GUYANA
The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com
Guyana a special place for investors
No. 104141 FRIDAY MARCH 27, 2015 GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER
PRICE: $80
INCLUDING VAT
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Mr Kirk Laughlin
– with vast investment potential – says Kirk Laughlin, founder of Nearshore Americas
Qualfon opens world-class US$12M campus at Providence Page
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– President lauds investment, says Gov’t committed to human resource development
Woman’s dismembered body found on seashore – Page
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Head with eyes carved out, feet and parts of hands recovered hours after
From left, Mr Kirk Laughlin, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh, President Donald Ramotar, Qualfon’s CEO (Guyana) Mr Mike Marrow and Qualfon’s Founder and Chairman Mr Alfonso Gonzalez at the commissioning of the company’s training centre at Providence yesterday (Delano Williams photo)
$5,000 ‘Coin’ unveiled – to hit circulation from today
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Prisoner brutally – In Camp attacked with Street prison improvised weapon Page
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
$5,000 ‘Coin’ unveiled BANK of Guyana (BoG) has minted and put into circulation a limited amount of a Special Edition $5,000 Commemorative Coin, as part of its activities to mark its Golden Jubilee (50th Anniversary). The Collectors’ item was unveiled yesterday by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and Central Bank Governor, Dr Gobin Ganga, who were among the guests at the modest ceremony held atop the roof of the iconic building. Dr Ganga, who briefly addressed those gathered at the ceremony, underscored its importance and significance by stressing that,
“during the last 50 years, the Bank has played the vital role of providing monetary and financial stability that contributed to our economic growth and development.” He said the foundation laid thus far is, “in a resilient banking and financial system as well as a balanced economy”. This, the Central Bank Governor stressed, will not only provide for strong oversight of the financial sector, “but will also provide for enhancing competition to reduce interest rate spreads.” Looking to the future, the Central Bank Governor announced too that the nation’s premier financial institution
has been positioning itself, “to face future challenges and to take advantage of new opportunities to sustain growth and continue prosperity for all of Guyana which the bank sees as very important in its mandate.” PIECE OF HISTORY Delivering the keynote address to those gathered, including senior staffers of the Bank of Guyana, was Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, who used the opportunity to firstly reflect on the fact that the coin represents a part of our nation’s history. The ever articulate Finance Minister accentuated that the founding of the Bank of Guyana was in fact a pre-requisite, in order for
the nation to gain its Independence from its colonial masters 50 years ago. “The founding of the Bank of Guyana wasn’t just the founding of a Bank or the founding of an institution but was a significant step in the preparation for our National Independence,” Dr Singh said. He explained that the establishment of a Central Bank “was one of the key prerequisite steps that we took as a nation in preparation (for the attainment of political independence).” Observing that events such as the launching of such a historic coin, “is always special for me,” Dr Singh told those gathered that in purchasing one of the $5,000
– to hit circulation from today
‘A piece of Guyana’s history on display’: Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and Central Bank Governor Dr Gobin Ganga showing the new $5,000 Coin
coin, “you are literary buying a part of Guyana’s history here.” He urged Guyanese at home and abroad to “delve into the vastness of our philatelic (related to stamps) and numismatic (related to coins, currency) history… these really are journeys into our country’s history…it is a fascinating history.”
Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh (R), and Central Bank Governor Dr Gobin Ganga inspect the intricate details in the design of the new $5,000 Coin
CURRENT JUNCTURE Addressing the current juncture in Guyana’s history however, the Finance Minister pledged Government’s Turn to page 3 ►
Guyana a special place for investors
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
– with vast investment potential – says Kirk Laughlin, founder of Nearshore Americas By Tajeram Mohabir
up operations. Laughlin said a question he is frequently asked by clients, is not about the weather or who has the best rum, but about the state of human capital. “Are the people available? Is there enough of them today? Would there be enough of them tomorrow?”
NEARSHORE Americas Founder and Managing Director, Mr Kirk Laughlin, has identified Guyana as a special place for investors, especially those in the Business Outsourcing Industry (BPI). Nearshore Americas produces authoritative and independent news, analyses and research on the fast-emerging Latin America and Caribbean business process, Information Technology (IT), software and call centre industries. The company, dedicated to expanding knowledge around Americas-centric investment and innovation, is on a mission to illuminate, inspire and motivate business decision-makers to more closely examine services’ investment and part-
Guyana has incredible potential for business, and importantly, it has begun to execute it… investors are coming and seeing the opportunities here, the right infrastructure is being put in place to encourage business and there are ready ‘associates’ [government and other partners] to “enact the dream and make it come alive” - Mr Kirk Laughlin nership opportunities in the Americas. Describing Guyana’s prospect in BPO as “powerful,” Laughlin said the country is one of 15 contenders well positioned to capitalise on a US$10 Billion market between Information Technology (IT) and business call centres outsourcing in Latin America and the Caribbean. But he pointed out that while some markets are ambitious and aggressive, virtually all are faced with some challenges, ranging from crime, violence, human capital development, proximity and time zone distance.
Mr Kirk Laughlin, Nearshore Americas Founder and Managing Director
And in addition, he said there is no guarantee that ascendancy will continue, disclosing that some markets in the Nearshore arena have fallen out of favour for various reasons, including high costs and loss of edge. On this point, the entrepreneur emphasised that Guyana is a standout. “There is something very special here and this is what is really powerful about the prospect of the business outsourcing industry in which people like me, outsiders sometimes observe the specialness, the unique feature(s) that even people in that country don’t fully recognise,” he said. SOUND INVESTMENT STRATEGY Speaking at the grand
opening yesterday of Qualfon’s new US$12 million contact centre campus at Providence, East Bank Demerara, Laughin commended Guyana’s investment strategy. “Guyana has made it very clear that this country is willing to work with investors to meet them half-way, to provide value, to expose to these investors what the value is,” he said. The Nearshore Americas Founder and Managing Director also noted the importance of human capital development for the success of business. He said in the line of business, and in the case of Qualfon, it cannot be overstated as Qualfon is a company in constant contact
with buyers, who ultimately influence it on where to step
PEOPLE-ORIENTED BUSINESS The business of Qualfon and Nearshore Americas, he said, is about people, and speaking directly about the new campus, he said the former is not only providing jobs to transform lives, but is also building young people’s competence in IT. “What is wonderful about Qualfon is that it is enabling an entire generation to become globally fluent in this wonderful country. Those people can take the fluency and do amazing things. They can start their own businesses, rise to senior level positions in Qualfon, putting them in touch with this world that is growing very fast and changing very quickly,” he said. President Donald Ramotar said human capital investment remains a top priority of his Government, pointing out that year after year, the education
Nearshore Americas focuses on fast-emerging industries in Latin America and the Caribbean sector receives the largest slice of the national budget. Qualfon’s Providence Campus, Laughlin said, is also an activation of dreams of local young people, as it enables them to realise that they are just as qualified, capable and impactful as any of their peers in the rest of the world. But Laughlin also spoke cautiously. He said as the market expands, it will call for deeper analysis, saying that the road is long and there are many milestones ahead. He said Guyana has incredible potential for business, and importantly, it has begun to execute it. The entrepreneur said investors are coming and seeing the opportunities here, the right infrastructure is being put in place to encourage business and there are ready “associates” [government and other partners] to “enact the dream and make it come alive.”
$5,000 ‘Coin’... commitment “to doing what is necessary to safeguard and further build the stability.” He noted that “the ultimate objective of course is a financial system that meets the national development aspirations of our country.”
LAWRENCE WILLIAMS The Finance Minister also used the opportunity in addressing the staffers as part of its Golden Jubilee Celebrations to single out for special mention, Dr Ganga’s immediate predecessor, the Late Central Bank Governor, Lawrence Williams. The Finance Minister
mused with staffers on some of his recollection of the late Governor adding; “it would be remiss of me not to recognise and salute the memory of the immediate past Governor, the late Lawrence Williams and his contribution to the Bank.”
LEGAL TENDER IN CIRCULATION Yesterday’s activity on the roof of Bank of Guyana, is but one of the year-long spate of activities being held to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Financial Institution. The Limited Edition
From page 2
Commemorative Coins will be sold from today for $6,500 and is Legal Tender to the value of $5,000. The gold plated silver coins were struck at the Mint of Norway, the design of which was taken from an in-house 50th Anniversary logo competition. The Coins portray the Bank’s 50thvAnniversary Theme: ‘Promoting Financial Development for Guyana’s Prosperity,’ and emblems symbiotic of hallmark achievement over the past five decades by the institution. (Story and Photos by Gary Eleazar)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Woman’s dismembered body found on seashore
- Head with eyes carved out, feet and parts of hands recovered hours after By Leroy Smith THE partly nude torso of a woman suspected to be of African ancestry was early yesterday morning discovered trapped between rocks in the vicinity of the Buxton/Annandale seashore, on the East Coast of Demerara. The body was discovered with its hands, head and feet missing, but by late yesterday afternoon the police
were able to recover the head, feet and one of the hands respectively. Up to press time they were still trying to locate the missing piece of the other hand. This was the third such discovery within the last 12 days, the first being two Sundays ago when the remains of a man, later identified as a Kitty resident, was found on the Kitty foreshore; while on Wednesday, the totally nude remains of a 14-year-
A woman explains to a senior police officer that the object he is looking at is used by a certain religion (Leroy Smith photos)
old schoolgirl was found on the seashore in the vicinity of Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara. Yesterday’s shocking discovery was regarded as the most brutal of the three remains found within the last 12 days among the rocks while being battered by the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. When the torso of the woman was found yesterday morning, it was partly clad with pink and blue clothing, which appeared to be some sort of dress and brassiere respectively. When investigators arrived on the scene the crowd had already built up and persons could be seen taking photographs with their phones and getting as close as possible to the remains. The Chronicle was informed that the police were, up to late last evening, looking at several possibilities and leads into the gruesome murder, one of which is that the killing might have been ‘sacrificial’. There were also several persons who were present on the scene who opined that the killing does indeed seem to be a sacrificial one as components used by at least one spiritual group was found at the scene. The investigators who were not too familiar with the object were heard soliciting the assistance of spectators
Behind this blurred image is the woman’s sprawled torso as it lay among the rocks being battered by the waves from the Atlantic Ocean
Some of the residents who came from the communities of Buxton and Annandale to see the remains of the woman to come forward and identify the object and its possible use by a certain religion. According to one police source, there is also the view that the woman’s limbs and head might have been severed on the platform of the seawall right in the area before being tossed into the seashore. Initial investigations were suggesting that the
body might have washed up at the location from some other part, but after the feet, head and a part of one of the hands were
discovered not too far away, the theory that the woman was killed right at the location was strongly looked into by investigators.
Police investigators keep spectators at bay as they comb the area for clues to the woman’s death
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Prisoner brutally attacked with improvised weapon - In Camp Street prison By Leroy Smith
A PRISONER on Thursday last survived a brutal attack when two inmates of the Camp Street Jail attacked him in his sleep shortly after he was involved in an argument with them. The Chronicle was told that the inmates who attacked the man used an improvised weapon fashioned from components of one of the steel beds inside the prison and which measured several inches long, while his associate used a shorter instrument, also made from bed materials. The injured prisoner who was identified as Tambico McKenzie is on remand for a robbery offence. When asked by prison officials about the incident,
only his eyes, while the other wore a tope but his face was not masked. The photos were reportedly taken by another prisoner who did same with the use of a Blackberry mobile phone. One prison source who spoke with this newspaper said the incident has once again underscored the concerns of prison officials. It was noted however, that while the use of cellphones is prohibited, prisoners usually are able to get hold of the item through several means, even while on “lockdown.� Inserting phones in anuses, packets being thrown over the prison fence and employees of the prison smuggling them in and offering them to prisoners are but some of the ways prisoners are able to get
The two unidentified prisoners attacking their colleague inmate with the weapon made from components of a bed inside the prison their hands on cellphones and other prohibited items, this newspaper was told.
The prisoner is cornered as the masked inmate carries out the attack the man informed them that he was attacked by two men and that he was not very sure who the person was that attacked him, but had some idea of who it may have been, a prison source told this newspaper. In photographs which have since surfaced showing the attack, two men with instruments were seen attacking McKenzie. One of the men covered his face with a jersey leaving room for
Other sections of the media had reported that relatives of the injured man were very upset that prison officials had failed to pass instructions for the injured man to be taken for medical attention, and reportedly have expressed fear for his safety during his continued stay in the facility. The Guyana Prison Service has medical personnel in its employ and they would usually ad-
minister medical attention to inmates, depending on the severity of their injuries and if it is warranted, the inmates are usually taken to the hospital for advanced medical attention. The Chronicle has been informed that the persons whom McKenzie told prison officials he suspected of attacking him has since been removed from the same holding division as the now injured man. Investigations into the
incident are ongoing and based on what was told to this newspaper, it was only on Monday that another search of the facility was conducted and the officers there recovered a number of mobile phones. However what was pointed out was that in those cases, when the phones are found they are usually locked, thus preventing the officers from gaining any information that may be of evidential value.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
EDITORIAL
GUYANA
PNC terrorism not limited to 1978 – 1980 period THE Rodney Commission of Inquiry is constrained to limit the time period of its examinations of Guyana’s socio-political dynamics to within a two-year period to include 1980 – the year Dr. Walter Rodney was assassinated. However, Guyana’s history of PNC-engineered and driven violence is not limited to that truncated period, but has been a recurring nightmare in the annals of this country’s history since the plot between the US/ UK/and Forbes Burnham to depose the legitimately-elected first government
under the PPP was hatched. And that was when the ‘X13 Plan’ to unleash terror in the land to force Dr. Cheddi Jagan to concede to terms inimical to his party and the nation so that the killings, burnings, looting, rapes and absolute destruction and chaos in the land would cease. Thus it was that those who owned the dogs of war could call off those dogs after Dr. Jagan’s Government was ousted out of office, paving the way for a Burnhamite arrangement in government to eventuate. While Home Affairs
Minister, Clement Rohee was constrained by the stricture of the timeframe imposed on the Rodney COI, during his appearance before the Presidential Commission investigating the political assassination of Dr. Walter Rodney, cognisance must be taken that reports on his testimony should not be limited to that period when the history of violence in the country is being alluded to, as if the violence against the Guyanese people only occurred with the period of 1978 – 1980. When President Ramotar indicated his intention
to establish a Commission to bring closure to this decades-long sore of Walter Rodney’s assassination on the Guyanese psyche, leaders of his own party, the WPA showed reluctance for the establishment of such a Commission. This was understandable because of their intertwined political fortunes in a conjugal bed of convenience and political expediency with the very persons and party accused of the murder of the brilliant and charismatic Dr. Rodney. Commissioners Sir Richard Cheltenham of Barbados, Jacqueline Sam-
uel-Brown of Jamaica and Jairam Seenauth of Trinidad and Tobago began their investigations procedurally and the revelations coming out of those findings are stunning to those not au fait with the atrocities that transpired during the PNC dictatorial regime. However, while the Commission is not allowed to investigate beyond its mandatory timeframe, it is imperative that the nation is made aware that this is a recurrent theme and strategy
of the PNC - violence and trickery to wrest power and keep power in the country. Recent occurrences in Agricola and Linden; as well as intermittent murderous forays throughout the country, simultaneous to Opposition intra and extra-parliamentary actions and rhetoric are indications that this has not changed. So it is fallacious to constrict the timeframe of PNC atrocities against the Guyanese nation to within the period of 1978 – 1980.
