Chronicle 05 20 2016

Gold soars No. 104557

FRIDAY, MAY 20, 2016

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

…production increases by 92,000 ounces in 2016

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No more dread …City Hall mows 7

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down ʻDread Shopʼ

The Mayor and City Council yesterday mowed down the popular ‘Dread Shop’ in downtown Georgetown in its ongoing effort to clean up the city (Alva Solomon photo)

Bail for Broomes safe Show us a plan …President says no …PSC urges gov't to unveil its economic plan conflict of interest seen drunk cop 8

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

Show us a plan …PSC urges gov't to unveil its economic plan

By Svetlana Marshall THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) has issued a call for the A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Government to unveil its economic plan for the country, contending that little is being said at a time when the economy is growing slowly.

Ramesh Persaud, an executive member of the Commission and immediate past president made the call on Thursday during the PSC’s Annual General Meeting held at the Marriott Hotel.

Present at the forum was Business Minister, Dominic Gaskin, members of the diplomatic corps and

Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin

executives of the Commission, led by the outgoing Chairman Major General (Rtd), Norman Mclean.

In a detailed presentation on the state of the economy, Persaud said the country has experienced nine years of consecutive economic growth.

The growth rate, however, is on the decline, he posited, pointing out that in 2015 the country’s economy grew by three per cent.

This year, the economy is expected to grow by 4.4 per cent.

Though it grew in 2015, aggregate expenditure declined, he pointed out, explaining that overall Guyanese consumers and businesses spent approximately

Outgoing Private Sector Commission Chairman Norman McLean

US$200 million or Guy$40 billion less in 2015 when compared to 2014.

In light of the decrease in aggregate expenditure and the decline of other sectors such as rice and sugar, Persaud said swift actions are needed to improve the economic landscape of the country.

Government, he emphasised, must share its economic vision and plan for the country, contending that “very little is known at this stage”.

Such a move, he explained, will help the Private Sector to have a better understanding of where the country is heading economically.

In addition to this key recommendation, Persaud said there is need for more engagements on the part of the Government and business community where investment ideas can be discussed.

Improving the Public Sector Investment Programme, and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the Public Service Turn to page 6 ►

Gold soars 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

…production increases by 92,000 ounces in 2016

By Ravin Singh AS of May 2016, gold production has increased by 92,000 ounces compared to the same period last year despite gold prices being a bit sluggish, and this could be credited to the hard work of small and medium-scale miners, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman has said.

The minister made this disclosure on Thursday at a press conference which was held at his Brickdam office.

As of Thursday last, gold declarations for 2016 were 243,000 ounces, which according to the minister was a “very good total.” He was of the belief that this is reflective of the hard work of the small and medium-scale miners, since a greater portion of the production came from miners in those two categories. For the same period last year, 151,000 ounces of gold were recorded to have been produced.

The minister explained that small-scale miners continue to be “diligent and very productive” in the field, even though gold prices have been a bit sluggish.

“The credit goes to them for their commitment,” he said. But this 61 per cent increase in production was not only credited to the hard work of small and medium-scale miners. In fact, Minister Trotman revealed that Government’s efforts in curbing smuggling are starting to bear fruit.

“This is a clear sign that we are starting to see a shift

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman

in the trends. I wouldn’t say that we have won, but certainly it definitely shows that we are getting more declarations from local mining with the reduction in smuggling” the minister said.

He also hinted at an anti-smuggling programme which was started by the Natural Resources Ministry, but was eventually taken over by the Ministry of Public Security with the support of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

Additionally, he noted that entry into the sector by Troy Resources and Aurora Gold mines had also aided in the increase in gold production for the year.

READY FOR APPLICATION Meanwhile, the minister revealed that small-scale mining operators applying for consideration for prospecting permits to mining lands will be given priority by the Closed Area Committee (CAC), which is

ready to commence receiving applications.

In April of this year, the Natural Resources Ministry had announced that it was in the process of finalising arrangements to make lands available for small miners.

And according to the minister, at the Closed Area Committee (CAC) meeting held earlier this week, it was agreed that the committee is ready to receive applications for consideration for prospecting permits to mining lands.

Further, he noted that it was agreed by all parties, including the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) and the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), that first priority will be given to small mining operations.

Minister Trotman further explained that the GGMC will receive applications and will provide the CAC with background information to allow the committee to make informed recommendations to the minister for approval.

“The next immediate order of business is to address application for persons who require alternative blocks of mining lands. At this point in time we are not contemplating a lottery, because we want to ensure that those with the greater need will be given the first preference,” the minister said.

He revealed that the alternative blocks which were applied for by persons, were those which were deemed to have sand and rocks in its composition. As such, after the applications for

small miners would have been examined and a decision made, applications for alternative blocks will be examined. The size of allocated lands will be approximately 422 acres, which shall constitute a block.

According to the minister, a miner may be considered for a grant up to a maximum of three blocks (1266 acres), and this will be based on the miner’s competency and resources,

both financial and technical.

The mining blocks will be given out in the six mining districts, namely Berbice, Potaro, Mazaruni, Cuyuni, the North West and The Rupununi.

“The Ministry remains very committed to ensuring that small miners, who are a valuable part of the natural resources sector are able to ply their trade in a way that is beneficial

to all. However, this must be done within the confines of the laws of Guyana and according to the guidelines and regulations that govern the sector,” Minister Trotman added.

The details for the process of making the applications, and the criteria to be applied, will be published in the daily newspapers, the ministry’s website at: www.nre.gov.gy and through other media.

PSC hails Police Force THE Guyana Police Force on Thursday came in for high praise on Thursday when the Private Sector Commission (PSC) held its 24th Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Chairman of the PSC’s Governance and Security Sub-Committee Gerry Gouveia said the Commission has taken note of the decline in criminal activities in the country, which is linked to swift actions by the police.

“The private sector is pleased with the work that the police are doing,” he told the AGM, singling out that the police have been very effective in solving crimes.

He said while it is perceived that crime is on the increase, the statistics will show that it is on the decrease.

At the end of the first quarter of the year, the Police Force had recorded a 19 per cent decrease in serious crimes when compared to the same period last year.

According to the police’s statistical report, there was a nine per cent reduction in reports of murder; a nine per cent decrease in gun-related robberies; an eight per cent

decrease in armed robberies; a 38 per cent decrease in robberies with violence; a 38 per cent decrease in robberies with aggravation; an 18 per cent decrease in rape; and a 22 per cent decrease in break and enter and larceny.

However, Gouveia said perceptions can be frightening. “The perception… frightens the private sector because of course we see all these high-profile criminal activities, cruel criminal activities, brutal criminal activities,” he said.

Nevertheless, this reduction is credited to several initiatives taken by the Government and Police Force to manage the crime situation.

The first among these is capacity-building in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) that is now manifested in perpetrators of high-profile crimes being arrested within two to three days of

their occurrence.

Secondly, the social crime prevention programme and the Force’s anti-crime patrol systems, as well as Government’s policy initiatives are developing the public trust and reducing the fear of crime in the Guyanese society, the Police Force said in one its most recent statements.

“Our partnership programmes with civil society organisations and our collaboration with local and foreign law-enforcement agencies have also served to strengthen the capacity of the Guyana Police Force.

The continuous exposure of our ranks to training both locally and internationally has served to develop the Force’s ability to deliver at the frontline level, at management level and at leadership level,” the statement said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 20, 2016

Broomes safe

… President says no conflict of interest seen

By Ravin Singh HEAD of State David Granger has made it clear that Junior Minister of Natural Resources Simona Broomes will demit office if there is conflict of interest arising, following the recent approval of an application to operate a dredge in her name.

The President, during his weekly recording of “The Public Interest” this week, said that he was made aware of the situation by Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, and will be guided by the minister’s advice.

“The Minister of Natural Resources [Trotman] is an experienced Attorney and

Junior Natural Resources Minister Simona Broomes

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman

I’ve asked him for his views and I will be guided by his advice, but at present I do not see any need to remove her,” President Granger said.

The President also referenced the draft Code of Conduct for ministers, which he said, guides how ministers function and if any situation

of conflict of interest were to arise, he is confident that Minister Broomes will be put in another place or she would demit office.

However, he was keen to note that the situation has not arisen.

The allegations of conflict of interest resurfaced after it was revealed that approval of an application for Simona Broomes was granted to operate a dredge.

However, the minister had explained that it was her

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daughter who had applied as the two bear the same name.

In a document seen by this publication, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) had granted permission for the dredge to be operated at a property in Puruni.

Demerara Waves Online News in a report on Thursday stated that it was able to confirm that Edward Hopkinson, who is considered a veteran miner, had granted Broomes permission to mine on his property at Puruni.

Meanwhile, Minister Trotman sought to fend off criticisms, stating that he was not aware of the situation and it will be investigated.

He offered, however, that he did not see the minister attempting to mine on someone’s property as a conflict of interest since permission had to have been granted by

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the person.

He contended that if Broomes was using her office to gain an advantage over other miners, then that would have been a conflict.

NOT NEW Minister Trotman explained that the issue of conflict of interest is not new and is one of the “occupational hazards” that the ministers face.

“I think Minister Broomes is acutely affected by it,” he said, adding that she has a mining background and wherever she goes, she is going to be dogged by this issue and accusations.

“We have looked at it.

There was a transfer made and it was legitimate. I don’t know if people expected her to sell it out. Guyana is a small country and invariably we are going to come into contact with a friend, an associate or a relative and what is important is what you do. So a regular transfer of a dredge is not an issue that should raise eye brows,” Minister Trotman said.

He contended that if it were a case where she had approved applications for mining lands for her or her family, then that would have raised eyebrows since that is considered to be a benefit.

He also sought to highlight the duties of the Junior Minister, which according to him does not grant her the

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responsibilities in the areas of acquisition, application or revocation of lands.

“The President was clear in outlining the responsibilities of the minister; compliance with the laws and health and safety concerns. Those are the areas the President has asked the minister to be involved in,” Minister Trotman added.

Further, he reiterated that he [Trotman] had given an undertaking in January of this year to give attention in ensuring that the lines are not crossed by the minister (Broomes).

And acknowledging that the lines might sometimes become blurred, he noted that it is his function to ensure that there are no violations. “And presently there are no violations,” he said.

“I am aware of the criticisms and we are not dismissing the criticisms. But suffice to say that in this instance, the transfer was validly done and I think it was the proper thing to do. It is not wrong for the minister to apply to do the transfer. I have asked GGMC to do the investigation and report on the process for a transfer,” Trotman told reporters.

He also underscored the fact that by the Junior Minister’s very appearance in the ministry, she will be targeted.

“It happened in January and has been repeated in May and I think Minister Broomes is realistic enough to know this won’t go away, but strong enough to withstand it,” he stated.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

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Legal Affairs Minister...

CFATF compliance ‘significantly improved’ --but inflows, remittances at risk

By Ariana Gordon

WHILE Guyana has significantly improved its overall level of compliance with the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) and just half of a requirement is left to be fulfilled by Guyana, Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams said he is worried that the country is at risk for de-risking.

De-risking, he explained, is where international corresponding banks refuse to do business with Guyana, and this would hinder “inflows and remittances” that enter the country.

“If you don’t satisfy the requirements, you could be blacklisted. Even now we are at risk for de-risking where international corresponding banks would refuse to do business with us. This whole question of de-risking is so serious, that they are proposing to hold a conference on de-risking in July in Miami for the entire hemisphere,” said Minister Williams.

The Minister of Legal Affairs says he is doing all he can to ensure that Guyana is not a victim of de-risking. “It is a bothersome issue because certain countries in the region have lost corresponding banks …It is a terrible thing.”

All of the legislative provisions with respect to remedying deficiencies have been accepted by CFATF, the Minister disclosed, noting that all that is left to be done relates to the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) established under the 2009 Anti-Money Laundering Countering of Financing of Terrorism (AML /CFT) Act. The FIU is tasked with requesting, receiving, analysing and disseminating suspicious transaction reports and other information related to money laundering and terrorist financing, as well as those related to proceeds from criminal acts.

Guyana is currently in the third round and is on the verge of exiting that round. Meetings, Minister Williams said, are being held with stakeholders such as the Bank of Guyana (BOG), FIU, commercial banks and non-financial institutions.

The Government of Guyana is also responsible for ensuring that stakeholders identified are trained accordingly.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, at yesterday’s press conference MAJOR NEW DEVELOPMENTS Meanwhile, CFATF’s 10th follow-up report on Guyana, dated May 13, indicates that there have been “major new developments” here given the enactment of the Anti-money Laundering/ Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) (Amendment) Act No.2 of 2015 and the AML/CFT (Amendment) Act No. 15 of 2016 in May. “These statutes sought to address the legislative amendments required by the examiners’ recommended actions in the core and key recommendations and a majority of the remaining outstanding recommendations,” said Williams.

He noted too that the country’s overall compliance has improved, with Recommendations 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 16, 33, 35, 37, and Special Recommendations I, 2, and 3 as well as 4 meeting all recommended actions. Additionally, the report states that there has been “substantial improvement in the compliance of Recs. 17, 22, 23, 24, 25, SR.V, SR.VI and SR.VII.” and noted that Guyana should be commended for its improvement in compliance.

