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GUYANA No. 104317

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

Man kills cop, self during arrest

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 19, 2015

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Police Constable Antonio Dawson

President David Granger rolled in to Linden on Friday promising residents that he will tackle frontally the issue of unemployment among youths and also thanking them for their support at the May 11 elections (Photo by Delano Williams)

Granger gets rock-star reception in Linden

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Rekha scampers from post 9 Page

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Rupununi Festival begins - with focus on eco-tourism, cultural exchange

By Rabindra Rooplall in The Rupununi THE second annual Rupununi Music and Arts Festival commenced yesterday and will conclude on Sunday at the Rockview Lodge in Annai, Rupununi Region 9. The activity which began in the evening surrounds an environmental adventure, where patrons were able to explore the beautiful sceneries of the country. It’s an eco-oriented event, which features overseas based artistes. Those attending the event would include Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs Sydney

Allicock; Minister within the Ministry of Communities Dawn Hastings; Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson; Tourism Minister Cathy Hughes and other special invitees. The activity is a feature of the Tourism Ministry’s annual calendar of events which is geared towards benefiting the indigenous peoples of the Rupununi. The event is being hosted in the interest of the residents, and will also see a display of the items that are produced locally. The festival caters for approximately 600 villagers, in addition to 300 visitors flying into the region for the event. The ecological scenery will be disrupted by

a mixture of solo and group performances; blues, jazz, folk, Indian, African and contemporary pop will be

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock staged. Expected to perform are the Mighty Gabby of Barbados and a band of five from Brazil, amongst others. Minister Allicock

said tourism has been identified as a sector that can foster development by attracting overseas visitors to experience the unique atmosphere of the Rupununi. “The festival is a wonderful addition to the communitybased tourism methods and this will help to promote the Rupununi since the Ministry of Tourism will be focusing on new packages which will showcase Guyana,” Minister Allicock noted. He said this will bring economic growth to the communities while creating jobs and opportunities “to share with others our way of life and to exploit the great potential of the regions without much harm.” Allicock said this event is ideal to showcase nature and what a beautiful country Guyana really is. He said that the potential of this festival is enormous and he believes it can become the most popular music event

of culture in the Caribbean. This festival, he said, creates business opportunities, as well as more awareness of products and services offered by Guyanese that can be marketed to the international community. It also increases travel between Guyana and its South American neighbours, and promotes tourism. Underscoring the fact that Guyana has become a key destination for tourism in the Caribbean, Minister Allicock said that an event of this nature remains a challenge by any standard, and the fact that it has succeeded as well as it has so far would not have been possible without the dedication and passion that have been placed into such a cultural experience. The minister added that the government will commit and play its part in making the Rupununi Music and Arts Festival the reason persons would wish to visit

the Caribbean, and urged members of the private sector to join the movement. Tourism Minister Cathy Hughes had noted that her ministry is “throwing its weight” behind the promotion of this festival and thinks that this time around, it will be bigger and better than it was last year. She said this festival will highlight and strengthen a very important branch of Guyana’s tourism industry and that is the ‘Rupununi brand’. Minister Hughes also mentioned that the Rupununi brand is complemented by events such as the Rupununi Rodeo, Wildlife Festival, the South Rupununi Safari, among others, and that as Guyanese, we should strive to maintain and strengthen our own country and realise its potential and all it has to offer and not take it for granted.

Special number plates for State vehicles from October The Mighty Gabby from Barbados

THE Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has indicated its readiness to roll out the new Cooperative Republic of Guyana (CRG) ‘number plate’ programme for all State vehicles, from October 2015. This is according to Minister of State, Joseph Harmon who

was yesterday updating the media on this issue, at his post-Cabinet press briefing. T h e m i n i s t e r, w h o announced this initiative in July 2015, explained that, “the Revenue Authority has already given me the assurance that it has the means to roll out this

programme.” The CRG number plates are introduced to bring formality to Stateowned vehicles and will serve for easy identification of them. The initiative was born out of the current challenges faced by the new government, in recovering state owned assets; including vehicles, which were used by officials of the previous administration. Minister Harmon did state back in July, “As soon

as you see a CRG number plate, you know that it is a State vehicle, so it is going to be easing and aiding in the identification of state owned vehicles.” The new system will also make obsolete those vehicles that belong to the State, but which people are holding under private number plates. All vehicles that will be purchased in the future for use by the State and State agencies will be fitted with the CRG registration.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Granger gets rock-star reception in Linden

…promises to tackle unemployment among youths By Ariana Gordon

THE town of Linden has been known in recent years for its staunch resistance to political oppression, but on Friday the mining community offered rock-star treatment to President David Granger, who thanked them for their support in the recent elections and promised to return shortly to listen to and fix the many problems that have blighted their progress over the years. Granger ’s APNU/AFC coalition won a landslide endorsement from Linden at the May 11 polls, and the President on Friday made his first official visit to the community since the general and regional elections. While he did not announce any goodies, the President assured the exuberant residents that, following his trip to the United Nations next week, he would return to Linden to listen to their

concerns and offer solutions. There were tears of joy, dancing in the streets, and shouts of “Granger!” “President Granger!” “We President finally come to Linden!” as the President walked among his supporters for the first time since becoming the Guyanese leader. Excited to see their leader, residents of Mackenzie, Blue Berry Hill and One Mile Wismar walked alongside him as they caught his attention while explaining their struggles. Many of them congratulated Granger on his election as President of Guyana, and thanked him for visiting Linden. Whilst listening to the plight of the people who poured overwhelming support behind the APNU+AFC coalition during the election season, the President explained that his visit to the town was primarily to “thank the people of Linden for their support”, which resulted in him being

President David Granger is flocked by overwhelmed Lindeners

President. “Thank you, I wanted to thank you… I am heading to the United Nations next week for some important work; when I return, I will come back to Linden so we can sit and talk,” President Granger promised. He committed to returning in October to have in-depth discussions with Regional Chairman Renis Morian and the people of Linden. “I will come back for us to talk,” he assured the people as he noted that their issues are important to his government. “This is not campaign time, this is a time for building,” Granger told the gathering of young and old. But though his visit was a short one, he did listen to the frustrations of a few Lindeners, who complained of their young and differently-able children being unable

President Granger greets residents of Wismar

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Reckless driver to Colombian accused of defrauding GBTI $1.8 M know fate soon By Clestine Juan

MINIBUS driver Fitzroy Alder, 38, of Lot 36 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, who has been tried for causing death by dangerous driving, will know his fate on September 28 when he stands before city magistrate Ann McLennan. The defendant, being the driver of minibus BTT 3835, is alleged to have driven the vehicle in a manner dangerous to the public on July 17 at Durban Street, thereby causing the death of pedestrian Romel Junor. Alder was yesterday given three options -- to lead his defence, to give sworn testimony, or to take the stand and give his version of the story. Taking the stand and being under cross-examination, Alder told the court that he has been a minibus driver since 2006, and is aware that the speed limit at the area where the accident occurred is 50 kph. He also stated that he had left the Georgetown Park at about 21:15 hrs, did not made any stops before the accident. Alder had denied the allegation that he had caused the death of Junor by dangerous driving when he first appeared before Magistrate McLennan and was denied pretrial liberty. On that occasion, police prosecutor Corporal Deniro Jones had informed the court that, on the day in question, the defendant was driving the minibus proceeding at a fast rate along the northern side of Durban Street. He said that when the bus reached the intersection of Durban and Lime Streets, it collided with the sixty-year-old man, who was crossing the road at the time. Jones said the impact of the collision pitched Junor several feet away. He was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Junor had just left a popular bar in the area with a female companion in ‘high spirits’ as the minibus was speeding along the route. The pedestrian was pitched some 15 feet away from the collision spot, and lay bleeding on the street for a while before he was transported to the hospital by the driver of the minibus. (Geeta Rampersaud)

$90,000 from the ATM. On Sunday, July 19, at Water Street, Georgetown, he stole a sum totalling $430,000 cash from the GBTI when he twice made withdrawals from the ATM using fake cards. On that Sunday, he withdrew from the GBTI Providence branch ATM the sum of $160,000; and he later withdrew $60,000 from the GBTI Vreed-enHoop branch on that Sunday as well. On Monday, July 20, at Providence, he withdrew $160,000 cash from the GBTI ATM, while he also scammed $90,000 from the GBTI branch at the Ashmin’s Mall on High Street. On July 21, he withdrew $360,000 and $140,000 respectively from the GBTI branch in Bagotstown and Water Street. Attorney-at-law Ms.

COLOMBIAN Freddy Riveria Vargas appeared on Friday before city magistrate Judy Latchman, accused of defrauding the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) of more than $1.8 million by the use of fake ATM Cards. The 42-year-old retired major from the Colombian Army, who has six other matters of a similar nature pending before the court since July, was yesterday not required to plead to an additional 12 counts of simple larceny. Those charges detailed that on July 17, while in Lethem, Rupununi, he stole $120,000 from the GBTI branch there, and further withdrew $230,000 later. On July 18, at the GBTI Wa t e r S t r e e t b r a n c h i n Georgetown, he withdrew

Latchmie Rahamat, in association with attorney Mr. Peter Hugh, represent the defendant. Ms Rahamat explained that her client was visiting Guyana, but was arrested at the Princess Hotel. She added that Vargas is married, has two children, and was visiting Guyana for the first time. Rahamat asked the court to consider placing the Colombian on reasonable bail on ground that the offence is bailable. The lawyer also revealed that Vargas has pending matters before Magistrate Ann McLennan and was released on bail, therefore he could not afford a large bail now. Inspector Vishnu Hunt objected to Vargas being granted bail because the Colombian national has no ties to Guyana, and is deemed a flight risk. The prosecutor indicated

that the defendant is currently being fingered in more GBTI ATM scams across Guyana, and charges are likely to be laid in addition to his six pending matters before Magistrate McLennan and the 12 charges he was now facing. After considering both the defence and prosecution arguments, the magistrate refused the accused bail and adjourned the matter to September 25. Cameras attached to the bank branches had reportedly captured the image of a person, who was identified as this defendant, committing the acts. On the day of his arrest, July 21, the Colombian was seen by a security guard about to make another withdrawal, and the police were present on the scene. He was found with other ATM cards in his possession at the time of his arrest.

Vagrant jailed for stealing from Baroom Bar entered the Baroom Bar and stole therefrom one microwave and a gas cylinder, together valued at $47,000, property of Terone Hamilton. Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones said Shaw does small work around bars, and does not have a fixed place of abode. He said that on the day in question, Hamilton had secured his business

SELF-confessed vagrant Bernard Shaw was yesterday jailed for nine months for breaking and entering the Baroom Bar at North Road, Bourda, Georgetown on Wednesday, September 16. Appearing before city magistrate Ann McLennan, the 41-year-old Shaw pleaded guilty to a charge which detailed that he broke and

DATE: 16/09/2015 L 15 04 23 28 11 22 05

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premises and left, but on his return he discovered the articles mentioned in the charge missing. The matter was reported to the police, the CCTV cameras were reviewed, and the convict was seen entering and leaving the premises. Shaw was later seen at a nearby place, and was apprehended by the police and told

18/09/2015

of the offence. The court was informed that both articles were recovered and lodged. The unrepresented convict told the court that in 2006 he had served a twoyear sentence for simple larceny. He begged for leniency, claiming that he is a sick person. (Geeta Rampersaud)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Japan tourist at Taj Mahal ‘dies after fall’

(BBC) A Japanese tourist has died after allegedly slipping down the stairs at India’s Taj Mahal monument. Eyewitness Sagar Singh told BBC Hindi that the tourist fell while taking a selfie at the Taj Mahal’s Royal Gate. Police said he lost consciousness immediately after the fall and succumbed

to head injuries in hospital. The Taj Mahal, a 17th Century mausoleum built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan after his wife’s death, attracts about 12,000 visitors a day. Agra tourist police officer Sushant Gaur told BBC Hindi that the Japanese tourist had been with three other people when the incident occurred.