The 1970s and 1980s – Decades of Misery in Guyana I READ Mr Hydar Ally’s letter in the Chronicle titled ‘Ordinary Guyanese owning homes under the PNC was a distant dream’, and could relate to that as my own situation in those dreadful years showed. During the dark days of the PNC regime in the 1970s and 1980s, the political environment was extremely hostile to members of the various professions, including business and accounting. I was an Audit Leader and subsequently a Management Accountant at GuySuCo in those years, after successfully completing my ACIS and ACMA exams on my own (having been refused a scholarship three times by the Public Service Ministry). My salary in 1981 was G$1,400 or US$545 (G$2.5659 = US$1 back then). With my spouse’s income of $120 per month, and after taxes, we netted $1,135. Twice a week, I had to line up at a KSI in Goed Fortuin, run by a fierce-looking PNC thug, for basic food items like cooking oil, sugar, salt, soap,
butter, cheese, and flour. That was the level of degeneracy and indignity that ordinary hard-working Guyanese were brought to. My monthly expenses amounted to $825 and were made up of groceries, rent, babysitting, electricity, transportation clothes, helping our aged parents and siblings who were not working, giving a little to the church, and saving what was left (if any at all). Rent was $120 for a 2-room downstairs flat at Vreed-en-Hoop and that was considered cheap. When all the deductions were made, we were left with $300. All my savings from the past years were spent towards books, fees, and examination costs to earn the ACIS and ACMA. I still remember writing to publishers in both the U.K. and U.S. asking to send pro-forma invoices for textbooks and past examination questions and answers booklets in order to take to the Bank of Guyana for approval to buy bank drafts at a commercial bank as foreign exchange was strictly controlled.
Toronto-based Guyanese Mr Lal Balkaran
As a result, I had very little equity as a down payment for a house which was but a dream then, as Mr Ally so well-articulated in his piece. To compound the problem, inflation and interest rate were running in the double digits. As an example, here is a scenario of an uphill battle I faced. An executive from GuySuCo was willing to sell me his home at Nandy Park for G$65,000 or US$25,000, in 1981 as he was moving
overseas, like so many back then. The monthly mortgage payment would have been G$900 plus home insurance of $200 totalling $1100 which was impossible to sustain with a monthly saving of $420 (if you add back the rent). And my remuneration was considered top of the line at that time. Realising that it was hopeless and I could never own a home in Guyana, I turned my energies to helping others who were far worse off than I was. I pitied those who were earning far below me and who wanted to pursue business and accounting badly but did not have the resources, self-motivation and guidance. My father had desks, benches, and a blackboard at his house in Goed Fortuin, as he taught Hindi and Sanskrit classes. So, I used those facilities and gave free lessons and student counselling under that very house (which still stands today) to anyone (regardless of party affiliation, ethnicity, or religion) studying for the LCC, ATT (now CAT), and the Foundation
levels of the professional accounting programmes. There are a few fully qualified accountants still in Guyana who could attest to this. Even a top civil servant (a die-hard PNC) from the Ministry of Home Affairs got wind of my generous offer and came all the way from Georgetown to attend my sessions. I trust he is reading this letter. Today in Guyana, in an open market economy where there is so much freedom we take for granted, ordinary Guyanese can easily afford their own homes. Also, there are business and accounting students who can afford attending private schools or pursue correspondence courses not only the UK programmes, but those from the U.S. and Canada as well, and there are no restrictions over foreign exchange. But despite the hardships back in the 1970s and 1980s, I never discounted nor denied the country of my birth and I am still devoted to helping my poorer countrymen and feel proud to continue to serve Guyana from Toronto through my publications,
and to make frequent donations to the libraries. Of note is the local chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors I established in 2000 which continues to grow and professionalise internal auditing to contribute towards risk, control, and governance throughout the country. Could this have happened prior to October 1992. The answer is a resounding NO. However, those difficulties in the 1970s and 1980s should not be forgotten or easily discounted. Instead, case studies should be researched, documented, articulated, and serve as a reminder of the living hell that existed in Guyana before October 1992. In closing, here is an appropriate quote from music icon Paul Simon’s “Peace Like a River”: “You can beat us with wires You can beat us with chain You can run lots of rules But you know you can’t outrun the history train…” LAL BALKARAN Internal Auditor and Risk Consultant, Toronto
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Both GuySuCo, GAWU voluntarily A question to Editors of accepted recommendation Stabroek, Kaieteur News of Chief Justice WE wish to refer to the article in the Kaieteur News headlined ‘Court orders arbitration again for sacked Skeldon Estate worker ’ (18th March, 2015) which misrepresents the decision of the Honourable Chief Justice given on 17th March, 2015, with regard to the matter of the dismissal of Mr. Daniel Stephens. When the matter came before the Honourable
Chief Justice, the injunctions sought by GAWU seeking that the task of the arbitrator in the matter was to enquire into the suspension, not the dismissal, of Mr. Stephens, were not granted by the Court. The Honourable Chief Justice, in the circumstances, therefore, recommended that GuySuCo and GAWU return to arbitration to determine the issue regarding the dismissal and not, as
GAWU had argued, the suspension of Mr. Stephens. Both GUYSUCO and GAWU voluntarily accepted the recommendation of the Chief Justice. On the matter of the selection of the arbitrator, the Court made no intervention. THENGA ADAMS Communications Officer, GuySuCo
I HAVE a simple question to the Editors of both the Stabroek News and the Kaieteur News. Do you consider it a necessary professional responsibility to check on the accuracy of material published on Mr. Christopher Ram’s blog before republishing it in your newspapers? I look forward to your published response. KIT NASCIMENTO
DISCLAIMER
PROLIFIC letter writer Mr. Neil Adams, in a letter published in this newspaper on Tuesday March 24, under the caption ‘Do we have to live in logies?’, erroneously wrote: “One writer, Ms Sadie Amin, even made the horrific comments that Dr Jagan died rather than taking from the national treasury for his medical expense. Outrageous! I rebuke that lady for saying that of the Honourable Father of the Nation.” Ms Sadie Amin made no such comments. As such, professional judgment compels us to offer our sincere apologies to Ms Amin.
MASH DAY MURDER WHEN news circulated of the bestial and unprovoked murder of Enterprise businessman Kumar Mohabir, on February 23rd, 2013, while he and his family were enjoying the Mashramani festivities, some Indo-Guyanese were heard unsympathetically commenting: “What was he doing there? That is not our culture.” But the Government has long been attempting to have at least one celebratory occasion, among the many calendar events that celebrate the diverse cultures of each race inhabiting this country, that is peculiar to the national cultural fabric; the obvious choice is Republic Day, when Mashramani is celebrated in a national way throughout all the regions. Initially, because of the association of this particular public holiday with the birthday of Forbes Burnham, Indo-Guyanese, who suffered immeasurably under Burnham’s regime, refused to participate in any way; but slowly, as the PPP/C Government persisted in promoting the commemorative occasion as a day celebrating the nation, the Indo-Guyanese community ventured out – from a trickle initially, to practically full participation in the day’s festivities. There are, however, still pockets of resistance which was compounded by isolated incidents such
MURDERED: Kumar Mohabir
as the murder of Mohabir and the other Berbician victim, as well as other criminal activities. Thus the Government’s attempts to create of this nation the Brindley Benn formulation for nationhood through the motto he crafted ‘One People, One Nation, with One Destiny’ could face setbacks if these incidents are not dealt with peremptorily and satisfactorily, which the ruling in the Mohabir case has done. When the jury, comprising members of different races, religions and political persuasions, at the Demerara Assizes unan-
MURDER ACCUSED: Devon Thomas sentenced to 75 years
MURDER ACCUSED: Randy Isaacs sentenced to 75 years
imously found Devon Thomas, 17, and Randy Isaacs 21, guilty of the Mash Day murder of Kumar Mohabir, as well as the attempted murder committed on eye-witness Navendra Mohabir, they sent a strong message to all those who go to Mashramani events to create trouble and inhibit others from enjoying themselves without fear of being accosted by troublemakers and meeting the fate of the Mohabir family. It is certain that members of that family, as well as many others who have become fearful of the lawlessness and aggression dis-
played by some participants, will never again attend Mashramani celebrations. The chief witness, Navendra Mohabir, had suffered five serious incised wounds to his right hand. The Mohabir family were enjoying the festivities at Vlissengen Road that evening when a gang of youths attacked Kumar Mohabir under the pretext that he had “mashed” the feet of one of them. Navendra Mohabir had gone to his brother’s rescue when he was also viciously attacked. Police investigations that fol-
lowed led to the two accused being arrested and charged with murder. According to media reports, one female relative of the accused, who was standing in the corridor, was heard to say: “He (the judge) is a mad man – we are going to appeal.” Whatever the outcome of the appeal, there was sufficient evidence to convince a jury that the duo was guilty of depriving another human being, who had harmed or provoked them in no way, of his life. Justice Navindra Singh told the accused that his base for sentencing will be 60 years. From that 60, he would add 10 years for attempting to murder the eye-witness Mohabir and five years for the other injuries inflicted, resulting in each of the accused having to serve 75 years imprisonment. He therefore adequately answered the question of the persons who contended that the Mohabir family had no right to participate in the Mashramani celebrations and that Kumar’s death was the expected and deserved outcome by underscoring, through his sentencing, that Mashramani is a national festival to be enjoyed by all Guyanese, without fearing that some hatefilled individuals would deprive them of their peaceful enjoyment, their possessions and/or their lives.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Levi’s and Dockers store coming to Giftland Mall
– at Turkeyen By Michel Outridge
A LEASE and agreement was yesterday inked between President of Giftland Mr Roy Beepat, representative of Levi’s and Dockers Ms Crystal Ramdeo, and Giftland Mall Property Manager Mr Christian Bautista, for a 2,500 square foot store for the premier brands to be the newest feature of the Giftland Mall at Turkeyen. Ramdeo, in remarks at the event, said she was pleased to introduce and
welcome Levi Strauss and company to Guyana, and this will be the first standalone concept store in the Caribbean at the Giftland Mall. She noted that Levi has done their research and expressed a vote of confidence in this venture. Usually Levi is acquired locally through resellers but this store will afford better quality and options for customers. Ramdeo added that men and women will be able to wear the original 501 label which is the signature label and, as the exclusive retailer, they are pleased to be working with this company. Meanwhile, the Presi-
Giftland Mall power plant
dent of Giftland, Mr Beepat, told reporters that construction of the Giftland Mall is without a doubt a very significant development in Guyana. He said the mega project is aimed at bringing “a new experience for customers” and it will have a family-oriented atmosphere which will cater for both adults and children. The mall will provide a number of new and exciting features in terms of the food, recreation and shopping options, location, security and family atmosphere. Beepat stated that the mall will address many issues. He pointed out that when the project started they envisaged that the place will be one where people can take their families and have a secure and satisfying shopping experience. The design of the mall caters for a 60,000 square foot walking space alone. He said that although they have had many difficulties putting the project together because of the unreliability of the power supply, they decided to install air conditioning units powered by their own power plant.
20,000 PERSONS PER DAY In addition, he said, they foresee a 1.2 to 2 MW
President of Giftland Roy Beepat, Giftland Mall Property Manager Christian Bautista and Levi’s and Dockers representative, Crystal Ramdeo, at yesterday’s media briefing (Samuel Maughn photo)
per day consumption at the mall and also have their own sewerage treatment plant since an estimated 20,000 persons will be passing through its doors per day. Beepat stated that they will have a very large water consumption too and they have a water treatment plant with three fountains and a bus terminal, plus a 500-car parking area and additional parking space for staff and delivery personnel. As for security, Beepat told reporters that they have hired a security service which is headquartered in Trinidad and Tobago. He added that there will be four 20-foot aquariums with live tropical fishes as well as salt water fishes and a secure playground for children which will feature many activities.
Beepat said children can be left in that area by their parents, who can visit the adult arcade and bars. There will be 16 different food concessions on board and a few more in the pipeline for the opening with a 500-seat food court. He said the mall will also feature an entertainment ‘Strip’ with bars, fine dining restaurants and 120 different concessions as well as ATMs for all major banks, supermarkets, a pharmacy and Giftland stores. POWER PLANT After the press briefing, there was a media tour of the power plant which has been completed and is now waiting for the arrival of the fuel tanks to be outfitted. The 5MW power plant is one of the highlights of the
entire project. One of the focuses of the project is to ensure its sustainability and reliability of its infrastructure. In a project of this scale, it is a must that all of its facilities should be 100% sustainable. The power plant has two units - 2.5MW engine. The brand of engines is MAN which is made in Finland. MAN is one of the leading brands of generator manufacturers in the world. The power plant will have a team of full-time electrical and mechanical engineers and power plant technicians who will man the system on a 24-hour basis. The power plant engineering team will include engineers from both PDV and engineers from Guyana.
Is time fuh Nagga and RumJ answer dem own people!
POTSALT did read about some Key people who leff RumJ and Nagga Party a few weeks ago. De men who leff, including de one time bossman GS, didn’t had any good things fuh seh about de Key Party and both RumJ and Nagga. De men dem expose de hypocrisy and what dem believe was corruption which dem seh was “key” in de Party. Dem expose a certain member who does deal with bush, not de two Georges and Jeb and Barbara, and how he went about
asking fuh donation fuh de Party fuh de last election. Apparently, de donation still fuh reach de Party! Everybody was shock because de way RumJ and Nagga and de ‘Big’ lawyer does talk, yuh would believe that de Key Party holy more than de Vatican and that it gat more Cardinals! People sehin that de Party actually gat a lot of “holes”, but that is a different story! Potsalt hearing how Nagga now hollering pun de PNC Palm Tree campaign that it is time fuh this and it is time fuh that.
