Development Goals’ (MDGs) 2015 deadline approaches, the Government of Guyana on Thursday held a workshop which involved Government officials and the relevant stakeholders to examine the successes and challenges which persist in relation to the achievement of some of the goals. Guyana has made tremendous progress towards accomplishing almost all of the MDGs, including MDG Three, Gender Equality, and some of MDG Seven, Environmental Sustainability. However, there are some challenges with MDG Five, Maternal Health. According to Minister of Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, who addressed participants of the event, held at the Guyana International Conference Centre (GICC), MDG Five was the subject of attention as a result of which the Government engaged the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and received support in developing an MDG acceleration framework, which highlights prioritised actions that will see Guyana achieving the goal. “Gone are the days when we can say we are at the halfway point. I have no doubt that we undervalued the luxury of time; time is no more, because 2015 is upon us, and we are rightly and justifiably judged regarding whether we have achieved or not achieved,” Dr Singh noted. He said that in a modestly resourced country, “you can fly in an airplane for five hours and in a boat for three hours, and walk for another five hours and still wouldn’t reach the most remote village. And when you get to that village, there are families with primary school-age children; children-bearing mothers, and people who require medical treatment.” “In today’s world,” he said, “we don’t have the luxury of saying that remoteness of those communities exempts them from receiving the much-needed services. They are not exempt from the MDG framework, and I don’t enjoy the luxury of saying that because they live far away…remoteness is not an excuse for exception for development or specifically the MDG framework.” Guyana is not without very peculiar challenges,

At Thursday’s MDG workshop, seated from left are: Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Ms Jennifer Webster; Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh; UNDP Programme Representative, Ms Khadijah Musa; and Presidential Adviser on Governance, Ms Gail Teixeira

and must be commended for achieving as many of the goals it has achieved. The minister said that these goals were closely associated with Government’s priorities, and incorporated in the national policy-making framework, which would have helped significantly. “So, where you have a sector plan or strategy that incorporates explicitly that target that relates to that sector, and that plan becomes national policy and informs policy and resources mobilisation and national budget allocation…becomes a part of the bread-and-butter of the sector, then you have the first prerequisite of success,” Dr. Singh said. The minister also acknowledged its development partners, especially the UNDP which has played a major role in ensuring these goals are met. Minister Singh concluded by highlighting that the MDG 8, ‘Develop a global partnership for development’, is still the most unaccomplished in the entire MDG framework. “It is to the collective shame of the global community that 45

critical and positive and contribute to the Government’s effort. The MDGs provide a structured framework of development goals, within which the major development challenges as it relates to quality of life are contained. (GINA)

Stakeholders participating in the MDG workshop at the Guyana International Conference Centre

years later, only five or six developed nations of the world are remotely close to meeting that obligation; and most of the developed world are woefully short in falling when it comes to meeting this obligation,” Dr Singh said. Meanwhile, UNDP Representative, Khadijah Musa spoke of the UNDP’s role in supporting countries on their developmental path, and how it has supported Guyana Government in developing its MDG progress

in 2003, 2007 and 2011. The organisation is committed to supporting the Government in publishing its progress

report by the end of this year. She urged the participants to tell their story and to not hesitate to be both

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

CIA to make sweeping changes, focus more on cyber ops: agency chief By Mark Hosenball WASHINGTON, (Reuters) - The Central Intelligence Agency will make one of the biggest overhauls in its nearly 70-year history, aimed in part at sharpening its focus on cyber operations and incorporating digital innovations, CIA director John Brennan said. Brennan said he is creating new units within the CIA, called “mission centers,” intended to concentrate the agency’s focus on specific challenges or geographic areas, such as weapons proliferation or Africa. The CIA director said he also is establishing a new “Directorate of Digital Innovation” to lead efforts to track and take advantage of advances in cyber technology to gather intelligence. Historically, electronic eavesdroppers at the National Security Agency have been at the cutting edge of

mitigate what U.S. officials have said is damage to intelligence gathering caused by former NSA and CIA contractor Edward Snowden. The 10 new “mission centers” will bring together CIA officers with expertise from across the agency’s range of disciplines to concentrate on specific intelligence target areas or subject matter, Brennan said. Competition between spy agencies and between units within agencies has led to “stove piping” of information that should have been widely shared and to critical information falling through bureaucratic cracks, Brennan and other U.S. intelligence officials said. “I know there are seams right now, but what we’ve tried to do with these mission centers is cover the entire universe, regionally and functionally, and so something that’s going on in the world falls into one of those buckets,” Brennan said.

CIA director John Brennan digital innovation within the U.S. government. But the CIA felt that it had to reorganize to keep up with the technological “pace of change,” as one official put it. Brennan said the new digital directorate will have equal status within the agency with four other directorates which have existed for years. “Our ability to carry out our responsibilities for human intelligence and national security responsibilities has become more challenging” in today’s digital world,

Brennan said. “And so what we need to do as an agency is make sure we’re able to understand all of the aspects of that digital environment.” Brennan briefed a small group of reporters on the changes on Wednesday, on the condition they did not publish until he told CIA employees on Friday. Stepping up the CIA’s expertise in cyberspace may help it counter technological innovations and sophisticated use of social media by militant groups such as Islamic State. It could also

The CIA currently operates at least two such interdisciplinary centers, covering counter-terrorism and counter-intelligence. Reaction to the CIA reorganization was mostly positive, although some veterans acknowledged it will likely prompt bureaucratic friction within the spy agency. “I think that this will strengthen the CIA significantly over time,” former CIA acting director and deputy director Michael Morell said. “There are short term costs...A lot of things to work out,” Morell added. “And there are going to be... senior people with heartburn.” Sen. Richard Burr, chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, praised Brennan’s moves. “This reorganization was driven not by any institutional failure, but by the realization that the world has changed over the course

of the last 70 years. In many ways, the Director’s proposal is long overdue,” Burr said in a statement. Created in 1947, the CIA is divided into four major directorates. Two - the Directorate of Science and Technology, which among other activities invents spy gadgets, and the Directorate of Support, which handles administrative and logistical tasks - will retain their names. The Directorate of Intelligence will be renamed “Directorate of Analysis” to reflect its function as the home of agency experts who collate and analyze information from secret and open sources, Brennan said. The National Clandestine Service, home of frontline agency undercover “case officers,” who recruit spies and conduct covert actions, will be renamed Directorate of Operations, which is what it had been called for most of the agency’s history.

U.S. said to prepare corruption charges against Sen. Menendez nied any wrongdoing. “As we have said before, we believe all of the senator’s actions have been appropriate and lawful, and the facts will ultimately confirm that,” Tricia Enright, Menendez’s communications director, said in a statement. Noting that the official investigation of the matter was ongoing, she said the senator’s office “cannot address allegations being made anonymously.” CNN said Attorney General Eric Holder has given the green light for prosecu-

By Patricia Zengerle WASHINGTON(Reuters) - The U.S. Justice Department is preparing criminal corruption charges against New Jersey Democratic Senator Robert Menendez, CNN reported yesterday. Citing unnamed sources briefed on the case, CNN said the charges center on allegations that Menendez used his office to promote the business interests of a Democratic donor and friend in exchange for gifts. Menendez’s office de-

U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez

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tors to proceed with charges and an announcement could arrive in coming weeks. Holder, who was traveling in South Carolina with President Barack Obama, said he could not comment. Justice Department officials declined to comment. If charges are brought against Menendez it is possible he would have to step down from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, where he is the top Democrat. Federal authorities have probed Menendez’s relationship with Florida

05/03/2015

ophthalmologist Salomon Melgen, a Democratic donor who has been accused of overbilling the Medicare program. CNN said the government’s case focuses on Melgen and, in part, on plane trips that Menendez took in 2010 to the Dominican Republic as a guest of Melgen. Prosecutors also are focusing on whether Menendez advocated for Melgen’s business interest in a Dominican Republic government contract for port screening equipment, CNN said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Suriname abolishes death penalty By Marvin Hokstam

PARAMARIBO, SURINAME, (CMC) – THE National Assembly has approved legislation formally abolishing the death penalty in the Dutch-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country. But the legislators raised the highest prison term limits from 30 to 50 years in what is seen as a compromise to amending the Criminal code. Parliament also scrapped conditional release for people convicted of capital crimes. Convicts doing time for murder, manslaughter, sexual offences or major drug crimes are now no lon-

Suriname’s Justice Minister Edward Belfort ger eligible for release after serving three quarters of

their sentences. Justice Minister Edward Belfort had initially suggested that that maximum jail sentence be increased to 30 years, but parliamentarians deemed it necessary to send an even stronger signal to criminals. Crime has been on the rise and parliamentarians argued that criminals were exhibiting almost sadistic behaviour, often leaving victims dead or gravely injured. They favoured hiking the maximum jail sentence instead to 50 years, “for crimes that would otherwise be punished with the death penalty,” the National Assembly said in a statement. “The punishments for

major crimes have been increase . That is a clear signal,” said Ruth Wijdenbosch, the Vice Chair of the National Assembly said at the end of the meeting. She was among the parliamentarians who worked to have the death penalty removed from the criminal code. Suriname has not implemented the death penalty since 1927, but the capital punishment remained included in the country’s Criminal Code. Last year Belfort went on record as saying that there is no need for the death penalty, because as far as he was concerned capital punishment

was not having the desired effect in the countries where it is applied. “We leave the crimes people commit to their consciences; in the meantime we (do our best to) catch them and bring them to justice,” he said, then, noting that he is not a giver of life and would not encourage taking of a life. In the statement issued by the National Assembly, it noted that the new legislation to abolish the death penalty puts Suriname in line with international trend. The approval of the new criminal code has been nine years in the making. The amended legislation includes punish-

ments for cybercrime and terrorism; these crimes were not included in the old law. Belfort also presented a re-socialisation plan for convicts to the National Assembly. He told legislators that the plan focuses on reintroducing repeat offenders to the community, by taking them through a tight regimen of social development. Houses of detention will be transformed to houses of correction where convicts are prepared for their reintroduction. Belfort said the plan also takes into consideration the legal protection of convicts as well the com-

ST. Lucia PM leaves Venezuela CASTRIES, St. Lucia, (CMC) – PRIME Minster Dr. Kenny Anthony was due to leave Venezuela yesterday after attending a special meeting of heads of state and governments whose countries are members of the Caracas led PetroCaribe oil initiative and the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of

Our America (ALBA). Anthony said that the meeting while it had been convened to discuss issues related to PetroCaribe and ALBA, it presented a great opportunity to extend thanks to Venezuela and ALBA for their assistance and to explore new areas of cooperation. “Venezuela and ALBA

have been exceedingly generous to St. Lucia and this is another opportunity to say thank you. The ALBA Bridge was recently completed and our students are currently receiving laptops made available by Venezuela. “To date we have received over EC$37 million (One EC dollar =US$0.37 cents) in grant funding from

ALBA. For this we are grateful,” he said. Anthony said that “It is my hope that we will be successful in getting further assistance.” O n T h u r s d a y, t h e Prime Minister attended the commemoration of the second anniversary of the death of Former President Hugo Chavez.