One of his colleagues fractured his leg, after both fell from the staircase of the monument in the afternoon, police said. The Japanese embassy has been informed about the death, and an investigation is being conducted into the incident. There have been several deaths linked to selfies in recent years.

Chile declares earthquake emergency (BBC) - CHILE’S government has declared a state of emergency in a central region struck by a powerful earthquake. At least 11 people died in Wednesday’s 8.3-magnitude quake - the strongest in the world this year - that sent tsunami waves as far away as Japan. The coastal town of Coquimbo, close to the epicentre, saw waves of 4.7m (15ft) hit the shore. Hundreds of people spent Thursday night in temporary shelters, while tens of thousands are without electricity. About one million people had to leave their homes af-

The tourist had slipped while taking a selfie at the royal gate near the Taj Mahal monument

U.S. moves to ease Cuban trade embargo

More than 500 homes in the quake ter Chile sounded a tsunami alert when the quake struck, although most are reported to have returned. Tsunami waves also hit the coast further north and

Chile’s coastal town of Coquimbo saw tsunami waves of almost five metres in height

were badly damaged south of the quake’s epicentre, with waves half a metre higher than usual as far north as La Punta. Gloria Navarro, who lives in the coastal town of La Serena, said people were “running in all directions”. “Everything is a mess,” restaurant owner Melisa Pinones told Reuters from the city of Illapel. “It was a disaster, a total loss.”

(BBC) - THE U.S. has announced eased restrictions on business and travel with Cuba, the latest move by President Barack Obama to improve relations with the country. The rules, which go into effect on Monday, relate to travel, telecommunications, Internet-based services, business operations, banking and remittances. U.S. businesses will now be allowed to open up locations in Cuba. The changes come as the U.S. and Cuba normalise relations after 53 years. “A stronger, more open U.S.-Cuba relationship has the potential to create

- and open businesses

economic opportunities for both Americans and Cubans alike,” said U.S. Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew in a statement. “By further easing these sanctions, the United States is helping to support the Cuban people in their effort to achieve the political and economic freedom necessary to build a democratic, prosperous and stable Cuba.” Authorised travellers will

be permitted to open and maintain bank accounts in Cuba, senior administration officials said on Friday. Close relatives will now be allowed to accompany authorised travellers going to Cuba for educational, journalistic, humanitarian or religious activities or research. Officials said travel to Cuba for tourist activity is still prohibited by statute.

Guyana

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Getting down to work!

EDITORIAL

A sober national debate

IT is very difficult to have a proper national debate in a poisonous political atmosphere. And this is precisely what we have in Guyana at the moment. Not that this is anything new; ever since the split of the nationalist movement in 1955 our politics has struggled to find a civil tone. But since the recent change of government, things have gotten out of hand. Open threats to jail opponents, charges of ethnic cleansing and other strident statements have characterised the debate. The recent announcement that the ruling parties are ready to talk to the opposition PPP about a National Unity government has fallen victim to this political poison. The PPP has seized the opportunity to continue its derision of the Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo. The Opposition Leader Bharat Jagdeo has made it very clear that he will not deal with the PM. Of course Mr. Jagdeo ignores the fact that the government is dealing with him, despite pressures from its supporters to avoid any dealings with him. He must be aware that his appointment as opposition leader was met with a great outcry from opposition supporters. But President David Granger did the mature thing and reached out to Mr. Jagdeo. As he said at the time of the first meeting between the two, once the PPP chose Mr. Jagdeo as their leader he was constitutionally bound to deal with him. Mr Jagdeo would do well to emulate the statesmanship of the President. In refusing to deal with Nagamootoo, he is in effect trying to determine who the leaders of the governing parties should be. No party should arrogate to itself the right to choose the leaders of another party. Mr Jagdeo and the PPP should not allow their dislike for the PM to get in the way of carrying out the nation’s business. Not a day passes without some nasty attack on Mr. Nagamootoo in one of our daily newspapers. Criticism of leaders, their policies and statements is very much in order, but character assassination, cuss-outs and deliberate misrepresenting the statements of others have no place in democratic politics. For too long countries such as Guyana have been the laughing stock of the world precisely because of the inability of their leaders to behave as grown-ups. Twice former President of the United States Jimmy Carter has walked out of Guyana frustrated by the stubbornness of leaders. Is that what we have committed ourselves to? We

New Chairperson of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited, Jean La Rose on Thursday toured the company’s Lama Avenue, Bel Air office to get a first hand view of its operations. In this Samuel Maughn photo, La Rose (right) listens attentively to an update on the operations of the newspaper’s library by General Manager Michael Gordon in the presence of Assistant Administrative Manager Colin Alfred (L) and another staff member

Immigration Officer must apologise to Chanderpaul Dear Editor THE Indian Action (formerly Arrival) Committee (IAC) has apprised itself of an article captioned “Are you Guyanese? asked Local Immigration Officer”, which appeared in September 15, 2015, edition of the Guyana Times. The said article alluded to the treatment meted out to Mr. Shivnarine Chanderpaul by an Immigration Officer at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). If the content of the article is accurate, then the first reaction to Mr. Chanderpaul being asked if he is Guyanese would be hilarity. If the officer were to

be given the benefit of the doubt of not recognising a local and international cricket icon like Mr. Chanderpaul, and if it is that he, Mr. Chanderpaul, produced a Guyana passport to the Immigration desk, then ICA believes the question regarding his nationality is not only baseless but may have been premised on an agenda to disparage. In addition, it smacks of unprofessionalism on the part of that officer and besmirched the reputation of the Immigration Department. The ICA recalls an incident in which persons of Indian nationality were refused entry at the CJIA and left to wait for a lengthy period, reportedly on the

do not point fingers in any one direction—all are involved and all are guilty. We have had cause in the recent past to decry the near lawlessness of parliamentary debates. Whatever some may think about parliamentary tradition, there is a clear distinction between wit and banter on the one hand and cuss-down on the other. The National Assembly is a national institution and symbol that ought to set a proper example for

tarmac, for a return flight. It is believed that such treatment, for various reasons of persons of East Indian extraction, was not in isolation. While the IAC is cognisant that they may have been reasons for refusing entry and the need to ask pertinent questions, given such reportedly multiple incidents, the ICA is made to believe that it is a demonstration of profiling and is compelled to ask if this latest incident is deliberate to denigrate persons of East Indian ancestry. The IAC is not in any way advocating special treatment for Mr. Chanderpaul, which is clearly discretionary by such officer, it believes that he deserves an

unconditional apology for having his nationality questioned. The IAC therefore calls on the authority of the Immigration Department to investigate the incident and to implement measures to prevent a repeat of such behaviour being meted out to anyone. Moreso, the IAC is gravely concerned if persons of East Indian ancestry are indeed being profiled and again calls on the relevant authority to make a pronouncement. Regards HEMA RAMCHARRAN Coordinator/ secretary Indian Action Committee

the country to follow. It is not a dancehall. We, therefore, call on our politicians to cool it. Tone down the nasty rhetoric. As elected and appointed leaders, your job is to make the country look and feel good. Our children and young people are watching and we would be surprised if they are impressed. On the eve of our 50th anniversary of independence we can and should do better.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Maternity ward for completion in five months

-- says Public Health Minister

WORK on the extension of the Maternity Ward at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is expected to be completed in the next five months. This is according to Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton in an invited comment to media operatives yesterday. “In the next five months,” he said, “the extension of the ward should be completed.” Dr Norton added that the setback is mainly because of the construction of the inner part of

the ward, which will cater for a plethora of rooms and units. One of the major issues patients are faced with at the current maternity ward is the shortage of beds. And for this reason, the extended ward will cater for 50 beds, to ensure that there is no doubling-up of patients on beds at the country’s main hospital. This extension, coming at a cost of Gy$235.9M, will house offices, a neonatal clinic, “doctor-oncall” rooms, two operating theatres, a birthing room,

and a remodelled ground floor with training rooms. A Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit will also be situated on the top floor. Regarded as the national referral hospital, the GPH caters for high-risk pregnancies among other emergency cases. The hospital delivers approximately 60 percent of the babies born in Guyana each year. Last year the GPH recorded its highest birth rate with a figure of 6,085, and the services of this institution are always in demand by patients.

Works on the extension of the maternity ward in progress

Extension of the ward would aid in reducing the traffic of patients at the GPHC, as patients can then be referred to other health

centres once they have been revived. With completion of the Maternity Ward project, the GPHC will

be able to cater for the needs of referred patients, as the institution would be provided with better and improved services.

Stiff penalties for those who steal from the State Dear Editor IF finding the stolen monies and cars and lands and gold is taking this long, then imagine what time it will take to investigate and prosecute the perpetrators. Just about every department that has been audited so far – including the Ministry of the Presidency – is found to have had contemptuous levels of fraud and skullduggery obtaining within them. And the audits are far from over. The Director of Public

Prosecutions (DPP) and the police force, to which these matters will have to be turned over, have their own problems with tainted officers and those still loyal to the last administration. It is very possible that there will be internal manoeuvres to foil the investigations of certain persons, who might have secrets for some of the investigating officers. The quandaries that the government faces are many-sided. There are the plethora of investigations on the one hand and the insufficient staffing on

the other. Additionally, there are the possibilities of interferences and disruptions of the resultant investigations. Mr. Editor, in light of these realities, I am wondering if the government should not now allow for some kind of a financial amnesty. The United Nations has signalled its interest in assisting the Government with the recovery of the people’s money. This means that those who thought that they could hide money will soon realise that there are persons trained in finding

A trip to Charity

BACK in Guyana for my fourth visit of the year and while completing some project work, I decided to spend more time in Charity, a place I call home away from home. For those who are unaware, Charity is located at the end of the Essequibo Coast road, touching the side of the mighty Pomeroon River. City dwellers would benefit from time spent in this part of our homeland and enjoy the hospitality of wonderful people. While in Charity, I had the opportunity to attend a couple of weddings. Little did I know that these would result in some interesting experiences. In North America, seating for wedding receptions are based on con-

firmation of presence. It is highly improbable that non invitees can enjoy the festivities, although there are some noted wedding crashers around. If you are an unfamiliar face, you could get the questionable stares, with the possibility of being escorted out. Here on the Essequibo Coast, from Supenaam to Charity, wedding season was on in August. My first wedding attendance was for Navin, the son of Deleep and Wavney (nee Alphonso) Singh, two of the kindest people you can meet. To my surprise, I was not prepared for what I experienced. Instead of a typical wedding of influential families, this was more a community event. No need to worry

about wedding crashers as the whole of Charity could have walked in. While walkins to a wedding reception on the coast are rarely removed, here it was simply 'you are all invited to enjoy the festivities with us'! Watching Alfo Alphonso and Roopan Ramotar, known as Fowl Cock, dance to chutney music with local residents, was an enlightening sight. While I could have sat with the official invitees, I chose to eat with the diverse community members and couldn't have made a better decision. Mingling with Charity residents, during dinner time, was a pleasant experience, as I met some of the friendliest people in the land of many wa-

hidden monies and that those monies will be found. However, because of the looming complications which will arise from the sheer volume of crooks and fraudsters who will be unearthed, I am thinking that those who have stolen from the treasury should be made to fess-up, beforehand. Just like those with illegal guns were given the chance to return them without lawful incrimination, just so those who have embezzled the country’s money should be given a chance to come

in with the money or tell the authorities where the monies can be found. And those who do should, similarly, not be subject to indictment. However, just like the Prime Minister and the Minister of Social Protection asked the judiciary to look warily upon those committing gun - related crimes (after the gun amnesty period), the judiciary must be alerted to maximize the penalties for those found guilty of stealing the taxpayers’ money (after the financial amnesty).