With that, people asking when it gon be time fuh he and RumJ and de “Big” Lawyer fuh answer about all de allegations of corruption in de Key Party! De people sehin this is DE time! Dem avoiding dem own people who confront dem about de wrongdoings in de Key Party just like how minibus does avoid stopping at traffic lights. But de accusation against de Key Party by its own people ain’t stopping. Now Big Archie come out and seh how Nagga and RumJ full
with hate and venom, meaning hate and poison. Is not Potsalt or Uncle Clement sehin so; is dem own! Potsalt hear how Big Archie was a key councillor fuh de Key Party down in de Cinderella county. As a councillor, he had fuh deal with Nagga and RumJ so he must know what he talking about! Everybody suspect dem veins fill with hate and poison after dem kill de Hydro, de Special Hospital and de airport story, not forgetting de fancy hotel in GT. You coulda
see it overflowing pun de tv when dem was talking in de MP House. One man was thinking of trapping de poison from dem and sell it to de sugar people fuh kill weeds and bugs! People sehin that is why bugs and weeds does be avoiding Nagga and RumJ! Check dem yard; it clean! Potsalt wondering if hate and poison gat benefits, but then again both Nagga and Rumj had some benefits fuh killing de hotel and de Specialty Hospital. Potsalt gone! Fuh now!
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
RODNEY’S DEATH: AN ENIGMA BEING ANSWERED Special Report on the Rodney Commission of Inquiry by Shaun Michael Samaroo
Wagner to unveil secret list of ‘big names’
– Says assassination suspect Gregory Smith revealed list of names connected to Dr Walter Rodney’s assassination By Shaun Michael Samaroo NEW York-based author of the book, ‘Assassination: Cry of a Failed Revolution’, Ann Wagner, promised yesterday to unveil a secret “list of big names” to expose persons involved in the bomb-blast suspected political assassination of world-renowned Guyanese scholar, Dr Walter Rodney. Wagner, under sworn testimony in the witness box at the Rodney Commission yesterday in Georgetown, said she would unveil the list to the Commission, once she got back to her home in the United States. Wagner spent most of this week in the witness box at the Commission giving testimony to the Commission, as it probes the suspected assassination of Dr Rodney on the night of Friday, June 13, 1980, when a bomb disguised as a communications device exploded in the scholar’s lap, killing him on the spot. Donald Rodney, the brother of Dr Rodney and the only eye-witness at the scene when the bomb exploded, testified earlier this week before the Commission, claiming that Gregory Smith, Ann Wagner’s brother, gave him the disguised
The tall, elegant, well-spoken professional woman, who cracked several times under intense cross-examination from Counsel Christopher Ram, acting on behalf of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), which Dr Rodney was leader of when he was assassinated, said that Dr Rodney died in an “accident” because he did not follow “instructions” on use of the device that Smith gave him. Williams said in questioning her that Dr Rodney was “negligent” and this is why the device exploded in his lap. But Wagner preferred to say Dr Rodney did not follow “instructions”. Counsel did not raise earlier testimony before the Commission of an expert witness, who, like Wagner, has also travelled from New York to testify at the Commission in Guyana, that the disguised bomb exploded when it was remotely triggered. Instead, Ram established through a lengthy cross-examination that Wagner’s authorship of the book may be questionable, as “several” other persons contributed to its authoring, none of whom provided signed statements, including Smith, who himself wrote chapters and sections. Gregory Smith’s sister, Ann Wagner
bomb just before it blew up in the car that the Rodneys had driven to Russel Street in Charlestown, Georgetown, where Smith lived and had requested Rodney pick up a communications device. Testimony at the Commission exposed a sinister nefarious political plot involving the Government of the People’s National Congress (PNC), the PNC State machinery, and the Guyana Defence Force and Guyana Police Force, along with the Joint Intelligence Command located then at Ogle, East Coast Demerara, and a gangster thug cult, the House of Israel, and Smith in an elaborate scheme to
Donald Rodney consulting with lawyer Christopher Ram during one of the sittings of the Water Rodney COI this week (Adrian Narine photo)
maintain PNC Governmental power, which resulted in Dr Rodney’s death. But Wagner stunned the Commission with a new twist to the tale, claiming that Smith’s character was more that of a quiet altar boy who served faithfully in church, rather than a high-stakes political assassinator. Wagner said she was close to Smith as his eldest sister, and became his friend and confidante, as he suffered for his whole life, till his death in November 2002 in French Guiana where he lived in exile, from the day Dr Rodney was killed. Wagner, under cross-examination from PNC Counsel at the Commission, Basil Williams, said Smith never got involved in any PNC political intrigue, nor had any association or working relationship with the PNC Government, the PNC State, or State arms. Wagner had testified earlier that Smith “liked” Dr Rodney, and was his close friend, and wanted to help the political activist rid Guyana of the PNC dictatorship. She said Smith worked to modify communications devices into “triggering devices” for a scheme of Dr Rodney to “blow up” PNC Government and State buildings and infrastructure, in efforts to rid Guyana of the PNC Government. The tall, elegant, wellspoken professional woman, who cracked several times under intense cross-examination from Counsel Chris-
Dr Walter Rodney
struct the book, and believed him explicitly, as his sister. The witness said Smith told her he did not kill Dr Rodney. In a short session of cross-examination as the day’s sitting closed, Williams established from the witness that Smith “was never an agent of Burnham, the Government of the day or the State or Guyana”. “That’s
Gregory Smith
Ann Wagner’s authorship of this book may be questionable
topher Ram, acting on behalf of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), which Dr Rodney was leader of when he was assassinated, said that Dr Rodney died in an “accident” because he did not follow “instructions” on use of the device that Smith gave him. Williams said in questioning her that Dr Rodney was “negligent” and this is why the device exploded in his lap. But Wagner preferred to say Dr Rodney did not follow “instructions”. Counsel did not raise earlier testimony before the Commission of an expert wit-
ness, who, like Wagner, has also travelled from New York to testify at the Commission in Guyana, that the disguised bomb exploded when it was remotely triggered. Instead, Ram established through a lengthy crossexamination that Wagner’s authorship of the book may be questionable, as “several” other persons contributed to its authoring, none of whom provided signed statements, including Smith, who himself wrote chapters and sections. Wagner admitted that she relied entirely on Smith’s account of the events to con-
true,” she said. But Wagner contradicted testimony from several Commission witnesses that Smith worked as a double agent for the PNC Government and State. Williams: You’re clear and your brother was clear that the PNC Government never killed Dr Rodney. Wagner: That’s true. Williams also established that Wagner had “no experience in writing a book or investigating stories”, and, in dealings with her brother, Wagner didn’t see the need to request signatures on the manuscript “to believe what he wrote there”. Wagner takes to the witness box again this morning, under cross-examination from PNC Counsel Williams.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
‘PUT COUNTRY FIRST’ – Teixeira urges at West Ruimveldt meeting – calls on Guyanese to ‘do a reckoning’ on May 11
PPP stalwart, Ms Gail Teixeira, speaking to the residents of West Ruimveldt
Dr Bheri Ramsaran and Ms Gail Teixeira at the meeting (Delano Williams photo)
By Vanessa Narine A TANGIBLY moving recital of Guyana’s motto – ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’ – was the focus of the message delivered by People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) stalwart, Ms Gail Teixeira, to the residents of West Ruimveldt on Wednesday evening. “We in the PPP/C Government have strived and worked hard to reconstruct our country…it was done not by the Government alone, but by all our people….now at this juncture people have to decide where we are going as a country,” she said during that party’s public meeting in the area. According to her, the focus in the lead-up to the May 11th General and Regional Elections must be the message of Guyana’s motto. “This is what we have to be talking about in 2015… next year will mark 50 years of our independence, yet there are people who want to divide us, just like the British did in colonial times… there are times in our lives where
we must put country first… on May 11 we must make decisions about our future,” she said. Teixeira stressed that May 11 is a critical junction for Guyana and the Guyanese people. “We (the PPP/C) can show progress. We can show how we have been able to open up areas for housing. We can show ExxonMobil out in the ocean, investing hundreds of millions in the next 10 years. We can show how many entrepreneurs have business…we are all tied together…we have a propoor pro-growth development strategy,” she declared. AWAKENING The veteran politician underscored the fact that there is an “awakening” among the Guyanese people. “There is an awakening in our country, where our people don’t want to be shackled…I will not be defined by my gender or by the colour of my skin. I am Guyanese….yet there are those who will try to divide us based on ethnicity,” she said.
Teixeira added that this awakening bodes well for the future, a future where there is much to do. “We have seen change, but we still have to do better…is ‘nuff ’ work…our country was battered and bruised and disrespected under a PNC administrative dictatorship…we must keep going onward,” she said. “…the PPP/C is like a yo-yo. We keep bouncing, coming back from each blow…looking forward there is much to be done and being able to look ahead to what we can do as one nation and one people with one destiny, that is what our focus must be,” Teixeira told those in attendance at the meeting. DO A RECKONING The high-ranking PPP member urged that with this focus in mind, the May 11 polls represent a call for Guyanese to “do a reckoning” and weigh the improvements in their lives. “Sit down with a piece of paper and a pencil and check. What has changed from 1992 to now for you? What have you been able to accomplish?
What are the challenges? If it is the positives that you are checking off then it can only be the PPP/C that you vote for,” she said. Teixeira also alluded to the “telling disregard” for the Guyanese people that has been displayed by the political Opposition. “It was bullyism, bullyism and bullyism. What we saw was a telling disregard of the voice of the people of Guyana…just like Burnham in the 1964 elections when British Guiana was one of the top countries in this hemisphere under the PPP Government, he promised to ‘feed, house and clothe the nation’, riding on the back of the PPP’s achievements. So too now the joint alliance (APNU/AFC) is doing the same … but what did the PNC in government do? They took Guyana to the bottom of the list of poorest countries in this hemisphere,” she said. Teixeira pointed out that “it is the Opposition in the National Assembly that blocked a petition from the business community urging the passage of the An-
Minister Jennifer Webster chaired the meeting
ti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill from even being read; yet Mr Granger has gone to the same (business) community to convince its members that the APNU and his Presidency will be good for them. Shame! All they do now is regurgitate Burnham’s ‘feed, house and clothe the nation’, but what do they do?” NO BUNDLES TO TIE Turning her attention to the actions of the political Opposition, Teixeira noted
Residents at the PPP/C meeting in West Ruimveldt on Wednesday evening
that “tying bundle with the APNU+AFC is dangerous” for the Guyanese people, since the contradictions that have characterised the positions of the APNU+AFC Alliance are as plain as day. “They are a party of contradictions…they carved up the pie of power but their pie is nothing but jello,” Teixeira posited. On the other hand, she stated that the actions of the political Opposition reeked of opportunism. Turn to page 14 ►
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Gov’t will safeguard wellbeing of Guyana’s children -Minister Edghill
–says recent Christianburg Primary protest was politically motivated GOVERNMENT will guard jealously the safety, happiness and well-being of the country’s children, Minister within the Ministry of Finance Mr Juan Edghill has said. The minister was at the time referring to recent protest actions by some parents of students attending the Christianburg Primary School in Linden. The protest action came as a result of claims by the parents that the school was sinking. However, according to Minister Edghill, the issue is being dealt with by the regional administration, and the protest action was politically motivated. “We will never do anything, policies or operational wise, to endanger the nation’s children or any individual child,” Minister Edghill pointed out during a programme on the National Communications Network (NCN) in Linden on Wednesday. According to the Government Minister, immediately after the complaint was made to him, (via television programme), he contacted the necessary ministry responsible for the maintenance of the school, the Local Government and Regional Development, and Education Ministries. The next day, there was a protest at the school, led by a Member of Parliament of Region Ten, and subsequently the Regional Executive Officer (REO), the Regional Education Officer and other regional officers engaged the parents to discuss the scenario.