It was recommended that in order to demonstrate continued implementation, government should continue to submit information for each report regarding the provision of training, both to the competent authorities and the financial institutions, the on-site AML/CFT inspection activity of the BoG, the Guyana Securities Council (GSC) and Chief Cooperative Development Officer (CCDO) and the various statistical information required under Recommendation 32.

IMPROVED COMPLIANCE “As indicated above, Guyana has significantly improved its overall level of compliance.

However, due to the remaining outstanding recommended actions it is recommended that Guyana stay in enhanced follow-up and be required to report to the next Plenary in November 2016.”

Asked whether he is concerned about the lack of support coming from the opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Minister Williams said, “We are not worried about the PPP whether they want to support us or not, because they haven’t been supporting anything period.”

He said the APNU+AFC coalition government had inherited a system whereby the Government of Guyana under the former administration was cited three times in a public statement by CFATF and on those occasions CFATF warned its members to take counter measures to protect its systems against Guyana.

“We met Guyana in the FATF system with many recommendations outstanding and we have moved from that position to where I sit now to only one remaining recommendation which was partially met. So it is half of a recommendation that is left.

We are confident that we have remedied that remaining half of the recommendation that was left,” he added.

Williams said he is currently looking at proposals to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) process.

Guyana, he noted, is required to participate in an America’s Regional Review Group (ARRG) meeting on the side of the CFATF meeting scheduled for Jamaica in June.

“The fact that the ARRG has asked us to meet with them in the margins of the CFATF meeting shows you that there is nothing much of consequence left to discuss, because the last time we had to go to Panama… after that meeting they said we only have a part of a recommendation to satisfy. Now they haven’t asked us to meet them in any country, but asked to meet

them at the CFATF meeting.”

The Minister of Legal Affairs assured reporters that Guyana has completed all requirements with respect to the action plan that existed with FATF. “To exit the process we hope that in Korea we’d be able to get a decision that there should be an onsite visit to Guyana. That starts the process. You have to have an onsite visit where the ARRG comes, and make their assessment.”

The Korea meeting is scheduled for one week after the CFATF meeting in Jamaica.

STAFFING FIU On the issue of the staffing for the FIU, Minister Williams said that issue rests with the committees set up within the National

Assembly. He accused the PPP of examining criteria for important matters in an exhaustive manner, noting that “the history of looking at criteria under the past government will take an eternity if not the entire life of the Parliament.”

The PPP’s Chief Whip Gail Teixeira had said her party is of the view that Guyana is slipping on its commitments to FATF, as there is currently no Director or Deputy Director of the FIU or an Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Authority in place.

“The FIU is headless and therefore many aspects of the AML/CFT Act cannot be put into operation and if it is, it would be in violation of the law,” the PPP Chief Whip had said. It was however noted that the Parliamentary Committee

of Appointment is addressing applications for the FIU, including Deputy Director, Accountant and Lawyer as provided for in the amended Anti-Money Laundering Act 2015.

Williams said the appointment of persons for the FIU and the AML/CFT Authority should have been completed by now and blamed the PPP for its delay.

“This whole thing was affected by the PPP not taking up their seats at the beginning of this parliament… they stayed away for several months so no committee could be established. The irresponsibility being exhibited on the part of the opposition; they are not showing any interest in the welfare or well-being of the Guyanese people and Guyanese economy,” he added.

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Editorial

Underestimating Donald Trump

ON the 3rd of May when Donald Trump won the Indiana primary, Reince Priebus, Chairman of the Republican National Congress, declared him the Republican presumptive nominee to face a Democratic challenger in the November presidential election. It is not an unfair assessment to say Trump blind-sighted opponents and dumbfounded those who saw him as a distraction and unsuited to be the nominee.

Deploying a strategy which departed from the normal campaigning, Trump labelled and mocked rivals, held big rallies, some of which were characterised by violence, and attracted votes without any clear or consistent position on any policy issue.

Jeb Bush, whom it was felt would have been the nominee, failed in repelling Trump who labelled him “low-energy Bush.” Having spent more than US$100 million and receiving poor showing in the first three races, he suspended his campaign after the third state weighed in. Not even the Bush brand and prestige of having a father and brother who were presidents could have saved his campaign.

Macro Rubio, the young, fresh face of Hispanic heritage, who was thought to be ideal to attract this growing demographic to the Republican Party fell to Trump. He was caricatured and called “lil Marco” by Trump who dismissed him as unworthy to compete for the country’s highest office. And when in March his home state of Florida rejected him in favour of Trump, he left the race. Of the initial 17 candidates, in April that field comprised Trump, John Kasich and Ted Cruz. While Trump ignored Kasich for personal ridicule, his attention was turned on Cruz, who was receiving the second highest votes and delegates. In ‘trumpian’ style, Cruz was called “lyin’ Ted” and mocked at campaign rallies.

The strategy by Kasich and Cruz to singularly concentrate on states and reduce the race to two contenders as against three in order to stop Trump backfired. On 3rd May Cruz left the race having lost Indiana and the next day Kasich followed.

With Trump in the field alone, he turned attention to those whom he felt were trying to deny him the nomination. He castigated his party and took swings at those he felt stood in his way, including House Speaker Paul Ryan (Republican-Wisconsin). Where there have been talks within the republican midst to field a third-party candidate to contest in November, Priebus came out and condemned the proposition calling it a “suicide mission.”

Apparently, even Trump underestimated himself as seen in his lack of a campaign structure consistent with contests of such nature. On the ground, in respective states he failed to galvanise his own supporters to turn up at state conventions where delegates were identified and voted for, even losing delegates in states he won. Not one to be quiet, he accused the party of rigging the system even though

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 20, 2016

Rohee’s flippancy is astonishing Dear Editor,

I WRITE in response to the recent PPP press conference of Monday last conducted by Mr. Clement Rohee. Mr. Editor, Rohee’s flippancy is astonishing.

The average Guyanese must be shocked by his recent statements in the local media that the PPP’s best explanation for not launching an investigation into Satyadeow Sawh’s murder was that “we didn’t get to it.” He stated that no government “gets” to everything in its manifesto. This argument is a logical fallacy: reductio ad

absurdum!

Was investigating the countless murders that paralysed our nation for the first decade of this century just another manifesto promise?

Someone in the PPP hierarchy must see the brazenness of this position. This was your own minister! Is “let the chips fall where they may” the PPP’s position on matters as imperative to national security and leadership as this? One hopes not!

I would point the finger at the honourable Mr. Rohee with greater seriousness for his pussyfooting around the absence of an inquiry,

but a simple check of the archives has shown me an entirely new layer of surprise: Rohee was not even the Minister of Home Affairs in April 2006, it was Ms. Teixeira. It seems that Rohee does not even know the range of his time in office - no wonder he can’t recollect why there was no inquiry.

Two wrongs don’t make a right, and the coalition’s failure to move faster on an inquiry into Sawh’s murder, and the terror of that era in Guyana’s history, cannot be tolerated for much longer. However, at least it was a manifesto promise

of the coalition. Getting to the bottom of things is taking far too long, and Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan should avoid walking in Rohee’s footsteps.

On a final note, I return to Mr. Rohee; why do the local media tolerate such absurd answers to serious questions? Surely our press can do better than to find satisfaction from an answer as hollow as his.

Democracy is in the media’s care, and if it is not monitored properly, it will become warped.

– Guru; Suriname –Afobaka; and Brazil – Itaipu; and others. We have the resources both human and physical resources and we can put them to work for us,” Mclean said.

“The Guyana dollar has depreciated to the point where it is now traded against the US dollar at about G$210-US$1,” he said, while noting that the economy is still very fragile, especially with the decline in productivity, and prices of sugar, rice, fish, bauxite and other commodities, which have been critical legs of the economy.

However, gold was stellar and continues to be in 2016, thanks to the contributions being made by Guyana Gold Fields and Troy Resources, which have moved on beyond commercial production.

Oil, he stressed, will soon become a reality and play its part.

Notwithstanding the challenges, he noted that in 2016, the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, all showed renewed interest in Guyana. “The International Monetary Fund

has projected a GDP growth at four per cent but warned that we have to exercise control over wages and salaries,” the outgoing Chairman said.

communities, better infrastructure, better governance and above all more fairness and greater equity in the exploitation and distribution of our natural wealth,” Minister Gaskin stated.

Despite the challenges facing the nation, he said Guyanese should not be discouraged from achieving these common goals.

Acknowledging that the growth rate of the economy has slowed down in recent times, the Business Minister said the Government has the responsibility to provide the best possible condition for growth of the economy.

“We are responsible for the current state of our economy,” he stressed, noting that for far too long Guyana has been languishing at the bottom of the global competitiveness index and the World Bank index. As such, he said there is need for a joint effort on the part of the Government and Private Sector to improve the state of affairs.

Yours in astonishment, BASDEO RAMDHAN

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were among other recommendations made to the Government.

But the Government cannot do it alone. The Private Sector, he said, needs to create some 25,000 jobs.

More on innovation and research “We need to focus a little more on export led growth, we need to improve our competitiveness as companies, and focus on standards, on productivity, on the niche markets, we need to innovate more and spend more on research and development,” he added.

The Chairman, in his report, said the Private Sector wants an even greater role in transforming the physical and economical landscapes of the country, but continues to face serious challenges, especially in the area of electricity.

“After 50 years of nationhood, we cannot with all our water, river and other resources obtain cheap hydro-electricity. Every other country has one: Venezuela

he failed in doing what he had to do. Even as some called attention to what they consider chaos in Trump’s campaign, his unpreparedness and unfitness for the White House, he has secured the most votes in any republican presidential nomination run. To his credit, he has stockpiled almost 11 million and counting with more states to weigh in.

And as Trump turns attention to the Democratic presidential frontrunner Hillary Clinton, he is referring to her as “crooked Hillary,” accusing her of playing the “woman card” and saying she was abusive to women who allegedly had affairs with her husband, former President Bill Clinton. It is yet to be seen how these attacks will play out. In the mean-

MULTIPLE PLANTS Minister Gaskin, in response to the concerns raise about the country’s inability to have hydro-power electricity in place, said it is very important for the country to have a multiplicity of hydropower plants, as against a single source which would have been the case had the previous Government move ahead with its Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project.

“It is very important that any solution that we apply is not reliant on a single source of electricity,” he posited.

As the country celebrates 50 years of Independence, he said the majority of Guyanese now have a fair idea of what they do not want.

“Guyanese generally want the same things for this country, better safety and security, better jobs and opportunities, better education and health care, better homes and

time, those outside the USA society and electorate expressing reservation of a Trump presidency their only hope rests on the electorate. Chris Kahn’s Reuters’ story (11th May 2016) offers a sobering thought. In this article, a Reuters/Ipsos poll on the “State of the Race” was reproduced. It shows Trump at 33.8 %, Clinton at 39.2%, and for ‘Other/won’t vote/refused’ at 27 %. These figures are reportedly within the margin of error +/- 4%. These statistics show Trump is gaining on Clinton.

And whereas for both candidates polls show the majority of voters do not trust them, and the presidency is determined by the Electoral College (i.e. state by state), to be in a sane place is to not underestimate Trump.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

City Hall bulldozes ‘Dread Shop’

By Alva Solomon

“THIS has got to be the most outrageous act I have seen in a very long time.”

Those were the sentiments of prominent Attorney Nigel Hughes after a demolition crew from City Hall broke down the popular “Dread Shop” in the Stabroek Market area, near the Route 42 minibus park in the wee hours of Thursday morning.

The business which has been under City Hall’s hammer for years was flattened by employees of the City around 03:00 hrs, leaving the owners of the building counting significant losses.

The Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) carried out the act even though the property is actively engaging the Court of Appeal.

An adjoining business, The Island Snackette and Pizzeria, formerly K&VC Snackette was left standing.

Abiola Fung, who operates the snackette, told the Guyana Chronicle that the Council informed her that her business would be demolished.

City Hall workers had threatened to demolish the structure at 06:00 hrs on Thursday; however, the building was left standing last evening.

According to a relative of Anthony Forde, who owned the “Dread Shop”, without prior notice, the demolition crew appeared at the site with an excavator around 03:00 hrs Thursday morning.

He said he attempted to inform the excavator operator that there were valuable pieces of equipment including refrig-

erators, freezers, fans, television sets and music equipment in the building.

However, the man noted that the operator of the machine yelled several expletives before proceeding to smash the building to pieces.

Prominent Attorney and AFC member Nigel Hughes condemned the act. He told reporters at the site where the building once stood that many persons wanted a change in the system of governance prior to last year’s elections.

“Not in the personnel to carry on the same acts from before.

What we continue to see is a lack of courtesy, a lack of respect and a lack of the basic, decent tenets of how you engage the people with respect,” Hughes said.

Hughes, who is representing Fung in the matter before the court, noted that the municipality’s representatives have failed to appear in court to answer to the ongoing matter.

Hughes said he called the City Engineer to discuss the matter, but he was directed to Town Clerk Royston King. He said King confirmed that the building was indeed demolished on the Council’s orders.

DANGEROUS GROUNDS An enraged Hughes said the Council was entering “dangerous grounds,” as he outlined the Council’s disobedience of the laws of the land and the outcome of court proceedings.

Hughes also informed this newspaper that the property in question is at the centre of a dispute between the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and City

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-- Attorney Hughes says act outrageous

The site where the “Dread Shop” once stood Hall, since both parties have claimed ownership of the parcel of land in question.