There will be those in the upper echelons of the political and societal strata who will foolishly think that their arms are longer than that of the law and will not acquiesce to any such amnesty. Those should be made to feel the full weight of the law when it is proven that they have raped our treasury.

ters. Having enjoyed the seven-curry meal the day before, I thought that I had already eaten for a week but once again the food was too tempting to resist. Food was abundant, much to the enjoyment of the several hundred in attendance. The next day, invited by some relatives, it was my turn to be a walk-in at another wedding. Again, I had a blast with the people of the Essequibo Coast. Even though this was more family focused and me being a total stranger, I was well received by the parents (Mr. And Mrs. Ramdial of Channie's Halal Restaurant) of the groom Joe. Here, kids were dancing to the latest music, while parents and friends were trying to imitate the moves. The only drawback during the wedding weekend was the power blackouts with the darkened streets at night.

But both sets of wedding planners were prepared with generator backup; nothing could hinder the activities. When Essequibo Coast residents are ready to celebrate, they are prepared for any drawbacks. Between the two weddings, my relatives took me to a baby ninth - day celebration. Upon looking at the young parents as they mingled amongst their guests, you could see their pride and their hopes for the future. Nothing beats the birth of a new born, especially for new parents. After the social activities and just before my return home, sadness fell upon the Charity/Pomeroon areas. Fazia Alphonso, the wife of Barry Alphonso, passed away after an illness. My being at one of the wake nights gave me the opportunity to meet more residents of these ar-

eas. Again the residents of Charity and The Pomeroon came together, but this time to pay their last respects to one of their own. It was quite a sight with boatloads of relatives, friends and neighbours heading to the Charity cemetery. My deepest condolences go out to the Alphonso families. After returning home and reflecting on these weekend the coming together of residents of all races on the Essequibo Coast, for various reasons, stood out for me. My experiencing of these circles of life activities and seeing how its community members react in various situations do validate my hope for our country as it embarks on its future.

PASTOR W. P. JEFFREY Practical Christianity Ministries Founder/President

KEITH ANTONIO HERNANDEZ Toronto Canada

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Granger applauds strides made by Chile - as country celebrates 205th Independence anniversary

AS Guyana joined Chile in celebrating its 205th Independence anniversary, Guyana’s Head of State, David Granger has applauded the country for the significant strides made as a nation. While attending a reception to mark the occasion yesterday, President Granger extended congratulations to Chile and its people on behalf of all Guyanese. The President told a packed gathering at the Cara Lodge Hall, that the celebration marks the start of the war of Independence, which led to the formation of the Republic State. “This has changed a poor backward colony into a prosperous state. This country today is considered to be one of the most developed countries in the South American continent,” President Granger said. Chile’s efforts at reducing poverty through the implementation of innovative social policies are widely admired, the President added. Further, President Granger noted that it is commendable that both ‘Chile and Guyana are committed to the principles of peaceful coexistence among states, good neighbourliness, the inviolability of borders, the sanctity of treaties and respect for international laws’. “South America can remain a zone of peace only if those principles are observed scrupulously. Guyana applauds Chile’s affirmation, which states that international borders must be respected and that where disputes arise they should be settled through peaceful means and in accordance with international laws.” Meanwhile, Chile’s Ambassador, Claudio Rachel Rojas, started off his address to the gathering with a moment of silence in honour of those who lost their lives in an earthquake recently in Chile. The Ambassador said his government’s commitment to work with Guyana is clearer now as he is the first resident Ambassador to Guyana. “We are proud of Independence and we are very proud that the process of Independence was something that was shared by our sister nations of South America. It was a common endeavour. It was not a single endeavour taken by Chile,”

Corentyne man found dead after rum binge POLICE are investigating the death of a man of Grant 1803 Crabwood Creek whose body was found on Thursday on the bridge of the suspect who allegedly killed him. Dead is 28-year-old Ganesh Premaul, of Grant 1803 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Berbice. Police said they are awaiting a post mortem report before they can proceed but the suspect remains in custody. According to the police both the deceased and the suspect are alcoholics and they were imbibing heavily before the body was found on the bridge of the suspect. It was disclosed that a post mortem will be done on Monday to determine the cause of death but so far the suspect is not accepting responsibility and told investigators that the deceased was given ‘something’ to drink. There was minor bruises on the body when it was discovered at about 15:30 hrs on Thursday after a bout of ‘drinking’ between the duo, who are said to be friends. It was reported that Premaul was sent on an errand to make a purchase but returned empty-handed which reportedly angered the suspect, resulting in a fight.

President David Granger, his wife Sandra Granger and Minister of State Joseph Harmon with Chilean Ambassador to Guyana Claudio Rachel Rojas and his wife at the Independence celebrations at Cara Lodge yesterday Ambassador Rojas said. The Ambassador also stressed the point that his country places great importance on the principles of equality among States, since this is an essential basis for respect and peaceful coexistence. He added that it is for this reason the country adheres to international laws and treaties.

Two shot in Alboustown drive-by POLICE are investigating two separate incidents where two residents have been shot and injured in Albouystown on Wednesday and Thursday respectively. Police reported that at about 18:45 hrs on September 17, 2015, Sunil Sooklall, 31, of James Street, Albouystown, was at James Street when two men rode up on bicycles and one of them discharged several rounds in his direction. Sunil Sooklall was hit to his right foot and has been hospitalised. Investigations are in progress. Meanwhile, a 22-year-old Albouystown, Georgetown, resident is nursing gunshot injuries to his left foot following a drive-by shooting on Wednesday. Anton Johnson of Independence Boulevard, Albouystown, was reportedly standing in front of his home when shots were fired by an occupant in a motor car as it drove by. The young man was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted. The Police have launched an investigation into the matter. According to additional information received, the shooter might have been known to the victim and it was reported that they have an old grouse.

Guyana and Chile first established diplomatic relations back in 1971, however only on August 18 last, the first resident Ambassador presented his Letters of Credence to President Granger, the Ministry of the Presidency reported.

Police find large cache of ammo in Mahdia raid POLICE during a raid on Thursday at Black Water, Mahdia, seized a quantity of unlicensed weapons and ammunition and arrested two men. At about 17:00 hrs on September 17, 2015, a party of policemen conducted a search on two men at Black Water, Mahdia, during which fourteen (14) 12 gauge shotguns cartridges, 26 x (76) .38 rounds, 100 9mm. rounds and 150 .32 rounds were found.

Brazilian injured during fight at Black Water Creek

DURING an argument on Thursday a Brazilian national was shot and injured and is hospitalised. Police said at about 13:00 hrs on September 17, 2015, Brazilian national Jose D’Andrade, 30, of Bartica, was confronted by two men at Black Water, Cuyuni, and an argument ensued over the dust that was being caused by an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) that he was driving. During the altercation shots were discharged at Jose D’Andrade and he was struck to his back. He has been admitted to hospital. Investigations are in progress.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Rekha scampers from post -Deputy Finance Secretary acting in his position By Ravin Singh

MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon, yesterday disclosed that Finance Secretary to the Treasury Nirmal Rekha, who was once interdicted from duty for his alleged role in a massive duty-free scandal has apparently abandoned his post after proceeding on leave earlier this year. The revelation was made at a post-Cabinet press briefing held at the Ministry of the Presidency, and against the backdrop of an ongoing forensic audit of the finance ministry, which is in its operational phase. Minister Harmon said Finance Minister Winston Jordan briefed cabinet earlier this week that Rekha had apparently abandoned his post of Finance Secretary after he had proceeded on leave and had failed to resume duty. Rekha requested the leave, to which he was entitled, but failed to resume duty after it had expired on July 31, 2015. “He had applied for leave, and this was approved leave which he did enjoy…and the leave came to an end on July 31,” Harmon said. The Minister of State also told reporters that, earlier yesterday, he had spoken to Minster Jordan and was informed that calls made to Rekha’s home had proved futile, since there was no response. Jordan, however, told Harmon that Rekha had been in touch with his secretary at the ministry on at least two occasions after July 31. In the interim, Louise

Bouyea, Deputy Finance Secretary under Rekha, has been appointed to act as Finance Secretary to the Treasury, Harmon said, adding that Cabinet has approved this decision until Bouyea can be confirmed. Quizzed on how Rekha’s absence would affect the ongoing forensic audits at state agencies, which were embarked upon by the AP-

Former Finance Secretary Nirmal Rekha NU+AFC Government, Harmon could not say directly, but offered that the Minister of Finance would be in a better position to comment on this. Rekha gained notoriety back in 2004 when he was interdicted from duty for signing off on duty-free letters in what was described at the time as a massive scam. Several other Ministry of Finance and Foreign Affairs’ officials were suspended during the ensuing investigation into the scandal. The remigrant scheme was introduced by the PPP government as a means of attracting skilled Guyanese who reside abroad. Qualifying individuals are allowed to import vehicles, household items and tools of trade duty

free. A report by the Auditor General’s office then, however, found that 55 of 86 letters granting remigrant status clearing the way for duty free concessions in August 2003 were forged by an official in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collusion with staffers of the Ministry of Finance. Rekha’s signature had appeared on those letters granting the duty free concessions to the undeserving individuals. Individuals appeared to have abused the system as copies of the concession document signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs were copied and altered and sent for signature. Details of the remigrants were changed and the minister’s signature forged as well, to allow for a manipulation of the system. The report by the Audit Office then recommended that certain officials of both ministries be charged, but Rekha was never hauled before the court but instead was reinstated to the post. Under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration, Rekha was appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The appointment was greeted with harsh comments, since it represented a conflict of interest. At that time, too, Rekha had been serving as the de facto accounting officer for the Treasury, and was directly responsible for determining, influencing and issuing the budgetary allocations made to the GPHC.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Roadside barbers, cosmetologists –have six weeks to cease operations given ultimatum THE Georgetown Mayor and City Council is giving roadside cosmetologists and barbers a mandatory sixweek deadline to discontinue their trade on the streets. As of November 1, 2015, no such individual should be seen plying their trade on road corners, Mayor Hamilton Green emphasised at the Council’s statutory meeting last Monday. Town Clerk Royston King offered to have a specific notice given to individuals, after which officers of the Council would work with them on a relocation exercise. Although many of the councillors were in favour of one month’s notice, King said six weeks would facilitate proper interaction with individuals. M&CC said recently in a statement that it has observed the increase in the number of persons involved in this type of trade on the roadside. “The truism is that ev-

ery single Guyanese has a right to earn a decent living. However, should this be done while the laws of the country, town or city are being compromised, or the health and well-being of the populace is (being) put at risk?” the M&CC has asked. The Environmental Sanitation Section of the Georgetown municipality had also expressed serious concern with such operations. “From a public health perspective, the operation is unsafe. In addition, it is a contravention of the Municipal and District Councils Act”, that unit has said. The act in question states that no person shall act as a barber in or upon any public street or way, or at any place within public view, other than at a duly registered barber’s shop. Before a barber can commence operations, he must be registered with the Mayor and City Council. The registration process

includes a medical examination by the Council’s Medical Officer of Health, who will provide to the applicant a medical certificate deeming the applicant fit to carry out such an operation. STRUCTURALLY SOUND The building to be used must be inspected by an officer of the Environmental Sanitation Section, who will determine the suitability of the building. Therefore, it must be structurally sound and must conform to public health standards. Once the barbers are granted City Council certification to operate, their operations and the building are subjected to routine systematic and scavenging inspections by officers of the Public Health Department. Also, as part of the routine, public health inspectors are mandated to observe barbers as they engage their

City Hall has given roadside cosmetologists and barbers six weeks to cease operating on street corners clients. This is to determine if required health standards are observed by barbers as they work. The M&CC said all of the equipment used on clients must be sterilised before they can be used on another client. These include scissors, clippers and other cutting tools. “The tools and equipment used by barbers are subjected to thorough examination by the public health inspectors assigned to the area. All towels used should be washed daily, and clean towels should be used with each client.