“There was no concern of any broken limbs. The issue took a political twist, and rather than dealing with the issue at hand and ensuring that the children attend school and are positioned in a healthy and safe environment…a solution was found because there was another school that was built not too far away from the community to accommodate several hundred children, but it was not using up half of its capacity, so there was room to accommodate these children, while the issue was being rectified,” Minister Edghill stated. The minister pointed out that while there was an agreement being made with the parents, there was agitation coming from political quarters, to politicise the matter, and that is dangerous, because the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) is scheduled to be written next week. “…I don’t understand how people who claim to be political leaders in a community will disrupt the learning process of children…there is a sinister plot at work. While the parents would want their children to be safe, there are others who used the matter and exploited it politically,” Minister Edghill stressed. He congratulated the regional administration for acting promptly and professionally, and seeking to bring about solutions to the matter. However, as of March 24, some 89 children were back in the same building. The school has a population of 100 students. (GINA)
Minister Juan Edghill
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Guyanese nation still in recovery process By Shaun Michael Samaroo GUYANESE work today with the main goal of recovering from the economic bankruptcy and social devastation that crippled our nation within the first couple decades of Independence. We don’t consider that the recovery phase of our society is ongoing, and has been going on for the past thirty years, since the Government of late former President Desmond Hoyte launched the austerity liberalisation plan, the Economic Recovery Programme (ERP). Once we restored free and fair elections, aligning our political system and Government back on the path of democracy, once we returned to the fold of free Commonwealth nations, from 1992 to now we’ve been repairing crucial structural and foundational systems that broke down and suffered enormous stress and disrepair. After 1992, Guyana has been on a recovery path, and that process is still going on, moving to where we could
progress forward without being handicapped by our political history. Indeed, the Rodney Commission is showcasing just how alive and relevant is that tragic history to our ability today to heal as a nation and to advance forward with a sound national psyche. We ought to exercise empathetic understanding for Government’s constant reference back to our history, simply because our story is an unfolding process, with the past still alive enough to shape our future: we broke down as a nation, suffering incredibly bad misalignment to our structural integrity as a modern society. We’re still recovering, and knowing this is of utmost importance to how we approach constructing the social space that would allow us to heal and move forward as a people. The rampant systematic corruption that besets our Police Force and the Justice system and the Public Service and Private Sector, which citizens talk of constantly, grew
out of and has deep roots in our political history, where the Public Service felt the brunt of our descent to gross poverty. Our Public Service is yet to fully recover from its tragic fall during the 1970’s and 1980’s. But all aspects of the Guyanese society got gutted, with the severe world record 89 percent brain drain crippling our ability to manage, supervise and execute important projects. Opposition leaders bury their conscience, either lacking sound analysis of the situation in Guyana today, or disingenuously refusing to face the facts. Of course, our politics also became broken and dysfunctional, even disabled in many ways, and the oppositional political quest for revenge and vengeance that generates strife, dissent, national ‘cussout’ and absolute distrust among Parliamentarians is but a graphic symbol of the severe beating our political system took over the 1964 – 1992 dictatorship period. In fact, we witness the
larger-than-life national symbol of our grotesque demise since Independence, in the form of Georgetown’s longest serving Mayor, Hamilton Green. Green served this country at every level of Government except Head of State, and has spent nearly two and a half decades as Mayor. During this period, we saw the complete crippling of Guyana’s socio-economic structure, with the state of Georgetown today the worst it has been in its history. Mayor Green complains that Central Government caused the collapse of Georgetown from a Garden City to the Caribbean’s worst capital, and a garbage-festering city. He shifts the blame about his lack of management skills over Georgetown to Government. Who does he blame for Guyana’s collapse when he served in the dictatorship Government for 28 years? The Guyanese nation is still recovering from what leaders like Green caused in our nation. Recovery has been pain-
ful, slower than we wanted, and full of challenges and difficulties. But recovery is happening, and we’re once more becoming the envy of the Caribbean, and our rise is seeing significant improvement in the quality of life of Guyanese. Today, Guyana has regained its pre-Independence glory, when we ranked as the best society in the Commonwealth Caribbean. Our economy is growing as a fast emerging 21st century society; our people’s living standards increase exponentially; now Guyanese hop on a plane with ease and go to New York, Florida and Canada for vacation. We’ve come a far way, but we’ve got a far way more to go, to completely recover from our socio-economic devastation, with which a stifling dictatorship chained us. We must learn how to communicate these things to Guyanese citizens, and to tell the
story of Guyana, not with bitterness or for cheap points, but to motivate and energise ourselves to the task of achieving the Guyana Dream, of propelling us to our latent potential. Since the ancient days of the El Dorado myth, the potential of our land as a wealthy, advanced society became legend. In fact, in the 1940’s, the British colonial masters had identified British Guiana as a potential place for the rebirthed Israeli nation. Guyana’s place among the developed nations of the world is not something we need to question: it’s a known fact. We could take heart from global history, in seeing that many nations suffered incredible socio-economic collapse, and rose again, including several South American nations. In fact, the BRICS nations – India, China, South Africa, Brazil and Russia – all faced enormous crisis, and today are global powers. We could take heart from this human ability to recover from the most devastating of shocks, and we could trust in the Guyanese resolve, hard-working character and determination to rise, and rest assured that the recovery process that is ongoing is taking us to the Guyana Dream, not just as the Breadbasket of the Caribbean, but also as a developed 21st century nation on the world stage. Through such visions as the National Development Strategy, and our Low-Carbon Development Initiative, and hydroelectric power, and the national housing vision to see every Guyanese a homeowner, our success seems guaranteed and assured. Guyana is recovering, and it’s vital that we know our national story, that we understand what happened to us, that we analyse and introspect about where and why we suffered our decades-long fall. President Donald Ramotar leads from the front in this, as his Presidential Commission to probe how and why Dr Walter Rodney died in a suspected political assassination makes an emphatic point of not seeking retribution or revenge, but simply to unearth the reason why such a tragedy could take place in our beautiful, blessed land. Our nation has recovered, coming a long way, but the socio-economic devastation was so severe and so debilitating, that we’ve more ground to cover. We’re getting there, tackling the task with assurance, confidence and that quintessential Guyanese character of resolve and determination.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Police seeking Bel Air man in road rage shooting
The extent of the damage which the car sustained following the collision UP to late yesterday afternoon ranks from the Police ‘A’ and ‘D’ Division were trying to locate a Bel Air, Georgetown man who is accused of discharging a loaded firearm in Canal No. 2, West Bank Demerara even as investigators are still trying to ascertain if the man is a licensed firearm holder. The shooting stemmed from an accident which occurred very early yesterday morning when a car and truck
reportedly collided along the main road in Canal No. 2, in the vicinity of Resource. This newspaper was told that the man, whose name was given as Anand Singh, was ‘riding shotgun’ (front passenger seat) of motorcar, PRR 3042, when it ended up in the path of an oncoming truck, GLL 5159, forcing the truck driver to take evasive measure to prevent a head-on collision. However, the efforts were not entirely safe as
the two vehicles did connect, causing extensive damage to both vehicles. When the vehicles came to a stop, following the collision, Singh exited the vehicle. An argument ensued between himself and the truck driver, following which Singh reportedly discharged a weapon. Reports suggested that a bullet ricochet and struck a man travelling on the truck who was identified as a porter. W h e n p o l i c e a rrived on the scene, they took the driver of the car in custody to assist them in their
investigation even as the shooter, who was identified as living at lot 94 Bel Air, Georgetown entered another vehicle and fled the scene. Police investigators visited the man’s home, based on information provided to them by the driver of the car, but the man was nowhere to be found. When the Chronicle visited the area, the badly damaged car was parked along the Canal No. 2 main access road while the truck was parked a short distance away. The airbag of the car was also evidently activated. (Leroy Smith)
The damaged truck which now has several works to be carried out on it
The car parked on the road shoulder at Canal No. 2
The truck with additional damage it sustained to the front
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
UG staff paid but industrial action likely if negotiations fail
By Ravin Singh DESPITE University of Guyana (UG) staff being paid a 10 per cent interim increase following five weeks of industrial action, this could be repeated if negotiations between the combined unions - UG Workers Union (UGWU) and UG Senior Staff Association (UGSSA) - and the University’s administration fail to bear fruit. According to President of the UGSSA, Dr Melissa Ifill in an exclusive interview with this publication yesterday, all staff members except two have been paid the 10 per cent interim increase which was promised by the administration and monies which were deducted from the February 2015 salaries due to their decision to engage in industrial action. The two cases, she cited,
include a “casual worker” who has been employed at the institution for over five years and a library staff. However, the UGSSA President assured this newspaper that talks were still ongoing to ensure that these two staff members were not short-changed and would be treated equally. OPTIMISTIC BUT… Dr Ifill further related that negotiations between the combined UG unions and the administration were scheduled for March 31, which she hopes will bear fruit. In an optimistic tone, she said that both bodies will negotiate in “good faith” in an attempt to further propel the University towards
President of the UGSSA, Dr. Melissa Ifill
achieving international standards. However, when pressed on what the reaction would be from the staff should the negotiation process fail once again, Dr Ifill said that if the “push around” continues, “staff will be forced to engage in [industrial] actions for the university to take them seriously.” To this end, she noted that “industrial action is the only effective mechanism” which is capable of forcing the administration to be reasonable in their dealings with the staff of the institution. The doors of the institution were forced to be closed following unmet demands by the staff and students over a
period of five weeks, commencing January 26, 2015. WORKLOAD POLICY Dr Ifill had explained that the imposition of a workload policy which required the staff to work additional hours without an increase in salary; a demand for 60 percent increase in salaries by the staff, and recognition of the UGSSA as an official body, by the administration were among the reasons for the industrial action. Against this backdrop and a series of collapsed negotiations, a 10 per cent interim increase in salaries was offered until the scheduled negotiation should bear fruit.
‘PUT COUNTRY... “It is stinking opportunism…they sat there and cut up a deal…a deal about positions, nothing about the people… have they said to you ‘We will do this for you’, no,” Teixeira lamented. She gave an example of when two persons have a dispute and meet to find a way forward but one side comes in with their maximum ‘take it or leave it’. Teixiera said, “This is how the APNU and AFC have behaved in the last three years.” She stressed that despite repeated efforts of the President to meet over this period, there was no “wiggle room” for cooperation and finding solutions in the last three years. “We have worked with former President Hoyte as leader of the Opposition and former Leader of the Opposition Corbin…There was always some wiggle room to where we sit down and everybody get something….you cannot, when you are negotiating with a legitimate government, come to us and say ‘take it or leave it’…but the present Leader of the Opposition, Mr Granger, we cannot work with a leader who comes in to meet the President of Guyana and cannot sit down and negotiate,” she said. Teixeira acknowledged that while the PPP/C did not do everything right, the party has a track record of progress to show. “Come May 11, if you want more progress vote for the PPP/C… vote for the cup”
she urged.
OPPORTUNITY Other speakers at the meeting on Wednesday night included Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO) member, Charles Ramson Jr., who addressed the social advances, particularly in education, which have been made under successive PPP/C Administrations. He alluded to the Government supported initiatives – in the Education sector, for instance – that are beneficial to Guyanese, such as the school feeding programme, the uniform assistance programme and the ‘Because We Care’ initiative. “Opportunities were provided,” he stressed, adding that these opportunities have contributed to increased generation of income, which, by extension, improved the quality of living among the Guyanese people. Greater advances, according to Ramson Jr., will be delivered via continued economic growth, good governance and continued laudable stewardship of the country, by a Government that has consistently delivered for the Guyanese people. “All of the successes are because of the policies and programmes initiated by the PPP/C over two decades…. we help you build a foundation for success…the PNC and AFC have never had your back…they have never voted for anything in your interest… they had an opportunity to show you they had your back,
From page 10
but they voted no to everything that would help you,” he stressed. Ramson Jr added that the incumbent Party has a clear and viable vision for Guyana and for the peace, progress and prosperity for the Guyanese people. “President Ramotar has a vision for this country and as much as he has talked about his vision he has not had a chance to show you because of a vindictive Opposition whose mantra has been ‘NO’,” he said. He urged the residents to give President Ramotar a chance and vote PPP/C. The public meeting was chaired by Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Jennifer Webster. Additionally, Health Minister Dr Bheri Ramsarran, was also in the community interacting with residents in one-on-one sessions. Wednesday evening’s meeting at West Ruimveldt was one of several outreaches undertaken by the ruling PPP/C. Public meetings were and are being held nightly across the coastal regions of Guyana, from Yarrowkarba in Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice) to the Marias in Wakenaam, Region Three (Essequibo Islands/ West Demerara), Region 1, 2 and Georgetown. These meetings have been the tactic employed by the incumbent PPP for decades as a means of maintaining and nurturing support at the grassroots level.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
REGIONAL HEALTH OFFICERS DISCUSS HOW TO BETTER PROVIDE…
QUALITY HEALTH CARE SERVICES
Regional Health Officers, Programme Heads and other health officials
AS Government works towards providing a better quality of health care to the population, the country’s Regional Health Officers and Programme Heads are meeting to discuss the challenges they face in executing their mandate in the hinterland areas, and to also address their achievements. The two-day meeting, which opened yesterday, is being held at the Regency Suites, Hadfield Street. The workshop allows Regional Health Officers (RHOs) and Directors to engage in direct dialogue with programme heads, while reviewing their challenges, and engaging in discussions on areas of collaboration.
The meeting targeted RHOs and programme heads from Regions One, Seven, Eight, Nine, and Ten. The officers had an opportunity to present a report on health services in their respective Regions, after which they highlighted some of the areas on which they can improve. The event saw participation from Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, Deputy Permanent Secretary Mr Trevor Thomas, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Mr Norman Whittaker, and Representative of Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) Dr. William Adu-Krow. Minister Ramsaran, in his remarks, said Guyana
now has more doctors in the health institutions than before, due to the number of young doctors who graduated from the Cuba/Guyana Scholarship Programme. “Every single district hospital, and not only Lethem, Aishalton, Annai and Karasabai which are big communities with health centres, but all have substantive doctors, not only Medics,” he said. He urged the gathering to make full use of the resources provided by the Government to ensure that patients in the various hinterland areas receive quality health care. He said that while there may be many challenges in meeting the demands of the public, since
the hinterland areas are the most demanding, RHOs must try their best to meet these expectations, and not use the challenges as an excuse for failing to deliver. Dr Ramsaran also alluded to the fact that the Ministry of Health has been successful in eliminating certain diseases that could have had severe economic impact on the lives of citizens. Meanwhile, Minister Whittaker made mention of the responsibility his ministry has in ensuring the provision of health services across the country. “We support the Ministry of Health in ensuring that every single resident, who wishes to access health services in those regions,
Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran addressing Regional Health Officers, Programme Heads and other health officials, yesterday
be able to do so, and in this regard we reach out to the population, wherever they are, to ensure that they be better informed on good health practices,” Whittaker said. Day one of the meeting also saw presentations on the update of the health services in Regions One, Seven, Eight, Nine, and Ten, along with an update on Maternal and Child Health from Dr. Janice Woolford, Director of Maternal and Child Health; Mental Health from Dr. Bhiro Harry, Psychiatrist,
Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, and issues surrounding Drugs and Medical Supplies presented by Mr. Lee Van De Santos. The meeting will continue today, and is expected to see presentations on Regions Nine and Ten health services, an update on Vector Borne Diseases by Dr. Reyaud Rahman, Director of Vector Control Services (VCS); and on Tuberculosis by Dr. Jeetendra Mohanlall, Director of the National Tuberculosis Programme. (GINA)
Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Norman Whittaker addressing the gathering
Trial of chickenpox-hit murder accused now deferred to Tuesday By George Barclay THE trial of murder accused Michael Powley for allegedly killing Vishnauth Narine, called ‘Buddy’, had been postponed to Wednesday last because
he was struck with chickenpox, and now it has been further deferred to next week Tuesday (March 31). When the case was called on the resumption on Wednesday, the prison authorities disclosed that
Powley had not fully recovered and was at a stage where the disease could spread easily. As a consequence, presiding trial Judge, Mr. James Bovell-Drakes, who was in the process of conducting
a voir dire (a trial within a trial ) to determine the admissibility of a statement by the wife of the accused, and was obliged to make a postponement at that time, was again yesterday forced to order a further postpone-
ment to Tuesday, when it is expected the voir dire will continue. Powley is indicted for the murder of Vishnauth Narine of Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara. Narine was allegedly
stabbed to death at Vreed-enHoop following a disagreement with the accused. Attorney-at-Law, Mr Basil Williams is appearing for the defence while State Counsel, Miss Natasha Backer is prosecuting.