Ruling party crushes opposition in Local Government polls B E L M O PA N , B e l i z e , (CMC) – THE ruling United Democratic Party (UDP) won a crushing victory in Wednesday’s Local Government elections that political observers said would have served as a baramoter for the general election expected in two years’ time. The Dean Barrow led UDP won as many as 61 of the 67 seats contested with the main People’s United Party (PUP) the remaining six. Chief Elections Officer Josephine Tamai had indicated that 165, 644 persons were eligible to vote in the election and following the preliminary results, PUP leader Francis Fonseca said he had no plans to resign. “In the wake of any election defeat, and certainly this was a very decisive defeat… for the People’s United Party with potentially two years to come before a general election. I think everybody has to take a look at themselves and it starts with the leader.

“The leader has to look at himself in the mirror, the leader has to self-examine. So I think it’s an absolutely legitimate question, but I have given no thought to resignation,” he said. ‘We went into this election with our eyes wide open. We understood that there was a huge imbalance in terms of resources. We have consistently said, and I have consistently said, that I believe that the line between the government treasury and the UDP coffers has virtually disappeared, and I think that should be an issue of legitimate concern for all Belizeans,” Fonseca said. But he said the party has accepted the results, adding “we have to get up and fight. “We have to determine ways of putting in place a very comprehensive campaign financing programme for our party. That is the reality. We need more money than we have now to adequately and properly fight these elections, and I believe

that we will be able to do so.” Darrell Bradley, the incumbent Mayor of Belize City said his party was pleased with the results while Kevin Bernard, the Mayor, Orange Walk Town, the only municipality won by the PUP told reporters “

“I can only say that I am happy. I want to thank the people who came out and exercised their vote for whatever party.” In 2012, when both the general and local elections were held, the UDP won 17 of the 31 seats in the general election.

Prime Minster Dr. Kenny Anthony

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

EDITORIAL Caged for life! MEDIA operatives see so much crime that sometimes they become blasé, impervious to the pain even while recognising the tragic circumstances at an academic level. But sometimes the sheer bestiality of some crimes rock them to the core, and they are relentless in their pursuit to see justice done. Of recent times, two such cases grabbed hold of the attention of the staffers at the Guyana Chronicle, and while one seemingly would not conclude in justice for the victim, the outcome of the other has engendered supreme satisfaction, not merely among Chronicle staffers, but the entire nation, which has breathed a collective sigh of relief that justice has been served.

Sheema Mangar and Neesa Gopaul were two bright and beautiful young girls whose lives were snuffed out without a qualm by persons who coveted their properties. Sheema was brutally killed for her cellphone, and Neesa met her demise for the property her father left her and her baby sister, and had her life destroyed long before, because of the lust of two evil people with souls as depraved as Satan’s. The difference between these two tragedies is the difference in the character and actions of the mothers of these two girls. A mother is the first and last line of defence against the world for her child; but what does a child do when the enemy is the person God gifted her as her ‘Guardian Angel’: Her mother. Motherhood is a sacred

trust, and mothers are revered beings as a norm. In every culture under the sun! But Naree Gopaul proved to be one of the exceptions to the norm. While Sheema’s mother, Radhika Thakoor is relentless in her pursuit of justice for her slain child; enduring scorn and vilification from officials who consider her a pest to be brushed off with anger like someone swatting away a pestilential mosquito, Neesa’s mother joined with a monster to slay her own child, impervious to the child’s years-long agony as she endured being forcibly made to become a drug addict; a sex slave who was beaten badly and raped as a regular feature; a prisoner in the home which her loving father built to create a haven for her; and finally had her life wrenched with

GUYANA

the most severe bestiality from her, even while she pleaded with a monstrous mother not to kill her. What was tragic was that the child knew that eventuality was coming; she was too bright not to know that, but she also knew that she was the bastion protecting her beloved baby sister from a similar fate; so she endured. One senior Chronicle staffer knew that the duo was guilty; she conducted an investigation from one corner of the country to the other, and wrote endless stories on the issue. Along the way, she learnt of the manner in which the deadly duo murdered the helpless child. Because of the legal implications, that story was written as a short story: Place names were changed. Berbice became Essequibo and vice versa. Leonora became New Amsterdam. Genders

were changed so Neesa’s two sisters became boys, with her baby sister, Miriam, being converted to Joseph. Naree fittingly became Lolita; but five years ago, this newspaper revealed to the world what the Star Witness revealed in Court recently during the trial of the deadly duo. In the Guyana Chronicle Online version’s search engine, one can punch in “Murder most foul” and that story would come up, eerily reflecting and authenticating what the Star Witness testified to in Court. This witness is not known to the Chronicle staffer who got her information from another person at another facility. Today, Justice Navindra Singh is a hero. The fear that these evil persons would escape justice was palpable in the entire nation; but the judge deliv-

ered a fitting punishment. Let them experience for the rest of their miserable lives what an innocent child was forced to endure at their hands until the end of her life. Sheema’s mother is still heartbreakingly seeking justice for her child, and the perplexing signs are indicating that the evidence was lost, so her quest seems a vain one. But even though her heart is breaking, she is not giving up. In Neesa’s case today, those who loved her, and a nation that grieved for a bright and beautiful girl, full of promise, who never had that promise fructify, are satisfied that justice has been served, and the deadly duo are where they belong: Locked away in cages like the beasts that they are.

Something’s not kosher about this GECOM-GNYC pact THERE IS increasing suspicion over the Guyana National Youth Council’s (GNYC) agreement with the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), guaging from the defenders of this controversial initiative. Most of those who have so far offered public commentary in defence of this initiative belong to organisations with sordid history, lacking democratic credentials and practices of fairness and objectivity. In the Stabroek News of March 6, 2015, PNC/APNU member Ms. Lurlene Nestor stands out as one of those individuals belonging to the type of organsiation I described, joining her colleague James Bond; and for many, their positions have given rise to greater concerns about this controversial initiative. It is unfortunate that Ms. Nestor seems to have absolutely no regard for credibility, as her contribution to the letters column avoided addressing the growing concerns among

young people about the lack of transparency of this GNYCGECOM initiative, their disregard for the inclusion of other youth organisations to develop an initiative that meets the approval of the widest cross-section of the youth population. It is just not about having an initiative; what equally matters is that any such initiative must be credible, and can be trusted as being objective and for the benefit of all the youths of voting age in Guyana. Why do Ms. Nestor and Mr. Bond seem to believe that an initiative (such as the one by GNYC) designed to promote a change of government, ignoring the alternative of youth supporting continued progress is credible and ought to receive the support of the youth population and society as a whole? From the inception of its formation, the GNYC has not impressed anyone as an organisation that is truly representative of youth in Guyana;

and given its history and members’ allegiance to the Political Opposition Parties, it cannot be trusted with pulling off a credible initiative that meets above-board standards. The GECOM has its own integrity to protect, and should avoid being dragged into situations where it is supporting any such organisation under the wrong pretext of being a representative organisation of all the youths of Guyana. On learning about this initiative, I consulted with several youth organisations’ representatives, more than a dozen, and they claimed to have no knowledge or involvement with the so-called GNYC. Young people should be consulted and included in the designs of initiatives of which they are intended beneficiaries. A handful of people cannot make commitment on the future of the majority. The attempt by Ms. Nestor to foist her own interpretation on Guyanese of the People

Progressive Party’s objection to this controversial initiative as an attack on youth is ludicrous the least. Only recently, the show of thousands of young people under the banner of the Pro-

gressive Youth Organization, youth arm of the PPP in the Mash parade, was again a striking reminder of the People Progressive Party’s commitment to young people. In almost every aspect

of our political work and governance of this country the youth factor is always considered, prominent and recognisable. KWAME MC COY

Bond, APNU suffering bouts of political hysteria THE Progressive Youth Organisation of Guyana (PYO) wishes to firmly restate its position that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) must formally engage a wide cross-section of youth bodies and organisations to develop strategies for mobilising and encouraging youth to participate in the electoral process on May 11, 2015. GECOM, if it is interested in its independent image and transparency, cannot afford to enter into piece-meal arrangements with selected groups, which purport to rep-

resent the interests of young people, to develop messages that are intended for the entire population of young people who are eligible to vote. We firmly believe that if GECOM is also seriously interested in boosting its critical voter education programme, it must try harder to put mechanisms in place that will remove suspicions of political bias and covert political interference in its work. At this point, the PYO wishes to out rightly reject statements attributed to A Partnership for National Unity Executive James Bond which

seek to suggest that the PYO and ruling People’s Progressive Party are against the involvement of youth in crafting policies for their participation in the democratic process. Bonds’ statements are far from the truth and a sordid attempt by desperate youth leaders within the APNU’s fold to achieve cheap political mileage from peddling misleading propaganda. The PYO has taken note of Bond and the APNU’s vested interest in safeguarding the political agendas of

See page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Investments became much more viable under the PPP OVER the past years, we have seen an influx of highprofile investors coming to Guyana, and, along with local investors, make significant investments in our country. This is representative of the growing confidence in Guyana as an investment environment, something that simply was not there 23 years ago. It is part of the People Progressive Party (PPPs)’s dream to make Guyana a more marketable and suitable environment for foreign investors. I would like to highlight some of the works that the PPP did, so as to produce this very comfortable environment for investors. One of the conditions that have to be in place in order to attract investors is a climate of political stability and peace. Guyana has, over the years,

made significant strides in achieving political stability and peace. Years ago, Opposition supporters, led by leaders of the Opposition, would protest in the streets of Georgetown, uprooting, looting, blocking roadways and intimidating onlookers and investors. Over the years, Guyana has become a more tolerant society, and this created a hospitable climate for investors. There are now Legislations that support legal protection and procedures for doing business in Guyana. This has definitely aided in attracting investors to our country. The fact that investors are legally protected boosts their confidence. Over the last 23 years, Guyana has seen a massive improvement in social infrastructure; there are better roads, bridges, access to po-

table water and much more reliable electricity. The social infrastructure of the country has seen massive improvement. Paved roads now open up vast areas of lands. Access to communities is at its peak in Guyana. Gone are the days when blackouts used to last for days. Better access, electricity and water mean that investors are better able to get their goods and services to the markets. The infrastructure needed for investment simply was not there 23 years ago. The current government of Guyana also offers generous tax holidays to investors. Duty-free concessions are given to investors, and these significantly reduce overhead costs. Lower overhead costs mean an overall lower cost of production. This makes the prices of locally produced goods com-

Has the ‘Alliance’ undergone a sudden metamorphosis THE new PNC/APNU+AFC alliance has launched their campaign with talk of unity, national reconciliation, and promise of providing decent and honourable leadership. According to press reports, they’ve outlined plans and programmes for investment, growth and development of Guyana. The question is: Has the Opposition experienced a sudden conversion? They need to account for their display of anti-development, destructive, and unpatriotic behaviour during the past three years and beyond. Patriotic Guyanese, especially voters, need answers to these questions: * How is collaborating in the National Assembly against the incumbent over the last three years reflective of honourable leadership and promoting national unity? * How organising riots in Linden and Agricola honorable leadership, and contributed to national unity? * How did disapproving expenditure in the national budget aid in development and provide a better life for Guyanese? * How making ordinary people “collateral damage” give them a better life? * How getting Guyana blacklisted by blocking passage of amendments to Anti-Money-Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill will benefit Guyana? * How is driving away investors for major projects, encouraging investment? * How ending the life of Parliament prematurely, help Guyana’s development programme? Also, we need to understand: * How can Nagamootoo speak about the restoration of democracy in 1992 alongside those who denied us that right for almost three decades and from whom it had to be fought for with the loss of many lives? * Who is responsible for the 1955 split that resulted in the division Nagamootoo laments? Is it not the same group with which he now coalesces? * How can a coalition based on hatred, and survival bring development and a better life to Guyanese? What believable promise can the PNC/APNU+AFC offer Guyana at a time when there should not be the stress of elections? It is their vengeance seeking agenda that brought us to this time two years early. They make it clear that their main purpose is the removal of the PPP/C from office – the only party in government that has brought development to Guyana. They seem so obsessed in their cause that it leaves the impression that Guyana’s development on their watch, if any, will be “collateral”. Their agenda of hatred was practised against the private sector during their dark 28-year reign. We experienced the results up to 1992 and they continued in that mode with dissecting every contract and making unfair comparisons, on labeling the agents of development in negative terms – terms more applicable to the 1964-1992 rulers. They seem bent on continuing to prevent Guyana from moving forward as shown by their actions in the tenth parliament and their professed aim of removing it from office. Will we allow them to pull off their hoax with fake promises? There are too many thinking and discerning citizens to fall for their false promises. But we also need to be vigilant of their bullying ways as displayed at the 2011 elections, and make sure they do not bully their way into power and impose their oppression and another dark era on Guyana once again. CONCERNED CITIZEN

petitive with those produced overseas. Competitive prices make the products available to more buyers; hence the investors are more confident of their product competing. The economic performance of Guyana, especially over the past nine years, has sent positive signs as well. The country has seen nine years of continuous growth and is currently the fastest growing country in the Caribbean. Inflation rates have also been kept to single digits. Guyana has achieved this amid a global financial collapse and is expected to grow further in the coming years.