Barbers should observe hand-washing rules at all times.” Barbers found negligent are served notices, and if they fail to comply, can be taken before the court, the M&CC has warned. “The Public Health Laws were made to regulate public health practices in the city, and to protect the citizens of Georgetown from public health diseases that can occur because of poor public health practices. It is imperative that citizens be cognisant of the public

health laws and the fact that they, too, play a critical role in reducing illness and premature death. It also improves the health of the general population within societal limits. “Further, there is a resounding cry from the legitimate barbers and cosmetologists about the unfair competition they experience. They have to comply with rules of the municipality or face prosecution, while those who operate on the Council’s thoroughfares go free,” the M&CC has said.

GTT gives GPHC free Internet services

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) yesterday donated 1.5Mbps dedicated Internet service valued some $4.6 million annually to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The service will be utilised solely in the hospital’s training room, an area that was set up for doctors and nurses to benefit from lectures via video-conferences. Speaking at a simple donation ceremony, acting GPHC Chief Executive Officer Allan Johnson expressed gratitude to GTT for the kind gesture. GTT Public Relations Officer Allison Parker said the company is pleased to make the contribution to the GPHC. The gesture is part of GTT’s recent “Do more” drive and includes plans to further collaborate with the hospital.

Acting GPHC Chief Executive Officer Allan Johnson along with GTT’s Public Relations Officers Allison Parker and Nadia De Abreu

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Guyana reaffirms support in climate change fight Guyana has reaffirmed its commitment to fighting the effects of climate change as it prepares to participate in Conference of Parties (COP) 21 Climate Change Conference in Paris in November. O n T h u r s d a y

Ambassador/Representative of France in charge of the preparation for the Conference of Parties (COP) 21 Climate Change Conference Jean Mendelson accompanied by French Ambassador to Guyana and Suriname Michel Prom paid

a courtesy call on Minister of State Joseph Harmon at his Ministry of the Presidency Office. Ambassador Mendelson explained that he is currently on a mission to several Latin American and South American countries to

M&CC launches Green Conference and Expo

-Central Government to work cooperatively and not dictate the operations

THE Georgetown Mayor and City implied micro management and interference Council (M&CC) has embarked on a new in the work of the organs has done untold approach in its efforts to rebrand, renew damage, leading to the downfall of the city”. and revitalize the capital city and its He added, “We will remove the hand of image, in pursuance of which oppression and instead lend the body has launched a a hand of friendship and Green Conference and Expo collaboration.” which is geared at improving In the 2015 budget, the environs. the sum of three hundred Government has, thus far, million dollars has being placed major emphasis on allocated for the restoration restoration of the capital city programme, which has so and other regions in an effort far included cleaning of to promote a ‘clean and green public places and clearing government,” and this was of drains. With the help of further highlighted in the 2015 central government, the budget, entitled “a fresh start council has placed immense to the good life in a green focus on public eco-friendly economy.” re-education programmes In congratulating the and physical repairs to M&CC for the assiduous work the city. The M&CC will Minister of it has so far done, Minister of Communities Ronald be introducing the first of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, many such programmes, has assured of government’s Bulkan addressing the which will be the “Green launch yesterday continued commitment to Conference and Expo”, assisting the M&CC in its held from October 30 to endeavours. November 1, 2015. Speaking at the launching ceremony For this initiative, the council has yesterday at Parade Ground, Minister partnered with prominent branding and Bulkan disclosed that “along with the advertising company Impressions in the Mayor and City Council, we are working ongoing “Green City Campaign.” assiduously to restore pride in the garden The conference will start a national city.” discussion that raises awareness on the He assured the public that government present state of Guyana’s green potential would play an active role in realizing in an effort to sensitise stakeholders of the the goals which the M&CC is geared at M&CC’s green campaign, and to establish achieving. partnerships with various stakeholders in Municipal revival and restoration of promoting and maintaining a ‘clean and the city of Georgetown is the current green’ environment. goal, he said, and as such, “We will not The expo and the conference will dictate or dominate the work of the 71 target the energy sector; manufacturing, local democratic organs, and the central food and beverage distributors; electrical, government and local government will construction and mechanical services; respect their constitutional positions and mining, health and waste management, respect their authority.” among others. The conference and expo The minister alluded to government’s will be an annual event supported by steadfast commitment to being responsible the Government of Guyana; therefore and to respecting the authority of the 71 the council is encouraging all interested local democratic organs, “because”, he parties to make early reservations said, “as seen in the past, the policy which through the M&CC. (Navendra Seoraj)

A section of the gathering at the Green Conference and Expo

Ambassador/Representative of France in charge of the preparation for the Conference of Parties (COP) 21 Climate Change Conference Jean Mendelson and French Ambassador to Guyana and Suriname Michel Prom during a courtesy call on Minister of State Joseph Harmon on Thursday discuss the effects of climate change and how these countries are preparing for the COP21 Climate Change Conference. The Ambassador also revealed his intention to ensure that there is agreement and consensus among all national contributors, as focus will also be placed on reducing the effects of climate change. Meanwhile, Minister Harmon told the

Ambassadors that climate change for Guyana is not just a notion, but a very real issue since the country is below sea level and susceptible to disastrous floods. “If we are not in a position to take measures to prevent or reduce the effects of climate change, Guyana will be at a great risk of loss, damage and massive injury to our infrastructure,” he said. Minister Harmon noted that government does not

view COP 21 as a “light” academic exercise, but a serious one, a release from the Ministry of the Presidency said. He revealed that Guyana is investing extensively and building capacity to successfully deal with issues of climate change. The COP21 Climate Change Conference will be held in Paris, France from November 13 to December 15, 2015.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

King mulls establishment of Town Clerks’ Association

CLERK of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC), Royston King, is exploring the idea of meeting with other town clerks in the country in order to improve and share operational methods. “ F o r m i n g a To w n Clerks Association would foster knowledge-sharing, exchange activities, and

stronger alliances among the municipalities,” King said. “Municipalities across the country are seeking new ways to tackle burning problems facing their regions, and have thus explored the option of a Town Clerks’ Association. This would be the first of its kind in Guyana,” King said recently.

He reportedly held an exploratory meeting earlier this month with town clerks outside of Georgetown, who confirmed that their agencies face basically similar problems. The absolute necessity for such a body was emphasised given the meagre resources available to all municipalities in Guyana. Sharon Alexander

Town Clerk Royston King and Diana Critchlow, the respective town clerks of New Amsterdam and Anna Regina, having complained bitterly about the

collection of solid waste, taxes and revenue generation and collection in their municipalities, have both endorsed the initiative. At the meeting, Critchlow explained that her council cannot generate enough money to provide the necessary services, and she said this has affected workers’ pay. Giving an example, she said that only recently she had signed off workers’ cheques for the previous month. She added that taxpayers are delinquent with their dues, but noted the inadequate collection system. “Large stall rentals are outstanding to the tune of millions of dollars,” she

disclosed. Meanwhile, Alexander noted that town clerks are in need of the requisite training. She pointed out that New Amsterdam also battles with issues of solid-waste collection and finances. She insisted that more work has to be done with town clerks to equip them for their duties and responsibilities. “We need training in this area,” she suggested. A follow-up meeting is scheduled at the Georgetown M&CC sometime in October. There, decisions will be taken on registering the body and electing its administrative members.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Four hinterland districts to get township status

– Allicock

By Rabindra Rooplall in The Rupununi IN promoting good governance and preparing strategic plans to improve the quality of life of indigenous peoples, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock said government will ensure the livelihoods of residents are sustainable and the environment is protected by mutually agreed approaches. This was disclosed Wednesday at the Bina Institute for research, training and development in Annai, Rupununi where the minister explained that the administration will be upgrading four hinterland regional administrative centres namely: Bartica in Cuyuni-Mazaruni: Mahdia in the Potaro-Siparuni: Mabaruma in Barima-Waini and Lethem in The Rupununi. These districts, he noted, will be elevated to township status. According to the minister, this plan is aimed at ensuring that indigenous communities become thriving economic enterprises. He explained that the central government is proposing a new partnership with the National Toshaos Council (NTC) to work

together for the improvement of everyone’s well-being. Government also plans to introduce to the NTC, a fiveyear, ten-point plan of action for hinterland development. These include: the Hinterland Education Support Programme; Hinterland Poverty Reduction Programmes; Hinterland Infrastructure Extension Programme; Hinterland Energy Development Programme; Hinterland Employment and Youth Services; Hinterland Cultural and Sports Commission and the Hinterland Public Services Provision Schemes, amongst others. DEVELOPMENT WITHIN REGION Meanwhile, Minister Allicock also met with a new batch of students from the Bina Hills Institute where he underscored the need for the development of skills that will benefit the community and the country as a whole. The minister also promised that the new batch of students will be receiving stipends. government will also be looking into recommendations for uniforms and sports equipment within the 2016 budget. In outlining some of his ministry’s plans for the hinterland regions, he said

that technical and vocational studies are to be prioritised. Minister Allicock said while equipment is there, maintenance remains a big issue. In this vein, the minister said training in technical areas is needed. He was referring to the equipment and machinery given to Amerindian Villages to aid their development. Minister Allicock said that technical training centres are needed in the regions and in districts where there is a very high youth population. Areas to be explored would include agriculture and home economic institutes. These areas will be upgraded since a major focus will be on ecotourism or tourism in general. G o i n g f o r w a r d , M r. Allicock said that more opportunities will be made available to youths in the hinterland, so as to equip them with more skills to meet the needs of their communities. It was also noted that women and children play a very critical role in keeping their culture alive, which is something his ministry will work hard to achieve. The cultural aspect of any society is also necessary, the minster said, as it aids in producing more rounded individuals.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock (centre) and Minister within the Ministry of Communities Dawn Hastings with students of the Bina Hill Institute

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Cabinet approves $69.7M to repair Lady Northcote - acquisition of two new vessels in the pipeline

By Ravin Singh Minister of State Joseph Harmon yesterday revealed at a post-cabinet press briefing that Cabinet has approved the sum of $69.7M for the repair of the Lady Northcote vessel w h i c h p l i e s t h e ro u t e between Georgetown and Mabaruma, NWD.

The minister said Cabinet had considered a memorandum submitted by the Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson, following which a no-objection vote was registered. Contract for the “repair and refit” of the vessel, the minister said, was awarded to E. C. Vieira Investments

Limited, which will be responsible for the vessel’s emergency docking. It was disclosed that

the age and condition of the vessels belonging to the Transport and Harbours Department has been a concern of Cabinet, given the route they traverse. “We wanted to satisfy the people of Region 1 that we’re going to put in place a very firm type of arrangement that will satisfy them. Over the last couple of years, the service to that region has

been most erratic,” Minister Harmon said. He alluded to the fact that, in some instances, no

vessel would be available to service the Mabaruma route for over a month, and it would result in people’s produce being spoilt, since they are left stranded on the wharf. Ve s s e l s p l y i n g t h e Georgetown to Mabaruma route remain the “main lifeline” for people who live in Region 1, Harmon said, adding that Cabinet

was therefore engaged in a healthy discussion on the question of transportation for the people of that region. He reasoned that there are specific features of the Georgetown-to-Mabaruma route, since vessels are required to travel to the Atlantic Ocean as part of that route. In this regard, a vessel which can take the “rigours” of the Atlantic travel is needed for that route, Harmon said. As such, a definitive position was adopted by the government not to allow any vessel in deplorable condition to be on that route for very much longer. However, in the interim, Minister Patterson was authorised by the government to examine the leasing of a new vessel from overseas, while engagements with the Government of India to build two new vessels for that route are underway. As to when this can be expected to take effect, Harmon disclosed that Patterson was advised to “start negotiating immediately”, since “paper work takes time.”

Saturday September 19th, 2015 - 08:30 hrs Sunday September 20th, 2015 - 09:00 hrs

“We’re looking at the leasing of a vessel that is more reliable; this is on a medium term. And on a long term, over a two-year period, the government is going to enter into an agreement with the government of India for the building and delivery of two new vessels specifically for that route,” Minister Harmon told reporters yesterday. The MV Malali will presently be utilised on that route until the leasing of the overseas vessel materialises.