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Qualfon opens world-class US$12M campus at Providence
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
- President lauds investment, says Gov’t committed to human resource development
By Tajeram Mohabir MEXICAN outsourcing giant, Qualfon, yesterday opened a new US$12 million ‘contact centre’ campus at Providence, East Bank Demerara which, when fully completed, will be the largest in the world. The campus, located behind the Guyana National Stadium, houses two separate contact centre operations buildings and 3,500 works stations. The first contact centre operations, a 57,000 square-foot building called ‘Qualfon Guyana 111’ that includes a training centre and cafeteria, was opened yesterday. It is expected to begin operations in May. In addition to Qualfon Guyana 111, the campus construction plans include a second 114,000 square-foot
contact centre as well as a community centre, interfaith chapel and healthcare clinic. All told, when fully completed, the campus outfitted with solar power panels, green building materials, a rainwater collection system, and an onsite wastewater treatment facility, will provide jobs for some 6,000 persons. The company began operations here in 2005 following a visit from Alejandra Romero, who is now the Executive Vice President of ATAM and Global Solutions. On her visit, on landing at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, she saw an airport with hardly any light and no Automated Teller Machine (ATM) to withdraw money from her debit card. She was left stranded,
but was lucky to locate a generous taxi driver Wazeed Manjoor, who took her to her hotel in Georgetown on no extra charge, and on the promise that he will be paid when she gets access to her money. Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh said given the setbacks Romero encountered, had she received a snub from Manjoor, it most likely would have resulted in a premature death for Qualfon here. But the kindness of the unassuming taxi driver caused it (premature death) not to happen, paving the way for the creation of a new industry through the establishment of Qualfon, the largest private employer in Guyana, providing emSee Page 17
A section of the gathering at Qualfon’s Providence campus opening yesterday
President Donald Ramotar speaking at the opening of the Qualfon Campus at Providence, East Bank Demerara
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Qualfon opens world-class... South America and Africa have the worst kinds of poverty that you have seen, and there are other countries with very little resources (natural resources), countries like Japan which has a high standard of living, a powerful economy, because they have a highly educated and highly qualified workforce.”
EDUCATION President Ramotar said this is the direction the Government has been going, pointing out that great attention is being paid on spending to develop the Social Sector, with Education receiving the largest slice of Inside Qualfon Guyana 111, one of the buildings on the Providence campus the budgetary pie. “That is why over a period of time we have not cause people tend to talk sador of his country. From Page 16 He said for Guyana to about that a lot, and it is only achieved the Millenployment for thousands of continue to grow and devel- true, it is important, I am nium Development Goal of Guyanese. op, ever citizen has a role not trying in any way to having Universal Primary Manjoor, a taxi driver to play as everyone is an play down the importance Education…we are right of those things, but life has now on the verge of having for some 35 years and a ambassador of his country. shown us that the most im- Universal Secondary Educafather of two, was present portant factor for develop- tion in Guyana.” at the opening, and in an HUMAN CAPITAL The President said too invited comment, he told the This, the President said ment is the quality of the Chronicle that he was pleas- will ably complement the people that the country will that very soon, the minimum level of education in antly surprised when he was Government’s efforts to have,” the President said. He added: “To know Guyana will be a secondary called to grace the occasion. develop its human capital, President Donald Ra- which is vital for Guyana that, you can only look education, noting that his motar, addressing the gath- to move to the next level, around the world, and Government is striving to ering of senior management and be among the best in looked at countries that are create a workforce that is developed and rich and look comparable to any and secand staff of Qualfon, top the world. government officials and “The most important at countries that are poor…I ond to none in the world. This, he said, is very members of the private sec- factor for development is will tell you that some of tor, said Manjoor is a model not just all the natural re- the countries endowed with important as it will allow Guyanese, and a true ambas- sources that we have, be- most natural resources in investors to tap into a qual-
President Donald Ramotar and Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh on a tour of Qualfon Guyana 111
ity workforce capable of accelerating development both in the private and public sectors, and the country as a whole. President Ramotar also pointed out that the Government will be focusing attention on more investments in Information Technology (IT) to modernise traditional industries and create new ones. All secondary schools, he said, will be outfitted
through job creation. He noted that, in Guyana today, things have changed significantly, pointing out that there are lights and ATMs at the CJIA, and Government is looking to upgrade and expand the airport to cater for large carriers and more direct flights to the US. Qualfon Chairman and Founder Alfonso Gonzalez thanked the Government for helping his company set up
An act of kindness that created a local industry: Taxi driver Wazeed Manjoor and Executive Vice President of ATAM and Global Solutions Alejandra Romero
with computer laboratories in the near future, as efforts continue to make every citizen computer literate. Following a recent discussion between President Ramotar and Indian Prime Minister Narindra Modi, the Government is also looking to establish a world class IT centre in Guyana that can serve South America and the Caribbean. That centre is expected to be built at Providence, and will be of help to companies like Qualfon. The President also said that his Government is looking to put more of its services on the Internet, to fight the perception of corruption. Through these services, persons will be able to apply for work permits, waivers and houselots with greater efficiency. TRANSFORMING LIVES Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh commended Qualfon for expanding their footprint in Guyana, noting that the investment is not only a reflection of their confidence in the economy, but is one that will transform the lives of thousands
shop here and his local staff for making the operation a success. He said Qualfon is about changing lives and is guided by the motto to make the lives of its clients and employees better. Qualfon is a people-driven Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) company and a global provider of contact centre services and back-office processing. The company has over 11,000 employees serving international brands across many industries, with locations in the US, the Philippines, Guyana, Mexico and China. In a visit to Guyana in 2014, BPO Industry Analyst and Global Programme Director at Frost and Sullivan, Mr Stephen Loynd, described Guyana as “strategically positioned to be a major player because of the fact Guyana’s population speaks English as a first language, has a high cultural identity to the United States, has one of the highest literacy rates, and offers a cost structure that directly competes with India and the Philippines”.
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Mr Joe Singh, Dr Frank Anthony, Mr David Granger, Mr Alfred King and Mr Mark Phillips among mourners at Wednesday’s Thanksgiving ceremony (Adrian Narine photos) By Shirley Thomas “A great man has died, a towering soldier has passed away and Guyana has lost a worthy son,” said Col (Ret’d) George Gomes, President of the Guyana Veterans Legion, as he delivered the Army Veterans eulogy at the Thanksgiving Service for Col. Lindon Vernon McIntyre Ross, on Wednesday. The venue was the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Homestretch Avenue in Gdeorgetown. At the time of his death Col Ross, who was Deputy Director of Culture in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, was also Acting President of the Army Veterans Legion. His life may have started from humble beginnings, as a young man growing up in Belladrum, West Coast Berbice, but over time he certainly achieved greatness. Ross, who climbed the military ladder to the rank of Colonel in the Guyana De-
fence Force, undoubtedly typified the old adage: “To achieve greatness, one must serve”. Col. Ross served the Guyana Defence Force, and Guyana at large, with dedication and distinction. Consequently, he won the greatest military accolade, “A soldiers’ Officer”, said Col (Ret’d) Gomes. In recognition of his sterling service to his country, Ross who departed this life on March 17, was on Wednesday accorded a hero’s send off, first with a Thanksgiving Service at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown, after which his body was taken to his birthplace Belladrum, West Coast Berbice for interment. Towards the start of the service in Georgetown, and amidst choice musical renditions by Ras Camo on the steel pan, there was a downpour, but that did precious little to keep the hundreds from turning out to pay their last respects to one who was described as a patriot, a true
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Col. Ross hailed as ‘towering soldier’ at moving farewell * Recipient of the Military Service Medal * Military Efficiency Medal * Border Defence Medal * Fortieth Anniversary Medal and * Twenty-Fifth Anniversary Medal for his long, dedicated and distinguished service in the Guyana Defence Force He also secured a Degree in Public Management at the University of Guyana. Born in Belladrum on October 11, 1955, Ross attended Belladrum Primary and Mahaicony Secondary
Schools and then entered the teaching profession. He later quit teaching and enlisted in the GDF, where he commenced training on May 16, 1976 on the then Sixth Standard Officers’ Course. By mid-December that year, he graduated as a Second Lieutenant, the prelude to his outstanding career in soldiering, where he spent the next 31 years. Col. Lewis described Ross’ military career as colourful, with many peaks and troughs: On graduating from the Standard Officers’ Course, he was posted to Jaguar Battalion as a Platoon Commander. Thereafter, he had
and dedicated son of the soil. Ross who had spent more than half of his life in the army. At the Ministry of CulCOL. ‘FIX IT’ Among the distinguished ture, Youth and Sport where gathering of mourners were he served with distinction, Minister of Culture Youth renowned for being able to and Sport, Dr. Frank Antho- solve almost every perceivable ny; Leader of the Opposi- problem, he had come to be tion, Brigadier (Ret’d) David called ‘Col. Fix It’, according Granger; Mayor of George- to Minister Anthony. While serving in the GDF, town, Mr. Hamilton Green; Town Clerk (Ag), Ms. Carol Col. Ross received the followSooba; Army Chief of Staff ing accolades: Brigadier Mark Phillips; Permanent Secretary of the MCYS, Alfred King; Retired Chief of Staff Major General Joseph Singh; other past and current senior officers of the GDF, and others. There were several moving tributes delivered by Dr. Frank Anthony, Mr David Granger; Mr Joe Singh; and Director of the MCYS, Dr James Rose. The family eulogy was read by Col. Ross’ only sister, Ingrid Ross and his son, Leon Ross. However, the military tribute, read by Col. George Gomes gave an in-depth insight into the life, career and accomplishments of Col Col Ross’ sister, Hazel, and his son Leon read the family eulogy
many appointments within the Jaguar and Pirai Battalions, spanning six years. During that period he travelled overseas as part of the GDF’s contingent to IX TIN SHEET in England, a military exchange training programme between the GDF and the British Army. He also did the Junior Command and Tactics Course locally, in 1978, and was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in 1979. In March 1972 he was posted to Brigade Headquarters as Operations Officer, then later to Jaguar Battalion (1 Infantry Battalion) with command over the troops there for the next two years. In January 1984 he was promoted to Captain, after completing the Junior Command and Staff Course in 1983. In September 1984, he was posted to training Corps with responsibility for training at officer and other ranks levels for the next four years. While there, Ross also attended and successfully completed the Senior Command and Staff Course in 1986. After leaving Training Corps in 1988, he continued his military career as a Staff Officer in the Ground Forces Group HQ and in January 1989 was promoted to the rank of Major. In June that year, he proceeded to Canada where he attended and successfully completed the one-year Canadian Land Forces Command Course and Canadian Land Forces Staff Course. On his return home, he was appointed Base Com-
mander, Base Camp Ayanganna, where he served for less than one month before being appointed the Operations and Training Officer at the Grade 2 level. In June 1992, Ross was appointed the Commanding Officer of the 1st Infantry Battalion. Over the next 15 years of his career, he continued his upward climb working assiduously in various senior staff and command appointments within the Force. Such appointments include: Commanding Officer 4 Engineer Battalion; Second-in-Command 1 Infantry Battalion; as base Commander, Base Camp Stephenson; Commanding Officer Training Corps; Staff Officer I Operations and Training, Defence Headquarters; Commander 2 Infantry Battalion and finally Commander I Infantry Battalion – the last military appointment he held. He was then elevated from the rank of Major to Colonel. Among the many training programmes Col. Ross attended were: the Peace Keeping Course in Canada; the International Humanitarian Course; the Army Command and Staff Officers’ Course and the Higher Studies of Politics Course in Brazil. He also attended the Hemispheric Defence & Security Course in the USA. Meanwhile, seminars/ meetings at which he represented the GDF and Guyana
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony (left) and Permanent Secretary Alfred King (right), among those bearing the body of Col Lindon Ross out of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall compound on Wednesday 2007, he was seconded to overseas include: New Horiborder security were dis- during EX IRONWEED in the Ministry of Culture, zon’s Mid-Planning Confercussed. Tacama. Youth and Sport, where he ence in the USA in 1997; the In 1997 Col Ross comAfter a long, dedicated served as Deputy Director Conference of Security of the manded the Regional Secu- and distinguished service in of Culture. Americas in Brazil and the rity System Battalion during the GDF, Col Ross retired “If there is but one legAnnual Regional Meeting of the EX TRADEWINDS in with dignity on October acy that we can emulate Military Exchange between Puerto Rico and Grenada, 11, 2010 - his 55th birth from the life of Col Ross, it the GDF and the Brazilian then in 2005, command- anniversary. While yet was his devotion to work,” Army where aspects of joint ed the 1 Infantry Brigade in the GDF, on August 27, Col Lewis concluded.