“So even the persons who are supposed to be responsible for the management of this area, we are not sure who it is, it is actively in the Court of Appeal,” he said.

He noted too that the Attorney General’s Chambers has acknowledged the matter is an ongoing court proceeding.

Hughes said if the City Council attempts to break the remaining structure, persons affiliated with the building will be forming a human barricade to prevent the demolition crew from proceeding with its demolition plans.

Forde told this newspaper that he rents the building which is monitored by his son. In tears, the man said he started the

business around 1968 when he sold egg and bread as breakfast to passers-by during the early morning rush to get to work.

NO PRIOR NOTICE “I don’t really know what happened , I ain’t get no notice, nothing at all, is this morning at 09:30 hrs somebody told me what happened,” he related.

He said for years, the authorities have attempted to break down the structure and he re-

called former President, the Late LFS Burnham, who gave him permission to remain at the site when the former leader held the portfolio of Prime Minister.

Fung, the owner of the adjoining snackette, told this newspaper that she received a call around 05:30 hrs on Thursday from a staff member who informed her that the neighbouring structure had been demolished.

She said she subsequently visited City Hall and while she

was pushed around, persons there told her that her business will be demolished.

Fung said the matter has been before the courts for years, noting that she has been paying her taxes up to date. “Nobody ever came and say well we breaking down today or tomorrow,” the frustrated woman said.

Meanwhile, in light of the Georgetown municipality’s plans, Hughes noted that Stabroek Market vendors will be forming themselves into a group which will make representation on matters pertaining to their concerns.

He said there are vendors who have financial commitments. “To disrupt their incomes at very short notice is unacceptable behaviour,” he said.

For years, the “Dread Shop”, has been under the demolition plans of the city authorities. In January 2011, following a grenade explosion which left one person dead, there were plans to demolish the structure after several stalls, close to where the grenade had exploded, were demolished.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 20, 2016

Guyana hasn’t considered accepting Venezuelan refugees

AS THE situation in neighbouring Venezuela worsens, President David Granger has noted that his Government has not given any consideration to accepting refugees in Guyana.

However, the President said that Guyana is obligated to accept any Guyanese returning from Venezuela.

“We do not have any agreement with Venezuela about other refugees, and that is not something we have considered,” the President was quoted as saying by the Government Information Agency (GINA).

According to GINA, the President said the economic crisis in Venezuela will no doubt affect the security of the region, as he expressed hope for an orderly resolution to the situation.

The economy of neighbouring Venezuela, the country with the largest oil reserves, has been in crisis since the decline in oil prices on the world market.

International media reported that three years of recession,

crime, shortages, looting, electricity and water rationing, and inflation projected to rise to as much as 700 per cent, have angered Venezuelans.

“I am deeply concerned, Guyana has special interest because of the territorial question, but I think the whole region is concerned about what is taking place in Venezuela, and we hope that there is not going to be a resort to lawlessness,” President Granger said.

According to GINA, the President expressed concerns about the involvement of the Venezuelan National Armed Forces in the crisis in the country, as the country’s President, Nicolás Maduro deployed military personnel on the streets, as part of an operation to address the growing crime situation and protests.

“I hope that a legal approach is taken, an orderly approach is taken for the security of the whole sub-region because it will have an impact on the Caribbean as well,” President Granger said.

-- Granger concerned about crisis

Venezuelans have grown accustomed to having to queue for hours to get some of their daily staples [Photo taken from BBC]

Schoolboy ‘causing - death’

Bail for drunk cop

By Rabindra Rooplall

DAYS after crashing into a 10-year-old boy and killing him, Police Constable Ravinand Bissessar appeared before Magistrate, Clive Nurse at the Wales Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, charged with driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and causing death by dangerous driving.

It is alleged that on May 15 at Sisters’ Village, West Bank Demerara, Bissessar was driving motor car PLL 222 when he struck down Davin Sealey, who was riding a bicycle at the time, resulting in the boy’s death.

The 26-year-old constable was represented by Attorney-at-Law, Mark Conway.

In making a bail application, the attorney said Bissessar, who is employed as a policeman, was hospitalized after the accident and was in the custody of the police without restraints and had ample opportunity to have fled, if that was his intention.

The attorney explained that his client was very remorseful and prior to the accident he had no issues with the law and there is no need for him to be evasive with the court. The lawyer then requested bail in a reasonable amount, since a policeman’s salary is not much.

The prosecution did not object to bail, but conditions were attached. It was requested that Bissessar’s driver’s licence be suspended pending the outcome of the proceedings, as he will be interdicted from duty. He is to report to the Wales Police Station once per week, preferably on Friday’s.

He was not required to plead to the causing death by dangerous driving charge and was placed on $600,000 bail.

Meanwhile, the magistrate upon reading the DUI charge stated that Bissessar on Sunday, May 15th , 2016 on Sister’s Village Public Road was driving motor vehicle PLL 222, while his alcohol level exceeded the prescribed limit. The police constable then pleaded guilty as the packed courtroom began to murmur, causing the magistrate to request silence

The car which crashed into the schoolboy before slamming into a utility pole

Police Constable Ravinand Bissessar (Samuel Maughn photo)

in court.

According to the prosecution, on the day of the accident the police constable was subjected to a breathalyzer test, which indicated he was over the prescribed limit for the consumption of alcohol and was told of the offence committed and warned of impending prosecution.

Attorney-at-Law Conway in giving a rebuttal, stated that his client was actually not guilty. The magistrate then turned to Bissessar and asked him twice if he agreed with the facts stated by the prosecution pertaining to the DUI charge, to which he objected.

His lawyer then explained that when the police constable visited the hospital a test was done by a doctor, which showed that there was no alcohol in his system. When the magistrate

requested the evidence, the lawyer replied that it would be produced at a later date. Based on the explanation given, the magistrate changed the plea of guilty to DUI to not guilty and ordered a trial. He was the placed on self-bail.

The Guyana Chronicle had reported that Sealey was riding a bicycle along the roadway when he was struck down by a motor vehicle that was driven by the constable.

The car only came to a stop after hitting a parked vehicle on the roadway and slamming into a utility pole before turning turtle. The lad’s grandfather, Titus Thomas, 57, told the Guyana Chronicle that they needed justice because the policeman is supposed to set an example and cannot be drunk and driving at such a fast rate to hit a child and kill him on the spot.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

The legacy of the wise

THE collective heritage of Mankind that persists in our memory and asserts itself continuously into our references is inhabited by men who were courageous enough to challenge the idolatry of the day, and chip away the plaster that covers the truth about the idols we thought were real.

Ivan Van Sertima belongs to that heritage of courage to challenge the idols, with a legacy to us of scholarship across human variations.

Thus, he proceeded with a priesthood of other scholars to resurface with new and ignored information to tear down the pseudo-intellectual facade of racist mythology and paint a true landscape of the African presence on Earth.

The very first time I heard of Van Sertima was the day Dudley Charles began explaining to me about this exciting book he’d bought at the Universal Bookstore that outlined the arrival of Africans in the New World before Christopher Columbus.

After work that day, I hurried down to the bookstore, whose owner, Ovid Holder, was a good friend.

I browsed through the book, ‘They came before Columbus’. But I was short on cash, so I didn’t buy it then.

But I did recall J.A. Rogers mentioning about the Olmec of Mexico.

But this book was much more; and I had to get a copy. Ivan Van Sertima would never leave my mind again.

The collection of books that involves Dr. Van Sertima envelopes a volume of historical and anthropological information necessary to counter the tons of volumes of picture books, novels, movies, TV

shows and Internet images that still follow the trend that excludes African humanity from its extensive interactions with other variations of humanity.

WHY’S THAT It must be understood why that came to be. The racist need to academically and spiritually reduce Africa to an agreed level of inferiority was spawned by the leaning on the African for forced support through slavery as a means to master tropical colonies; to keep severed any bonds of kinship that could connect the peasantry of Europe with this new human chattel.

Religion had to be twisted to demonise the African. Ethiopia, Kush, Egypt, Elam, Cartage... The cradles of civilisation had to be taken from the African man so as to appease the questioning conscience of their own humanity.

New idols were commissioned; the African noses of ancient statues were broken off, and European writers who endeavoured to be truthful were not celebrated. The academic and philosophical path that culminated with Adolf Hitler was launched long before he was born.

There were others before Van Sertima who had lifted the torch of truth. He and his colleagues were not hesitant to celebrate Chancellor Williams, Theophile Obenga, Von Wuthenau, and Cheikh Anta Diop among others. Their contributions proceeded to unmask, through scholarship and indelible evidence, the vast onslaught of pseudo-academia that had nurtured a popular culture ‘stock imagery’ of ethnic

falsifications perpetrated through the visual arts, games and movies, and also by reputable academic publications such as National Geographic.

STRICTLY BUSINESS Most of them, however, argue that what they do is more business than documentary, and that the

paying audience is the misguided, indoctrinated non-Afro population.

The debate on the African presence in the Americas that ‘They came Before Columbus’ and ‘African presence in early America’ stimulated posed tremendous probabilities against the old order.

Professor Van Sertima was invited by UNESCO to join the Inter-

national Commission for a new History of the Scientific and Cultural Development of Mankind. He was honoured for his work in this field, that also incorporates the publishing of “The Golden Age of the Moors”, “Blacks in Science”, “Egypt, Child of Africa”, “African Presence in Early Asia”, “Black Women in Antiquity” and other titles. He was also asked by the Swedish Academy to nominate candidates for the Nobel Prize in Literature from 1976-1980.

The books, tapes and DVDs that envelope Dr. Van Sertima and his colleagues present a corps of current research material that creative persons in the arts and education can rely on to fill the vacuum in the context of certain historical lessons on Africans in and out of Africa.

Scenarios from Cambodia, to India to Moorish Europe can be explored; the potential for a vast, popular literature is open to the creative writer and artist, should he dare to explore. The world today has the space for creative honesty.

Recently, two movies, ‘Noah’ and ‘Gods of Egypt’, but the latter mostly, dabbled with the same pre-Hitler world view, but were given the “thumbs down” by Hollywood.

That institution has moved a long way from David Wark Griffith of “Birth of a Nation” fame, whose incredible talent did not prevent him from glorifying the KKK in his 1915 epic.

Ivan Van Sertima’s contribution deserves more than a chair at UG; it deserves the creative community taking its themes into the minds of the future.

More city vendors, squatters to be evicted …City Hall serves 24-hour ultimatum AS THE city sanitation and management programmes continue, a 24 hour ultimatum has been given to another group of persons breaching city rules and regulations, the council said in a release.

Persons illegally occupying public spaces on the western side of Mandela Avenue with makeshift structures

and East Ruimveldt market vendors, who have also constructed illegal structures, taking up extra space in the process, have been asked to desist from their various activities.

The Mayor and City Council (M&CC) announced Thursday, that they have noticed extensions of vendors operating spaces. Town

Clerk, Royston King said that, “The Council is concerned about vendors illegally increasing selling points, virtually repeating what is being restricted in the city centre.”

King said that several notices have been served on the vendors, but they continue to illegally expand. Notice has also been given to persons

squatting along Mandela Avenue. These persons have constructed shacks and stored items on these properties.

The Council has noted that there are plans to utilise the facility and thus, offered 24 hours for persons to remove their items and relinquish the city’s property. A 24-hour timeframe was also given to vendors to remove their illegal structures ahead of the Council’s visit to the

location.

A technical team attached to the Municipality’s Engineer’s Department also carried out a removal exercise earlier today that saw the flattening of the so-called ‘dread shop’, located west of Parliament Building.

The Town Clerk’s office had given earlier notice to the structure’s operators, while making specific reference to what was described as

“unsavoury” activities taking place there, particularly on Friday nights. Operations at this facility was also said to be in direct breach of city public health laws. All other illegal structures around the city are also being eyed for removal.

The City Council reminded the public that the city is under a transition phase and reiterated calls for the co-opTurn to page 12 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

The newly acquired aircraft on the ramp of Trans Guyana’s operations at the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Ogle

THE POLICE CORNER Trans Guyana acquires POLICE YOUTH CLUBS new Beechcraft

TRANS GUYANA Airways has acquired its second Beechcraft 1900D aircraft as the airline expands its operations to reach the regional market.

The aircraft, which was sourced from New Zealand, arrived in Guyana at the Eugene F Correia International Airport (EFCIA), at Ogle on Monday afternoon, the company noted in a release.

It was piloted by the company’s Director of Operations, Captain Andre Farinha and American ferry pilot, Captain Fuschetti.

The 19-seater pressurised, twin-engine turboprop, fixed-wing aircraft is one of the most popular 19-passenger airliners in the world and is powered by two Pratt and Whit-

ney Canada Turboprop engines, each rated at 1279 shaft horse power and cruised at about 280 knots, about the same speed as LIAT’s ATRs. The aircraft is certified to operate up to an altitude of 25,000 feet and can fly non-stop charter to Puerto Rico, Manaus, Belem and as far as Aruba.

Last September, Trans Guyana unveiled its first Beachcraft 1900D model and it noted at that time that the aircraft will be available for both day and night international charters.

The company has since introduced the Beechcraft on its Lethem service, cutting flying time significantly to the border location to less than an hour.