Seasoned thief gets six months - for simple larceny

R E P E AT o f f e n d e r Inshan Ali was on Thursday handed a sixmonth prison sentence when he pleaded guilty to a simple larceny charge before city magistrate Faith McGusty. The charge read that on September 15 at Lombard Street, Georgetown, Ali stole 19 wing mirrors, property of the Guyana National Industrial Company (GNIC). Insisting that he had been assisted by three others in committing the theft, Ali begged the magistrate for leniency. The facts in the case are that a security guard attached to the company caught Ali red-handed removing a window of the company and apprehended him. It was further revealed in court that Ali has a history of being charged for offences of a similar nature and for being a regular in the Georgetown Prison. Considering that the items had been retrieved and that the accused hadn’t wasted the court’s time, the magistrate sentenced Ali to six months’ incarceration, and admonished him to keep away from bad company. (Clestine Juan)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

New Amsterdam Multilateral turns 40

By Jeune Bailey Vankeric

AS the New Amsterdam ‘Multilateral’ Secondary School celebrates its 40th year, and having withstood the test of time, it remains the only ‘Multi’ to offer tutoring for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination at the sixth form level. In addition, the Berbice based leaning institution has created many a first, during the four decades, amongst which are: producing the region’s top performers, and copping the Caribbean Examination C o u n c i l ( C X C ) Aw a r d s in Technology, Business Studies, and Agriculture Science. Further, the former New Amsterdam Government Secondary School, is the local pioneer of the Theatre Arts programme and for its non-academic achievement, the school’s choir won the National Choir Festival. Several accolades were also received by students in the area of sports. Former principal Mr. Elton Lewis, recounting the journey during a special service on Wednesday last, said the decision to establish the school was made by the then Government, to have across the

country multilateral schools. This saw the birth of the institution on September 15, 1975. As it was then, the school started with 170 first form students and with less than 10 teachers which formed the core. Then it bacame New Amsterdam Government Secondary School, and after

Former New Amsterdam Multilateral Headteacher, Elton Lewis some time it was christened New Amsterdam Multilateral. But, something very dramatic happened that caused the school to grow, the fact that forms two to sixth comprise around 400

plus students who were at Berbice High, and who joined the first formers. Recalling the history through the decades, he said in the beginning (1975 to 1985), the school, ranking at the top in Berbice, established itself under the leadership of the late Ms. Joyce Thomas, a team leader who brought the school to prominence. In the second chapter, two headmasters, namely Messers Stanley Johnson and Albert Bobb, served consecutively to advance the name of the school. The third chapter was a personal journey, from 1992 to 2004, which period was very challenging…one of the main challenges was the infrastructure of the school, which was falling to pieces, but was subsequently rehabilitated, leading to the current fourth decade. In her presentation, which forced the lower-level students to be rapt listeners, President of the Parent/ Teachers Association Ms. Jacqueline Murray, a former student, noted that it was one’s attitude and not one’s aptitude that will determine the altitude. “You have the opportunity to be anything you want to

The New Amsterdam Multilateral choir entertaining the gathering at the anniversary celebrations

be. After all, you are at the New Amsterdam Multilateral School where there are multitalented people. Do not allow anyone tell you otherwise…. Be the best at what you do….let there be no room for mediocrity…However, it’s your attitude and not your aptitude that will get you to

your altitude,” she concluded. Currently, the school is governed by a Board of Governors and has Mr. Narinedatt Dhanraj, as Principal. On September 15, 1975 the then New Amsterdam Government Secondary School came

into existence, following the vision of the late President Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham who, aided by the Canadians, decided to create an educational institution that would cater for the all-round development of Guyanese children.

Two first-formers prepare to stick the anniversary cake

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Granger gets rock-star reception ...

From page 3

to attend school. “There is a problem here with the Regional Education Officer, and there are a lot of our children that are out on the streets and not attending school, and you getting the royal push around,” said a female Wismar resident. The woman told President Granger that there are a number of special needs children who are unable to attend school because the Regional Education Officer (REdO) is “high”. According to the woman, parents have been told that the schools lack materials. They said some materials were provided but, to date, the situation has not changed. “We need the Child Care/ Welfare people to follow up,” another resident said. REDO REFUSAL Morian confirmed the situation, and told the President that the “REdO refuses to accept the children in the schools.” Morian added that the number of children not in school is too high. “A lot of persons are facing this problem…every day they are at my office,” he complained. Another resident said Wi s m a r n e e d s m a s s i v e development and attention from the administration. That resident noted that “Wismar always leff on the back burner.” But the Regional Chairman assured the residents of plans to have the first recreational park commissioned there, along with a multi-purpose centre for all to benefit from. “Our focus for our 2015 budget will be placed on Wismar…we had 23 years of suffering, and I think it is time we experience change,” he said. President Granger urged

Lindeners that the time for campaigning is over. “This is not a rally, this is not a campaign, this is fixing the problems here. We will come back and sit down and work out these problems,” he assured. OVERWHELMING SUPPORT Meanwhile, President Granger told reporters that he visited the mining community because of the overwhelming support received preceding his election as President. “Linden came out solidly in favour of the coalition on the 11th May, and Linden has some problems and I have come back here to speak to the people of Linden,” said Granger. He said when he returns in October he intends to aggressively pursue the issue of “employment for

President Granger holds a young girl who was eager to meet “President Granger” young people”. “I will sit down with the Regional Chairman, the RDC, and see how best we can solve the problems of young people. There are other things, not only jobs -- sporting facilities, environment -- but employment is a big issue here, a big issue. Over the next five years, we want to deal decisively with the

employment issue. People coming out of school must be able to look forward to employment,” the President said. Referring to the situation where special needs children are not being catered for in the education system, Granger said: “Right now, the education system does not seem to be catering satisfactorily for those with

special needs. This is just a walkabout today…we’ll be back in October to sit down with the people and work out together with them and the corporate community how we are going to deal with these two issues,” the President added. As word of the President’s visit spread, scores of residents flocked him to have pictures taken

President Granger is accompanied by youths during his walkabout in One Mile Wismar

with him. School children, babies, and even the elderly were in competition for the opportunity to take a picture with “their President” and have a quick conversation as well. President Granger did his walkabout at the Mackenzie Market, after which he visited Blueberry Hill and One Mile Wismar.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Man kills cop, self during arrest BY Leroy Smith

TWENTY-eight-year- old Police Constable Antonio Dawson who was attached to the Impact Base at Brickdam died yesterday afternoon at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) while undergoing surgery to save his life. The rank was stabbed several times about the body yesterday morning at Houston, East Bank Demerara in the vicinity of the Gafoors Complex while attempting to arrest a man who later stabbed himself to the chest and slashed his throat. Late last evening, the suspect was positively identified at the hospital morgue my relatives. He was identified as 41-year-old Samuel Fredrick Adams, also known as Fredo Thomas Junior. The man’s address was given as Lot 47 Buxton Railway Embankment, East Coast Demerara. He was also charged in 2005 for robbery under arms. According to information reaching the Guyana Chronicle, Dawson and a group of other policemen were on patrol in Agricola when they responded to a call for back-up from members of the marine wing of the force, who were initially pursuing the suspect. The marine ranks approached the scene from the Demerara River and as they pursued the suspect, he headed in an easterly direction. Ranks on the mobile patrol however used the main East Bank Demerara carriageway and headed west into the street in which the Gafoors Complex is located. After seeing the patrol approaching, the suspect began to empty his pockets and also tucked his hands under his jersey. That caused the policemen to advance towards him with caution, but after it was realised that the man was carrying a knife, Dawson offered to surrender his rifle to one of his colleagues as he sought to negotiate with the suspect to hand over his knife and surrender himself for a search. It was during that period that Dawson was stabbed several times about the body, including the regions of the

neck, chest and abdomen. The other members of the patrol apparently were not aware that their colleague was being stabbed, although it was clear that he was having a struggle with the suspect. It was only after Dawson-who was not wearing a bulletproof vest at the timefell to the ground that ranks became aware that he was stabbed. At that point, the suspect reportedly stabbed himself to chest and then slashed his throat as he remarked: “Oh you want dead on me, well I gone dead too.” However, persons in the area told the police who are investigating the matter that Constable Dawson was not receiving the support of his colleagues as he attempted to arrest the man. This publication was told that while Dawson tried to negotiate with the suspect, his colleagues were sitting in the police patrol vehicle without offering any form of assistance. It was only after he fell that they attempted to assist him and arrest the suspect, but it was too late.

DEAD ON ARRIVAL Both men were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where the suspect was pronounced dead on arrival, while Constable Dawson was stabilised in the Accident and Emergence Unit before he was sent to the operating theatre where he succumbed. Yesterday, the Guyana Police Force in a press statement confirmed that the police marine wing did respond first to the information that there was someone at the Houston Fishing Wharf who was acting in a suspicious manner. The police would later find out that the items which the man was emptying from his pocket as the ranks approached him were a quantity of cocaine, marijuana and ecstasy. The police were also able to recover the knife that was used by the suspect to kill Constable Dawson and himself. Meanwhile, at the Georgetown Public Hospital the scene was a sorrowful one as several

junior and senior ranks were there to get word on the condition of their co-worker. Relatives of the dead man including his siblings who are members of the Guyana Police Force were also there. ‘A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken who spoke with the media at the hospital said standard operating procedures were followed in the way the now deceased rank handled the situation, pointing out that he was not required to confront the suspect with a rifle since the man was carrying a knife. Hicken told the media that Constable Dawson, who was still alive at the time of the interview was one of the frontline crime fighters of the force. Later in the afternoon, relatives of the dead police officer met with the Commander at his Brickdam office. Pastors from the First Assembly of God Church, Wortmanville, were also present to offer words of comfort to them. FATHER OF TWO Constable Antonio Dawson was a father of two children, ages 3 and 1. He joined the Guyana Police Force some two years ago, following the footsteps of his siblings who are all still serving the force except for one who was fired after he had shot a suspect in the leg. Commissioner of Police (CoP) Seelall Persaud, Commander Clifton Hicken, Senior Superintendent Maxine Graham, Senior Superintendent Steven Mansell and Superintendent Saul visited the 100 Murphy Street, Wales, West Bank Demerara home of the fallen police officer. There they met with his parents Yvonne Dawson and Neville Dawson, along with other siblings and relatives. It was during that meeting that the CoP was told by Dawson’s father what may have been the reason for his son not wanting to use force against the suspect; and why he might not have used force against the suspect even if he, the rank, was carrying a side arm. According to Neville Dawson, one of his sons was fired from the GPF because he had shot a suspect in the leg while

The other senior ranks who accompanied the commissioner and commander to the home of Dawson yesterday

Medical staff wheeling Constable Antonio Dawson to one of the theatres of the Georgetown Public Hospital on Friday morning

Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud comforts the parents of the dead policeman at his Wales, West Bank Demerara home attempting an arrest. The man said that his now dead son did not want to suffer the fate as his brother and that is why he had handed over his weapon to his colleagues. The dismissed son was also jailed for eight years, but family members moved quickly to appeal the decision and that former policeman is now on High Court bail. Meanwhile, there are now questions surfacing on the availability of adequate protective vests for the police ranks, especially those working on patrols. At the time of the incident, Constable Dawson was not wearing a vest and there are claims that had he been wearing one, the metal plate might have prevented him from meeting such a gruesome and

untimely death. The Guyana Chronicle was told that the force is in dire need of bulletproof vests. This newspaper understands that at in particular section of the force where ranks are always on the road and engaging potentially dangerous persons, there are only six vests for in excess of 20 ranks. NO HELP Yesterday, in addition to the ranks who were present but failed to go to the aid of their colleague, there were several other persons who were in the vicinity of the Gafoors Complex who saw the policeman encountering difficulty but were more interested in setting their mobile phone cameras on ready to record the possible use of force by the police against

the suspect. Speaking about the incident, Persaud said the visit to the home of the Dawsons was one of the hardest things he has had to do as Commissioner of Police, since he began serving the GPF. A pastor who also visited the home of Constable Dawson said the effort of the fallen policeman was not done only in the interest of the GPF, but the entire Guyanese society but unfortunately, he paid the ultimate price. He said the culture will continue as it relates to benefits and other assistance that are provided to relatives of fallen ranks. According to Commissioner Persaud, counselling has already started for the ranks who were with Dawson on the patrol.