Bereaved members of the Ross family at the Thanksgiving Service
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Mr Joe Singh, Dr Frank Anthony, Mr David Granger, Mr Alfred King and Mr Mark Phillips among mourners at Wednesday’s Thanksgiving ceremony (Adrian Narine photos) By Shirley Thomas “A great man has died, a towering soldier has passed away and Guyana has lost a worthy son,” said Col (Ret’d) George Gomes, President of the Guyana Veterans Legion, as he delivered the Army Veterans eulogy at the Thanksgiving Service for Col. Lindon Vernon McIntyre Ross, on Wednesday. The venue was the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Homestretch Avenue in Gdeorgetown. At the time of his death Col Ross, who was Deputy Director of Culture in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, was also Acting President of the Army Veterans Legion. His life may have started from humble beginnings, as a young man growing up in Belladrum, West Coast Berbice, but over time he certainly achieved greatness. Ross, who climbed the military ladder to the rank of Colonel in the Guyana De-
fence Force, undoubtedly typified the old adage: “To achieve greatness, one must serve”. Col. Ross served the Guyana Defence Force, and Guyana at large, with dedication and distinction. Consequently, he won the greatest military accolade, “A soldiers’ Officer”, said Col (Ret’d) Gomes. In recognition of his sterling service to his country, Ross who departed this life on March 17, was on Wednesday accorded a hero’s send off, first with a Thanksgiving Service at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown, after which his body was taken to his birthplace Belladrum, West Coast Berbice for interment. Towards the start of the service in Georgetown, and amidst choice musical renditions by Ras Camo on the steel pan, there was a downpour, but that did precious little to keep the hundreds from turning out to pay their last respects to one who was described as a patriot, a true
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Col. Ross ‘towering s moving f * Recipient of the Military Service Medal * Military Efficiency Medal * Border Defence Medal * Fortieth Anniversary Medal and * Twenty-Fifth Anniversary Medal for his long, dedicated and distinguished service in the Guyana Defence Force He also secured a Degree in Public Management at the University of Guyana. Born in Belladrum on October 11, 1955, Ross attended Belladrum Primary and Mahaicony Secondary
Schools and then entered the teaching profession. He later quit teaching and enlisted in the GDF, where he commenced training on May 16, 1976 on the then Sixth Standard Officers’ Course. By mid-December that year, he graduated as a Second Lieutenant, the prelude to his outstanding career in soldiering, where he spent the next 31 years. Col. Lewis described Ross’ military career as colourful, with many peaks and troughs: On graduating from the Standard Officers’ Course, he was posted to Jaguar Battalion as a Platoon Commander. Thereafter, he had
and dedicated son of the soil. Ross who had spent more than half of his life in the army. At the Ministry of CulCOL. ‘FIX IT’ Among the distinguished ture, Youth and Sport where gathering of mourners were he served with distinction, Minister of Culture Youth renowned for being able to and Sport, Dr. Frank Antho- solve almost every perceivable ny; Leader of the Opposi- problem, he had come to be tion, Brigadier (Ret’d) David called ‘Col. Fix It’, according Granger; Mayor of George- to Minister Anthony. While serving in the GDF, town, Mr. Hamilton Green; Town Clerk (Ag), Ms. Carol Col. Ross received the followSooba; Army Chief of Staff ing accolades: Brigadier Mark Phillips; Permanent Secretary of the MCYS, Alfred King; Retired Chief of Staff Major General Joseph Singh; other past and current senior officers of the GDF, and others. There were several moving tributes delivered by Dr. Frank Anthony, Mr David Granger; Mr Joe Singh; and Director of the MCYS, Dr James Rose. The family eulogy was read by Col. Ross’ only sister, Ingrid Ross and his son, Leon Ross. However, the military tribute, read by Col. George Gomes gave an in-depth insight into the life, career and accomplishments of Col Col Ross’ sister, Hazel, and his son Leon read the family eulogy
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
hailed as soldier’ at farewell many appointments within the Jaguar and Pirai Battalions, spanning six years. During that period he travelled overseas as part of the GDF’s contingent to IX TIN SHEET in England, a military exchange training programme between the GDF and the British Army. He also did the Junior Command and Tactics Course locally, in 1978, and was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in 1979. In March 1972 he was posted to Brigade Headquarters as Operations Officer, then later to Jaguar Battalion (1 Infantry Battalion) with command over the troops there for the next two years. In January 1984 he was promoted to Captain, after completing the Junior Command and Staff Course in 1983. In September 1984, he was posted to training Corps with responsibility for training at officer and other ranks levels for the next four years. While there, Ross also attended and successfully completed the Senior Command and Staff Course in 1986. After leaving Training Corps in 1988, he continued his military career as a Staff Officer in the Ground Forces Group HQ and in January 1989 was promoted to the rank of Major. In June that year, he proceeded to Canada where he attended and successfully completed the one-year Canadian Land Forces Command Course and Canadian Land Forces Staff Course. On his return home, he was appointed Base Com-
mander, Base Camp Ayanganna, where he served for less than one month before being appointed the Operations and Training Officer at the Grade 2 level. In June 1992, Ross was appointed the Commanding Officer of the 1st Infantry Battalion. Over the next 15 years of his career, he continued his upward climb working assiduously in various senior staff and command appointments within the Force. Such appointments include: Commanding Officer 4 Engineer Battalion; Second-in-Command 1 Infantry Battalion; as base Commander, Base Camp Stephenson; Commanding Officer Training Corps; Staff Officer I Operations and Training, Defence Headquarters; Commander 2 Infantry Battalion and finally Commander I Infantry Battalion – the last military appointment he held. He was then elevated from the rank of Major to Colonel. Among the many training programmes Col. Ross attended were: the Peace Keeping Course in Canada; the International Humanitarian Course; the Army Command and Staff Officers’ Course and the Higher Studies of Politics Course in Brazil. He also attended the Hemispheric Defence & Security Course in the USA. Meanwhile, seminars/ meetings at which he represented the GDF and Guyana
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony (left) and Permanent Secretary Alfred King (right), among those bearing the body of Col Lindon Ross out of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall compound on Wednesday 2007, he was seconded to overseas include: New Horiborder security were dis- during EX IRONWEED in the Ministry of Culture, zon’s Mid-Planning Confercussed. Tacama. Youth and Sport, where he ence in the USA in 1997; the In 1997 Col Ross comAfter a long, dedicated served as Deputy Director Conference of Security of the manded the Regional Secu- and distinguished service in of Culture. Americas in Brazil and the rity System Battalion during the GDF, Col Ross retired “If there is but one legAnnual Regional Meeting of the EX TRADEWINDS in with dignity on October acy that we can emulate Military Exchange between Puerto Rico and Grenada, 11, 2010 - his 55th birth from the life of Col Ross, it the GDF and the Brazilian then in 2005, command- anniversary. While yet was his devotion to work,” Army where aspects of joint ed the 1 Infantry Brigade in the GDF, on August 27, Col Lewis concluded.
Bereaved members of the Ross family at the Thanksgiving Service
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Bombshell’s Hottest Babes…
Tel Contact: 616-0301/ 6996156
Roxanne Mr & Ms PYARG West Bank Smith: Pure Pageant slated for tomorrow perfection cations around Guyana under the PYARG banner, and the winners will battle for the Queen of Queens’ and King of Kings’ titles, to be hosted at a date to be announced later. hose competing for the Mr and Miss PYARG West Bank titles are Meshack Howard, Onassis Blair, Ezra King, Kevin Isaacs, Dorwayne Paul, Mark Williams, Shonel Souvenir, Aliyah Clarke, Vidasree Persaud, Beverly Sills, Anicia Williams, and Marona Benjamin. The Award Programme was launched in Britain in 1956 as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. It
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She’s got style and she’s got grace; she’s an unforgettable face.
HE best describes herself as the ‘forbidden fruit’, and one can readily see that she is filled to overflowing with that proverbial rich, heady Caribbean nectar. This 24-year-old diva who hails from the Westside is a ‘phenomenal woman’ who possesses the rare combination of beauty and brains. Roxanne Smith is obviously an intensely beautiful female, the epitome of pure perfection. She strives to attain the ‘luxuries of life’, and works towards her aspirations, since she does not believe that ‘manna has continued to fall from the heavens’. While she enjoys travelling, dancing, modelling and listening to stirring music, she mostly spends her leisure time curled up before the television with a mug of hot cocoa, purring demurely at her mind’s vivid musings. This femme fatale has her sights set on becoming Guyana’s next top model, and is at the moment taking training to take the runway by storm. A bubbly beauty with the perfect personality, Roxanne prefers to interact with intelligent and creative individuals who can add value to life. She can be contacted on telephone number 592- 697-1821.
LL road leads to the L’Aventure Secondary School (West Bank Demerara) tomorrow evening, when six dazzling lasses and six equally astounding males face off in the first ever Mr and Miss President’s Youth Award Programme Pageant (PYARG). This new edutainment initiative will see representatives from several schools in the West Demerara District battling for the coveted queen and king title. The event will start promptly at 7pm and will be spearheaded by our own Alex Wayne, who conducted the live Intelligence Segment of the pageant and will be performing duties of MC on pageant night. The contestants will be competing in the following segments: Introduction, Expedition Wear and Swimwear, as well as the Evening Apparel and Final Question categories. Similar pageants will be hosted at other lo-
Those contesting the 2015 PYARG Mr and Miss West Bank titles.
now exists under a series of different names in various countries. uyana’s National Award Scheme for Youths was launched by the Patron, Her Excellency President Janet Jagan, on October 03, 1998 at State House Annexe some two months after Guinea received an independent operating license from the International Award Association.
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Those behind the venture… Seated from left are ‘Colwyn’ Abrams (Co-ordinator), and Asheena Stewart (Assistant Co-ordinator). In background from left are former Talented Teen Pageant winner Kefa Smith, and Mr. Guyana International winner, Paul Charles.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Flashback!!!
‘GT&T Kross Kolor School Show 20’ billed for tomorrow
First ‘Moussy Malt Colour Your Life Promotion’ winners announced...
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ITH the intent of giving back to their many supporting customers, Southland International Inc, through its malt brand MOUSSY, on Saturday last, conducted the first of six countrywide drawings in their MOUSSY MALT Colour Your Life Promotion at the N & S Mattai grocery store on Water Street, Georgetown. At that drawing, Delanda Melville of 229, Thomas Street, Kitty won herself the US$50 cash prize; while Randolph Pereira of Diamond, East Bank Demerara took home a grocery voucher valued at $20, 000. Carting off the much coveted 40-inch flat screen Samsung colour television was Margaret Clarkson of North East La Penitence, Georgetown, who incidental-
28th 2015 for their Carlsberg beer March Madness Pre-Easter Bashment feat with DJs from Georgetown and Berbice. The saucy ‘GT Dancers’ will be there with live entertainment by DJ Hothead, DJ Guy, and Selector Bajan. Today, check out Sharon Kissoon (Stabroek Market) as she hosts her all-day Carlsberg specials; while same will be staged at Aracari Resort and Mary’s Bar (Old Road, Crane). Bartica Skyy Lounge will stage their all day promotion, and same will be hosted at Tile Bar (Zorg, Essequibo), and at Purple Heart Club at Charity. Gravity Lounge will be in action from 4 to 7 pm. Then it’s off to 704 Lounge from 8-10 pm, while Garage Grill features their
A Moussy Malt fan (centre) draws the first entry from the rotisserie at the drawing conducted on Saturday ly was a winner in the said promotion last year. The drawings will continue as lead-up to May 30th for the grand prize of $1,000,000. Entry is simple: place 3 Moussy crowns in an envelope with your name, number and address, and drop same off at any MAJOR supermarket/ store that has the Moussy CYL boxes. Remember: entry is unlimited; so keep saving those Moussy Malt crowns and placing those entries! Meanwhile, folks can check out the following locations to enjoy the Carlsberg March Madness Promotion: Vashtie’s Night Club on Saturday, March
promotion simultaneously. Hibiscus Bar kicks off between 9-10 pm, while R&V Sports Bar (Coverden) will stage its all day promotion tomorrow. Tomorrow the ‘All Day Promotion’ will be staged at Seeram’s Bar (Alexander Village); at Vashtie’s Bar Pre-Easter Bashment (Bartica); Skyy Lounge; Mary’s Bar; Stadium View (Providence); R&V Sports Bar; Tile Bar, and also Club Purple Heart. The excitement continues all Sunday, March 29, 2014 at Skyy Lounge, Aracari Resort, Mary’s Bar, R&V Sports Bar, Tile Bar and Club Purple Heart.
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FTER seven successful years of the Kross Kolor Annual School Show, 2015 heralds the biggest line-up ever for the event. With the likes of powerhouses Jumo Primo, Melissa ‘Vanilla’ Roberts, the versatile Charmaine Blackman, ‘ Chineyman’, Jovinski, and Tennicia DeFreitas, the show will certainly be ‘da bomb’ this year. They, of course, will be joined by Kwasi ‘Ace’ Edmondson, Jackie Jaxx, Jonathan ‘Lil Red’, Character Dancer ‘Granny Ivelaw’, and the saucy Heatwave Dancers. Billed to perform also are ‘The Reactors’, ‘Dance Fanatics’, ‘Avalanche’, and the Jewan Ka Nritya Dancers. They are all undoubtedly geared to present the children with a treat of a lifetime for the modest price of only $500. This event is slated for tomorrow at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown. The Kross Kolor School Show has always stuck with showcasing Guyana’s finest in a fun and safe environment; and throughout its existence, has been incident-free and child safe. The show is scheduled to commence at 13:00 hrs and end at 16:30 hrs, during which time artistes will deliver performances that are modified for their young audience. Each artiste is also mandated to deliver a brief charge to the audience based on several topics dealing with various aspects of teenage life; for example, encouraging them to stay in school, say no to drugs, and similar topics that will encourage positive attitudes in our children. This year, Kross Kolor Records will
Big Diamond Entertainment to stage All White Easter Bash
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IG Diamond Entertainment has been known for their massive Old Year’s Night parties and many other pulsating entertainment ventures. They are promoters of the famous ‘All White Yankee Boat Cruise’, and now they are poised to bring you ’Cloud 9’, the official all while Easter Party. This event will unfurl on April 04, 2015 at 382 Ganges Street, Prashad Nagar (Opposite EPA Building) To take things a notch higher, the promoters have included the likes of the Super Ray One Man Band and the Fusion Boom DJs. Promoters are urging you to deck out in your high-fashion white ensembles for a chance to win tickets to the 9th Annual Yankee All White Boat Cruise. Admission to the All White Easter Bash (Cloud 9) has been set at $3000, and this includes a succulent buffet. Patrons are expected to support the beverage bar. This even comes to you with the kind compliments of the Artistes In Direct Support (A.I.D.S)
be working along with the Unit of Allied Arts to present an education-friendly show to a captive audience with the sole purpose of influencing lives in a positive way. Several underpinning rules have governed the event over the years: no alcohol will be sold or allowed in the venue; no metal or sharp object would be allowed into the venue; the accepted attire is black or blue jeans with white T-shirt, or shirt with badge, or shirt of school uniform. Security has always been a top priority at the event, and this year is no different; with private security and the Guyana Police Force in attendance. Parents can accompany their children for the same price of $500 (five hundred dollars, but must be appropriately dressed. Teachers accompanying children are allowed in without charge. The GT&T Kross Kolor School Show has had great support from GT&T, Igloo Ice Cream, and Colours Boutique, without whom this event would not be possible. The promoters are extending their gratitude to the artistes who have made their talents available for the entertainment of the children.
Vanilla
Recognition should also be given to Director of Sports, Mr Neil Kumar, and staff of the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall for always being there throughout the journey of this event over the years.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Joke of the Day!
woman ran into a doctor’s office and said: “DOCTOR! DOCTOR! You have to help me! Everywhere I touch on my body hurts!” The doctor replied, “Show me!” So the woman poked her ankle and screamed in pain; then she poked her knee and yelled “OW!” She poked her forehead and screamed again. She was about to continue when the doctor said, “That’s enough, let me think this over.” He thought for about a minute, then said: “I think I know what your problem is: you broke your finger.”
Awwww... And Vidya Binda makes such a tempting morsel in her bridal outfit. Congrats to that dude who is lucky to wed her...