THE concept of Police Operation Youth Clubs came to fruition on March 24, 1977, during the tenure of then Commissioner of Police, Mr. Henry Fraser, DSS, DSM, CPM. The concept was that it was a way of channelling the youths in productive and developmental activities that may lead them away from crime, and at the same time assist in improving the Force’s image and fostering better police-community relations.

Through the Youth Clubs, it was expected that there would be the building of positive attitudes towards the Police Force and other responsible community officials and organisations, and the promotion of a favourable disposition between the police and the public.

The Force’s Operation Youth Clubs was coordinated by a Management Committee that included police ranks and civilians, and representatives from the then Department of Youth.

Youth Clubs were established in the Police Divisions, with the Alberttown Youth Club being the largest and most vibrant. It was founded by Mr. Edmund Calder, now deceased, who was a national footballer, and had a great interest in the development of youths.

CALDER’S HALL A section of the Alberttown Police Station building was allocated for the use of the club, and this was later named “Calder’s Hall” in memory of Edmund Calder.

Following Calder’s death, then Sergeant 10735 George Vyphius, who has since retired at the rank of Assistant Commissioner, took responsibility for the Alberttown Youth Club, and was later appointed to the Management Committee as Coordinator and Secretary.

Through the commitment and positive approach of Sergeant Vyphuis, the Force’s Youth Club initiative expanded, and on February 1, 1987, the Police Majorettes, which was an all-female, uniformed group, evolved.

Though it never materialised, the aim was to have a Youth Club established in every station district alongside the Community Policing Groups.

During the tenure of Commissioner Laurie Lewis, DSS, DSM, the concept behind the Police Operation Youth Clubs was enhanced, and became an important aspect of the police community “outreach”, which is complemented by the Police Scouts.

During 2010, it was decided by the Force Administration to establish a specific Youth and Scout Office at Police Headquarters.

At the time, the Police Force was under the command of the late Commissioner Henry Greene, DSS, DSM, who was very enthusiastic about the development of youths in the society.

ENHANCED FOCUS With the launching of the Police Force’s Social Crime Prevention Programme in 2014, through the initiative of Commissioner of Police Mr. Seelall Persaud, DSM, there has been enhanced focus and interaction with youths in the communities, as the programme is aimed at empowering the youths to develop skills and moral values in order that they may become productive and meaningful contributors to society, while improving police community relations.

Police Youth Clubs are coordinated in the Police Divisions by Officers who have been appointed as Community Relations Officers, with the Divisional Commander having the overall responsibility.

The Force’s Social Crime Prevention Programme has seen a significant increase in activities and interaction involving the police and youths through vocational skills training and lifeskills in the various communities in the Police Divisions.

In addition to community outreach meetings, these activities include skills training, educational lectures, information technology, tours, youth camps, sports, craftwork, youth exhibitions, spiritual teaching, and First Aid. The Police Force has been receiving considerable support with the implementation of its Social Crime Prevention Programme from governmental and non-governmental agencies, and the business community.

Noteworthy is that in ‘A’ Division (Georgetown/East Bank Demerara), through its Impact Albouystown Project, a number of youths have been trained in cosmetology, sewing, leather craft, welding and fabrication, information technology and block-making, with some of them now being gainfully employed.

In ‘D’ Division (West Demerara/East Bank Essequibo), under its Creating Positive Environment through Safer Communities and Partnerships Programme (C-PETS), a number of youths have been placed on apprenticeship attachments with contractors in the Division in skill areas such as welding, masonry, and the servicing of motor vehicles; and over 180 young men and women have completed a six-week programme, and are presently pursuing a one-year diploma programme at the Leonora Technical Training Centre in skills such as welding, carpentry, auto mechanics, office administration, information technology, plumbing, and electrical installation’ Presently, a total of 73 Police Youth Clubs have been established in the Policing Divisions, comprising 13 in ‘A’ Division, 20 in ‘B’ Division (Berbice), six in ‘C’ Division (East Coast Demerara), six in ‘D’ Division, 13 in ‘E’ Division (Linden/ Kwakwani), seven in ‘F’ Division (Interior Locations), and eight in ‘G’ Division (Essequibo Coast and Islands).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

Jagdeo admits Cabinet’s involvement in NIS ‒ regarding the Berbice Bridge investment

By Fareeza Haniff FORMER President, Bharrat Jagdeo has admitted to Cabinet’s involvement in the National Insurance Scheme’s (NIS) investment in the Berbice Bridge Company, but was quick to state that Cabinet never discussed where the scheme should invest its money.

Jagdeo was at the time responding to questions at a press conference on Wednesday, where he debunked the findings of a forensic audit into NIS, where it was revealed that Cabinet had a significant input and made key investment decisions, instead of the NIS Board.

“We dealt with NIS several times, but never about where NIS should invest their money. The only time that came up was when they

made some investments in the bridge,” the Opposition Leader said.

He further explained that Cabinet also discussed the future of NIS. “As far as I recollect, that the Cabinet did not deal with investments of NIS resources. The Cabinet made no decision about where NIS resources were invested.

That was done rightfully so at the level of the Board.

We dealt with the NIS several times, we discussed, but from more an actuarial perspectives to look at the future of NIS, its sustainability and we discussed it several times after the CLICO issue to ensure the resources of NIS were not lost.”

But according to the recent findings of the audit, “Cabinet had significant input over the Board and made certain decisions, which the directors accepted without

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‘CG bandits’ nabbed after gunpoint robbery at Atlantic Ville

TWO off-duty policemen, with the assistance of public-spirited citizens, nabbed two CG bandits soon after they had robbed a woman at gunpoint as she was walking into her Atlantic Ville, East Coast Demerara home Thursday afternoon.

Divisional Commander, Marlon Chapman confirmed the robbery and disclosed that two persons are in police custody assisting with inves-

tigations.

According to reports, the two men, who used a CG motorcycle, traced Marilyn Burning from a city bank and held her at gunpoint while she was entering her home.

The victim raised an alarm and put up a struggle, but the bandit with the gun relieved her of a bag with cash.

However, as the men were making their escape, neighbouring residents who

had responded to the alarm, including two off-duty policemen, confronted the assailants and retrieved the bag with the money. The cash has since been handed over to the police.

The two men have been arrested and are in police custody. A .32 Taurus pistol, along with nine rounds were recovered by the police, who have also seized the motorcycle.

Guyoil adjusts kerosene price Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

any discussions, analysis and due diligence to determine the merits of the decisions.”

The NIS Board was chaired at that time by former Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr Roger Luncheon.

THE Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil) has announced that as of today, there will be an adjustment in the price of kerosene by $5.00 per litre at all GuyOil Service Stations.

This adjustment will see the price of ‘kero’ moving from $90.00 per litre to $95.00 per litre in Georgetown; from $91.00 to $96.00 per litre in Berbice; and from $92.00 per litre to $97.00 per litre in Essequibo.

INCREASE AT SOURCE GuyOil said in a release yesterday, “De-

spite our efforts to keep the price for this important commodity as affordable as possible, this adjustment has become necessary due to an increase in acquisition cost at source.”

Significantly, however, is that despite this minor adjustment, GuyOil wishes to advise customers that their kerosene prices remain significantly lower than the competition in all the regions.

Meanwhile, the company reiterated its commitment to providing the Guyanese populace with affordable quality of fuel and lubricants at great prices, the release added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

CDB projects 4% growth for Guyana …says jobless youths in Caribbean a major worry The Caribbean Development Bank is projecting a 4% growth for Guyana this year on the strength of expected strong performance in the mining sector, but the Bank is concerned about jobless youths across the region, which it said is the among highest in the world.

In its 2015 annual report the CDB said that many of its Borrowing Members Countries (BMCs) for which 2015 labour force data is available, continued to experience double-digit unemployment rates.

The report said that there was no unemployment data for Guyana, but it mentioned that in St. Lucia, despite recent economic progress and several targeted government programmes, unemployment fell only marginally to 24.1%. There was a decline in joblessness in Jamaica, in line with the economic recovery; and also in Belize, thanks to increased activity in agriculture and construction.

In The Bahamas, the 2015 average unemployment rate was also lower than in 2014, although this masks the 2,000 layoffs from the mega resort. Trinidad and Tobago reported a reduction in joblessness in the first half of the year, but the figure rose in the second half, as the economy slowed. An increase was projected in Suriname, due to job losses in mining and agriculture. Other members reporting unemployment rates were Turks and Caicos Island at 11%, significantly down from 17% in 2012; and Grenada at 30.4%.

Inflation declined throughout the Region, with a few exceptions – The Bahamas, due to the introduction

President of the CDB, Dr Warren Smith

of a value added tax (VAT) in January; Haiti, as a result of drought and devaluation; and Suriname, due to devaluation and the negative impact of heavy rainfall on crop production. Elsewhere, the effects of lower global commodity prices, especially crude oil, were reflected in more moderate domestic price rises.

Meanwhile, the CDB said that given the substantial downside risks, it is currently projecting growth in all of its BMCs in 2016, with the exception of Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname.

Average regional growth is expected to be about 0.5%.

Not including Trinidad and Tobago, expected average growth is 1.8%.

Trinidad and Tobago is the BMC most exposed to pervading global trends; and therefore, low petroleum industry production and product prices are expected to continue. As well as restricting future economic growth, the government’s revenue receipts will be affected, in turn impacting the country’s future public sector investment, the CDB predicted.

Therefore, the economy is expected to contract by about 2%.

Accordingly, low commodity prices will also affect Suriname, which is likely to face a period of fiscal consolidation, which could constrain domestic demand; and also slow credit growth.

CDB estimates that the economy will decline by 1%.

Growth is expected to be 4% in Guyana as gold production is ramped up at the two new mines. Public investment should also increase.

The Bank said that the Caribbean economy experienced a difficult year in 2015, exacerbated by challenges in the world economy.

Global economic growth fell from 3.4% in 2014 to 3.1% in 2015. The main reason was the slowdown in China, which along with other developments, kept commodity prices low, impacting exporters of those products. The forecast for the United States of America (USA), United Kingdom (UK) and Canada was revised downward during the year. Being small open economies, Caribbean countries were not immune from these effects. Commodity producing countries experienced sharp declines, while tourism reliant economies enjoyed a relatively good year.

In addition to economic vulnerability, resulting from its heavy dependence on overseas markets in 2015, the Region’s susceptibility to environmental events was also demonstrated. Natural disasters in Dominica and The Bahamas set back economic growth and weather occurrences, particularly drought, affected agricultural production.

More city vendors... eration of all stakeholders.

It was said that all citizens must be able to enjoy and access the city’s facilities, hence the ongoing exercises that include the relocation of roadside vendors.

“While the law is clear on what is and what is not permitted in and on public

spaces, the Council is adamant about mechanisms to ease the transition process for vendors. Though this is not an obligation of the Council and requires separate financing, they have noted that the well-being of the city, depends on the well-being of citizens. “All Guyanese de-

From page 9

serve to have a city equal to the best in world,” the Town Clerk charged.

King said that the Council has an agenda to make Georgetown the “cleanest and greenest” in the Caribbean, and this will be achieved, “regardless (of) the difficulties”.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

Ban lifted on importation of styrofoam fish boxes

THE Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has lifted the ban on the importation of Styrofoam fish boxes after intense lobbying from sea food exporters.

In a statement, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in light of concerns raised by seafood exporters in Guyana, and the potential negative economic impact of the ban on this industry, it petitioned the GRA to lift the restriction on Styrofoam fish boxes.

According to the EPA, businesses and individuals will once again be allowed to purchase and import the 65 pound capacity Styrofoam fish boxes.

Additionally, the EPA said that on the matter of tax incentives for the importation of biodegradable food and beverage containers, it was announced by the GRA that these items will no longer attract the Value-Added Tax. “This timely measure came into effect from February 10, 2016 and applies to biodegradable food and beverage containers only,” the EPA said.

The agency is also working with the recently formed Styrofoam Ban Task Force on establishing standards for biodegradable alternatives.

An audit of Styrofoam stock is also being conducted to de-

termine an approximation of the quantity of the product remaining in the country. Upon completion of the audit, the agency will then determine a suitable date for enforcement of the use of Styrofoam food containers in accordance with the Regulations.

The general ban on Styrofoam took effect from January 1, and the Ministry of the Presidency has said that it is part of efforts to support and promote a green economy and environment, which has been a mantra for the Government since their assumption to office.

The ban, the Ministry said, will be enforced through a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment, the Ministries of Business, Legal Affairs, and Finance, through the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA).

It was revealed that a series of measures to address waste management and to promote the utilization of biodegradable materials is in its implementation stages, being spearheaded by the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment.

Granted by Cabinet, was the approval for the immediate development of a legal framework to implement the ban on the importation and use of Styrofoam products,

as well as a public awareness programme to educate the public on the consequences of its usage and the benefits of the alternatives.

This decision by the Executive arm, came as a result of a series of consultations, which were held previously with industry operators, importers and other key stakeholders. But not limited to these consultations, more consultative sessions are expected to be held to the end of the year.

The objective of this initiative, the Ministry noted, is to achieve a “significant reduction” in the effects of polystyrene foam products on solid waste management in Guyana and its negative impact on the environment, while leading to the further development of new enterprises in the alternatives sector.

It was highlighted too, that in Guyana, the waste stream comprises about 2-5 per cent Styrofoam products, with these being popularly used in the food service industry.