Frederick’s remains are wheeled to the GPHC Morgue

LTI offers training to operators of heavy equipment THE Linden Technical Institute, last Friday, officially launched a Heavy Equipment Operators Training programme, the objective of which is to equip a cadre of youths of the mining town with marketable skills, relevant to the needs of mining concerns within Linden and surrounding communities. The programme, which is of eight weeks’ duration, is open to persons 18 years and over, and who must have at least a secondary education and a valid driver’s licence. Registration begins on Monday September 21, 2015. Application forms can be uplifted from the Linden Technical Institute on Mondays to Fridays, from 9:00 hrs to 12:00 hrs and 13:00 hrs to 15:30 hrs. At the end of the course, participants will be duly certified in Equipment Operation Techniques and Industry Rules and Regulations. Interested persons can apply to the Principal of the Linden Technical Institute, using the appropriate forms available at the institute. (Shirley Thomas)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Vagrant pleads guilty to stabbing bus driver - jailed for 18 months

CHRISTOPHER Mohanie who stabbed a bus driver d u r i n g a n a l t e rc a t i o n appeared on Thursday before city magistrate Faith McGusty and pleaded guilty to the charge that, on September 14 at Stabroek Market, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Mahase Budram. The vagrant explained to the court that, on the day

in question, he was smoking cocaine when Budram approach and started to provoke him. “So I pick up a bottle and stab he up, cause everybody know is crack cocaine I does smoke,” Mohanie pointed out. Given a chance to state his version of the altercation, the victim, who was in court, said he drives a route 42 minibus, and had just arrived on the park and was in the minibus line awaiting passengers when his attacker braced his bus smoking the cocaine

substance. “I couldn’t tek the scent of the ting he been smoking, so I tell he fuh move, and I push he away,” the victim told the court. Mohanie subsequently retuned with a broken bottle and dealt the unsuspecting driver several stabs about his body, which caused him to receive 28 stitches. On ground that he hadn’t wasted the court’s time but had admitted to the offence, the vagrant was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment. (Clestine Juan)

Nigerian gives court details of drug smuggling ring in Guyana - to serve 4 years in jail and pay $745,470 in fines

NIGERIAN national Michael Solomon, who had swallowed 16 pellets of cocaine after being busted with more than 91 grammes of the illicit substance at his Sophia home, was on Thursday sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment and fined $745,470 on two counts of drug trafficking. The 32-year-old defendant of Lot 142 ‘E’ Field Sophia pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing cocaine for the purpose of trafficking when he appeared before city magistrate Ann McLennan. The court heard that on September 9, at ‘E’ Field Sophia, East Coast Demerara, Solomon had in his possession 91.5 grammes of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. Police ranks visited the premises after a ‘tip-off’ and discovered the illicit drug concealed under a wall facing in his home. Solomon told the lawmen that he had also swallowed some cocaine pellets. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital and was admitted under guard from September 9-15. There he excreted 16 pellets, amounting to some 245.6 grammes of cocaine. The Nigerian national told the court that he was visiting his wife and 9-year-old daughter (both Guyanese nationals) when he met another man from Nigeria, told him about his unfavourable financial situation and said he was looking for a job. That man assisted him to get a job with his boss. “The man took me to his boss and introduced me to him. The boss drives a fancy car and lives in a big house; and when I went to him, he requested to see my passport and identification card, and asked if I had ever swallowed

before, and I said no,” Solomon said in his strange Nigerian accent. He told the court that the ‘boss’ took him to the immigration office and had him apply for an extension of his visit, thus he was given a year’s extension. The boss booked him into a hotel in the city and told him that he (Solomon) would be “flying out in the morning”. The father of one explained that the drug was given to him in different shapes of pellets, each said to weigh over 20 grammes. After he had swallowed the pills, the ‘boss’ called a taxi to take me to the airport. “In the taxi I started to get cold feet, for in my mind what I was doing was wrong; so I took the taxi back home, and during the course of the next day I started to feel nauseous and to get terrible abdominal pains. I confided in my mother-in-law who is a nurse, after which the police came to search the house and took me to the hospital”. The prosecutor Corporal Deniro Jones, explained that Solomon had assisted the police with their investigation, and they already have in custody the other persons who where involved in the enterprise. “A victim of circumstances” was how Solomon was described by his lawyer, Mr. Moti Singh. Singh urged the court to consider the mitigating factors -- that the accused had pleaded guilty; was married to a Guyanese national, and has a daughter; and he urged the court to be merciful to his client. Solomon was sentenced to 4 years’ imprisonment on each charge, and was fined a total of $745,470 for having the drug in his possession and for trafficking. (Clestine Juan)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

COURTS launches 4th Pee Wee Schools football tournament

THE fourth annual COURTS Pee Wee Under-11 Schools football tournament was launched yesterday in the Conference Room of the National Library and will kick off on Saturday, October 3 at the Banks DIH ground, Thirst Park. Twenty-four primary school teams from Georgetown, including the defending champions Stella Maris, will collide in the most anticipated grassroots level tournament that has been instrumental in the development of youths since its commencement. The other competing schools are last year’s runners-up St Pius, Marian Academy, New Comenius, West Ruimveldt, St Margaret’s, St Agnes, Tucville, South Ruimveldt, North Georgetown, Ketley, St Gabriel’s, F.E. Pollard, Enterprise, Sophia, Winfer Gardens, Smith Memorial, East La Penitence, St Angela’s, St Ambrose, St Stephen’s, J.E. Burnham, School of

the Nations and Rama Krishna. Yesterday, remarks were delivered in a simple ceremony by Director of Sport Christopher Jones, COURTS’ Director of Marketing Pernell Cummings, Banks DIH Malta Brand Manager Clayton McKenzie, Ministry of Education’s Nicholas Fraser and Director of Petra Troy Mendonca. Also present was Managing Director of COURTS Clyde de Haas who presented the cheque for in excess of $3M to the organising team, Petra. The Director of Sport, in his remarks commended COURTS for its commitment to the development of sport in Guyana and disclosed that such efforts will not go unrewarded by the government. Jones also applauded the efforts of Petra, along with the other sponsors who have thrown their support behind this cause as well as the parents and

teachers who are with the teams every step of the way. H e t h e n u rg e d t h e youths to make the best of the opportunity which is a stepping stone and reminded them that they are the future of Guyana’s football. McKenzie was introduced first by the chairperson Roberta Ferguson of COURTS Guyana Inc., and he mentioned that his company is quite pleased to be involved with sport and more so the development of youths. Banks DIH, like COURTS, has seen the extent of what this tournament has done for junior football and came onboard without a second thought. Cummings and Fraser endorsed McKenzie’s remarks and urged people to come out and witness good competition and camaraderie among these teams. COURTS also donated two balls to each school in the tournament to aid in their preparation for the event.

Ansari to miss Lord’s final with thumb injury

SURREY all-rounder Zafar Ansari will miss today’s One-Day Cup final with Gloucestershire at Lord’s because of a dislocated thumb on his bowling hand. The 23-year-old left-hander was injured during the Championship match against Lancashire at Old Trafford on Tuesday. It came only hours after he was named in the England senior Test squad to play Pakistan next month. Meanwhile, key batsman Kumar Sangakkara believes handling the occasion will be key for Surrey at Lord’s. The Brown Caps are aiming to win their first one-day trophy since lifting the CB40 title at Lord’s in 2011. “The key for us is to enjoy the day; forget that it is a final, forget that it is Lord’s and not to get overawed,” Sangakkara told BBC London 94.9. We need to appreciate what has brought us there and be able to repeat it.” Sri Lanka legend Sangakkara has been crucial to Surrey’s progress to the final, hitting 166 in the semi-final win over Nottinghamshire and scoring 429 runs at an average of 61.28 throughout the tour-

nament. However, he was keen to stress that Surrey’s young side, which has also secured promotion from Division Two of the County Championship, has made solid progress this year. “Whatever the result is, the journey has been wonderful. If we can top it off with a win then it is even better,” the 37-year-old said. “The result will not take anything away from the season we have had and the way the players have grown, individuals have blossomed and the team has shown its character. “We are all looking forward to it. Excitement will heighten but I hope we keep our eyes on the ball and our minds on what we are there to do; execute the basics, execute our skill and trust in each other. “We need to focus on the task at hand and keep our thoughts simple.” It may be Sangakkara’s final game at the home of cricket where he made 147 in a Test match and 112 in a one-day international against England last year. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Valcke’s reign at FIFA likely to be at an end By Simon Evans MIAMI, USA (Reuters) - For the second time in his career, Jerome Valcke leaves FIFA with a cloud hanging over him. Sepp Blatter’s lieutenant for the past eight years, Valcke became the highest profile figure in the corruption-plagued organisation to fall during the current series of scandals when he was “released from his duties” on Thursday and it appears unlikely he will return. The Frenchman has not been formally dismissed but Blatter is standing down in February and Valcke had already suggested he would probably go at that time as well. The 54-year-old, however, is now being investigated by FIFA’s ethics committee after allegations he was involved in a plan to re-sell 2014 World Cup tickets for a lucrative profit. Valcke’s lawyer “unequivocally” denied the allegations, labelling them as “fabricated and outrageous”. The allegations are the latest against Valcke as the organisation, and his own behaviour, came under scrutiny in recent years. Valcke, a former television executive with French television company Canal Plus, became FIFA’s marketing director in 2003 but was fired three years later after a mishandled negotiation to switch a sponsorship deal from Mastercard to Visa.

The deal ended up in a New York court which ruled that Valcke’s marketing team had “lied repeatedly” during the talks and an out-of-court settlement with Mastercard cost FIFA $90 million in compensation. Yet within months of that settlement, Valcke was not

Jerome Valcke leaves FIFA with a cloud hanging over him for a second time. only back at FIFA but was at the helm of the administration as general secretary, answering only to Blatter. “I made the biggest mistake of my life by saying that in business we don’t always say the truth and you could describe that as a commercial lie. Then I was dead ... completely destroyed by (Mastercard’s) lawyer,” Valcke explained upon his return to FIFA.

INJUDICIOUS LANGUAGE Perhaps surprisingly for a former journalist, injudicious language continued to be a problem for Valcke during his tenure. The 54-year-old caused a row when he said Brazil needed a “kick up the backside” to get the 2014 World Cup ready on time. In May 2011, the former CONCACAF president and FIFA vice-president Jack Warner, who is now banned from all soccer activities and faces charges from U.S prosecutors, leaked an email he had received from Valcke that suggested Qatar had “bought” the 2022 tournament. Referring to Mohamed bin Hammam’s bid to become FIFA president, Valcke questioned whether the Qatari was running just to spite Blatter “or if he thought you can buy FIFA as they bought the WC (World Cup)”. With widespread allegations that Qatar ’s World Cup bid had not been clean, which the Gulf state has continually denied, the words caused a media storm that Valcke struggled to calm. The Frenchman insisted he was not referring to any “purchase of votes or similar unethical behaviour” and that his emails tended to be of “a much less formal tone than in any form of correspondence”. It was not his use of lan-

Haddin to coach next generation in Australia MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Former Australia wicketkeeper Brad Haddin will move into coaching to pass on his knowledge to the next generation of local cricketers, coach Darren Lehmann has said. The 37-year-old Haddin retired last week after keeping wickets in 66 Tests, scoring 3 266 runs at an average of 32.98 and taking 262 catches. “We can’t afford to lose those blokes to the game,” Lehmann told Adelaide radio station 5AA. “We need him to pass on the knowledge to the next generation which will stand them in good stead. “He’ll do some work coaching-wise with New

South Wales, and we’re going to get him involved with the Under-19s and

Former Aussie Test wicketkeeper Brad Haddin Under-17s Australian programmes, and I might even be able to take him away with (the Australian men’s team) occasionally.