Guyana is on its way to Universal Secondary Education. Guyana’s workforce has matured and this has made it easier for companies to come and invest. An educated workforce means that skills are available locally, and investors will not have to import talent from overseas. This is especially true for the numerous call centers that we have seen popping up over the years. Qualfon and Clear Connect employ thousands of young Guyanese. They have both given positive reviews of their Guyanese staff. Guyana has shown continuous upward momentum under the PPP. We have made this possible through better education,

better infrastructure, better legislations, more hospitable social and political climate and better tax holidays. With projects like a deep water harbor, CJIA (Cheddi Jagan International Airport) expansion, highway expansions and hydropower, Guyana can only climb further up. Over the past 23 years, we have seen tremendous growth and positive change. Guyana is now an economy where multinational companies like ExxonMobil and Marriot Invest. What can we expect next? Google? Samsung? DAVENDRA KISSOON

Bond, APNU suffering bouts of ...

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the Guyana National Youth Council which we believe is working on their behalf to craft subtle and partisan messages to be sent to the youth electorate. We wish to again state categorically that while we welcome the decision by GECOM to engage youth, it must be done in a fair, open, transparent and non-partisan manner. Additionally, while the PYO can appreciate the fact that the concept of inclusionary democracy, fairness and transparency are foreign to the

minds of Bond and the APNU, we will not be sidetracked in our endeavour to ensure that other organisations with legitimate mandates are also formally consulted by GECOM and involved in the crafting of these messages. In the meantime, Bond, who admitted that he is uncertain about his political future within the opposition ranks following the signing of the controversial Cummingsburgs Accord, could continue to clutch at straws. The PYO remains committed to its fight for youth development, youth participation in all levels of the

democracy, and youth empowerment. Bond and APNU would be well served addressing the scandalous and explosive statements made by those who have left their folds, and other youth leaders who have been made collateral damage when they axed the monies budgeted for Student Loans for the University of Guyana and further jeopardized the future of youths by undermining the Amaila Falls Project, the Anti-money Laundering Bill and other sweeping initiatives in the Tenth Parliament.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Gov’t commits continued support to mining sector Serious talk: Seated at the head table during discussions with the mining community are, from left, President Donald Ramotar; Natural Resources Minister, Mr Robert Persaud; and GGDMA President, Mr Patrick Harding

Miners at the meeting with President Donald Ramotar and Natural Resources Minister, Mr Robert Persaud

THE Government has given its assurance to continue supporting the mining sector through ongoing collaboration at various levels. This commitment was expressed by President Donald Ramotar and Min-

ated its collaboration with all stakeholders within the mining sector, towards the viability and sustainability of the mining sector. The GGDMA sought the Government’s intervention following fluctuating global gold prices. However, it was

ister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Mr Robert Persaud following a meeting Thursday with Executives of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) and other stakeholders to explore initiatives and inter-

ventions for the sector. The meeting, which was held at the Guyana International Conference Centre, explored several areas of support which are either at various stages of implementation, or under review. The Government reiter-

stated that the challenges facing the sector can be collectively addressed through continued collaboration and engagements between all stakeholders. The GGDMA, meanwhile, has again expressed its appreciation for the

support provided by the Government for the issuance of a fuel import licence, waivers on spares and equipment for the mining sector, access to foreign currency and tax waiver on double cab pickups. (GINA)

President urges women to continue – in spite of considerable fighting for their rights gains in this regard PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar on Wednesday evening called on women to support each other regardless of race, colour, creed or political persuasion in pursuit of their rights, as he delivered the feature address at a gathering at State House to commemorate International Women’s Day. Speaking to the hundreds of women, invited guests and, a few men gathered at his official residence, President Ramotar urged women to remember the sacrifices of those women who have gone before and their struggles for equality. He noted that the early leaders of the PPP awakened the consciousness of Guyanese of the need to mount a special struggle for the rights of women. He read an article written by the late Party co-founder and former President, Ms Janet Jagan on October 1, 1944 and printed in the Argosy Newspaper. He said that the article, which focused on the need for adult suffrage for women and the obstacles they faced, “cap-

President Donald Ramotar addressing women and stakeholders at a State House ceremony late Wednesday to mark International Women’s Day

tured a vision that we still embrace today.” He not only lauded the achievements of Mrs. Jagan, but also recalled her struggle for human rights for all. He said he was proud to a part of political party that has scored many firsts for local women, such as the election of the first woman to political office. “In 1951,” he said, “three members of the PPP contested the Georgetown Council elections, Cheddi Jagan,

Forbes Burnham and Janet Jagan. Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham lost. Janet Jagan won a seat on the Georgetown Town Council! This fact was one of the many that saw Mrs. Jagan being named one of the 100 most rebellious women, ever, in the world.” The achievements of the first Chief Justice, Chancellor and first female Caribbean Court of Justice Desiree Bernard were also recalled by the president. The strug-

gle for women’s rights is also one for justice and all must have equal opportunity to be educated, President Ramotar emphasised. He added that he was also proud of the fact the country has attained universal nursery and primary education and is very close to achieving the same at the secondary level. He said the time will come when all are judged not by gender, but by their ability. The rights of women, it was also noted are

enshrined in the constitution and ratified by international conventions such as the “Convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women”. Gender based violence must be stopped, the president stated, saying “I know we can do better as a country.” The Domestic Violence Act enacted in 1996, was also mentioned by him, as were the Women’s Affairs Bureau and the Men’s Affairs Bureau along with the revised Sexual Offences Act, all of which give females some of the protection they may need. Women, the president also reminded are often at the forefront of community development and holding leadership positions, and these facts “must be celebrated.” The Head of State spoke out against politicians who are aspiring to return to office and urging the public to forget the past, when many of them trampled on the rights of Guyanese. He said, “I do not want to recall the past because I want to

live in the past, but I want to recall our past so that we can understand our present, and we can appreciate our achievements, and we can plan our future and ensure that the same people who are refusing to apologise for wrongs that they did in this country must never, ever, again hold high office in this country”. The women were also addressed by Home Affairs Minister and PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee. Following brief remarks by Chairperson of the Women’s Progressive Organisation, Indra Chandarpal, PPP/C’s Prime Ministerial candidate Elisabeth Harper reflected on the theme of the observance, “Make it happen”, and commended the WPO and other women’s organisations, as well as some men, for their work in advancing women’s rights. Several women were also honoured and presented with tokens of appreciation for their contributions to the struggle for human and women’s rights.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Spirit of conviviality prevails as...

Guyanese celebrate Festival of Colours with gay abandon

Even the animals enjoyed the festivities yesterday

A typical example of the togetherness which characterises the holiday PHAGWAH celebrations swept the streets and homes of Guyanese citizens yesterday as people

of all ethnicities and from all walks of life celebrated the colourful festival with gay abandon.

The Guyana Chronicle yesterday visited some of

See Page 17

Some young ladies preparing themselves before heading out to the fun This boy did his bit of mischief

At a popular city â€˜watering holeâ€™ yesterday

One big happy family enjoying Phagwah

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Two in custody after dumping dead friend at hospital By Leroy Smith

TWENTY-eight-year-old Shem Padmore, also known as “Ato”, of Kaneville, East Bank Demerara, was rushed to and dumped at the Diamond Diagnostic Hospital by three men in a car. The incident reportedly occurred after he was allegedly attacked by someone while in the company of two of those men. He was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. This publication was reliably informed that the body of the father of two bore injuries that appeared to be gunshot or stab wounds, but those would be determined by a post-mortem on Monday. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle on Friday afternoon, the dead man’s cousin, Doneeca Edinboro, explained that the family received a call just after midnight,

informing that her relative’s injured body had been found on the roadway, and that he had been rushed to the Diamond Hospital. She said the family rushed to the hospital and were initially informed by police ranks that the man had been shot to the face, but they found no evidence to substantiate this claim when they saw the body. Ms Edinboro explained that closer examination of Padmore’s body revealed three injuries, one in close proximity to his lungs; another in the region of his rib cage; and yet another in the back, which relatives believe may have punctured his heart. They are convinced that Padmore had been stabbed with either an ice pick or a long screwdriver. Ms Edinboro said the family has also been told that a car with three men had raced into the hospital compound, dumped

Kidney Foundation of Guyana has new offices, expanded personnel THE Kidney Foundation of Guyana,launched on March 10, 2011 with intention of being the organization advocating countrywide for prevention and early detection of kidney diseases, has indicated it is now able to set up office, and to appoint an admin-

Ms.Claudia Hinds istrator. The Foundation can now be found in the Guyenterprise Building at 234 Irving & Lance Gibbs Streets in Queenstown, Georgetown. The Foundation has also been most fortunate in recruiting the services of Ms. Mitzy Campbell to help in carrying out its mandate and in interfacing with the public and the press. She can be reached at 226-9874, cell 651-7149 and email kidneyfoundationgy@gmail.com to refer requests for advice

and guidance to the Kidney Foundation’s team of learned medical personnel. The Foundation, moreover, warmly welcomes on its Management Committee Dr. Areefa Alladin and Ms. Claudia Hinds, who are both employed at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Ms. Mitzy Campbell

Dr. Areefa Alladin

the body at the facility, and disappeared. However, the vehicle’s registration number had been recorded by persons at the facility, and that was handed over to the police, resulting in the arrest of two men and the impounding of the car. The two arrested men admitted to being friends of the late Shem Ato Padmore, and claimed they were in his presence when he was attacked and injured. They also told investigators that they are familiar with the person who had injured Padmore. Up to late last evening, however, the police could not confirm whether the injuries evident on the dead man’s body were gunshot or stab wounds. The man’s reputed wife is expected to revisit the police station today. Shem Padmore, relatives said, had been employed at one of the fisheries along the East Bank Demerara.