As a result, the improper disposal of the single-use item has been, and remains a threat to human health and the wider environment, incurring clean-up and disposal costs, amounting to millions of dollars, a cost borne by the tax paying public.

Party ‘til 4 ‒ Ramjattan PUBLIC Security Minister, Kemraj Ramjattan has relaxed the 2am curfew for the closure of night spots and bars to 4 a.m. to facilitate festivities for Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

In a statement the minister said that consequent upon an inundation of requests from businesses and the general public seeking to fully celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Independence of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, “the Ministry of Public Security wishes to announce that, in conjunction with the Guyana Police Force, it will temporarily relax the enforcement of the 2:00am business deadline to 4 a.m. for bars, night clubs and other places of entertainment.”

He said it is a time for celebration and knowing the Guyanese spirit, the Ministry has seen the need for this relaxation. “The period during which the 2 a.m. deadline will be extended to 4 a.m. is from Friday, May 20 to Monday, May 30, 2016.”

However, Ramjattan said businesses and individuals are asked to note that the Guyana Police Force will continue to investigate and prosecute noise nuisance reports, drinking and driving, and other offences during this period. “The Ministry takes this opportunity to wish the citizens of Guyana an enjoyable Jubilee Celebration and urge everyone to be particularly safety-conscious during this busy season, especially on the roadways.”

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Police seeking identity of accident victim

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

THE Guyana Police Force is seeking the assistance of the public in identifying the victim of a fatal accident that occurred on April 28, 2016, on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

Anyone who has information that may lead to the identification of the victim is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 2271152, 225-6411, 227-2272, 227-1149, 911, or the nearest police station.

Friday, May 20, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Saturday, May 21, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Sunday, May 22, 2016 - 05:30 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

PM meets Ambassadors Karran, Insanally

PRIME MINISTER Moses Nagamootoo on Wednesday received two of Guyana’s newly accredited Ambassadors, who paid him a courtesy call.

They are Ambassador

(designate) to the People’s Republic of China Bayney Karran and Riyad Insanally, Ambassador (designate) to the United States of America.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo congratulated

Berbicians benefit from specialised surgeries THIRTEEN (13) Berbicians benefited from specialised surgeries at the New Amsterdam Hospital, yesterday as the 11th Chinese Medical Brigade visited and conducted a series of operations.

The presence of the Chinese Medical Brigade in Guyana is viewed by both China and Guyana as helping to deepen the two countries’ bilateral relations that date back to June 27, 1972. Under the leadership of Dr. Wang Yongxiang, the nine-member team successfully completed one spinal, five eye (cataract), three gynaecological and four general surgeries. The spinal surgery was one

The Chinese Medical Team performing a spinal surgery on a patient at the New Amsterdam Hospital of the more significant, since this type is not common at the hospital.

Dr. Yongxiang told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that, “(since) 2014, our team comes here, and I have performed nearly 100 spine surgeries in GPHC, but in New Amsterdam Hospital they rarely perform spine surgeries.”

The visiting medical team comprised general, orthopaedic, and plastic surgeons, radiologist, pathologist, internal medical specialist, general medical officers and gynaecologists. This 11th brigade has been serving Guyana for the past two years and will be returning to China on Thursday. The 16-member delegation has been conducting outreaches in different hospitals.

Additionally, the medical brigade also donated a quantity of medical supplies, including cardiac and infant monitors, surgical instruments and protective gloves, clothing and other items to residents of Angoy’s Avenue in New Amsterdam.

Guyanese have been benefitting over the years since the advent of the Chinese medical brigade, bringing specialised skills to the health sector. Local health care professionals have also benefitted from training. (GINA)

the new envoys whom he has known for many years and expressed confidence that they would excel at their new posts.

Both Ambassadors have wide-ranging diplomatic experiences, with Dr Insanally joining Guyana’s Foreign Service in 1990 and Mr Karran becoming an Ambassador since 1996.

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Prime Minister Nagamootoo interacting with from right, Riyad Insanally and Bayney Karran

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Designs in for India-funded ICT centre TOP officials of the Indian High Commission here and the Guyana Government on Thursday examined the architectural de-

signs for the US$1M ICT centre to be constructed by the Indian Government here.

Minister of State Jo-

seph Harmon, Minister of Public Telecommunications Cathy Hughes, Advisor on E-Governance, Floyd Levi and Indian High

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

Minister of State, Joseph Harmon (right) pays rapt attention during discussion on the designs for the India-funded ICT Centre. Also in picture are: Minister of Public Telecommunications, Cathy Hughes, Advisor on E-Governance, Floyd Levi and Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, H.E Shri Venkatachalam Mahalingam (Ministry of the Presidency photo) Commissioner to Guyana, H.E Shri Venkatachalam Mahalingam on Thursday examined designs for the centre to be called Centre of Excellence.

Late last month Harmon had signed a US$1 million Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Government for the establishment of centre.

The centre will provide training for public sector ICT professionals to ensure the availability of a highly skilled ICT workforce, equipped with the requisite expertise to meet the increasingly complex demands of the public and private sectors.

Minister Harmon had said that the MoU caters for the creation and operation of an ICT Centre of Excellence, which will be based at the National Data Management Building at the University of Guyana Complex.

During the first two years of the project, training of trainers will be completed, following which the facility will be handed over to the Government of Guyana. “The parties will cooperate in the identification of required areas of training, the establishment of a centre for training in ICT with two classrooms of 25 students each, the provision of academic materials to train up to 500 students per year for two years, among others,” Minister Harmon said.

The minister expressed thanks on behalf of the Government and people of Guyana, noting that the project will go a long way in the development of the human resources of the country. Minister Harmon said he expects that the centre will be opened within the next three to six months.

In the meantime, India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Mr. Mahalingam, in brief comments,

said that the Centre provides an opportunity for the development of the country and the people of Guyana, which his Government was pleased to facilitate.

“We have been waiting for this for a long time and finally it happened. This is only the first step. There are a lot of things that we need to do. We need to correspond with each other. We need to make the facilities available on your end… I am sure that this is going to be a real good opportunity for Guyanese to have training on various aspects of IT Management and we look forward to working together,” Mr. Mahalingam said.

The construction of the centre was announced by India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi at the BRICS Summit in 2014, in Brasilia regarding the establishment of Information Technology (IT) Centres in the region.

Modi had indicated then that Guyana would be the first country in which they would establish an IT Centre. During his speech at the BRICS Summit back in July 2014 Modi had noted that almost 250 students from South America, have been taking courses in India every year under its International Technical and Economic Cooperation programme. “I however believe that this is not enough.

We intend to substantially increase the same. To share India`s expertise in Information Technology, we will establish Centres of Excellence in Information Technology, in South American countries,” Modi announced at the summit.

He said then that India also offers to expand cooperation, in areas like Tele-medicine, Tele-education and e-Governance.

“We extend our Space capabilities, for weather forecasting, resource mapping and disaster management.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

Bringing out the ‘diva’ inside MISS Guyana beauty queens took time out this week to share their glam diva look with us. Dressing like a diva is every girls desire, and these beauties shared with Fashion Trends a few tips that will help you deck up like a diva, and up your style quotient all the way. For me, while dressing up, I try to mix and match pieces in my wardrobe. It’s fun! And you’ll enjoy it too! Just remember: Whatever the outfit or make-up, you only look your best when you carry yourself with confidence and grace.

The geometric shapes and angles of this sequined, beaded and embroidered number were intended to flatter from all angles. You’ll also appreciate its fitted feel, with an extra-low scoop in back for good, sexy measure.

Welcome back, tube top! This take on a classic look has a snug and stretchy feel to it. Pull it over a flowery skirt, and head on out for a late afternoon stroll. The colours are as alluring as they are playful. “Just go for it!”

This halter dress is lovely. The frisky shape of the skater dress gets a little softer, thanks to stretch rayon in an alluring print. It’s a super cute solution for those days when you want ease without sacrificing femininity. “A killer pair of heels can rock any outfit.”

Dress to amaze on your next big occasion with this maxi, criss-cross front dress. This on-trend piece yields a flattering neckline and a fun flaunt of skin. “I always recommend colours, prints, and structured outfits, which add an interesting element to your outfit.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 20, 2016

‘I feel connected to my ancestors’

EVEN with her regular busy schedule, local designer Olympia Small-Sonaram is still actively involved in various aspects of our Golden Jubilee. As she says, her participation in these events helps to connect her to her history.

The 38-year-old designer is part of the Jubilee Festival’s fashion show, which began yesterday and continues tomorrow, during which time she will be showcasing her new line, “Colour Me Sexy”.

The collection features an array of colourful skirts and other pieces with a predominantly floral theme. Apart from that, Olympia’s signature has also been placed on the Independence décor for some of the buildings around Georgetown, in addition to her annual task of designing costumes for the Float Parade.

“The work that I am doing on the floats for the companies for the Jubilee helps me to learn about my history, and makes me feel connected to my past and my ancestors,” Olympia told The Buzz, adding that the details entailed on the designs tell a story that showcase a change in lifestyle from then to now that she can certainly appreciate.

Moreover, she said that there are some aspects of history that she has learned about that she thinks should even be reintroduced.

ABOUT OLYMPIA Olympia’s passion for designing began as a young girl from watching her mother. “As a child, I would sketch designs; and that progressed when I became a teenager.

“Then I learned to sew from my mother, and I would sew my own stuff,” she said.

This talent was naturally given to her, as she admits that she never received any professional training while learning to design.

In fact, she revealed that what she didn’t learn from her mother, she taught herself by dismantling pieces of clothing and putting them back together. “Then I started to model, and would sew my own swimsuits. And people started to see my talent, and they became interested in me sewing things for them too.”

Over time, Olympia would develop her own flare and signature, and even became known for her penchant for the more provocative and daring designs on the local scene.

It no doubt brought her some negativity, as the more conservative crowd deemed her fashions “inappropriate”.

Yet Olympia stated that for every person who sees her work as overly provocative, there is an equal number who find it immensely desirable. “I think that the female body is beautiful, and we need to be proud of our own skin and not be afraid to look good,” she said.

Of course, not all her designs fall into this category, since much of her portfolio includes pageant and wedding gowns.

Olympia said that she tries to cater to all groups of women, from daring to conservative, so as to keep her diverse clientele pleased.

18-ODD YEARS Her 18-odd years of designing has undoubtedly led her to witness numerous transformations in the local fashion industry, which she admittedly is quite proud to have been a part of. She remembers a time when there were just a handful of known designers, including her. Today, she is proud to see that there are numerous up-and-coming local designers being recognised for their work.

“There are so many of them who now have a passion for the art, and are now trying to pursue it as a career. And that is a good thing,” Olympia said, adding: “So, before, where people would prefer to go to stores and buy their clothes, a lot of them now prefer to go to designers.”

Olympia credits “social media” for the increase in exposure, and adds that these same designers also have the Internet to thank for ideas and inspiration.

“When I started,” she said, “I didn’t have Facebook; I had to depend on going to shows and spreading the word.

“The Internet allows them to do more research, so they can get more ideas and come up with modern designs.”

Yet she warns that this could be a blessing and a curse, as this could hinder their creativity, and take away from their ability to come up with unique designs.

--Olympia Small-Sonaram on her involvement with the Golden Jubilee

“Just putting stuff together,” she said, “doesn’t make you a designer. And a lot of times, that is what happens.

“That is why when they go overseas, they see that their stuff is not up to scratch with where they are supposed to be.”

In her opinion, rather than sourcing designs from the Internet, designers should instead focus on techniques that bring out true creativity.

“Things like batik and tie-dye can be modernised, and can still be used to create beautiful swimsuits and gowns,” she said.

“I believe that things like that would show their real talent if they focus on it.”

UP TO STANDARD Yet, the question remains whether local designers have enough resources to get them up to that standard, or whether the Internet truly is the best source of teaching in Guyana.

Admitting that there is a lack of teaching resources locally, Olympia is calling on the government to focus on putting more institutions in place that may help young designers to hone their craft; teaching them essential design techniques; encouraging them to get original ideas, and helping them to bring those ideas to life.

“Designing comes from within, but as with all things, it needs to be polished,” she says. “I’ve seen how governments support their designers in other countries. If we get that kind of support, we can do so much better. We have a lot of talent; I have seen how many of them can draw. But a lot of them don’t have the financial resources to go to schools overseas to learn more. We need schools right here,” Olympia told The Buzz.

Meantime, she can only advise that those designers stay motivated, as perseverance is the key to much of the success she has seen over the years.

“You have to start somewhere; but you will make mistakes, and some people out there are very harsh. But you can never give up; you have to shut your ear to negativity. I have received a lot of that, but I learned from all of it.”

Being able to take negativity, Olympia said, is also a key to success, as at the same time, not every negative comment is meant to harm you. “All in all, designing is a passion; you have to never give up. I didn’t just jump to where I am; it took lots of hard work. You must love what you do and do

it to your best.”

CONTENT WITH HER LOT Overall, the hardworking mom, wife and entrepreneur seems content with her achievements thus far, especially her family life. She praised her husband for the support he has given her throughout their marriage, and states that she ensures that despite her busy schedule, she always makes time for her family.

She believes that it is a woman’s ability to balance all of these roles that makes her truly strong. Not that career women who don’t have their own families are any less stronger, but she commends those women who balance both a career and a family and are still able to hold their own in society. “As women, we have to always stay positive, never dropping our standards, or feeling that it is too much.