“It’s a great stage for him to move forward with the next stage of his life and career. “We think he’s a really important part of what we started and we love how he goes about it and what he does.” Haddin follows former captain Michael Clarke, all-rounder Shane Watson and opening batsman Chris Rogers into retirement after the 3-2 Ashes defeat in England. Paceman Ryan Harris also quit before the Ashes after suffering a serious knee injury. New captain Steve Smith will lead Australia’s most inexperienced Test side in decades into next month’s two-match tour of Bangladesh.

guage but his signature that caused his biggest headache earlier this year when the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) indictment that saw high-ranking officials arrested in May was made public. The DOJ document referred to a “high-ranking FIFA official” in 2008 wiring $10M from South Africa’s World Cup organising committee to CONCACAF ac-

counts controlled by Warner, who diverted some of it “for personal use”. It was not long before reports suggested Valcke was the official who had signed off the payment, which the DOJ linked to Warner’s vote for South Africa to host the 2010 World Cup. Valcke initially denied he had authorised the payment, saying he had no power to

do so, but later admitted he had signed off, albeit without doing anything wrong. “I am signing contracts every day, everything has the signature of the general secretary,” he said in an emotional press conference held in Russia. “But it’s not because I am signing everything that I am responsible for the way people are acting around the world.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

‘Bangladesh could give Australia a fright’ - Law

STUART Law believes Australia may be surprised at the strength of the Bangladesh team they take on in next month’s Test series in Chittagong and Dhaka. Law, the former Australia batsman, has previously served as coach of Bangladesh and Queensland, and he is now back in Bangladesh to help them prepare for next year’s Under-19 World Cup. A new-look Australia will tour Bangladesh next month under captain Steven Smith, with five veterans missing having recently retired: Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin, Chris Rogers, Ryan Harris and Shane Watson. They will also be without David Warner, who has a thumb injury, and the fast bowlers Mitchell Johnson and Josh Hazlewood are being rested. Bangladesh should therefore view this as their best chance to rattle Australia, having previously lost all four Tests they have played against them, in 2003 and 2006. However, Bangladesh have lost only two of their past 12 Tests at home, and they are also coming off ODI series wins at home against South Africa, India and Pakistan this year. “If Bangladesh play

anywhere near what they have been in recent times, they will give Australia a real fright,” Law said. “People who are expecting Australia to come here and be the big bully and beat Bangladesh out of the stadium, don’t think that’s

GLENN MAXWELL the case. Bangladesh will be ready for a fight.” Smith will be in charge of a squad featuring two uncapped players, fast bowler Andrew Fekete and opening batsman Cameron Bancroft, and a further eight members of the group have played fewer than 10 Tests. Law said that would add to their challenge, as would the conditions in Bangladesh, where the heat and turn of the pitches will test the Australians. “Australia are going through rebuilding,” Law said. “It is a different look team. The amount of experience that has left the

team recently is a huge hole to fill. “Understand it will be hot. The ball will turn and another big stepping stone would be to get used to the lifestyle here. They have a lot of hurdles to jump over. Bangladesh have to play good cricket. It will be tight.” The make-up of Australia’s XI remains a mystery but with Nathan Lyon, Steve O’Keefe and Glenn Maxwell in the squad they have plenty of spinning options, as well as the seam-bowling all-rounder Mitchell Marsh and four frontline fast men. Writing in his column on Cricket Australia’s website, Smith said there were plenty of options for how to balance the side. “With wickets that are likely to be conducive to spin, there’s a possibility we could play two spinners and two all-rounders in the starting XI,” Smith wrote. “Mitch Marsh’s bowling has come a long way on this tour, and we all know what Glenn Maxwell can do with his off-spin and dynamic batting. “Maxi has really impressed me over the course of the one-day series. It looks like all the hard work he’s put in during his stint with Yorkshire has paid off, so it’s great to see him learning and improving and I look forward to see how he goes on spinning wickets in Bangladesh.” (ESPN Cricinfo)

Indian cricket board president suffers heart attack JAGMOHAN Dalmiya, the president of the Indian cricket board, is in intensive care in a Kolkata hospital after suffering a heart attack. Dalmiya, 75, was admitted to the city’s BM Birla Heart Research Institute on Thursday with chest pains. The hospital said that a blood clot had been “aspirated out to establish good flow in coronary arteries”. He was elected president for a second time in March and is a former pres-

ident of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

JAGMOHAN DALMIYA There has been much

speculation in national media about Dalmiya’s health for several months, although the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been reluctant to openly comment on this. Dalmiya, who was previously president of the BCCI from 2001-04, returned to the role following the departure of N Srinivasan, who was forced to step down for owning an Indian Premier League team. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Rugby World Cup

England snatch bonus point with 35-11 win over Fiji By Mitch Phillips LONDON, England (Reuters) - England got the result they needed, if not the complete performance, as a four-try 35-11 bonus-point victory over Fiji got the Rugby World Cup started yesterday -- though they had to wait until the last second to complete it. After an early penalty try, fullback Mike Brown added two more before replacement forward Billy Vunipola settled the game in a dramatic finale. It was by no means plain sailing for the tournament hosts as Fiji defended strongly and carried a threat but England will be delighted to have claimed the extra point that could prove vital in a tough Pool A also containing Australia and Wales. The first half-hour could not have gone any better for England as they looked sharp and focused from the off. A 12th-minute driving maul splintered the Fijian defence, forcing them to drag it down and concede a penalty try. A suicidal Fiji attempt to hit the back at a lineout on their own five-metre line led to England’s second try as Tom Wood snaffled it and the backs swiftly sent it wide for Brown to score and open a 15-0 lead.

Things then went awry for the hosts as their scrum malfunctioned and Fiji’s livewire scrumhalf Nikola Matawalu had a try ruled out as he dropped the ball on

Volavola. England regained composure and another George Ford penalty put them 18-8 ahead at the break when coach Stuart Lancaster would no doubt have demanded that they tighten up. His words would have fallen on deaf ears, however, as England struggled to get a grip on the game -- or the greasy ball -during a ragged, penalty-laden 20 minutes that played right into Fiji’s hands. Nadolo blotted his copybook with two missed penalty attempts but Fiji’s intent was rewarded when Volavola slotted one to reduce the deficit to seven points with 16 minutes remaining. Replacement flyhalf Owen Farrell immediately hit back with a three-pointer and slipped a brilliant off-load following a break by centre Jonathan Joseph through a tiring Fiji defence before Brown claimed England’s Mike Brown is seen in his second try. action. (Reuters/Stefan Wermuth) England were desperate for the fourth try but had to wait until stoppage time, and then through an interminable TMO inspecthe line having darted 50 metres. tion, before Vunipola was ruled to have The TMO ruled in Fiji’s favour soon reached the line through a mass of bodies. afterwards, however, when winger NemaEngland next face Wales at Twickni Nadolo hoisted his 20-stone (127kg) enham on Septenber 26 while Fiji frame above Anthony Watson to catch head to Cardiff to play Australia on a precise cross-kick from flyhalf Ben Wednesday.

Cricket Australia puts heat on Gabba to spruce up MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - A failure to keep Australian Associated Press. up with the times has already cost one iconic Austra“I think there is a lot of opportunity to deal with it. Not just lian cricket ground lucrative Test inside the ground, but outside the ground, matches and the pressure is now on the precinct, the accessibility ... (it needs Brisbane’s Woolloongabba ground to be) a good stadium comparable with all to modernise. the other ones around Australia. The Gabba has traditionally host“I know those at the Gabba are well ed the first Test of each Australian and truly across all of those (possibilisummer but has begun to look dated ties) but how they get them going and after major renovations at the Sydney in what timeframe is obviously always Cricket Ground and Adelaide Oval. going to be a challenge.” A new 60 000-seat stadium at The Gabba completed its last renovaBurswood in Perth is scheduled tion in 2005, lifting its capacity to 42 000, to be finished in time for the 2018 but it has since been upstaged by costly season, stripping high-profile Test refurbishments at the 48 000-seat SCG matches from the same city’s rickand the 52,000 seat Adelaide Oval. ety WACA ground which dithered Gabba venue manager Blair for years over re-development Conaghan said the stadium would start plans. a “master planning exercise” to map The Gabba has no immediate fear out spending priorities in coming years. of a new cross-town rival springing “This will take a long-term view of up but the 120-year ground been put CA high performance chief Pat how the venue associates with developHoward on notice by Cricket Australia. ment in the wider precinct,” Conaghan “There has been growth in the said. stadiums around the country. Making sure that Brisbane “Traditionally the Gabba Test is the first of the summer and Queensland stay competitive in this space is pretty and I am sure that is a tradition Queensland cricket will important,” CA high performance chief Howard told want to maintain.”

Charity match raises £300 000 LONDON, England (CMC) – Former batting star Brian Lara managed just 16 but the Rest of the World XI went down to Help for Heroes XI by four wickets in the Cricket for Heroes Twenty20 charity match at the Oval here Thursday. Set 158 for victory, Help for Heroes chased down their target with three balls remaining, with former India captain MS Dhoni top-scoring with an unbeaten 38 and striking the winning runs. Former England captain Andrew Strauss, now the Director of Cricket, stroked 26 off 17 balls – an innings that gathered £4 000 after a supporter donated £1 000 for every boundary the left-hander hit. Strauss also produced a stroke of brilliance when he pulled off an excellent catch to dismiss the 46-yearold Lara who had MAHELA JAYAWARDENE looked set for a big score. However, it was former Sri Lanka stroke-maker Mahela Jayawardene who staged the fireworks for Rest of the World, top-scoring with a typically elegant 48. The game raised £300 000 for the Help for Heroes charity, which gives support to military personnel injured in the line of duty. Help for Heroes XI also comprised the likes of South African Herchelle Gibbs, Graeme Swann and Virender Sehwag while the Rest of the World XI featured stars like New Zealander Brendon McCullum, South African Graeme Smith and Australian Matthew Hayden.

Holy Family Bible Club to host Inter-ward tapeball tourney today THE Holy Family Bible Club will host its annual inter-ward/area Schoolboys tapeball cricket competition today at the National Cultural Centre tarmac from 08:30hrs. Under the theme, “Let’s play tapeball cricket for Jesus”, the competition has already secured Cummings Lodge, Better Hope, Good Hope, Sophia, Friendship, Coveny Garden and West Dem Glory. Trophies, medals and cash incentives will be up for grabs in the tournament which also features the added attraction of a reading competition for players. The aim of the added attraction is to encourage youths in schools to read more as well as bring youths together and teach them the values of team work. The trophies were sponsored by Trophy Stall and combined churches.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Deonarine signs with Red Force in swap deal PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) - Outof-favour Test batsman Narsingh Deonarine has signed on to play for Trinidad and Tobago Red Force in this year’s Professional Cricket League (PCL), in a swap deal that will see Nkrumah Bonner head to Leeward Islands Hurricanes. The left-handed Deonarine, who scored over 500 runs last season representing Guyana Jaguars, declined a retainer contract with the Georgetown-based outfit and opted to enter the draft where he was selected by Hurricanes. Deonarine’s switch to Red Force was accommodated due to the fact that his wife is Trinidadian and, playing for the Port-ofSpain franchise would allow him to spend more time with his family. Suruj Ragoonath, chief executive officer of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board,

Narsingh Deonarine has signed on to play for Red Force. thanked all the parties involved for cooperat-

Wicketkeeper banned for life after brawl HAMILTON, Bermuda (CMC) – Wicketkeeper Jason Anderson has been banned from cricket for life by the Bermuda Cricket Board (BCB) and his club following a brawl with an opponent. The punishment was handed down at a BCB disciplinary hearing on Thursday night, when Anderson, 36, was found guilty of a Level 4 offence following his altercation with George O’Brien in the Champion of Champions final last weekend. Anderson, who earlier on Thursday was banned from Cleveland County Cricket Club for life, was “found guilty ... of physical assault of another player, and has been given a life ban from all cricket, and any involvement in the game of cricket in Bermuda in any capacity”, the BCB said in a statement yesterday. Fast bowler O’Brien, 31, was found guilty of a Level