The Wedding Journal:
A televised forum to make weddings brighter
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VER so often, persons wanting to have the perfect wedding just don’t have any idea where to look for tips to make their event lasting and memorable. So they fumble around, making the wrong decisions and choices, and in the long run making blunders that negatively affect the occasion. Persons can now rest assured that the versatile and talented Vidya Binda has seen their pain, heard their lamentations, and has accordingly formulated and produced the very informative ‘Wedding Journal’ television programme to make their lifes and even their marriages happier. This exquisite programme, which began in May 2014, was born out of the intense need Ms. Binda nursed to inform would-be brides on the right choice of dress, cost effectiveness, reduction, centre pieces, effective planning, and all the other related items that go with a perfect wedding. This forum allows you to choose wisely on colour scheming and décor, and even goes the extra mile to inform on traditions surrounding weddings and how and why they were implemented. Here you can learn how and why the cake should be cut, and the public can be sensitised on what is on the platter locally in relation to weddings. This programme makes room for an arresting greeting segment for newlyweds, with room for photo displays on a weekly basis, free of charge. That is so sweet and enticing… he Wedding Journal is further complemented with a very active Facebook Group, dubbed ‘The Wedding Journal’, which comprises 6,200 members. Viewers are quite existed by this site, and at least 36 new members jump on board each day. And the more exciting feature is that when information is shared on the site, it becomes accessible to all group members instantly!!! If you don’t want to be left out on all the fun, then jump onboard as a sponsor and enjoy extensive advertising and bragging rights! Brides and couples, too, can become a part of this creative venture, since the host constantly features a bride and a couple on the programme every week. Things will be taken a notch higher in June of this year when an excellent website will be made available for the Wedding Journal. It will certainly mirror the existing programme, and will reach international audiences. This will work nicely, of course, for those returning to Guyana for that special ‘Caribbean Wedding’. The Wedding Journal is the only such initiative on television at the moment, and it is aired on MTV (Channel 14) from 6pm on Wednesdays. Ms Binda is the producer of this programme, and compiles, edits and hosts the forum. Entities on board at the moment are Shontell’s Exotic Creations, Mandy’s Event Services, the Aracari Resort, and Rennaissance Gems. Folks, you are greatly urged to embrace this perfect opportunity to showcase your business and the services you offer on a progarmme that is fulfilling, innovative and well-orchestrated. Get glued to your television set each Wednesday; or, better yet, get onboard a forum that will benefit your business quite positively.
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Sublime Smith inspires Aussies ... From back page
“We thought 330 was around par but we knew we had to bowl and field well and the boys did a terrific job tonight,” said Smith. “Just happy we got over the line in the end. I’m just looking forward to Melbourne. It’s going to be a hell of a day.” India might have fancied their chances of chasing the target down after a solid start on a good pitch in perfect weather conditions and backed by the majority of a crowd of 42,330 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Mitchell Johnson and Josh Hazlewood had other ideas, however, and they tore the heart out of India’s top order by sending Shikhar Dhawan (45), Virat Kohli (1) and Rohit Sharma (34) back inside six overs. When James Faulkner, who had been hammered for 23 runs by Dhawan in his first two overs, got into the act by dismissing Suresh Raina (7), India had lost four of their most coveted wickets for the addition of just 32
runs to fall to 108-4. Johnson’s bowling was as potent as it has been all tournament and the delivery that clean-bowled Rohit - a ball after the opener had the temerity to hit him for six sent one bail flying 20 feet behind the stumps. Dhoni and Ajinkya Rahane (44) set about rebuilding the innings with a partnership of 70 but when the captain was run-out ambling down the wicket by a direct hit from Glenn Maxwell, the die was cast. “We came back quite well but we could have bowled better,” said Dhoni, who said he would not be retiring. “A lot of people did not think we’d come so far in the tournament.” Faulkner added a flourish by bowling Ravichandran Ashwin and Mohit Sharma in successive deliveries to finish with 3-59 but Umesh Yadav blocked the hat-trick ball. Smith had earlier reprised his role as India’s
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tormentor-in-chief, rarely looking troubled in his 122-minute, 93-ball knock and sharing a second-wicket partnership of 182 with opener Aaron Finch (81). The 25-year-old hit 11 fours and two sixes to give India a rude reminder of his prolific form in the Test series around New Year, when he scored a century in all four matches. He secured his fourth straight half-century at the World Cup in 53 balls and was soon surging towards his fourth ODI century, which he secured from 89 balls with a six and a four off successive deliveries. With Yadav (4-72) to the fore, however, India struck back to remove Smith and then the power-hitters in Australia’s middle order. A late Johnson cameo of 27 not out off nine balls helped bolster Australia’s tally and India will rue their failure to dismiss their opponents for the first time in eight matches at the World Cup.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
India’s reign as world champions ends Down Under
By Julian Linden
SYDNEY, Australia (Reuters) - India’s reign as cricket’s world champions is over. Four years after they won the World Cup at home, they bowed out in the semi-finals, beaten by Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground yesterday. India came into the World Cup with low expectations after struggling during their build-up but lifted themselves up when it mattered. They went through their six pool matches and easily won their quarter-final against Bangladesh but ran into a red-hot Australian side. India’s players were disappointed to lose but gracious in defeat, acknowledging that the Australians had played better. For India’s captain
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, it was a moment tinged with sadness. Four years ago, Dhoni led India to win the World Cup on home soil, setting off one of the biggest celebrations seen in the world’s largest democracy. India knocked out the Australians in the quarterfinals, ending their run of three successive World Cup titles between 1999 and 2007, and went on to win the final. “It’s something that doesn’t really belong to anyone. We definitely took it from someone, so somebody took it from us. It’s as simple as that,” Dhoni said. “The best team takes it for four years and then everybody gets their own plans ready, depending on the conditions, and they challenge the one that has the Cup.
India’s Virat Kohli (C) and team mates react after Australia won their Cricket World Cup semifinal match in Sydney, yesterday. (Credit: Reuters/David Gray) “It doesn’t stay with one for long, but that’s how it has been. If we would have played better cricket on this particular day, maybe we would have gone into the final. But that’s how it is. In any international sport you have to be at your best. If not, the Cup gets shared.” For Dhoni and his players, the consolation for losing was they get to go home a few days earlier. The Indian team have been in Australia
for four months, playing a four-match Test series and a warm-up tournament before the World Cup, and are fatigued. They came away empty-handed, losing the Tests and the One Day International tournament they entered, but with renewed hope for the future and a ringing endorsement from Sachin Tendulkar. “Well played in the ICC World Cup Team India,” the Indian batting great tweeted. “A tough game today
and a loss is always difficult to handle. But you have played some terrific cricket throughout and all the fans have enjoyed watching you. Congratulations to Australia for a convincing win.” The good news for India is that they will not have to wait long for their next chance to be the world champions. Next year, the Twenty20 World Cup will be held in India and Dhoni wants to play on, scoffing at suggestions he might retire.
Dhoni concedes India ‘done in’ by pressure of chase ALTHOUGH he thought the total was “just over par”, MS Dhoni said failing to capitalise on their early momentum in the chase and the lack of depth in their batting order contributed to India’s semi-final exit at the World Cup. Australia had amassed 328 - the highest total made in a World Cup semi-final - in Sydney on the back of a century from Steven Smith. India’s reply had begun promisingly with the openers putting together 76 runs in 12.5 overs but when Australia found their first wicket - Shikhar Dhawan crunching a lofted drive into deep cover’s hands for 45 three more came their way in no time and India were 108 for 4 in the 23rd over and the There is pressure when you’re chasing 320 runs and we have seen in cricket that pressure makes you do pressure began to show. “I felt we got off to a things you don’t really want to do - MS Dhoni. very good start. Shikhar’s chasing 320 runs and we have seen in cricket and economy of 3.65, Mitchell Johnson, who dismissal to some extent was slightly on that pressure makes you do things you don’t appeared fiercer and faster today, and Josh the softer side because that was the time he really want to do” Hazlewood, who hit nagging lengths. could have milked the Australian bowling. Dhoni walked out to tackle a run-rate on Dhoni, who made 65, progressed at a He was scoring quite freely and with the the wrong side of eight. India have been in such strike rate under 100 for 55 balls mindful open field, he should have just batted for a situations before, having run down 15 targets of the lack of power-hitters down the order. few more overs and he didn’t really need to above 300 - an ODI record - but there weren’t Meanwhile, the required rate had gone into play a big shot. too many weak links in a bowling line-up double-digits. “But overall, there is pressure when you’re featuring Mitchell Starc, with a strike rate 16.7 “That was too much to chase because if
you lose quite a few wickets and if you are supposed to chase over six runs an over and also the fact that our lower order ... I don’t think they can contribute as much in these conditions,” he said. “So it makes it further difficult, but overall I thought it was a good exposure to them and maybe the next time they play in other conditions they’ll know how to bat in these conditions and will do much better. “Our lower order slightly need to work harder on their batting because most of the good teams bat quite deep and we have seen, especially in the knockout stages, you need to bat deep.” Despite a decent effort from the bowlers at the top and the tail of the Australian innings, Dhoni hoped his quicks could find a higher gear. “Over 300 is a difficult score to chase, but I felt it was just over par. They were looking as if they were going to score over 340, or maybe 350 runs but we came back quite well. “But I felt still we could have bowled well, the reason being, in the afternoon we got a bit of reverse swing going. I was a bit personally worried about the spinners, without any footmarks on a fresh wicket but I think their performance was good. “But I felt the fast bowlers could have done slightly better. “Overall, quite happy with where we were,” he said. “At the start of the tournament, a lot of people didn’t really think we’ll come so far but at the same time when you come to the knockouts you have to lift your game.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Smith’s golden summer keeps on getting better By Julian Linden SYDNEY, Australia (Reuters) Steve Smith’s golden summer just keeps on getting better. Australia’s new run-scoring machine just can’t seem to do any wrong and now he’s off to the World Cup final. Smith has been piling on the runs and breaking records all summer long. And yesterday, in one of the biggest matches of his blossoming career, he did it again, scoring a match-winning century in the World Cup semi-final against India. Smith’s 105 was a composed and perfectly-constructed innings. He came to the crease early after Australia lost David Warner in the fourth over and quickly settled the host nation’s nerves. The 25-year-old reached his fourth straight half-century at the World Cup in 53 balls then his hundred off 89 balls, which he brought up with a six and a four off successive balls. He departed soon after but the job had been done. Australia went on to post a massive total of 328-7 and India could manage only 233 in reply.
“We thought 330 was around par. We knew we had to bowl and field well,” Smith said after being named man-of-the-match. “The boys did a terrific job tonight. Bring on Melbourne.” Australia will play New Zealand in the final in Melbourne on Sunday. For Smith, his century continued his amazing run of form with the bat this summer. In the four-Test series against India, which started in November, he scored a century in every match. In the months leading up to the World Cup, he also scored oneday international centuries against South Africa and England before notching his first World Cup hundred yesterday. And for good measure, he also pulled off a brilliant piece of fielding, running out Ravindra Jadeja with a direct hit. Smith’s extraordinary run has coincided with his surprise promotion to the Australian captaincy. When regular skipper Michael Clarke hobbled out of the first Test against India with a hamstring injury, Smith was given the nod
Brooklyn X2 Linden Inter-ward football quarter-finals on tonight THE last two quarterfinal matches in the Brooklyn X2 Promotions Linden Interward football championship will be played at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground tonight to decide the two remaining semifinalists. According to the organiser Marlon Washington it would be the known against the unknowns this evening, when in game one at 19.00hrs, Amelia’s Ward face Canvas City while at 21.00hrs Silvertown will square off against Silvercity/Valley Combined. Washington said that the tournament has received generous support from sponsors Ansa McAl Trading using their STAG Beer brand while others have joined to make the tournament a success. They include Bella’s Lumber Yard, Babaloo Car Rental, Bolo’s Variety Store, Snooks’ Cambio, Jermane and Sons Grocery, Leebert’s Enterprise, Foreign Links and JACS Restaurant and Bakery. He said from all indications the championship is building a fan base as supporters have been following the matches
and are in for a treat at the double-header tonight. Several cash incentives are at stake with the winner grabbing $400 000 secondplace finishers $200 000, third $125 000 and fourth $75 000. In the first game Amelia’s Ward will be led by Shawn ‘Dash’ Daniels along with Travis ‘Chicken’ Waterton, Terrence Aaron and Quacy Johnson and will tackle Canvas City, who are an unknown quantity but will be no pushovers. Among those appearing for Canvas City are Jermaine Fordyce and Michael Wilson The second game will see Silvercity/Valley Combined feature players like Lloyd ‘De de’ Gilbert, the Neblett brothers Kellon and Benney, Colwyn David, Trenton Lashley and their opponents Silvertown will be led by Dolovan Francis. Already through to the semi-finals are Blueberry Hill who beat Wisrock 1-0 and Christianburg who were 2-1 victors against Kara Kara. The semifinals will be played on Sunday April 3 at the MSC ground and the final on Wednesday, April 6.
Australia’s Steve Smith (C) high-fives with Aaron Finch and other team mates (L-R) captain Michael Clarke, Mitchell Johnson and Brad Haddin after running out India’s Ravindra Jadeja during their Cricket World Cup semi-final match in Sydney, yesterday. as Australia’s 45th Test skipper and hasn’t looked back. “It’s nice to contribute to a few wins. It was a pretty big stage tonight, semi-final of a World Cup,” Smith said. “I’m just happy we got over the line in the end. “I’m just looking forward to Melbourne. It got to be a hell of a day.” Smith was always destined for greatness but even his most loyal supporters have been astounded by his rapid rise. He was picked for Australia’s Test team in mid2010, aged 21, starting his career as a promising
leg-spin bowler and middle-order batsman. But he was dropped from the Test team in early 2011 and took almost two years to fight his way back in, but returning as a top-order batsman with an insatiable appetite for scoring runs. Now, Smith is dreaming of one more hundred, in the World Cup final. “I hope so, hopefully another big hundred would be nice,” he said. “It’s going to be an amazing moment, to play a World Cup final against New Zealand at the MCG. Can’t wait to get down there!”
Gibson back as England East Coast Guinness quarterfinal action on tonight pace bowling coach for Windies tour
Ottis Gibson LONDON, England (Reuters) Former West Indies paceman Ottis Gibson will return for a second spell as England’s fast bowling coach for next month’s tour of the West Indies, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said
yesterday. Gibson, 46, previously worked with England’s pace attack from 2007-10 before being appointed as West Indies coach. ECB managing director Paul Downton said the appointment was a short-term one as they seek a replacement for David Saker who will join Big Bash franchise Melbourne Renegades in September. “We are delighted to have secured a bowling coach of Ottis’ calibre as he is highly respected among the fast-bowling fraternity and his knowledge and experience of local conditions will be invaluable in the Caribbean,” Downton said in a statement. “No decision has yet been made on a long-term replacement for David and we will need to review how we staff this position going forward following the conclusion of the West Indies tour.”