“We have to always hold our head up, and never let anything or anyone make you feel less than what you really are.”

Thinking of strong women, Olympia then touches on her mother, who she credits with being her biggest inspiration.

“She has always been there, even as a child. No matter what I wanted to do, how many pageants I wanted to enter, or which show I wanted to be part of, she was always there. She is one of the reasons I am so good at what I do today.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

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DORIS ‘SEE-FAR’

Doris took charge. She swooped the girl up into her warm embrace, and, taking the bottom of her blouse, she wiped the tear-streaked face.

“Don’ worry! I gon take you home, and tomorrow we gon find mummy and daddy.”

She was rewarded with a flashing smile that changed the sad little face into a happy one.

As she was about to move off, the child tapped her on the shoulder and pointed to the bush where she had emerged.

There stood a fierce-looking woman. The resemblance was striking. It had to be the child’s mother.

“Is that your mummy?”

The little head bobbed up and down. Doris put the child down gently and walked towards the parent. She would give her a piece of her mind.

By Neil Primus DORIS took folklore very seriously. She always crossed her children three times over the casket of dead relatives. She never cried and let her tears fall on the dead. When she arrived home at night, she entered by her back. She never pointed at tombs in the cemetery.

Still, some people suspected that she does wuk obeah. Others felt that she head ain’t too right. An old lady living next door declared, “Dat damn woman wuking obeah!”

The entire village believed that Doris does see spirit. Some say it started as early as when she was five.

De same old lady claimed dat somebody wuk pon Doris. Old Mr. McLean, in his wisdom, suggested that her mother never bothered to wake her whenever a funeral procession was passing, and that ever since then, she does see plenty ‘jumbie’.

MALICIOUS CYNTHIA A malicious villager named Cynthia told everyone that Doris can’t stop seeing ‘jumbie’ because she family so ugly that they all look like ‘jumbie’.

I don’t know about none ah dat; all I know is every now and then, Doris claiming that she having weird encounters.

One time she see ‘Wata Muma’ sitting pon de village koker. A next time she butt up ‘baccoo’ near Mr. Turner shop. Good thing she had some banana to distract it, or she woulda get a good trashing.

Then a night she run home screaming dat she just pass through ‘Moon Gazer’ legs and lived. A week later, she start boasting dat she chase down ‘Ol’ Higue’ and it land in she old neighbour yard.

She claim dat she does always talk to ‘jumbie’. But when Doris say she bump into ‘Dutchman’ an he fall fuh she, dat was when I realise she mek everything up.

Yuh see, men don’t fall for Doris; she is the one who does hunt dem down and harass dem into submission.

THINGS START CHANGE ‘Dutchman’ was no exception. She stories continued, and everybody laughed at dem. They knew she was full of drama. Den things start to change for the worse.

Late one, night Doris was on the way home. She had gone to see her relatives in the city, and taken her eight-year-old son with her to spend the August holidays. It was dark by the time she returned to the village.

The main road to Plantain Walk had no lights, and villagers either walked with a torchlight or flambeau to help out. Some depended on their eyesight.

Doris was one. She had limited night vision, yet she always found herself walking late at night. Many nights she would either bump into people, hurt animals, or crack her toes, feet and hands on obstacles. Only the moonlight helped out occasionally.

That night, the moon was out in all its glory; it’s brilliance transformed the road from an old dirt road to a ribbon of silver. Doris hummed as she walked briskly along.

“WHIMPER.” Someone was crying. She looked around and saw a small girl stooping in the bushes at the side of the road.

“Come sweetie,” Doris purred.

“Where is mummy? Who are you with?”

Silence.

“Where yuh going?”

More silence.

DARKNESS DESCENDS A large cloud obscured the moon, and darkness descended like a black blizzard.

“Why you have yuh daughter out so late, eh?”

Doris’s voice was full of anger and accusation.

“Why you trying to take my child?” the woman shot back at Doris.

“I was only trying to help; I thought she was alone.”

“She can take care of herself.”

“What!” Now Doris was hopping mad; she wanted to slap the woman silly for making such a statement.

Just then, Doris felt the child’s nails scratching impatiently at her big hands. Doris could not remember seeing long nails on the child, but she eased her grip without releasing her. She would have it out with the careless mother first.

The cloud passed, and light flooded the road. Darkness melted away, and an unbelievable drama unfolded before Doris’s very eyes. There in the bushes, at the side of the road, stood a huge cat. Doris was speechless.

“If you did only harm she, ah woulda kill yuh!” The voice was coming from the huge black animal.

Impatient nails were making their presence felt. Doris looked down, and her mouth fell open in shock. The pretty little hand had become a pretty little paw. The girl had transformed into a small version of her mom.

PETRIFIED!

Now Doris was petrified and at a loss for words. But she wasn’t lost to reality. And reality was saying one thing to her: Get home pronto! Two hundred-and-seventy pounds of fear took off. Boy, you should have seen her go!

A little voice over her shoulder enquired, “Can I come home wid you, Auntie?”

“Nooooooo! Eeeeaaaaah!” The race was on.

Next day, Doris went around telling everyone about her horrible experience. She was met with sad smiles, giggles and downright skepticism. No one believed her. Do you blame them?

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 20, 2016

Fashion @ ‘The Duke’ Sunday

A GRAND fashion event is set for Sunday, as USbased Guyanese events producer Lloyd Guilliams takes another step towards building the lives of the differently-abled at the Ptolemy Reid Centre.

Guilliams is collaborating with events director, Simone Dowding and some popular Guyanese fashion designers to adorn the runway with colours of the Golden Arrowhead at Duke Lodge, Kingston, Georgetown.

The show begins at 17:00hours, and will feature Neilson Nurse’s Independence line, a swimsuit collection from former Miss Guyana Universe, Meleesa Payne, and a special piece from Simone Bazil of lLa Randa’ design company.

According to Guilliams, he has opted to promote the charity show for the differently-abled children, because

“they need more attention because of their disposition, and there’s where I find more energy to support.”

He’s been donating to-

wards the Centre ten years now, after falling in love with the children living there during a visit back home.

Coming soon to ‘the big-screen’ --Feature-length film on ‘The Seawall’

AS festivities for Guyana’s 50th Independence and Jubilee celebrations are in the air, Guyanese-born, Brooklyn-based filmmaker, Mason Richards is traveling across Guyana with his production team, scouting out locations to shoot the feature film version of his award-winning short film THE SEAWALL. The Seawall was screened to a packed house at the Havana International Film Festival in Cuba last year, and has captivated audiences internationally in London, Toronto and around the world, including Festival de Cannes-Court Mertage in France, and The Trinidad & Tobago Film Festival in Port of Spain.

The film is also part of the Timheri Film Festival, scheduled to be held from May 18-20.

Director of the film festival, Romola Lucas said that expanding and developing The Seawall, and choosing to shoot it in Guyana, will work as an inspiration to up-and-coming filmmakers in Guyana, and will validate

US-based Guyanese filmmaker, Mason Richards the experiences of so many Guyanese people and artists alike.

Apart from the titular seawall, Guyana’s Kaieteur Falls, Mahdia and parts of Guyana’s jungles will be some of the locations Mason will be scouting out for his film.

Said he, “I couldn’t think of a better time than now to be in beautiful Guyana; it’s such an important time in our country’s history, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it, and also to be able to make a film that celebrates our Caribbean and our South American heritage.”

Production on THE SEAWALL feature film is slated

to begin later this year on location in Guyana. Mason is also in the casting process, seeking local Guyanese and international-Guyanese talent to cast in the feature film.

“It’s a modern-day immigration story, where the main character journeys “back home” to Guyana after living abroad for most of his life,” he said. “It’s sort of my story, and I think the story of many immigrants who leave their birth country in search of a better life somewhere else, but then, at some point, you return home and things become clearer, or not.

“It’s a film about identity, both cultural and personal.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

Buzzing this weekend

IT’S the weekend before the ‘big day’, and you know what that means? The celebrations have officially begun!

Here’s what you can look forward to over the weekend.

TODAY The Jubilee Festival Continues at the National Stadium. Enjoy a celebration of Guyanese music, fashion, cuisine and arts and craft.

Tonight’s theme is “Everything Guyanese”, so enjoy local entertainment at its best, with performances by Yoruba Singers, Dubraj Tassa Drummers and much more. Admission $500, children $300. Show starts at 19:00hrs every night.

The Jubilee Festival will also host fashion shows every night this weekend at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre at Liliendaal, from 16:30hrs. Tickets are $2000. VIPs are $4000.

TOMORROW It’s ‘Night of Legends’ at the National Stadium once more for the Jubilee Festival, and what legends indeed! Dave Martins and the Tradewinds, Terry Gajraj and Sammy Baksh are just some of the talent who will take the stage.

Come party to ‘50 Shades of Reggae’

IN order to add flavour to Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations, Hits and Jams Entertainment is partnering with McNeil Enterprises to promote a spicy reggae concert dubbed, “50 Shades of Reggae”.

This mega concert is slated for the National Park next Friday, and features the King of ‘Lovers Rock’, Beres Hammond, whose experience on the stage would be complemented by his compatriot, Christopher Martin.

And, cognisant of the need at this time to utilise home-grown talent, Hits and Jams and McNeil’s have included several local performers on the night’s programme.

The taste of 50 Shades of Reggae would also be influenced by preliminary acts, the likes of Tameka Marshal, Lisa Punch and Tennecia De Freitas.

Hammond, whose stage cry of `Family’ is a welcomed feature at concerts, comes to Guyana with a wealth of experience.

He has been in the reggae business for over four decades, and is armed with such hits as `I Could Beat Myself’, `Rockaway’, `What One Dance Can Do’, `Sweet Lies’, `She Loves Me Now’ And `No Disturb Sign’ among others.

Martin, who will turn

30 next Valentine’s Day, is considered to be the next in line for Hammond’s throne.

Blessed with a soulful voice, Martin is equipped with such hits as `Cheater’s Prayer’ `Paper Loving’, and the heart-stopping `Mama’.

Ticket prices are $3,000 for early bird, $4,000 regular and $15,000 for VIP stage

front, and are available at White Castle, Gizmos & Gadgets, Exclusive Styles, The Spot Fish Shop BV, Nigel’s Supermarket, Ashmins, Andrew’s Supermarket, King’s Jewelry World, Matt’s Record Bar, Clairan’s, Giftland Department Store, KK Gas Station, and Digicel – Linden & Parika.

Then, reminisce about the past at the “Yesteryear” Old-School Party at Gravity Lounge.

Enjoy hits from the 90s and early 2000s, mixed by renowned local DJs. Everyone is free before 23:00hrs.

Visit 704 Sports Bar and get ‘Golden’. Bring out your friends, and celebrate Guyana’s 50th Independence. Admission: $2,000.

SUNDAY The final night of the Jubilee Festival will showcase younger talent at the “Nexxt Gen Concert”, and will feature performances from Jumo, Lisa Punch, Adrian Dutchin and more.

The Guyana Hash Harriers are at it again, with a Golden Jubilee Hash Run. Meet-up is in front of the British High Commission at 10:30hrs. Cost to participate is $3000. Join the running group with the drinking problem, as they celebrate the 50th Independence.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

DIGICEL Schools Football championship launched THE 2016 DIGICEL’s Schools Football Championship was officially launched yesterday at the Covent Garden Secondary School on the East Bank of Demerara.

The tournament, which is now entering its sixth year, will feature a total of 180 schools. This number marks an increase of 9% from last year’s 160.

Present at the launch were Digicel CEO Kevin Kelly, Customer Care Head of Department Sherwin Osborne, Head of Department of Sales Nalini Veira, Marketing Director Jacqueline James, Director of Sport Christopher Jones and Guyana Football Federation president Wayne Forde.

According to James, the tournament will take place across Guyana and there will be 12 regions introduced this year, since Region 4 Demerara-Mahaica will be split in three: East Bank and East Coast being combined, South Georgetown and North Georgetown.

The tournament is a knock-out tournament and consists of regional

competitions, quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals.

The prizes set out for the tournament will see the regional winners, fourth-placers, third-placers, second-placers and first-placers take home $100 000, $350 000, $400 000, $700000 and $1M respectively.

James also spoke about the way that Digicel’s Schools Football was started and opened opportunities for the players to travel across Guyana and improve their skills.

CEO Kevin Kelly explained how hard it is to maintain a tournament of such magnitude. “It is a huge undertaking to move so many persons around the country and there are a lot of logistics involved but thanks to our logistics team who are more than capable,” said Kelly. He closed by saying the tournament was Digicel’s way of giving back to the Guyanese population.

Jones, speaking at the launch, added that the Ministry of Education,

Department Culture Youth and Sport was proud to be a part of the tournament and such a tournament stimulates several opportunities whether economic or tourism-based across Guyana.

He promised full support of the Government of Guyana, before imploring corporate Guyana to follow Digicel’s lead in getting involved in youth development.

Closing off the launch was GFF president Wayne Forde, who thanked Digicel for remaining a stakeholder throughout the struggles of football in Guyana. He said that Digicel’s schools tournament extending to all parts of Guyana will change the ‘diversity’ of the Golden Jaguars team in the years to come.

Digicel also unveiled the tournament’s new uniform kits which featured seven new colour combinations.