3 offence, and will serve a lengthy ban at the start of

Wicketkeeper Jason Anderson is banned for life by the BCB. next season, with the time limit “sufficient to include six 50-over matches.” In banning Anderson, Cleveland urged him to seek help for anger management issues, and said the club did not condone his behaviour. The clash with O’Brien started when he was seen to

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday September 19, 2015) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market &The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)

Answers to Thursday’s quiz:

Wes Hall (WI vs PAK, Lahore, 1958-59) Jalal-ud-Din (PAK vs AUST, Hyderbaad, 1982)

Today’s Quiz:

Who is the first man to captain the WI in a Test? Who is the first player to lead the WI in an ODI game?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

run up to the Willow Cuts batsman at the end of an over and hit him in the face. O’Brien reacted, swinging his bat at Anderson and the fight carried on to the other end of the wicket as Cleveland players tried to separate the pair. Carlton Smith, the Cleveland president, whose team won the final, ran onto the field and told Anderson to leave. Anderson then walked off after throwing his pads and gloves to the ground. The ban came a week after Anderson won the Logic Premier Division Player-ofthe-Week award for a century against Flatts. “Cleveland County Cricket Club would like to announce that as a result of the incident at the recent Champion of Champions final, Mr Jason Anderson is hereby banned from representing the club in all sporting activities for life,” Smith said.

ing in the deal. “I would like to thank the Leeward Islands Cricket Association for reaching an agreement which allows Narsingh to play for the Red Force and be with his family in Trinidad,” Ragoonath said. “Also I would like to commend Nkrumah on being receptive to the trade and we would like to wish him a successful season with the Hurricanes.” He added: “Narsingh is familiar with our cricketers from playing club cricket in Trinidad and Tobago and we are very excited to have him as part of the Red Force. “I believe he will make a smooth transition into our setup and we want him to succeed with us so he can achieve his goal of returning to the West Indies team.” The 32-year-old Deonarine will be a major asset to a Red Force side that strug-

gled in last year’s competition and finished one from bottom in the six-team campaign. He was one of the catalysts behind Jaguars’ victory bid, stroking 514 runs at an average of 42 with two centuries. Deonarine can also bowl off-spin and he took 14 wickets last season. “Narsingh brings a wealth of experience playing international cricket for the West Indies and First Class cricket with Guyana for the last decade. He will significantly strengthen the Red Force batting lineup and make our bowling attack even more formidable,” said Ragoonath. “There are a lot of young and inexperienced players in the Red Force team and we believe Narsingh will be instrumental in guiding these cricketers and ensuring they are prepared at the next level.” The PCL is set to bowl off in November.

WICB team completes HPC Programme here THE West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) High Performance Centre (HPC) programme rolled into Guyana on Wednesday for a session with the four Under-19 players selected to the regional side for the upcoming World Cup. According to WICB Director and Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board Anand Sanasie, the team of Vasbert Drakes, former West Indian pacer and Adam West, arrived here to design a special programme for the four selected Guyanese. Commenting on the session, Sanasie added, “The WICB has redesigned the HPC programme. It’s now not a cohort going into the HPC but they are moving around and specialised attention is given to the different skill sets.” According to Sanasie, the programmes are further aimed at ensuring that what was taught during previous camps are upheld and practised so as to keep players in top shape.

The pair of West and Drakes departed Guyana yesterday with their next stop expected to be Trinidad and

VASBERT DRAKES Tobago. Shimron Hetmyer, an opening batsman, was named the WICB U-19 Cricketer-of-the-Year in 2014 and at this year’s U-19 tournament he scored the most runs (355 with one century and two half-cen-

turies). He also registered the highest individual score (135 against Leeward Islands). Akshaya Persaud, the left-arm off-spinner, is also a dependable middle-order batsman who gained recognition with his 92 for Demerara in the final against Berbice in this year’s Under-19 Inter-County competition. Tevin Imlach is an opening batsman/wicketkeeper and another product of the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC). He is a skilful upcoming batsman and a good ’keeper while Kemo Paul is an all-rounder who burst onto the scene last year in the Inter-County competition. The other players selected for the West Indies Under-19 team are: Kacey Carty, Jaeel Clarke, Shahid Crooks, Michael Frew, Jyd Goolie, Keon Harding, Ryan John, Alzarri Joseph, Kirstan Kallicharran, Obed McCoy, Gidron Pope, Akil Seetal, Keagan Simmons, Odean Smith and Shamar Springer.

Tomorrow is ‘D’ Day ... From page 35

at the time was battling a bout of chikungunya and dengue fever. Thomas had to settle for a distant second to Forde in last Sunday’s Massy 10K which the latter won in 33 minutes 15 seconds. Thomas’ time last year was 32 minutes 56.13 seconds, which is faster than the 33.58 he re-

corded last Sunday in the Massy 10K run which was won by Forde in 33.15. Tomorrow’s activity will see competition in five categories, namely juniors (16-19), seniors (men 30-34), women (3039), masters (women 35 and over), masters (men 40-54) and masters )men 56 and over).

All categories will attract cash prizes and trophies. T h e ro u t e o f t h e race will be: Start in front of COURTS Main Street, proceed North to Seawall Road, east along the Seawall Road, continue east along the Rupert Craig Highway northern carriageway, turn at Church

Road into Rupert Craig Highway’s southern carriageway into Kitty Public Road, south on Vlissengen Road, west on Lamaha Street, south on the Eastern carriageway on Main Street, turn around at the Cenotaph and finish on the western carriageway on Main Street in front of COURTS.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday September 19, 2015

Pyrotechnic extravaganza lights up opening of Rugby World Cup By Ossian Shin LONDON, England (Reuters) - The Rugby World Cup exploded into life yesterday with a pyrotechnic extravaganza at Twickenham Stadium. While England and Fiji’s players went through their final preparations in the bowels of the famous arena, more than 80 000 noisy fans marvelled at an opening ceremony played out on a Twickenham pitch dressed to appear torn up by giants. Lights dimmed as deafening fireworks exploded into the London night sky and drummers thundered their beat around the cavernous arena. An enormous rugby ball sat centre stage among the huge clods of earth and turf, and was flanked by 20 former greats representing each of the World Cup’s 20 finalist nations. The loudest cheer from the excitable crowd was reserved for Martin Johnson, England’s World Cup-winning captain in 2003, who appeared last on a plinth raising a ball triumphantly skywards in his bear-like grip. A stirring rendition of the tournament anthem ‘World in Union’ roused the capacity crowd further as they eagerly counted down the minutes to the first kick-off of the

48-match tournament. “In six weeks’ time one team will take its place in history,” Britain’s Prince Harry said, prompting another huge roar from the crowd. “It is up to us to raise the roof in each match on this unforgettable journey. “We are ready -- game on!” World Rugby head Bernard Lapasset declared the event open with the words, “Let the tournament begin”, as dozens of workers sprinted onto the pitch to clear the playing surface for the Fijian and England match due to kick off in less than 30 minutes’ time. Almost half a million tourists are expected to visit Britain for the tournament, whose four dozen matches involving 20 teams will take in traditional rugby venues like Cardiff and Gloucester, but also football grounds in Manchester, Leeds and Newcastle. The six-week event is being billed as the first billion-dollar rugby festival. More than 2.2 million tickets have been sold, and the tournament is expected to contribute some £869 million to Britain’s economy. New Zealand open the defence of their title tomorrow against Argentina at Wembley Stadium.

The players make their entrance before the match Rugby Union - England v Fiji - at the IRB Rugby World Cup 2015 Pool A - Twickenham Stadium, London. (Reuters/Stefan WermuthLivepic)

Banks DIH partners with COURTS for tomorrow’s races

Jennifer Khan of Banks DIH Limited makes the presentation to Roberta Ferguson of COURTS Guyana Inc. in the presence of Errol Nelson and Aubrey Hudson.

BANKS DIH Limited is partnering with COURTS Furniture Store as the main beverage and water providers for tomorrow’s COURTS 10K and 3K races. PowerAde and Aqua Mist Water will be given to participants through Banks DIH Limited’s sponsorship of the popular race, which starts and ends in front of COURTS Store on Main Street, Georgetown. PowerAde Brand Manager Jennifer Khan presented the sponsorship package to COURTS Public Relations Officer, Roberta Ferguson, during a presentation ceremony at Thirst Park

yesterday. Also present were Aubrey Hudson, president of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Errol Nelson, Aqua Mist Brand Manager and Communications Manager of Banks DIH Troy Peters. Aqua Mist is produced and bottled by Banks DIH Limited while PowerAde, a product of the Coca-Cola company, is distributed by the local beverage giant. Peters said that the two companies continue to share a very good working relationship and tomorrow’s races are expected to be exciting.

Tomorrow is ‘D’ Day for local 10K runners TOMORROW is `D’ day for local 10K athletes who will be part of the 5th Annual COURTS 10K run which is set to get under way at 06:00hrs from outside the company’s main office on Main Street. According to Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) president Aubrey Hutson, all things are in place for the mega event which will pit together Guyana’s top middle-distance runners in both the male and female categories. Already speculation is rife about who will come out victorious in the male and female open categories as

United States-based Guyanese Euleen Josiah-Tanner has registered for tomorrow’s race with the intention of winning the annual event for a fifth consecutive year. Tanner, who was not a part of last Sunday’s Massy 10k race which was won by Alika Morgan, will definitely have to be wary of Morgan, who, after a layoff from the sport, trained two weeks for the Massy race and won comfortably (almost 150 metres) ahead of Andrea Foster who returned to Guyana three days prior to the event, after representing Guyana at the recently concluded

World Championships in Bejing, China. It would not be surprising to see both Tanner and Morgan get a `run for their money’ tomorrow. Tanner, however, has been the most dominant female road race runner of the event, having won all four previous editions, but Morgan was not a part of last year’s event as she was on national duty in Indonesia. Last Sunday, Morgan’s winning time for the Massy 10k race was 42 minutes .08 seconds, while Josiah-Tanner’s winning time for the COURTS event last year was 38 min-

utes 30.09 seconds. After winning last year’s edition of the race for fourth consecutive year, Tanner was branded `the owner of the event’. In the male open event, all eyes will be on Cleveland `The Little Kenyan’ Forde and Cleveland Thomas as they are the two most consistent middle-distance runners in Guyana at the moment. Thomas is the defending champion of the event, having won last year’s edition in the absence of Forde who See page 34

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Tomorrow is ‘D’ Day for local 10K runners See story on page 35

Pele snags first win in Stag Elite League PELE got the first taste of victory in the inaugural GFF Stag Elite League last evening at the Leonora Sports Facility. They bagged their first three points with a 2-1 win over Georget o w n F o o t b a l l C l u b ( G F C ) . Even though Pele were the stronger side, the defensive end was inconsistent which led to Pele causing more trouble than they should have. Pele went ahead in the 38th minute when Deon Alfred scored. It was a controversial goal but Alfred survived a

tight offside call when he received before finishing. In the second half, Jermaine Somerset pushed Pele ahead in the 48th minute. GFC had a wealth of chances in the final ten minutes of play but only managed to pull one back. Up to press time the opening ceremony was about to commence. After that Guyana’s football Titans Alpha United and Slingerz FC brought the night to the close in the feature battle of the night.

Deon Alfred and Jermaine Somerset were Pele’s goalscorers.

COURTS launches 4th Pee Wee Schools football tournament See story on page 30

Director of Sport Christopher Jones takes a photo opportunity with sponsor and Pee Wee footballers from various schools as they display their gifts at the COURTS Pee Wee U-11 Schools Football launch. (Adrian Narine photo) 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

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2015