AFTER three nights of pulsating and at times nailbiting Futsal football encounters, quarter-final action in this year’s Banks DIH-sponsored, Petra Organisationorganised East Coast of Demerara Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ competition kicks off at 20:00hrs at the Haslington Market Square tonight. Following two exhibition matches, whose competitors will be made known tonight before kick-off, Beterverwagting ‘B’ will line up against their ‘A’ team counterparts from 21:00hrs, followed by Plaisance ‘A’ matching strides with Paradise 30 minutes later. In the third quarter-final encounter for tonight, Buxton and Melanie ‘B’ will lock horns from 22:00hrs, with the final match bringing together Nabaclis and defending champions Melanie ‘A’ in a mouthwatering encounter that gets under way at 22:30hrs. The semifinals will take place at the same venue next Wednesday, April 1. The first match will see the winner of the match between the two Beterverwagting teams face the winner of the clash between Plaisance ‘A’ and Paradise from 22:00hrs. In the second semifinals, the winner of the Buxton/ Melanie ‘B’ encounter go up against the victors of the Nabaclis/Melanie ‘A’ showdown, with that contest set to kick off at 22:30hrs. The final and third-place encounter will take place four days after next Wednesday’s semifinal fixtures. Winners of the event will receive $300 000 and the championship trophy, while the runners-up take home $150 000 and the third- and fourth-place finishers cart off $100 000 and $75 000 respectively. Consequently the top two teams will represent the East Coast in the national playoffs in June. (Calvin Roberts)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Legal threat over abrupt SA quota change
THE South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) is “considering its legal options,” against Cricket South Africa after the latter took a decision to increase the racial quotas at domestic level without consulting the players’ union. The resolution to increase the number of players of colour from five to six in franchise cricket, including three black Africans, and from six to seven in provincial cricket, including four black Africans, was taken two weeks before the contract window closes and will leave most teams scrambling to make up numbers. It comes against the backdrop of South Africa’s elimination from the World Cup at the semifinal stage. South Africa does not have a quota system at international level but has committed to accelerating the process lower down after pressure from the sports ministry. SACA’s concern is not the decision itself, but the sidestepping of an agreement for a three-month consultation period and the short
notice which will leave players across the board in the lurch. “I want to stress that it is not the decision itself which we are unhappy about. We represent all players across all colour groups, so we don’t take positions on transformation policy decisions,” Tony Irish, SACA’s chief executive told ESPNcricinfo. “However, SACA has an agreement with CSA governing the process to be followed when making changes to the numbers and this requires a three-month prior consultation with SACA and franchises before making such decisions. “That process is important so that franchises are able to plan their contracted players and align those with the transformation numbers. CSA has totally disregarded this agreement and has not consulted us or the franchises at all. We were unaware that this issue was even before the CSA Board.” As far as SACA was concerned, the issue of quotas was still under consideration with research on how
best to quicken the development of players of colour still to be examined in detail.
group with group of players who actually play,” Irish said. “None of this research was even considered by the CSA Board nor did it consult its own Cricket Committee.” Irish believes that a late scramble for players with budgets already finalised could result in them being offered inferior financial deals, playing franchise cricket on low-paid, semi pro contracts, or playing semi pro cricket without a contract at all. “SACA’s concern is that because most of the six franchises and 13 provincial, semiprofessional, sides have finalised their player deals already, they will not have signed up enough players of colour to meet the new quota,” he said. “Many of the players playing under low-paid contracts, or without Tony Irish is considering legal any benefits at all, will be players of action over a lack of consultation colour and black African players. As on quotas. a players’ union this isn’t acceptable to us, and it undermines the player“There has been recent research contracting system.” done jointly by SACA and the CSA SACA has “taken this up with Cricket Services division on how we CSA but received no response,” can better align the player contracted according to Irish, and will now
“consider its legal options.” A CSA spokesperson told The Citizen newspaper that it had received a letter from SACA and concerns were being “addressed by the board.” South Africa’s fluctuating stance on quotas hardened in the leadup to national elections last year, when the sports minister, Fikile Mbalula, threatened to withdraw the international status of teams that were not at least 50% representative. Although he later backpedalled on that, he met with administrators from both cricket and rugby to ascertain their commitment to change. Mbalula responded with pride to South Africa’s World Cup performance after their semi-final defeat. “Your performance on distant terrain is testimony of the Proteas’ no-surrender spirit and demonstration of our South African indomitable winning spirit,” he said. “We stand together as a nation and salute you with outmost respect. You made us proud as a nation as you fought until the last minute. You are winners in my eyes.” (ESPN Cricinfo)
GSSF Practical shooting section gets Caribbean champions Jamaica kick off preparations for busy year support from NABI and Nutra Farms KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) Reigning Caribbean football champions Jamaica will kick off preparations this weekend for a hectic 2015 international season with matches against Cuba and Venezuela. The Reggae Boyz play Venezuela today and on Monday take on Cuba, the former Caribbean champions, at the Montego Bay Sports Complex. The Jamaicans are ranked 76th, Venezuela are 72nd while the Cubans are ranked 110th. Jamaica will play in the COPA Americas starting in June followed by the CONCACAF Gold Cup a
In photo: Guyana’s leading handgun shooter Ryan McKinnon stands on a stage constructed of the mesh walls in Suriname. MEMBERS of the Guyana Sport Shooting Federation (GSSF) are working to construct props and put things in place for what promises to be yet another exciting Practical Pistol Match they will be hosting tomorrow, at the Guyana Defence Force Ranges.. The Board of Directors of the GSSF wishes to acknowledge the generosity and thank the management of NABI Construction for the donation of a new roll of construction mesh and also the management of Nutra Farms for donating wood in a bid to offset expenses of the Federation. These items will be used for the construction of several screens and walls to be used by the GSSF’s Practical Shooting Section. President of the Federation, Vidushi Persaud, explained in the
presence of Rafael Nabi, Director of Nabi Construction at the short handover held at the company’s head office on Brickdam, that the mesh is an integral item in the construction of walls, portable screens and divisions with ports and windows which are commonly used in the various stage designs. She added that our local shooters will be eager to skilfully navigate between these new props at future GSSF practical shooting events and went on to thank members, friends and corporate Guyana who extended their support so far to the Federation and she expressed the hope that others will come on board. Asst. secretary/treasurer, Ryan McKinnon indicated that the upcoming match features three stages and they will be open to all experienced Practical
Pistol shooters of Guyana. He noted that persons wanting to find out more about the GSSF can contact any Board member, or they can visit the GSSF website www.guyanasportshooting. com Practical shooting is regarded as any type of sport shooting that involves engaging targets while having to move with the firearm. The handgun element of sport simultaneously measures the ability of the competitor to shoot rapidly and accurately with a full power (9mm/ higher calibre) handgun in a fun, fair, safe, competitive environment. Scoring takes into account three elements – speed, accuracy and power. Each match is made up of stages that seek to measure a shooter’s ability in all three elements and coordinated under strict safety guidelines.
month later, as well as the early qualifying rounds of the FIFA World Cup. Head coach Winfried Schafer has called up a squad that includes 11 members of the team that won the Caribbean Cup in November last year and two local-based players. Venezuela are coming off back-to-back wins over Honduras in friendly internationals, 3-2 away and 2-1 at home. All of the Cuban players are based at home, but have been impressive in the Caribbean Cup last year finishing in fourth position.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday March 27, 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)
Bermuda/East Africa/Namibia
(2) India (1983); Australia (1987); Pakistan (1992); Sri Lanka (1996) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who captained the WI in the 2003 World Cup? Who led the team in 2007? (2) Name the Guyanese who played the WI first ever WC game. Answers in tomorrow’s issue
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 27, 2015
Millington’s late goal fires Bakewell Slingerz into K&S quarter-finals ... Alpha United defeat Agricola to advance By Rawle Toney DEVON Millington in the closing seconds of the game dribbled his way past three Victoria Kings defenders and slipped the ball past their custodian to give his side a 2-1 win and a spot in the quarter-finals when action in the 25th Kashif and Shanghai Football tournament continued on Wednesday night at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground. In the opening game of the evening’s doubleheader, Manasseh Primo scored both goals in Alpha United’s 2-0 lopsided win against Agricola Red Triangle. The Vergenoegen-based club included Trinidad and Tobago-based Akel Clarke in the goal, Colin Nelson, King Solomon Austin, Joshua Brown and Philbert Moffat in defence, Tishard Joseph in the middle while upfront Millington was joined by Anthony ‘Awo’ Abrams, Clive Nobrega and Dexroy
Adams. Millington, 15 minutes into the game, could have given the ‘West Side’ champions the lead - caught one-on-one with the goalkeeper - but his shot failed to connect on target. However, Adams made amends for his player’s mistake when he scored the opening goal of the game in the 44th minute – a one-time right-footed volley. An almost 30-yard, taken free-kick by Millington rifled past the Victoria Kings’ goalmouth as Bakewell Slingerz pressed forward against the Kings in the second half. However, Alden Lawrence changed the course of the game when he collected a pass from veteran Winston Pompey and was left unmarked, pushing the ball out of Slingerz’s Akel Clarke’s reach. With the scores level, Adams pressed his way into the 18-yard area and collected a lobbed ball from Clive Nobrega but the goalkeeper was equal to the task.
Slingerz FC goalscorers Dexroy Adams (left) and Devon Millington Just before Millington scored the game winner, Moffat, from almost 35 yards out, let loose a powerful shot that banged off the crossbar, setting the Kings’ supporters at ease. But, as fans were preparing for a penalty shootout, Millington had other plans as he scored the winning goal that saw Slingerz, who were making their Kashif and Shanghai tournament debut, survive a scare. Slingerz will play Fruta Conquerors in tonight’s second game while in the opening encounter Alpha United will clash with Georgetown Football Club (GFC) at 18:30hrs at the DCC ground.
Alpha United getting ready for CFU encounter
By Rawle Toney
AIMING to appear in their second CONCACAF Champions League, Guyana’s Alpha ‘The Hammer’ United will first have to get past their Caribbean counterparts after they heighten their preparation for the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Championship. The Guyanese top club will host Group One matches of the CFU tournament, against Suriname’s Inter Moengotapoe and Trinidad and Tobago’s Central FC. All matches will be played at the Guyana National Stadium and Alpha will play the Surinamese side on April 15, followed by a clash against one of the Trinidad and Tobago Pro-League’s dominant clubs (Central FC) on April 19. At a Press Conference hosted yesterday, Club president Odinga Lumumba told the media that while on the field, his players are more than ready to represent their country with distinction; outside of the pitch, there’s a call for help from corporate Guyana. Lumumba said that to host the Group in Guyana will cost them approximately $10M and despite a US$15 000 ($3M) boost from the CFU, there’s still a hole to be filled. The Presidential Adviser on Youth Empowerment said that Alpha United will have to pay for the teams and officials’ lodging while they are in Guyana “so we’re appealing for corporate support. Sports lacks basic support in Guyana and it’s not being taken as a priority in Guyana but I tend not to speak of it any further, I just try to
Dolphin edge Lodge to book place in Milo U-20 final … Chase beat Morgan Learning Institute
(L-R) Alpha head coach Wayne Dover, Club president Odinga Lumumba and secretary Steve Ninvalle, at yesterday’s Press Conference. do as best as I can”. “There are three ways to get money here in Guyana; you either ask the Government, approach corporate Guyana or you just have to put your hands in your pocket,” said Lumumba. Meanwhile, head coach Wayne ‘Wiggy’ Dover believes his team have what it takes to once again make it all the way to the Champions League and said that they are presently fine-tuning preparation for the CFU event and are using the Kashif and Shanghai Football tournament as a yardstick to measure his players’ efficiency. “The team have been training once a day, six weeks on conditioning and we’re in competition and we’re at the stage of assessing the work that we’ve done over the last eight weeks, so in this tournament that we’re involved in, we’ll be able to see how much we have to do and what we have to correct,” Dover said. The second club from Guyana contesting
the championship, Guyana Defence Force (GDF), have been drawn in Group 11 that will be hosted by T&T side DirectTV W Connection. A total of 15 amateur and professional clubs from across the CFU will participate in the tournament which is anticipated to be highly competitive. According to the CFU, as a reflection of the rich diversity of the CFU, the host clubs, and by extension the host countries are a microcosm of the different languages, cultures and peoples that make up the CFU. The Preliminary Round, comprising four groups, will be played simultaneously from April 13-20, while the Final Round will be played May 20-25 in a straight Knockout format in order to crown a Champion for the 2015 CFU Club Championship and also secure the three Caribbean berths to the CONCACAF Champions League. The respective Group winners will advance to the final phase.
A NEW champion will be crowned in this year’s Petra Organisation/ Nestle Milo Under-20 Football championships, after dark horses Dolphin Secondary edged defending champions Lodge Secondary 2-1 in their semi-final encounter yesterday. Playing at the Ministry of Education ground in the first fixture for the day, Dolphin through goals from Leon Richardson (50th) and Joshua Pereira (76th), came away victors by the odd goal in two over Lodge, whose solitary goal was scored by Shemar Smith in the 13th minute of the contest. In the second semi-final, tournament favourites Chase Academy overcame a stern challenge from Morgan’s Learning Institute to waltz away with a 1-0 win and a place in next Tuesday’s final against Dolphin Secondary. Marlon Nedd found the back of the net for Chase in the 38th minute, while their defence held fast, to deny Morgan from scoring the equaliser, while they were left to contend with Lodge for the third place position, before the victors of the semifinals battle for the top prize.
Sport CHRONICLE
Millington’s late goal fires Bakewell Slingerz into K&S quarter-finals See story on page 35
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Sublime Smith inspires Aussies into World Cup final
By Nick Mulvenney
SYDNEY, Australia (Reuters) - Steve Smith’s sublime century laid the groundwork and Australia’s pace bowlers finished the job to send the co-hosts storming into a seventh World Cup final with a 95-run victory over champions India yesterday. Australia move on to the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and a shot at a fifth title against New Zealand on Sunday, while India head home after four months Down Under having come up short in their bid to retain the title they won four years ago. Smith’s 105 helped Australia to a total of 328 for seven, the highest in a World Cup semi-final, and although skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni hit a defiant 65, India were dismissed for 233 in the 47th over.
Australia batsman Steve Smith acknowledges the crowd after scoring his century during his Cricket World Cup semi-final match against India in Sydney, yesterday. (Credit: Reuters/Steve Christo) Turn to page 31
704 Sports Bar on board with the Golden Jaguars
704 Sports Bar Project manager Dustani Barrow (third from right) is surrounded by members of the Golden Jaguars during yesterday’s presentation. Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208
IN a move to help garner public support for Sunday’s International Friendly against Grenada, 704 Sports Bar yesterday formed an alliance with the Golden Jaguars – Guyana’s Senior National football team. A few players, management and representatives from the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) were on hand to present an autographed Golden Jaguars official playing jersey to the Sports Bar which will be mounted on its ‘Wall of Fame’. 704 Sports Bar has in its possession, several replica jerseys and memorabilia from various sport disciplines, autographed by its biggest athletes and among them Michael Jordon, Larry Bird, ‘Magic’ Johnson, LeBron James, Dwayne Wade and Manny Pacquiao. Project manager Dustani Barrow said that it’s an honour to have the team’s jersey mounted in the building and said that the entity intends to fully support the team as they prepare for the 2018 World Cup Qualifiers. FRIDAY MARCH 27, 2015