The tournament kicks off on June 13 nationwide and the final will be played on July 31 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

11:10 hrs Desert Haze 11:45 hrs Tellovoi 12:15 hrs Ordinal

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

Fairview 08:30 hrs On My Wits 09:05 hrs Silver Rain 09:40 hrs Thayer 10:10 hrs Sudden SURPRISE 10:45 hrs Varlotone GREYVILLE 10:55 hrs Lee’s Star 11:30 hrs Announcing Rain 12:05 hrs Alexis 13:15 hrs Gallica Rose 13:50 hrs Master’s Eye 14:25 hrs Fantasy Art 14:55 hrs Delilah IRISH RACING TIPS Downpatrick 12:55 hrs Rise Of An Empire 13:25 hrs Scenic Star

13:55 hrs Ainslie 14:25 hrs Araglen Lad 14:55 hrs Redclue 15:25 hrs Shake It Up 15:55 hrs The Storyteller ENGLISH RACING TIPS Goodwood 08:50 hrs Latest Quest 09:20 hrs Harlequin Striker 09:55 hrs Aristocratic 11:00 hrs Hestina 11:35 hrs Clear Spring 12:05 hrs Annie Salts CARLISLE 09:00 hrs Chaplin Bay 09:30 hrs Hope Against Hope 10:05 hrs Anieres Boy 10:40 hrs Wholesome

WOLVERHAMPTON 09:10 hrs Little Indian 09:40 hrs Invocation 10:15 hrs Marsgate Lane 10:50 hrs Horseguardsparade 11:20 hrs Sir Dudley 11:55 hrs Jack The Laird 12:25 hrs Citisonsmith AMERICAN RACING TIPS Pimlico Race 1 Touch and Smile Race 2 Lamontagne Race 3 Fantastic Smile Race 4 Dicey Flats Race 5 Tale of Life Race 6 Sunnysammi Race 7 Stanford Race 8 Ben’s Cat Race 9 Mei Ling Race10 Spinamiss Race11 Land Over Sea Race12 Phlash Phelps

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

Serena seems in a league of her own as French Open beckons

By Martyn Herman LONDON, England (Reuters) - Challengers to Serena Williams’ throne have proved as fickle as a Paris spring and as the year’s second grand slam starts the veteran American is again seemingly in a league of her own.

The 34-year-old’s charge to overhaul Margaret Court’s record 24 grand slam singles titles may have stalled since she chalked up major number 21 at last year’s Wimbledon.

But after fine-tuning her claycourt game by winning last week’s Italian Open she will begin the defence of her French Open title as the strong favourite.

With twice French Open champion Maria Sharapova suspended pending the findings of an anti-doping hearing after she tested positive for meldonium in Australia this year, the list of players capable of toppling a fully firing Williams is short.

She has played only three tournaments since losing to an inspired Angelique Kerber in the Australian Open final. But former champion Martina Navratilova says when the big prizes are at stake, the American can be relied upon to perform.

“She hasn’t played that much this year,

SERENA WILLIAMS but she came back with a vengeance (in Rome), played great tennis, as well as she has on clay, and she is the big favourite going into the French Open,” 18-time grand slam champion Navratilova told the Tennis Podcast in the build-up to Paris.

“When she loses, it’s an exception ... Serena is now healthy, hungry, eager and fresh.

Russia’s tennis chief says Sharapova may not play again (REUTERS) - Maria Sharapova may not play again after testing positive for the banned substance

MARIA SHARAPOVA meldonium, the president of the Russian tennis federation was quoted as saying yesterday.

Shamil Tarpishchev told the R-Sport news agency that Sharapova’s situation was “bad”.

The five-time grand slam champion faces a possible ban of up to four years for failing a drugs test at the Australian

Open in January.

British media reported that she had been due to attend an International Tennis Federation (ITF) anti-doping hearing in London on Wednesday.

There has been no subsequent comment by the ITF. Sharapova stunned the world in March when she said she had returned a positive test for the Latvian-made heart medication which was added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) banned list from January 1.

The world’s highest-paid sportswoman claimed to have been taking meldonium on doctor’s orders for 10 years and had failed to note that it had become a banned substance until hearing of her failed test at the year’s first grand slam.

She was provisionally suspended on March 12 pending the hearing and has lost a number of her lucrative sponsorship deals.

She said at the time that she hoped she would be allowed to play again.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said in April, after hundreds of athletes had tested positive for meldonium, that bans might be overturned due to a lack of clear scientific information on how long the drug takes to be excreted.

She’s match-tough after Rome, but still fresh - that’s a tough combination, and it will be hard for anyone to beat her.”

The main obstacles between Williams and a 22nd singles major, which would take her level with Steffi Graff in second place, appear to be Germany’s Kerber and former world number one Victoria Azarenka, although both

have struggled for consistency.

Kerber suffered first-round defeats in Rome and Madrid, although she did win the title on clay in Stuttgart.

Azarenka, ranked five, was back to her best when winning back-to-back titles at Indian Wells and Miami, but doubts have resurfaced.

She suffered a back injury in Madrid and lost in the first round in Rome.

“It’s just unfortunate that I can’t play my best tennis. That’s it,” Azarenka said after losing to Irina Begu in Rome.

Other contenders will be Romanian former finalists Simona Halep and Spain’s hard-hitting Garbine Muguruza.

Muguruza, a semi-finalist in Rome, does not have the trademark claycourt game, relying on flat, powerful groundstrokes that could however cause damage at Roland Garros, where the showcourts tend to play fast.

Three-time champion Williams, though, as is usually the case, appears to have the destiny of the tournament on her racquet strings.

“I have tried to defend there once, twice ... before. Didn’t quite work so well, but this year is different,” she said. “I feel more calm and I don’t feel stress, like I have to win. I feel like just happy to be out here.”

FIFA president Infantino says salary still not confirmed

(REUTERS) - FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s salary has still not been confirmed three months after he took

GIANNI INFANTINO office, the head of football’s global body said yesterday.

Infantino told reporters last week that they would have to wait until the publi-

cation of the next FIFA financial report early next year to find out how much he earned.

However, in a column written for Switzerland’s Neue Zuercher Zeitung yesterday, he said he would confirm his salary once he knew what it was.

“My salary should not be a central issue in this,” said Infantino, elected to February to pull FIFA out of the worst crisis in its history.

“From the start, I made clear that my salary will be a matter of public record and that it should be lower than the salaries of the previous FIFA president and secretary-general.

“I will announce it as soon as it has been confirmed.”

The earnings of FIFA’s top officials are made public under new governance rules designed to make the federation more transparent.

Previous FIFA president Sepp Blatter’s salary was published for the first time in March when FIFA said it paid him 3.63 million Swiss francs ($3.67M) last year.

29

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

Philippine boxing star Pacquiao wins seat in Senate (REUTERS) - Philippine boxing star Manny Pacquiao, WBO world welterweight champion, scored a big political victory yesterday when the elections commission declared he was among 12 new members of the upper house of Congress.

Last week, about 80 percent of 55 million eligible voters cast their ballots to choose a president, vice-president, 12 senators, 200 members of the lower house of Congress and 18 000 local officials in general elections held every six years.

Philippine boxing star and Senator Manny Pacquiao speaks during a news conference after being proclaimed by elections officials as one of the new members of the upper house of Congress in Manila, Philippines, yesterday. (Reuters/Erik De Castro)

“I can focus and discipline myself, the way I did in boxing to help the nation,” Pacquiao told reporters, saying, as a new senator, he would push for free education at all levels.

The 37 year-old twoterm Congressman also said he favours restoring the death penalty for drug-related and other serious crimes.

President-elect Rodrigo Duterte has said he will ask Congress to re-introduce a death penalty that was repealed in 2006.

“In the eyes of God, it is not unlawful,” Pacquiao

Smith endures roller-coaster performance as Lions overcome KKR DWAYNE Smith went from golden boy to golden duck but was able to celebrate a six-wicket Indian Premier League (IPL) victory for Gujarat Lions over Kolkata Knight Riders.

In the first IPL match to be staged in Kanpur, Smith tore through the Knight Riders order to post figures of 4-8 from his four overs as the visitors achieved a total of 124-8.

Smith was brought back down to earth when he was dismissed for nought with the first delivery of the Lions’ innings, but Suresh Raina’s unbeaten 53 saw the hosts over the line.

The result means the Lions jump from fifth to second, level on points with leaders Sunrisers Hyderabad heading into their crucial final fixture against Mumbai Indians.

Knight Riders are two

points back in fourth and host Sunrisers in their last match.

was run-out for eight at the beginning of the fourth over – his best bowling fig-

Player of the match Dwayne Smith celebrates after dismissing Manish Pandey early.

Smith was lethal with ball in hand, accounting for four wickets in succession after Gautam Gambhir

ures in Twenty20 cricket.

Yusuf Pathan’s (36) best efforts were not enough to salvage the Knight Riders’

innings, and Jason Holder (13) was treated to a ‘Champion’ escort from the field after being dismissed by a dancing Dwayne Bravo (129), with the Lions in high spirits.

Smith’s joy at his bowling performance was swiftly tempered by an immediate exit with the bat, but Raina – back in the team following the birth of his daughter – contributed to a comfortable victory, the Lions finishing 125-4 with 39 balls remaining.

Raina’s performance saw him surpass 4 000 IPL runs – a marker only previously reached by Virat Kohli, who beat Raina to the milestone last time out for Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Just two points now separate the top five in the IPL table as the race for the playoffs nears its climax. (Omnisport)

Mayor’s Cup football tournament set to finally kick off today THE 22nd annual Mayor’s Cup football tournament is finally set to kick off this evening with a double-header at the Victoria ground, East Coast Demerara, with the opening game scheduled to commence at 18:30hrs.

According to the tournament’s organiser and former national player and coach, Lennox `Mullen’ Arthur, the tournament was originally scheduled to start on May 1 but was affected by weather conditions that caused

flooding at the East Coast venue.

However, Arthur said the conditions have improved and this will allow him to get the tournament kick-started this evening.

In the opening game from 18:30hrs, Bakewell Buxton face Grove Hi Tech and Victoria Kings take on Agricola at 20:30hrs.

The tournament will continue with another double-header at the same venue where BV/Triumph face Eagles of West Demerara from 18:30hrs and

Golden Grove play Herstelling from 20:20hrs.

On Sunday, the tournament shifts to the Den Amstel ground, West Coast Demerara where Pouderoyen will tackle Soesdyke Falcons from 18:30hrs and home side Den Amstel meet Kuru Kuru from 20:30hrs.

The winning team of the tournament will receive $700 000, while the second-, third- and fourth-place teams will earn $300 000, $200 000 and $100 000 respectively.

said of capital punishment.

The former eight-division world boxing champion, who stood as a member of one of the losing presidential candidates, won more than 16 million votes to come in seventh place for 12 vacant seats in the upper house of Congress.

Opinion polls showed Pacquiao was among the top choices for a senate

seat but he dropped a few notches down in the polls after he made an anti-gay remark in February.

A month before elections, his ratings improved after a convincing victory over American champion Timothy Bradley in Las Vegas, knocking him down twice in the 12-round bout.

Anthony to defend Powerade 35-lap cycle title LINDENER and Team Evolution’s Michael Anthony will defend his Banks DIH Powerade 35-lap cycle race title tomorrow when National cycle coach Hassan Mohamed runs off the annual 11-race event around the National Park inner circuit beginning at 09:00hrs.

The day’s feature event will see most of the country’s top cyclists battle for honours in what is expected to be a thrilling race, involving the likes of the 34th Annual Independence Three-stage road race champion and Anthony’s Team Evolution clubmates Orville Hinds, Raul Leal and Marlon `Fishy’ Williams, Stephen Fernandes, Akeem Wilkinson and Christopher Cornelius.

Other top contenders will be Linden Bauxite Flyers’ Shaquille Agard and Silvio Inniss as well as Team Alanis’ Paul DeNobrega.

When the event was Team Evolution’s staged last year, AnMichael Anthony thony won the 36-mile event in one hour 15 minutes .08 seconds.

Another interesting race on the day’s programme is the 10-lap race for juveniles, which was won last year

by Jamal John. He is a doubtful starter so it is likely that a new champion will be crowned and that person might very well be Raphael Leung who has been in good nick recently. John’s time for the event last year was 23 minutes 57.56 seconds.

Team Coco’s Junior Niles will be out to defend his veterans’ Under-50 five-lap title, won last year in a time of 11 minutes 56 seconds. He will, however, have to be wary of Kennard Lovell and Warren McKay. Daniel Perreira will be out to defend his boys and girls’ 12-14 years three-lap title. He won the event last year in a time of seven minutes 56 seconds.

The three-lap race for mountain bikers was won last year by Raynauth Jeffrey in a time of 12 minutes 50 seconds. However, Jeffrey is currently in the United States training and competing, so this year, a new champion will be crowned.

Banks DIH Outdoor Manager Mortimer Stewart will be on hand to witness the day’s programme as well as to present prizes to the respective winners.

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

First Test at Leeds

Hales, Bairstow dig in after Shanaka triple strike (REUTERS) - Alex Hales Vince survived to lunch and Jonny Bairstow led Enand hit two fluent fours after gland’s recovery from a poor the interval on his way to nine, start as the hosts reached 171 but he perished when another for five before rain ended the drive off Shaminda Eranga opening day of the first Test flew straight to Kusal Mendis against Sri Lanka in Leeds at gully. yesterday.