Dead: Shem Padmore

Edghill urges fathers to save sons from depravity ––calls Facebook source of negative influence

BISHOP Juan Edghill has called on fathers to pay more attention to their sons, to ensure that they are instilled with proper values so that they will respect women and girls, and be gentlemen in society. Speaking at a recent gender-based violence workshop, Edghill, who is Minister within the Ministry of Finance, said the psyche of youth today is reflective in their language, which to a large extent is devoid of elegance. The culture of language nowadays, Edghill told the gathering of religious leaders, is one primarily centred on violence, with little or no attention to grace and respect. The elegance of literary genius William Shakespeare and Roman Emperor Julius Caesar, he said has virtually disappeared, and has been replaced by expressions of aggression. A good example, the Minister said, is if one happens to listen to a conversation among some young boys, sharing their interest in a young lady. Giving an insight, he said the expression is like “when I brackle her and get through, I will throw her down,” pointing out that parents, and fathers in particular, need to work with their sons to break this morally-depraving culture. And according to him, the depraved culture is pervasive and contagious, noting that for many, it is their preferred style of expression on social media, especially Facebook, which he said is the medium for this kind of “cesspool”. On most occasions, he lamented, “Anything that is bad is promoted as good.” But apart from social media, he also pointed to violent expressions commonly used in the home, which are viewed as normal and acceptable. Parents, the Minister said, telling their children, “I will kill you if you go to the show” or “I will break your foot if you don’t go to church” not only propagates but institutionalises the culture of violence. He said parents, notably fathers, as they are usually the guilty one, also need to be mindful of how they speak to their spouses. Edghill explained that they have to be more mindful, as apparently men are always painted in the negative light, and no one seems to recognise when they do good. Look at the good side too. “A man taking his daughter to clinic” or “helping her to cross the road” will never make the

front pages of the national newspapers, he said, and urged the media to also look at the good side of men. “It cannot be only when a man beats a woman it becomes big news,” he said. Too much negativity, he stressed belittles the self-esteem of men, pointing that while the bad acts must be highlighted, it should not be done in a manner to paint men in general as bad. Edghill said even religious leaders have to be careful of how they convey their messages. He said it would be better if in highlighting a bad action by a man, they focus on solutions and the way forward rather than be condemnatory. NOT ONLY CONDEMNATION On this note, the Minister said all out-of-control men must be embraced, not embarrassed, contending that condemnation does little to positively change them. This, he said, would require the empowerment of women, so that they will see things in a broader light and desist from acting “hysterical” and get “historical” when they do not see things on equal terms. But he reminded men to be ever mindful of how they speak to their spouses and treat them, least it provokes them to behave hysterically or remind them of bad incidents in the past, causing them to also get historical. MEEK, NOT WEAK According to Edghill, a good man is not necessarily a macho man, but a man of understanding who knows that meekness does not mean weakness. “If the woman hits you, kiss her and end the problem,” he advised, contending that a man does not have to kill a woman who gives him ‘blow’ (infidelity). He said the matter can be resolved peacefully, positing that there are some men with “big hearts” who forgave their cheating spouses, refusing to allow an ugly incident to push them to do ugly things. Nevertheless, he said, gender-based violence is an issue which should not be addressed separately, but together, as the matter required mutual understanding for an amicable agreement.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Killing of Providence teen…

Suspect, occupants abandon home, gone into hiding By Leroy Smith JERMAINE Simon of Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara, the main suspect in the shooting death of 19-yearold Ryan Sooklall of Providence, East Bank Demerara, has reportedly gone into hiding. Sources who spoke with this publication earlier in the week say that Guyana Police Force (GPF) ranks have been trying to locate Simon since the shooting incident, but their efforts have been without success. Police sources have disclosed that ranks have since visited Simon’s home and have found it abandoned. It has also been reported that on Sunday, after Simon’s home had been shot at, he had approached the police with a report about the incident, but did not confirm to the police that he knew who had done the shooting or whom he regarded as a suspect. It was only after the 19-year-old Sooklall had been killed by gunshot sustained in the back

in close proximity to his home on that Sunday evening that ranks were able to confirm that the dead teen might have been the suspect in the shooting up of Simon’s home. Investigators suspect that Simon did not tell them who he suspected of shooting up his home, because he had already formulated an intention to retaliate, hence the shooting death of Ryan Sooklall. This publication has been able to confirm that persons who were present when Sooklall was shot on Sunday night positively identified Jermaine Simon as the person who had shot Sooklall dead. RECAP Ryan Sooklall of 27 Providence East Bank Demerara was shot and killed while liming with friends in Providence, East Bank Demerara, just a short distance from where he lived, at approximately 19:00 hrs on Sunday evening.

Dead: Ryan Sooklall The Guyana Chronicle was informed that Sooklall died from a single gunshot wound to the back, inflicted by a man who may have retaliated to an earlier shooting on Sunday morning. This publication was told that Sooklall had reportedly visited the home of a man in Agricola, East Bank Demerara, and had discharged several shots thereat, causing the man and his family to panic.

Sooklall’s mother, Sherry Alleyne, explained on Sunday that she had last seen her son earlier on the day of his death, when he visited her at her other property, located in Region 3; and she said they had left there together after she had decided to visit the Splashmanis Fun Park with other relatives, something that Ryan was not willing to be part of, since, according to her, he had never liked going to the creek. Alleyne said that while she was on her way from the creek, she received a call that her son was shot and that he was rushed to the Diamond Hospital. Upon her arrival there, she discovered that her son was dead and appeared to have sustained a gunshot wound to the back. The woman said she had been told that a female from Agricola had threatened to kill her son, but she could not say when the threat had been made and if the woman is related to the man who is now being accused of shooting her son dead on Sunday evening. Ryan Sooklall is survived by his mother, two sisters and his father, having lost his older brother to a road accident in 2010. Police investigations into his death are ongoing.

With children in mind...

GPF appeals for greater care ,caution by motorists THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Wednesday urged motorists to practise greater care and caution when traversing roadways that are being used simultaneously by children. Children, whether walking or riding a bicycle, are apt to more than likely do the unexpected and motorists need to consider this when on the roadways and watch out for them,the police said in a statement. The police also reported that recently, an eight-year-old girl was struck down in Freeman Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown, by a motorist who sped away from the scene. She is presently hospitalised.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015 A man has been charged and the matter is before the court. As the GPF continues its traffic enforcement, up to Tuesday, March 3, 2015, there have been nineteen (19) road fatalities, compared to nineteen (19) for the corresponding period last year. Finally,during the period February 22 to 28, 2015, a number of cases have been made against motorists for breaching the traffic laws. These include: Speeding 615 Driving Under the Influence 34 Breach of Condition of Road Service Licence 47 Careless Driving 14 Dangerous Driving 11 Failure to wear safety helmet 09 Failure to wear seat belt 41 Prohibition of the use of hand held mobile phone 16 Six (6) persons were charged for the soliciting of passengers (touting).

Public-spirited citizens foil,arrest two armed robbers at Mahaica RANDOLPH Singh, 39, a vendor of Vereeniging, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, was about to enter his residence around 19:30hrs Wednesday last when he was confronted by four men armed with firearms, who held him at gunpoint along with his family and a labourer. During the robbery Randolph Singh was assaulted and shot to his left thigh. The perpetrators took away $600,000 in cash, a quantity of jewellery and escaped in a waiting vehicle. They were pursued by public-

spirited citizens during which the getaway vehicle ran into a canal and two of the men were arrested by villagers. The others managed to escape. The two suspects were handed over to the police, who had also responded to the report, and are in custody. The motor vehicle has been detained. An unlicensed .32 Taurus revolver with two rounds and two spent shells were recovered by the police. Randolph Singh was treated at a private hospital. An investigation is in progress.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Riot training not election oriented – says ACP David Ramnarine

Members of the Tactical Services Unit (TSU) undergoing training in crowd dispersal and control, riot control, and public order at Eve Leary on Thursday

ASSISTANT Police Commissioner David Ramnarine made it clear on Thursday that the public should not be alarmed by certain activities in which members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) are currently engaged. The activities at refer-

ence have to do with “Riot Training”, which, according to ACP Ramnarine, is something that has been standard within the Force for years. He told this publication that numerous photographs have appeared in the media over the past few months, of police ranks performing

riot training, and training in the dispersal of crowds and crowd control. As the officer in charge of the Operations’ arm of the Guyana Police Force, Ramnarine explained that riot training, crowd dispersal training, crowd control training and public order training are all part of the

core training functions of the Guyana Police Force. “It is not only at election periods that we conduct these trainings,” Ramnarine said. “These trainings have forever been ongoing,” Ramnarine explained in a bid to allay public concern. (Leroy Smith)

Some anti-HIV drugs increase risk of kidney disease EFFECTIVE HIV treatment has significantly reduced the risk of serious kidney disease in people with HIV. However, most anti-HIV drugs can cause some damage to the kidneys, so routine HIV care will involve regular tests to check on the health of one’s kidneys. Tenofovir (Viread, also in the combination pills Truvada, Atripla and Eviplera) is processed by the body through the kidneys, and there is evidence that it can cause damage to the kidneys over time. UK treatment guidelines recommend that people with moderate or severe existing kidney disease should not take tenofovir if there is a suitable alternative. People

with other risk factors for kidney disease (for example high blood pressure or diabetes) might have an increased risk of developing kidney problems when taking this drug. If one develops kidney problems, it might be necessary to change the HIV treatment, or to have additional treatment for this.

Bushmasters tour company attains Certificate of Conformity

TOUR COMPANY, Bushmasters, was recently presented with their Certificate of Conformity to the Tourism Regulations by the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA). The company has attained 100% conformity with the

underscored the importance of adhering to the highest standards that govern the industry, particularly when doing business with international companies. Meanwhile, GTA Director Haralsingh reiterated that all tourism businesses should

establishments meet the necessary requirements expected by any tourist or visitor. He said, “This is in no way a difficult process, but it is a process that requires commitment. We want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on this achievement

Managing Director of Bushmasters, Ian Craddock receives his Conformation Certificate from Director of the GTA, Indranauth Haralsingh Tourism Regulations and was issued with an operating license. “This should be an integral goal for all tourism operations,” said GTA Director Indranauth Haralsingh. Managing Director of Bushmasters, Ian Craddock, in accepting the certificate,

follow the example set by the entities which have been licensed to date, and to commit to the process. He again emphasised that in the an effort to prepare local businesses to become more competitive, the Tourism Ministry and the GTA are striving to ensure that these

and for following through with the process. This is a significant achievement and should set the precedent for other businesses.” Haralsingh acknowledged that with the growth in the tourism sector, conformity to set standards and regulations should be the focus

of tourism establishments, even as they employ the best marketing and promotional strategies. Alluding to the benefits to be derived from achieving 100% compliance, Haralsingh explained that the GTA will be separating these businesses and will provide a listing on their website. “This will determine who gets support in terms of both local and international exposure.” “The GTA Act and these regulations say that you need a license to operate any one of these businesses. We will not want our visitors to have a tourism experience with an unregistered and unlicensed business,” he said. Bushmasters Tours is the third tour operator to receive certification. Roraima Tours and Wilderness Explorers already achieved this important milestone, while Rock View Lodge Eco Tourism Resort was presented with their license under the Interior Lodges and Resort category and Princess Hotel and City Inn were granted licenses under the Tourism Accommodation category. CONTINUED MONITORING The GTA will continue to monitor and evaluate hospitality institutions across the country in their effort to ensure that the tourism industry in Guyana continues to grow and expand.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