Ben Stokes played in typiHales and Bairstow shared cally aggressive fashion, strikan unbroken sixth-wicket parting three fours in his 12, but nership of 88 to revive the he carelessly chipped Nuwan hosts, who collapsed to 83 Pradeep to Mathews at mid-on for five after Sri Lanka seam to leave England tottering on bowler Dasun Shanaka picked 83 for five. up three quick wickets on his Hales and Bairstow, howdebut. ever, dug in.

Hales moved on to 71 not The former, trying to ceout, his highest Test score, with ment his place at the top of the Bairstow unbeaten on 54 at tea order, reached his second Test and persistent rain prevented fifty and struck 12 fours while any play in the final session to Dasun Shanaka had a morning to remember on the Bairstow was his usual busy leave the match finely poised. first day of the Headingley Test. self at the crease.

Sri Lanka captain Angelo The wicketkeeper, who Mathews won the toss in oversurvived two confident lbw cast conditions at Headingley and England openers Alastair appeals following reviews, launched spinner Rangana Cook and Hales negotiated the first hour with few alarms in Herath over long-on for six before posting a half-century a partnership of 49. for the seventh time in Tests.

The game changed, however, when Shanaka came on.

Bowling a full length, the 24-year-old dismissed captain Cook for 16 with his seventh delivery before removing Nick Compton and Joe Root for ducks in an inspired spell.

Cook, needing 36 runs to become the first Englishman to reach 10 000 in Tests, looked in good form until he drove ENGLAND 1st innings J. Bairstow not out 54 rashly at a wide ball from Shanaka and was caught by wickA. Cook c Chandimal Extras: (lb-7, nb-1, w-1) 9 b Shanaka 16 Total: (for 5 wickets, 53 overs) 171 etkeeper Dinesh Chandimal.

A. Hales not out 71 Fall of wickets: 1-49, 2-49, 3-51, Compton, under pressure for his place at number three, N. Compton c Thirimanne 4-70, 5-83. was undone by a full delivery just outside off stump which b Shanaka 0 Bowling: S. Eranga 10-3-34-1 he edged low to Lahiru Thirimanne at first slip.

J. Root c K. Mendis b Shanaka 0 (nb-1), N. Pradeep 12-6-26-1, A. J. Vince c K. Mendis b Eranga 9 Mathews 6-1-24-0, D. Chameera Root was caught at gully following another loose drive B. Stokes c Mathews 10-0-33-0, D. Shanaka 9-3-30-3 and James Vince arrived at the crease on his Test debut with b Pradeep 12 (w-1), R. Herath 6-1-17-0.

England reeling at 51 for three.

SCOREBOARD

Payless Variety Store contributes to RSTC’s Health Walk and Fitness Runs PAYLESS Variety Store recently contributed financially to the Rising Stars Track Club’s (RSTC)/Office of the President Health and Fitness Walk as well as 5K and 10K run,s scheduled for Sunday around the D’Urban Park outer circuit.

Last Tuesday, a representative (Shonel Benjamin) of the store, handed over the sponsorship cheque to executive and committee member of the RSTC, Avril Black at the store’s location, Robb and Wellington Streets, Georgetown.

According to the organisers, the activity is being staged in recognition of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary and all aspects of the event will start at Square of the Revolution.

There will be a 5k Health Walk for all age groups and

gender and is open to sports associations, clubs and anyone who is interested.

There will be a 5K run

especially athletics clubs throughout Guyana.

The route for the walk as well as the 5K and 10K

RSTC’s executive and race organising committee member Avril Black (left) accepts the sponsorship cheque from Payless Variety Store’s representative Shonel Benjamin. as well as a 10K run and all interested persons are invited to be a part of it

runs starts in front the 1763 Monument, moves south to Hadfield Street east up

Hadfield Street, north on Mandela Avenue, west down Homestretch Avenue to finish at the place of origin.

To date the organisers have received pledges of support from a number of local businesses including the following: Banks DIH Limited, GT&T, Real Value, BK International Inc, S&L Electrical, Antarctic Maintenance, Bran’s Security, Kevin Jeffrey, Corona Beer and Cummings Electrical.

Already on board are E-Networks, Wartsila, Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Ming’s Products and Services, Toucan Industries, E-Networks and Office of the President.

Interested persons can register their names at the Michael Parris Gym in the National Park, at E-Networks or Fitness Express on Sheriff Street.

NSC to set up National Athletes Database THE National Sports Commission (NSC) is in the process of putting together its own database of national athletes to better monitor and offer assistance to national athletes in the varying sporting disciplines.

Speaking with Chronicle Sport, Director of Sport Christopher Jones said that the Commission has already begun consultations on how to go about setting up the database and money is being budgeted for the initiative.

“We’re currently in the process of meeting with e-governance for guidance.” Jones said.

A system that will need to include athletes from all 42 varying sporting disciplines that the NSC has listed will be no easy task, and will take a lot of time and resources before it will be up and running.

However, Jones noted this database will go a far way in assisting the NSC to help the athletes.

Once the database is set up, Jones said, the NSC would be looking to collaborate with the Ministry of Public Health and the Ministry CHRISTOPHER JONES of Education, to better assist the athletes with amenities such as preferential health care when injured, as well as academic scholarships.

According to Jones, in the not-too-distant future the NSC will be looking to offer scholarships to national athletes, as a means of rewarding athletes who do well. Although the NSC will not rule out scholarships overseas, they are looking to start on the local front.

“We are in talks with the Ministry of Education, hoping that we can offer scholarships to the athletes.

Charity starts at home, so essentially we hope to begin at the University of Guyana. In addition there’s a whole host of scholarships that can be had overseas, and we will be scouting for these scholarships as well.” Jones stated.

Once up and running, the database will be kept up-todate, being constantly updated by the Commission with each new achievement that the athletes make.

This will give the NSC firsthand information on how the athletes are developing and will better enable the organisation to monitor them.

“We’re taking it in stages. First we have to know what we have, and have them constantly updated then we will be able to monitor their progress.” Jones explained.

Jones did not rule out that the database could also be a good source of the athletes’ achievements when making decisions such as selecting them for a National Sports Award.

Once realised, such a database will be the first of its kind known to exist in Guyana.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday May 20, 2016) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Chris Gayle (RCB) (2) Chris Gayle-608 runs (RCB)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who top-scored in the IPL 2011 final?

(2) Who had the best bowling figures in the IPL 2011 final?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 20, 2016

Team Guyana arrives safely in Jamaica

By Stephan Sookram in Jamaica, compliments of the National Sport Commission, Rent-a-Tent, Buy Me Auto Sales and B.M. Soat Auto Sales GUYANA’S team of motor racers arrived safely in Jamaica for the first leg of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) 2016 at the Jamwest Raceway this weekend.

The team, who will be led

by CMRC Group 4 defending champion Kristian Jeffrey and includes his father Kevin, both of whom will be competing in the four-wheel drive class of the recently split Group 4 division with Mitsubishi Evolutions.

Additionally, Danny

… Matthew Vieira joins the superstock party

Team Guyana pose for a picture at the Norman Manley International Airport Jamaica. (Stephan Sookram photo) Persaud (Mazda Miata) and Mohan Rangasammy (Mazda RX-7) will be Guy-

ana’s representative in the two-wheel drive Group 4 divisions as well as Group

3 where they will be joined

by Nazim Gafoor (Mazda Miata) and as Rameez Mo-

hammed (Honda Civic).

Gafoor will be doubling up alongside Mohammed at the

Group 2 level as well to try to get Guyana off to the required start needed in order to defend their country title.

Meanwhile, Matthew Vieira has confirmed that he will also be taking part in the super-stock class of the CMRC. Vieira, who had not been initially named to the team, flew his bike to Jamaica today in an attempt to join the battle for Team Guyana.

The young Vieira will join his cousins Elliot and Stephen along with Paul Yearwood and Leroy Cort to make up team Guyana.

Today’s session will allow drivers and riders the opportunity at their first free practice while qualifying will take place tomorrow.

Melville, Wiltshire shine as Woodpecker Squash gets underway ALEX Melville and Larissa Wiltshire shone brightly when the Guyana Squash Association (GSA)/Woodpecker Products National Junior Championships got underway on Tuesday evening at the Georgetown Club Courts, Camp Street, Georgetown.

According to a release from the GSA, Melville, playing the Boys Under-19 category defeated Daniel Islam 11-1, 11-3, 11-6, while Wiltshire, playing in the same age group, but in the Girls’ category, thrashed Sarah Lewis 11-1, 11-4, 11-2.

Also in winners’ row on Tuesday night were Taylor Fer-

nandes who trounced Makeda Harding 11-1, 11-3, 11-8 in the Girls’ Under-19 while in the Boys’ Under-19, Alex Cheeks bettered Matthew Phang 11-4, 11-7, 5-11, 11-9.

In the Boys’ Under-11 category, Michael Alphonso defeated Nathan Rahaman 11-4, 11-1, 11-3; Ethan Jonas upstaged James Mekdeci 8-11, 11-8, 11-1, 11-0 and Demetrius De Abreu got the better of Kamir Khan 11-4, 11-2, 11-6.

In the Girls’ Under-13 age group, Kirsten Gomes thrashed Haley Carpenter 11-4, 11-6, 11-

Also addressing members of the media was Jamaica’s technical director Tezra Sannister, who stated that they were both physically and

ready and we have already identified players to keep an eye on but on a whole we are ready for the game.”

President of the Guy-

LARISSA WILTSHIRE

1; Madison Fernandes blanked Teija Edwards 11-0, 11-0, 11-0 and Abosaide Cadogan got past Aliyah Persaud 11/5, 11/3, 11/5.

The Boys’ Under-15 age group saw Daniel Islam rout John Phang 11-2, 11-0, 11-1; Anthony Islam overcome Samuel Ince-Carvahal 11-3, 11-3, 11-4; Shomari Wiltshire overwhelm Jason Gomes 11-1, 11-1, 11-2 and Gianni Carpenter get the better Lucas Jonas 11/8, 11/5, 11/7.

In the Boys’ Under-17 cat-

National ruggers ready for clash with Jamaica THE Guyana Rugby Team, known as the Green Machine, will take on the Jamaican National Rugby team tomorrow.

The game is Guyana’s second qualifier for the 2019 Rugby World Cup. The game also serves as Jamaica’s third qualifier.

In a press conference yesterday at Olympic House in High Street, the Guyana Rugby Football Union, where both Jamaica and Guyana team captains and team directors were present, Guyana captain Richard Staglon said his team had their preparations hampered by the persistent rains but still they got work done.

“We used alternative grounds, and Guyana have always been a fit team and currently we are 95% fit,” said Staglon

the red flag was on it.

“We are asking for persons to stay off the field between now and tomorrow, we need the pitch in working

(L-R) Jamaica skipper Hubert Thomas, technical director Tezra Sannister, GRFU president Peter Green, Guyana captain Richard Staglon. Peabo Hamilton, Avery Corbin (background) mentally prepared for the game and they believed they equalled Guyana in skills.

Echoing those sentiments was the Jamaican skipper Hubert Thomas, “We’re

ana Rugby Federation, Peter Green, implored fans to come out and support the team tomorrow but hoped that the rugby field in the National Park would be left as is when

condition to avoid injury and when the red flag is on the field persons must stay off.”

The game is scheduled for tomorrow at the National Park at 16.00hrs.

egory, Alex Cheeks got past Anthony Islam 11-9, 13-11, 11-8, while on the distaff side, Rebecca Low overpowered

Maya Collins 11-6, 11-8, 11-6.

Matches continue this evening at the same venue starting at 18:00hrs.

Doping findings rough for athletics - Bolt OLYMPIC sprint champion Usain Bolt said the finding of 31 positive doping samples from the 2008 Beijing Olympics marked a rough point for athletics, but backed the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) in its effort to crack down on drug use in the sport.

Thirty-one athletes from six sports could be banned from this year’s Rio Olympics after failing dope tests when 454 samples were reexamined from the 2008 Games, the International Olympic Committee said on Tuesday.

“It’s rough in the sport,” the six-time Olympic Champion told British media. “Something that’s been tarnishing the sport for years.”

The IOC said it USAIN BOLT would begin re-testing athletes likely to take part in the Rio Games to prevent any drug cheats from competing.

“Hopefully, we can take steps forward in making the sports better and in the coming years we won’t have these problems,” said Bolt, 29.

“But I think it’s a process, and I think over time we will get better because they’re (WADA) doing such a good job.”

Bolt will take part in the 100m at the Golden Spike IAAF World Challenge in Ostrava in the Czech Republic today.

(Reporting by Nivedita Shankar in Bengaluru; Editing by Janet Lawrence) Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt plays with a tennis racquet during a news conference before the Ostrava Golden Spike athletics meeting, in Prague, Czech Republic, May 18, 2016. (Reuters/David W Cerny)

Doping findings rough for athletics - Bolt See story on page 31

DIGICEL Schools Football championship launched

See story on page 27

(L-R) Christopher Jones, Wayne Forde, Wismar representative Tevin Crawford, Nalini Veira, Covent Garden students with kits, CEO Kevin Kelly, Chase Academy captain Jeremy Garrett, Lovern Fraser and Jacqueline James (Adrian Narine photo)

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FRIDAY, MAY 20, 2016