ESSO donates books to UG

––To encourage population’s involvement in company THE University of Guyana on Thursday benefited from the donation of a number of text books for use by students of that institution. The donation came from the Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), a subsidiary of Exxon Mobile which is engaged in oil exploration off the shores of

UG Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Jacob Opadeyi (left) receives the books from EEPGL Country Manager, Mr Jeff Simons Guyana. Jeff Simons, Country Manager of EEPGL, who made the formal presentation to UG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jacob Opadeyi in the foyer of the University’s Library at the Turkeyen Campus, said that the donation was made in an effort to raise the academic level of the population, thereby enhancing the human resources available to the company. Simons explained that the company, which operates in over 80 countries and employs over 80,000 persons, started exploration 110 miles off the coast of Georgetown the said Thursday. Professor Opadeyi said that the donation resulted from discussions that started months ago when he was approached and asked what assistance was needed. He said that even though the university at present does not offer courses in that field, exposure to the knowledge for the students could lead them to further their studies in these areas. He said it is a first step in ensuring that the university offers training that meets the needs of industry. Noting that this is the first step in a number of areas that assistance has been promised by the company, the vice-chancellor said that he was hoping that students will be allowed, at some time, to visit the company’s offshore operations. He also requested that some of the equipment used in the operations be donated to the institution for use in training. EEPGL launched its operations in Guyana in November, 2014. At the official launch, Eric Oswald, Vice-President of Exxon Mobile had said that the company was committing close to US$200M in the exploration for oil and gas in the waters offshore Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Police, NRSC, Church team up for road project By Leroy Smith

THE Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force, under the leadership of Senior Superintendent Ian Amsterdam; the National Road Safety Council under the chairmanship of Mr Shahab Hack, and the youth arm of the Seventh Day Adventist Church embarked yesterday on a massive road safety awareness project, wherein several pedestri-

not aware of the locations of the zebra crossings, and that is largely because of the extent of which the crossings had faded. Traffic Chief Ian Amsterdam and several traffic ranks were on hand to witness the repainting exercise. Amsterdam told the Chronicle that the young peopleâ€™s initiative was a welcome one, especially since the Police Force is looking to have more young people engaged and involved in the voluntary promotion of road

Traffic Chief Ian Amsterdam and Chairman of NRSC, Mr Shahab Hack, in discussion during the exercise (Photos by Leroy Smith) an crossings in the North Ruimveldt area -- which has several schools and a number of washed out pedestrian crossings -were repainted. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle yesterday, director of the Everest Pathfinder Youth Group of the Seventh Day Adventist Church explained that, as part of the requirements of the manuals which they study in the youth group, the Pathfinders are mandated to do at least one community project; and her group decided to choose the repainting of pedestrian crossings. She said the group arrived at that project in comparison to the other projects that they could have done after they had consultations with schools and children about the presence of zebra crossings in their areas. She explained that most of the students were

safety in the country. He said the GPF usually welcomes with open arms partners who wish to cooperate with them, be it in their new community approach, intelligence sharing, or traffic management and road safety focus. Chairman of the National Road Safety Council, Mr Shahab Hack, usually known for his very brief speeches, did not disappoint on Friday when all he did was commend the cooperation between the National Road Safety Council, the Guyana Police Force and the Seventh Day Adventist organisation. He said the initiative shows that the church is looking in the right direction; namely, to ensure that steps are taken to preserve lives. He said the action indicates the church understands that the issue of road deaths, safe-

ty, and other traffic and road-use-related concerns are not just the responsibility of the Guyana Police Force and the National Road Safety Council, but all stakeholders also. He called on similar organisations to adopt the approach of the young people from the church, and assist in the activities that would make using the countryâ€™s roadways much easier.

A police traffic rank (extreme right) held the traffic at bay while the young people painted a section of the zebra crossing

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

President, First Lady join thous

--at ICC, The National Stadium, and ‘Everest’

President Donald Ramotar, Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and APNU’s Basil Williams sharing a joke PRESIDENT Donald Ramotar joined the hundreds that gathered to celebrate Phagwah yesterday on the lawns of the Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) at Bel-Air, Greater Georgetown. President Donald Ramotar and First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar; Prime Minister Samuel Hinds; acting High Commissioner of India, Madhumita Sengupta;

President Donald Ramotar participating in the Phagwah celebration at the ICC

several Government ministers; members of the diplomatic corps and other special invitees, were among those attending the festivities. Addressing the well powdered crowd at the ICC, the President commended his fellow Guyanese for their spirit of celebration and togetherness, especially at Phagwah time. He said that not only was he delighted to meet and greet

so many people, but to also participate in the festivities and wish everyone A Happy Holi. The Head of State posited that the unity of all the colours at this festival is a beautiful thing, and that this festival reflects the makeup of the country. He made the point that the question of Phagwah and how it is celebrated in Guyana makes

President Ramotar serenading the crowd with a rendition of “Bangala Baboo”

us all one people in a way. “We know this festival has a lot of meaning that can be transmitted to one’s everyday life; one way is celebrating our achievements and particularly when they would have harvested a good crop,” the President said, adding: “We in Guyana have a lot to celebrate as we have transformed our country from a heavily poor and indebted country to now a middle-in-

come developing country.” He noted that the Government has restored the country’s infrastructure, noting too that “of course, we could have gone much further, but we had impediments in the way and therefore we have to work hard to continue to build; we must never have reasons to go backwards.” President Ramotar concluded by urging all citizens to continue in the spirit of

Presiden some Ph

President Donald Ramotar sharing a Phagwah moment with his predecessor, Former President Bharrat Jagdeo

President Ramotar and CEO of Insipre Inc., Yog Mahadeo at the Inspire Inc. Phagwah Mela

President Donald Ramotar at the Everest Ground parttaking in the festivities of the Hindu Dharmic Sabha

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

sands in Phagwah celebrations harmony as Guyana moves ahead. The President then visited the Guyana National Stadium at Providence to participate in the festivities of the Inspire Inc. Phagwah Mela. He repeated his previous message, and called on Guyanese to use this auspicious time to reflect on the progress the country has made. He also urged them to work together to move Guyana forward. The final stop for the Head of State was the Everest Cricket Club ground in Georgetown to engage in the playing of Phagwah at the Dharmic Sabha’s Phagwah Mela. President Ramotar wished all a happy and prosperous Phagwah.

President Donald Ramotar ‘playing Phagwah’ with some youngsters at the Guyana National Stadium

President Ramotar showing off some of his dance moves

nt Ramotar and Housing Minister ‘playing hagwah’

r d s

President Donald Ramotar and First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar; Prime Minister Samuel Hinds; Education Minister Priya Manickchand; Attorney-General Anil Nandlall; High Commissioner of India (ag), Madhumita Sengupta; Prime Ministerial Candidate for the PPP/C, Elisabeth Harper; and APNU’s Basil Williams with some of the members of the ICC

Guyanese celebrate Festival ... From Page 9

the communities where the celebratory spirit prevailed. Residents of Albouystown, Alexander Village,Campbellville,-

Bel Air and other areas greeted each other and even passersby with coloured powder,water and engaged in other activities associated with the

More Albouystown folk enjoying the festivities

festival. Phagwah in Guyana is known for bringing people together, and this year’s festivity was no exception.

Children from Albouystown having fun among themselves

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

GPF strengthens investigative capacity

– with addition of 37 newly-trained sleuths CAPACITY- building for the Guyana Police Force

(GPF) has been enhanced as 37 officers drawn from

divisions countrywide successfully completed the

Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Induction Course, No. 1/2015. The closing ceremony was held at the Police Of-

The 37 ranks to be added to the CID pose with one of the facilitators, Attorney-at-Law, Joann Edghill; Force Training Officer, Paul Williams; Deputy Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum; and senior officer, De Hearte at the conclusion of the closing ceremony Thursday (Photo by Michel Outridge)

ficers’ Training Centre on Wednesday. Addressing the gathering at the ceremony, Assistant Commissioner and Crime Chief Leslie James urged the 37 ranks who will be added to the CID to go beyond the call of duty, and work with added energy to “clear up” the numerous Court cases the CID has pending. He also called on the group to conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times, since they would be constantly under scrutiny, and often subject to criticism. The crime chief added that he was however pleased with the performance of the ranks, who were disciplined and had demonstrated a penchant for team work. He appealed to the ranks to give of their best, and portray a conscience free of corruption and to employ good ethics in their lives. Force Training Officer Paul Williams said that the course started on February 2, 2015 with 37 ranks drawn from all the divisions and the Immigration Department. It lasted six weeks, during which time several topical subjects were covered. He said the performance and behaviour of the group were exceptional, even in their mode of dress, and asked senior officers who will be their supervisors to assist and guide them along the way for further self-development. The senior superintendent explained that a Field Office Training Programme is being organised by the GPF, in which all ranks would be evaluated and a comprehensive report will follow to improve ranks of

the CID and the benefits to be derived would also be outlined. In the Course Overview, Constable Pyle said that the 37 ranks commenced and completed the course with above average grades under the theme: “A step towards proficiency in Criminal Investigation.” He said that the objectives of the course entail orienting the inductees to their roles as investigators; assist participants in acquiring skills and knowledge in dealing with procedures in criminal investigation and identification of criminal offences; to articulate informed opinion about crime -scene analysis; and investigate responses and to assist participants in enhancing their communication skills in the use of English. Pyle added that facilitators included senior officers of the GPF, an attorney-at-law, representatives of the DPP, UG and the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security. He disclosed that participants all passed the course with 70% to 98% success and urged his colleagues to remain focused, since the CID is not difficult once you apply yourself to the tasks and challenges. All 37 ranks were presented certificates, while the three top performers: Best Student Pyle, Runner-up Tracey and the Most Improved Student, Simpson, were awarded for their outstanding performances. Finally, Course Coordinator Sergeant Sarrabo called on his colleagues to “keep their heads high,” and talked about the time they spent in the classroom and their experiences.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Dhoni, bowlers shine as India book quarter-final place PERTH, Australia (Reuters) - Mahendra Singh Dhoni made a calm unbeaten 45 to guide India to a four-wicket victory over West Indies yesterday which sent the holders into the World Cup quarterfinals. Fast bowler Mohammed Shami (3-35) returned from injury to torment West Indies with three wickets, as the Caribbean side were bundled out for 182 after opting to bat first. West Indies captain Jason Holder (57) hit his second half-century and highest score in one-day internationals to give his team some sort of a total to defend against India, who won their fourth match in a row at the tournament. India also struggled on a pitch offering plenty of bounce for the tall West Indies fast bowlers and kept losing wickets during the chase before holding their nerve to get over the line with 65 balls to spare. Dhoni showed why he is known as ‘Captain Cool’ and top-scored for his side, who were reduced to 107-5 at one stage. The right-hander added 27 for the sixth wicket with Ravindra Jadeja (13) and an unbroken 51 for the seventh with Ravichandran Ashwin (16 not out) to take India home. Virat Kohli also contributed with a confident 33 off 36 balls and added a crucial 43 for the third wicket with Ajinkya Rahane (14). Jerome Taylor (2-33) dismissed openers Shikhar

Dhawan (nine) and Rohit Sharma (seven) cheaply to boost West Indies’ chances of defending the low score. The Caribbean bowlers were also guilty of bowling 19 wides and three no-balls. Shami, who missed India’s win against the United

straight to Mohit Sharma at deep square leg. He was also guilty of running out Marlon Samuels (2). With their talisman gone, West Indies were reduced to 35-4 and then 85-7 on the first ball of the 25th over before some res-

India’s Mohit Sharma (C) celebrates with team mates including wicketkeeper, captain MS Dhoni (R) after Sharma caught out West Indies batsman Chris Gayle for 21 runs during their Cricket World Cup match. Credit: REUTERS/David Gray Arab Emirates with a knee injury on Saturday, put West Indies on the back-foot early by dismissing hard-hitting openers Dwayne Smith (six) and Chris Gayle (21) with the new ball. Shami and fast-bowling partner Umesh Yadav (242) started well, bowling fast and short on the WACA pitch, considered the quickest in the world, as India dominated the explosive West Indies batting lineup. Gayle, who hit the World Cup’s highest individual score of 215 against Zimbabwe last week, offered two difficult chances before he pulled Shami

olute batting from the tail saw them through to the 45th over. Right-arm paceman Shami came back with an older ball to take out former captain Darren Sammy (26) to end a promising 39-run stand for the eighth wicket before Holder added 51 for the ninth with Taylor (11). Holder hit four boundaries and three sixes before becoming the last man to fall for West Indies off the bowling of Jadeja. It was one of two wickets for the left-arm spinner to complete another strong bowling display by the twotime champions.

Scoreboard WEST INDIES innings D. Smith c wkp. Dhoni b Shami 6 C. Gayle c Mohit Sharma b Shami 21 M. Samuels run-out 2 J. Carter c Shami b Ashwin 21 D. Ramdin b Yadav 0 L. Simmons c Yadav b Mohit Sharma 9 D. Sammy c wkp. Dhoni b Shami 26 A. Russell c Kohli b Jadeja 8 J. Holder c Kohli b Jadeja 57 J. Taylor c & b Yadav 11 K. Roach not out 0 Extras: (lb-5, w-16) 21 Total: (all out, 44.2 overs) 182 Fall of wickets: 1-8, 2-15, 3-35), 4-35, 5-67, 6-71, 7-85, 8-124, 9-175. Bowling: Mohammed Shami 8-2-35-3 (w-5), Yadav 10-1-42-2 (w-5), Ashwin 9-0-38-1 (w-1), Mohit Sharma 9-2-35-1 (w4), Jadeja 8.2-0-27-2 (w-1). INDIA innings Rohit Sharma c wkp. Ramdin b Taylor 7 S.DhawancSammybTaylor 9 V. Kohli c Samuels b Russell 33 A. Rahane c wkp. Ramdin b Roach 14 S. Raina c wkp. Ramdin b Smith 22 MS Dhoni not out 45 R. Jadeja c Samuels b Russell 13 R. Ashwin not out 16 Extras: (b-1, lb-3, w-19, nb-3) 26 Total: (6 wkts, 39.1 overs) 185 Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-20, 3-63, 4-78, 5-107, 6-134. Bowling: Taylor 8-0-33-2 (w-1), Holder 7-0-29-0 (w1), Roach 8-1-44-1 (w-5, nb-2), Russell 8-0-43-2 (w5, nb-1), Smith 5-0-22-1 (w-3), Samuels 3.1-0-10-0.

Dhoni demands more from all-rounder Jadeja PERTH, Australia (Reuters) - Holders India marched into the quarterfinals of the World Cup with their fourth consecutive win but all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s form with the bat has left captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni a worried man. Left-arm spinner Jadeja has three triple centuries in India’s first-class cricket, but has scored 3, 2 and 13 in his three outings with the bat in the tournament. The 26-year-old walked in to bat at number seven yesterday with India tottering at 107-5 against West Indies chasing 183 for victory but his innings ended with a miscued hook shot off Andre

Russell after a 27-run stand with Dhoni. Dhoni, who took India home with an unbeaten 45, was not amused and told Jadeja it is time to step up. “He needs to improve and needs to step up really. We have a lot of faith in him but at the end of the day you can’t really play with hope,” Dhoni told reporters at the WACA. “What you want is actual performance on the field. “He has that capability, he is definitely talented. He needs to keep believing in himself. “Every batsman is tested in a few areas. They will bowl short-pitched deliveries to him; he will have to

find a way in which he can tackle it.” India also have Akshar Patel in their squad, who bowls left-arm spin and bats in the lower order. Jadeja has been preferred over him because of his batting. Yet Dhoni said another option for India would be to move Jadeja, who has taken six wickets in the tournament, higher up the batting order. “The second option will be we try to give him a platform where he doesn’t have to worry,” Dhoni said. “He goes and freely plays his big shots. “We’ll have to assess all of that and we’ll have to give him a bit more liberty to play

his big shots.” India’s bowling was considered to be their weakest link before the World Cup, but they have managed to dismiss all their opponents in their four matches, including top sides like South Africa and Pakistan. The fast bowlers have bowled with good pace and have managed to peg back the batsmen with their short deliveries. “What the bowlers are doing really well right now is they are hunting in packs,” Dhoni added. “We are backing one good over followed by another good over. “That actually increases the pressure, and finally you get a wicket out of it.”

From back page

Bajans here for NACRA ... Stephen Miller is the captain for the visitors. He too believes today’s contest is evenly matched and he’s looking to upset the Guyanese at home. Tough task! “Depending on the weather, it could be a fast game, could be a slow game, all depends on what comes out. “We’re always looking to go in for the win. We’re always looking for the best result. However that might come we’ll take it,” said the 6-footer. He said there is no pressure on his team going into today’s game. National Sports Commission’s Coachof-2014 Theodore Henry said his charges are in good spirits, are relaxed and waiting to showcase their skills. The guys are upbeat. “They’ve been in training since January. There are some new additions to the squad, and there will be with one notable absentee when they take the field – NO PATRICK KING! “Patrick is not playing today. It’s a tactical decision. We’re saving him for the Trinidad leg of the Qualifiers on April 11.” Henry continued, “We’re not expecting them (Barbados) to go easy, but we’re focusing on ourselves and playing the best game we can on the day.” Guyana’s final team will be announced just before the match. The 27-man squad previously announced

comprises: Cyon Kitt, Ryan Gonsalves, Claudius Butts, Joseph Rahaman, Avery Corbin, Allain Crawford, Kevon David, Rickford Cummings, Rondell McArthur, Theodore Henry, Richard Staglon, Jason Tyrell, Phabion Joseph, Godfrey Broomes, Dwayne Schroeder, Peabo Hamilton, Jose Felicien, Lancelot Adonis, Leon Greaves, Jamal Angus, Jermaine Prowell, Grantley Williams, Akeem Fraser, Troy Bascom, Blaise Bailey, Ronald Mayers and Delroy Gordon. The Barbadian outfit: Neil Forde, Jerrin Clarke, Romeo Mayers, Rajk Edwards, Anthony Faggiani, Jamal Gonsalves, Jermaine Bynoe, Stephen Millar, Mikyle Walcott, Bryan Cummings, Kenneth Payne, Troy Grant, RaminDownes, Kevin Cobham, Tahaire Neils, Shane Taylor, Daniel Ramsey, Kevin Murrell, Kevin Carter, LA-Andro Jordan, Nico Blunt, Greg Moseley, Caston Howard and Enrique Oxley. Barbados first defeated Guyana 27-17 in 2005. Six years later Guyana exacted revenge in June 2011 with a 20-7 beating of the boys from the Land of the Flying Fish. In 2012 when they last met the game ended 10-all. Statistics show that Guyana have scored 47 points against the Bajans, with the visitors putting three fewer on the board.

Dinar Trading ... The company, located at 1 Lamaha and Cummings Streets, is just three years old and is a usual contributor to sports. The managing director says that he sees the company’s involvement as more than just lending support but also helping to play a part in the development of the various disciplines it usu-

ally sponsors. “I think as we try to establish ourselves, it’s important that we give back, especially to sports in Guyana and it’s something any company would do actually. We would support a lot of sporting disciplines, not just football, and we will continue to do so,” Hussain said.

CONCACAF Under-17 ... SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras (CMC) – Early second-half strikes saw Jamaica and Cuba battle gamely to a share of the points but Trinidad and Tobago’s losing streak continued with another defeat, this time at the hands of hosts Honduras here Thursday. Playing on day five of the CONCACAF Under-17 Championship at the Estadio Francisco Morazán, the Reggae Boyz earned a 1-1 draw thanks to Nathaniel Adamolekun’s equaliser, nine minutes after the break.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

Jamaica, Cuba draw but T&T lose again

T&T, however, had their resistance undermined by second-half goals as they slipped to a 2-0 defeat in the night’s feature game. In the other fixture of the tripleheader, United States whipped Guatemala 4-1. With the latest results, Jamaica now lie third in Group A on four points with T&T rooted to the bottom of the table. Unbeaten United States lead with nine points, two clear of the second-placed Honduras. Searching for their second straight win following

their victory earlier in the week over Guatemala, Jamaica found Cuba hard to break down and the game remained nil-all at the interval. H o w e v e r, t h e S p a n ish-speaking Caribbean side grabbed the lead in the 47th minute when Eduard Puga nudged in Yosniel Gonsalez’s cross from close range. Jamaica hit back soon after thanks to a superb buildup, with Donovan Dawkins providing the final pass for Adamolekun to tuck in the equaliser. Both teams then squan-

Nathaniel Adamolekun equalises for Jamaica.

dered excellent chances to find the winner, and Jamaica finished the game with ten men after Demar James picked up a second yellow card in stoppage time at the end. Meanwhile, T&T put up a defiant first-half showing to ensure the hosts were kept off the scoresheet at the halftime whistle. The game came to life in the second half, however, when captain Dylan Andrade

netted in the 54th minute to give Honduras the lead. He capitalised on poor defending, picked up a loose ball, and blasted it past goalkeeper Levi Fernandez. Chaz Burnett and Jeankeon Alexander then wasted glorious opportunities to equalise for T&T, and they were made to pay when Wisdom Quaye’s volley in stoppage time, secured the points for Honduras.

TSU take top honours from Immigration and CID TACTICAL Services Unit (TSU), who were led by Hendley McFarlane’s maximum 18 games, along with Lloyd Meusa’s 17 games, aggregated 80 games to defeat Immigration (II) and Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters (66), thus taking the Guyana Police Force/Headquarters Inter-Department knockout dominoes title last week Tuesday. Like McFarlane, Kevin Allen chalked up the maximum 18 games for Immigration

(II), receiving support from Martin Pestano-Belle and Krishnadat Roshundat who both made 13 games each, even as Maxwell Grant and Munilall Persaud got 16 and 14 games respectively for CID Headquarters. CID Headquarters’ Nigel Gravesande shared the first love in the final, while he was among three players - the other two being Linden Denny of Immigration (II) and Julius Samuels from the victorious TSU lineup - who were the lovebirds of the final.

GAWA/B.E Fitness to host Fitness Challenge A MERE two weeks after Guyana’s first CrossFit event was staged here on home-soil, another fitness group, B.E Fitness, and the Guyana Amateur Weightlifting Association have partnered for a Fitness Challenge on Sunday, March 15. The event is set for the Carifesta Sports Club ground. The aim of this event is to encourage members of the public ‘to get moving’, and to promote the concept of a fitter nation. The day’s programme will commence at 14:30hrs and will consist of a series of challenges in three sections. It caters for groups of six persons - three males and an equal number of females; racing against the clock. The fittest group and fittest male and female will receive prizes. A release from the GAWA said it will be a fun event. Registration is free and forms can be uplifted from the Guyana Olympic House on High Street, Kingston, the Carifesta Sports Complex or any member of GAWA. General Secretary of the Association, Deion Nurse, said eight teams have so far indicated their interest in participating.

Deion Nurse The organisers are catering for a total of 18 teams. B.E Fitness conducts training programmes at the

Carifesta Complex on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. On Fridays GAWA takes its members through the techniques of the Olympic lifts – the Clean and Jerk and Snatch. Some 15 exercises are to be contested on the day, inclusive of the flipping and dragging of tyres and well as the ‘cleans’. Teams are asked to be at the venue at 12:00hrs for the briefing. Admission to the event is free. B.E Fitness is run by Tyson English. In a bid to promote a healthy lifestyle, there will also be health booths offering free testing to individuals.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday March 07, 2015) Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Gavin Larsen; Chris Harris; Rod Latham (1992) (2) 23 matches; 1013 runs Today’s Quiz: (1)Who is the only man to make a century in a World Cup final batting second? Where and when? (2) How many ducks have been made in WC finals to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

CARIFTA Games trials on today at Camp Ayanganna By Tamica Garnett OVER 100 athletes from across Guyana are expected to converge on the Guyana Defence Force ground, Camp Ayanganna, today, to participate in the CARFITA Games trials, and vie for a chance to represent Guyana at this year’s CARIFTA Games in St Kitts and Nevis, set for April 4 to 6. Participants from as far as Berbice, Region Nine and Essequibo were expected to have travelled to Georgetown to participate in the two-day meet, which ends tomorrow. Competition starts at 10:00hrs today and tomorrow. President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) Aubrey Hutson yesterday noted that, weather permitting, the day should go smoothly as the athletes try their best to achieve the qualifying standards. According to Hutson this year’s qualifying standards for the meet are very “lenient”, taking into consideration several factors, including the conditions of the

track where the competition is being held. “So far everything was in place on my last check with Camp Ayanganna. They have said once the surrounding canals are kept low the ground should be okay, and we have set our qualifying standards based on the conditions we are expecting with the track.” Hutson said Guyana has seen intermittent rainfall over the past few days, which coaches expect will have a detrimental effect on their athletes’ performance, as the event is being run on a grass track. Some believe the athletes would have been better served if the event was held at the still-to-be-opened Leonora synthetic track facility on the West Coast of Demerara. “I think the greatest challenge will be the weather because if we look at our weather pattern right now we’re getting a lot of rain, and to qualify, to make the timings, the start is important, and the weather will affect that especially in the

President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) Aubrey Hutson 100m, 200m and 400m. weather,” Police Progressive We’ve seen athletes lose Youth Athletics club coach their race because they Mark Scott pointed out. slipped, because of the “My feeling is that a trial

Jamaica government cuts JADCO’s budget by 14 million KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC)-The Jamaica government has cut its funding to the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO) by 14 million dollars, the country’s minister with responsibility for Sports Natalie Neita-Headley has announced. However Neita-Headley says she does not anticipate a recurrence of the local doping scandal which rocked the sport of Track and Field because of the strides the country has made to improve its anti-doping programme. Neita-Headley was addressing the parliament days after President of the World Anti-Doping Association (WADA) Craig Reedie applauded the progress made by Jamaica to improve its drug testing programme during a short visit to the island. The allocation to JADCO is being reduced from $104 million to $90 million. “We don’t anticipate the number of cases we experienced over the last year,” Neita Headley told the Jamaica parliament. “I believe we have spent a great deal on educating our athletes, introducing a new website that provides additional information. Our athletes are more aware as a result of the Anti-Doping Commission embarking on a programme of work that made it far more efficient”. Jamaica has been attempting to repair its programme since a number of its athletes including former world record holder Asafa Powell and Olympic Gold Medalist Sherone

Minister with responsibility for Sports Natalie Neita-Headley Simpson, tested positive for banned substances. Neita-Headley says despite the budget cut, the Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission (JADCO) will still be able to carry out its work programme which includes the introduction of blood testing. “We are to embark, in this year, on the EPO blood-testing programme, and it will not affect their programme of work. There is expected to be a reduction in a number of areas that were heightened last year, one of which was the hiring of a consultant to assist with the new Anti-Doping in Sports Act,” Neita-Headley said. “We have additional drug-testing personnel, we have additional personnel in the area of education and communication, and we have embarked on the junior educational programme, and we have introduced a new website”.

like this should have been held on the synthetic track, to give the athletes a better chance. To me the track is there, and the AAG should have tried to see if they could have procured its use.” However, Hutson noted that no request was made to obtain the facility’s use as the facility does not officially open until March 27. Meanwhile coach Lyndon Wilson, also from Police, said his athletes are put at a further disadvantage by the club’s late receipt of the CARIFTA qualifying standards from the AAG. “It is going to affect them a lot; even elite athletes have to know the benchmark that they are working towards in advance. This is the second year Police is not receiving the qualifying times, but there are other clubs that are receiving all the times and can call us and say that they get their own, and how we didn’t get our own yet,.” Wilson said. “Just sudden so, you are going to send timings to us, with a day or two

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away. First thing the athletes are already at a disadvantage to those who already know. And I think they need to rectify it, because we are not going to a schoolyard sports, we are going to CARIFTA Games, and for the athletes to go out there and perform at their best you need to know standards.” Nonetheless, Scott said he is confident of his athletes’ chances despite the keen rivalry expected at today’s trials. “My expectation is great, I am optimistic about what we can do this time around. My athletes would have been preparing since we had our off-season starting in November. Our preparations are up to scratch and now it’s just left to the athletes.” “These are athletes that are participating on a regular basis so they know what is expected of them. They know the competition that is out there, they know what they have to go out there and do to merit their selection on the team,” Scott said.

United defender Evans denies FA spitting charge

Jonny Evans LONDON (Reuters) - Manchester United defender Jonny Evans has denied a Football Association (FA) charge of spitting at Newcastle United forward Papiss Cisse, the governing body said on Twitter yesterday. The incident occurred when the 27-year-old Northern Ireland international tangled with Cisse in the 38th minute of United’s 1-0 Premier League victory at St James’ Park on Wednesday. “Manchester United’s Jonny Evans denies FA charge in relation to incident involving Papiss Cisse,” the FA said on Twitter. “Independent Regulatory Commission hearing tonight (Friday), decision expected tomorrow (Saturday).” Senegalese international Cisse, 29, faces a heavy punishment, according to media reports, after he accepted the FA’s charge on Thursday.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

My focus is on football - Urling By Rawle Toney OVER the last week, chairman of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Normalisation Committee Clinton Urling has had his share of the limelight in everything except in the sport of football. Described as a non-par-

tisan civic NGO that develops and advocates public policy prescriptions for a better Guyana, Urling formed Blue Caps last December but has recently stepped down from the post amid perception of either forming his own party or joining one of the two front-runners for the May

WICB PCL Scoreboard Barbados vs Leewards

Bowling: Tonge 5-1-14-0, Louis 4-1-6-0, Martin 2-12-0, Cornwall 2-1-5-0.

LEEWARDS 1 Innings st

M Hodge c Nurse b Warrican

L Richardson c Nurse b Warrican 51

Position: Barbados Pride trail by 188 runs with all ten wickets intact. Windwards vs T&T

*D Thomas b Cummins 14

WINDWARDS 1st Innings

S Liburd lbw b Warrican 12

D Smith lbw b Richards 70

+Jamilton c Nurse b Warrican 15

*T Theophile c

R Cornwall c K Brathwaite b Nurse 48

Hosein b Imran Khan 39 M Bascombe lbw

J Louis c & b Warrican 14

b Imran Khan

H Walsh Jr b Warrican 4

C Emmanuel c

G Tonge c wkp

Pollard b Imran Khan 20

Dowrich b Warrican

A Martin c Cummins b Warrican 7 Q Boatswain not out

D Polius c wkp Katwaroo b Cariah

R Currency not out

+D Smith lbw b

Extras (b4, lb1, nb 5) 10

Imran Khan

TOTAL (all out, 80.3 overs) 215

S Shillingford not out

Extras (b3, lb5, w1)

Fall of wickets: 1-60, 2-71, 3-94, 4-104, 5-126, 6-171, 7-183, 8-186, 9-198, 10215. Bowling: Best 8-1-23-0, Cummins 12-22-23-1, Warrican 35.3-6-88-8, Stoute 8-2-29-0, Nurse 17-2-47-1. BARBADOS 1st Innings *K Brathwaite not out 14 K Corbin not out

TOTAL(withoutloss,13overs) 27 To bat: K Edwards, S Hope, R Chase, +S Dowrich, K Stoute, A Nurse, T Best, J Warrican, M Cummins.

TOTAL (6 wkts, 90 overs) 304 To bat: D Johnson, K Peters, M Matthew. Fall of wickets: 1-99, 2-128, 3-187, 4-204, 5-255, 6-294. Bowling: Richards 17-356-1, Emrit 15-4-33-0, St Clair 5-1-15-0, Imran Khan 27-1-104-3, Pollard 2-1-40, Jason Mohammed 5-122-0, Hosein 11-0-37-0, Cariah 8-1-25-1. RED FORCE – R Emrit (captain), S Katwaroo, J Mohammed, Imran Khan, J Solozano, K Ottley, Y Cariah, K Pollard, M Richards, A Hosein, D St Clair.

11 Regional and General Elections. However, the former Chairman of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce now also adds to his seemingly long portfolio, the head of Football’s local governing body after being installed by FIFA last year. It is said that FIFA is strict on having politicians and high-ranking players of political parties heavily involved in the administration of the world’s number one sport and as such, it will be interesting to see how Urling’s ploy in politics plays out. Urling lifespan, along with the rest of the Normalisation Committee’s, is expected to come to an end by September, but, that still depends on the outcome of the GFF Constitutional reform process. FIFA’s Head of Member Association, Premo Corvaro, on his last vis-

Chairman of the GFF Normalisation Committee Clinton Urling it to Guyana, explained that it’s normal for the life of the Normalisation Committee to be extended if the Federation and its affiliates fail to reach the mandate of regularising and putting together a new constitution. “I have no political affiliation currently; I resigned from my NGO Blue Caps

but as chairman. I’m still involved and helping them to achieve their objectives. In terms of anything political, that’s the media doing their assumptions because I haven’t made any decision in that regard,” Urling said in an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport. Confronted at the Headquarters of the GFF in Georgetown, Urling told Chronicle Sport that “sometimes it might turn out that I don’t do anything (join a political party), but, right now my priority is football”. “But what if you decided to run or join a political party; would that mean you will step down as Chairman of the Normalisation Committee, based on FIFA’s policy on political interference in the sport”? Urling was asked. He answered, “Even if I decide a political party, that shouldn’t affect my position

as Chairman (of the Normalisation Committee). A lot of politicians around the world are involved in football but all FIFA is concerned about is that your political leanings don’t affect your decision-making when it comes to football. As it is right now I’m football, I run my company German’s Restaurant still and I’m still a member of Blue Caps and I’m happy doing that.” As time ticks away and as the political parties up the ante in their attempt to persuade voters’ choice on polling day, pundits are of the view that Urling will be forced to make a decision. Football in Guyana is in its most testing times; fragile is how some experts describe the situation and all stakeholders are zeroed in in the Normalisation Committee and especially its chairman, to see how everything unfolds.

Brilliant Warrican stuns Leewards with eight for 88 BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – Left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican conjured up a career-best eight-wicket haul to stun Leeward Islands on the opening day of their eighth round WICB PCL contest at Warner Park here yesterday. The 22-year-old finished with eight for 88 as the Leewards, opting to bat first, were dismissed for 215 in their first innings. Lyndel Richardson top scored with 51 while Rahkeem Cornwall got 48 and tail-ender Gavin Tonge, 20. In the 13 overs available before the close, Barbados strolled to 27 without loss, with captain and Test opener Kraigg Brathwaite on 14 and Kyle Corbin unbeaten on 13.

The visitors require a further 188 to overtake the Leewards. Lying bottom of the table in what has been an abysmal season, the Leewards would have been encouraged by their start, with Richardson and Montcin Hodge (19) putting on 60 for the first wicket. Richardson faced 82 balls in 98 minutes and counted seven fours and a six while Hodge occupied the crease for 1-1/2 hours and faced 63 deliveries, striking three fours. Warrican got the breakthrough, having Hodge taken at slip by Ashley Nurse and Richardson followed ten balls later when he too edged to Nurse off Warrican, at 72 for two. The Hurricanes crawled

Left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican finished with eight for 88. to lunch at 82 for two but afterward, lost Steve Liburd (12), Devon Thomas (14) and Jahmar Hamilton (15) to

slump to 126 for five. Cornwall, however, then partnered with Jeremiah Louis, who made 14, to stitch up the innings in a 45-run, sixth wicket partnership. The burly Cornwall faced 71 balls in 87 minutes and struck nine fours, as he gave the Hurricanes impetus, and pushed them to tea at 167 for five. He added just four to his tea time score before holing out to cover trying to hit off-spinner Nurse over the infield. His dismissal at 171 for six triggered a collapse that saw the last five Leewards wickets tumble for 44 runs, with Warrican wreaking havoc among the tail taking every wicket to fall.

Smith leads trio of run-getters as Volcanoes dominate COUVA, Trinidad, (CMC) – Half-centuries from Test batsman Devon Smith, along with Miles Bascombe a n d R o m e l C u r re n c y, helped Windward Islands Volcanoes dominate the opening day of their eighth round WICB PCL clash against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force here yesterday. Opting to bat first at the National Cricket Centre, the Windwards finished the day on 304 for six, with Smith carving out an attractive 70, Bascombe 65 and Currency, an unbeaten 52. Opener Tyrone Theophile

Devon Smith chipped in with 39 and Dalton Polius, 31.

Leg-spinner Imran Khan was the best bowler with four for 104. Smith and Theophile gave the visitors a great start by putting on 99 for the first wicket, a partnership that carried the side to 91 without loss at the lunch interval. The left-handed Smith faced 115 balls in 257 minutes and counted eight fours while Theophile hit five fours and a six off 91 balls before he unnecessarily holed out to long-off to give Imran Khan his first wicket. Smith perished at 128 for two, lbw to pacer Marlon

Richards at the start of a new spell but Bascombe and Craig Emmanuel (20) put on a further 58 for the third wicket to keep the Windwards on top. Bascombe struck six fours and three sixes off 96 balls in an innings lasting just under two hours. Both batsmen fell within 17 runs of each other paving the way for Currency to anchor a 51-run, fifth wicket partnership with Polius. Currency has so far consumed 93 balls and hit three fours and a six in nearly two hours at the crease.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday March 7, 2015

WICB/PCL REGIONAL 4-DAY

Permaul snares another fiver as Jamaica crumble

… 50s for Blackwood and Walton

DESPITE resilient half-centuries from Jermaine Blackwood and Chadwick Walton, the Jamaica Franchise team crumbled to the spin combination of Veerasammy Permaul and Devendra Bishoo on the first day of their eighth-round West Indies Cricket Board/Professional Cricket League Regional four-day match at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, yesterday. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, the Jamaicans, who left out Cassius Burton and Gavan Brown from their starting 11, were bowled out for 246 off 80.3

overs, with Walton top-scoring with 58 while Blackwood contributed an attacking 54. Left-arm orthodox spinner Veerasammy Permaul along with his spin-twin Devendra Bishoo continued to torment Regional batsmen, with Permaul picking up 5 for 77 and Bishoo 4 for 62 for the Guyanese who left out Raymon Reifer and Keon Joseph for this encounter. At the close of play, the hosts who lead the points table with 107 points, reached 35 without loss, with Assad Fudadin and Rajendra Chandrika unbeaten on 18 and 16 respectively, with both bats-

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul grabbed five for 77

men touching the boundary ropes three times. Earlier, the teams were forced to wait 12 minutes before taking the field, as a brief shower forced the groundsmen to cover the pitch before the first ball was bowled and when play got under way at 10:12hrs, Christopher Barnwell struck in the second over, when Shacaya Thomas (1) was caught at gully by Vishaul Singh off Barnwell at 1 for 1. Blackwood and John Campbell restored pride to the Jamaicans’ batting, by adding 87 for the second wicket, with Blackwood hitting Barnwell back over his head for 4, followed by a streaky outside edge off Ronsford Beaton, with the ball going through the slips cordon to third man. Blackwood continued to take a liking to Barnwell, by hitting him over Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who got fingertips to the ball at mid-on, before it trickled into the boundary, while Campbell struck Narsingh Deonarine twice over long on for six. Blackwood got to his half-century at 84 for 1, facing 45 balls while batting for 58 minutes and hitting nine fours, before he was caught at the wicket by Anthony Bramble off Permaul for 54 at 88 for 2. Campbell followed 12 minutes before lunch, caught by Rajendra Chandrika at forward short leg for 48 (69 balls, 4x4, 2x6) at 109 for 3, while the Jamaicans took the lunch break at 113 for 3 with Tamar Lambert and

Right-arm leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo finished with four for 62. Walton unbeaten on 6 and 4 respectively. Lambert and Walton added 76 for the fourth wicket, before Lambert who hit Bishoo back over long on for six, was caught by Chanderpaul at deep mid-off, when he looked to clear that area off Permaul at 185 for 4, 25 minutes before tea. Unlike Campbell, Walton got his half-century when he steered Beaton to third man for his seventh four scored off 86 deliv-

eries while batting for 115 minutes as Jamaica took the tea break on 219 for 4, following which, Walton struck the first ball from Permaul for four. However, the bowler had the last laugh, when Walton became his 50th victim for this season, palpably struck lbw at 230 for 5, followed by King who was brilliantly stumped by Bramble off Bishoo three runs later for 27 (4x4, 1x6). David Bernard Jr replaced Walton but went

Australia captain says ODI triple century possible A batsman could soon score 300 in a one-day international, according to Australia captain Michael Clarke. David Warner hit 178 in Australia’s record 275-run win over Afghanistan in the World Cup in Perth on Wednesday. Rohit Sharma’s 264 for India is the highest ODI score, but three of the top 10 individual World Cup scores of all time have come during this tournament. “Someone like Davey, or Chris Gayle or AB de Villiers - on a smaller ground they possibly could,” said Clarke.

“In this game, at the moment who knows? We are seeing so many different shots, different deliveries, so much power. “There is a handful of players round the world who probably could. “You probably have to open the batting so you have the full 50 overs.” Gayle became the fifth player in history to make an ODI double century when he hit 215 for West Indies against Zimbabwe on 24 February. South Africa captain De Villiers

smashed 162 not out off only 66 balls in the win over West Indies three days later. Warner struck 19 fours and five sixes in his 133-ball innings against Afghanistan, and there were more than 12.3 overs of the Australia innings remaining when he was dismissed. Rohit, who made 264 off 173 balls against Sri Lanka at Kolkata in November, is the only batsman to score two ODI double centuries. (BBC Sport)

Michael Clarke

Scoreboard JAMAICA Franchise 1st innings S. Thomas c Singh b Barnwell 1 J. Campbell c Chandrika b Permaul 48 J. Blackwood c wkp. Bramble b Permaul 54 T. Lambert c S. Chanderpaul b Permaul 34 C. Walton lbw b Permaul 58 B. King stp. wkp. Bramble b Bishoo 27 D. Bernard stp. wkp. Bramble b Bishoo 1 D. Jacobs lbw b Bishoo 6 J. Dawes b Permaul 13 M. Mindley c wkp. Bramble b Bishoo 4 O. Browne not out 00 Extras: (b-6, lb-6) 12 Total: (all out, off 80.3 overs) 258 Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-88, 3-109, 4-185, 5-230, 6-233, 7-236, 8-241, 9-258. Bowling: Beaton 12-145-0, Barnwell 4-1-28-1, Deonarine 8-0-34-0, Permaul 31.3-8-77-5, Bishoo 25-7-624. GUYANA Jaguars 1st innings R. Chandrika not out 16 A. Fudadin not out 18 Extras: (nb-1) 1 Total: (without loss, off 9 overs) 35 Bowling: Mindley 4-1-170, Dawes 4-1-13-0 (nb-1), Bernard 1-0-5-0. in similar fashion to King off Bishoo at 236 for 7 which soon became 258 all out, following the demise of Damian Jacobs (6) and Marquino Mindley (4), who were both dismissed by Bishoo, while Permaul induced Jason Dawes (13) to play one back onto his stumps, as Jamaica lost their last six wickets for 39 runs after tea.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Permaul snares another fiver as Jamaica crumble See story on page 31

Bajans here for NACRA 15s Qualifier ... Green Machine focused on playing best game

Guyana coach Theodore Henry By Leeron Brumell

Barbados coach Kenneth Payne (L) and captain Stephen Miller

AT 16:00hrs today NACRA 15s Champions, the Green Machine will make the first defence of their title against Barbados in the National Park. With three games between them – a victory per country and a draw – the winner of today’s clash will have not only bragging rights but the momentum going into the next leg of the qualifier. The Barbadian outfit arrived at the Ogle International Airport on Friday 24 in number - full of confidence and expecting a fight. “Guyana obviously coming back from winning the championships, they won’t want to give it up easily so we’re expecting a big fight,” said

coach Kenneth Payne. He refused to accept the tag that they’re the underdogs going into the game. “That’s a tough word. It’s an even match, we’ve won one, Guyana have won one and we drew one.” Payne has been at the helm of the Barbadian senior team for the past five years. He said there are no injury concerns and they are looking to ‘bed’ a few Under-19 players into the senior team. There is one overseas-based player - a Canadian - in the line-up for today. He’ll stick out like a sore thumb on the field, pun intended. The playing formation will depend on what the Guyanese unit throw at them when the whistle sounds. Turn to page 27

Dinar Trading on board 25th K&S football tournament ONE of Guyana’s fastest growing gold and diamond trading company, Dinar Trading, yesterday became the latest entity to support the March 20 – April 5 Kashif and Shanghai Football tournament. This year marks 25 years the tournament is in existence and the contribution by the trading company dates back to three years

ago with Managing Director Iqbal Hussain stating that “supporting the tournament is something we’ve grown accustomed to”. Co-director Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major was on hand to collect the sponsor’s cheque and though the amount was not disclosed, Hussain said it was substantial. Turn to page 27

Dinar Trading manager Vishal Rampersaud hands over his company’s cheque to Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major in the presence of other staff yesterday.

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SATURDAY MARCH 7, 2015