Chronicle 10 21 2015

GUYANA No. 104348

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 21, 2015

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NCN CEO gets higher pay than ministers … new board uneasy about performance

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Teen mom dies after third 3 C-section Page

First Lady Mrs Sandra Granger views some of the handicraft works during a trip to Linden on Tuesday. The First Lady was in Linden to launch a workshop aimed at helping women start up their own businesses (See story on page 10)

Baby killer surrenders

Nikacia Allen

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CJIA sacks security officer - for stealing passenger’s money P. 14

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Mechanical street sweepers to boost Georgetown cleanup CEVON’s Waste Management yesterday introduced their two recently-acquired mechanical street sweepers, costing approximately $12.8M each. Chief executive officer Morse Archer said that the sweepers will clean almost every street in Georgetown, but will focus mainly on the major ones at least thrice weekly. He said that the sweepers will be in operation at around 20:00hrs (8:00pm) when the traffic flow is reduced, giving them a chance to clean the streets properly. Meanwhile, Town Clerk Royston King welcomed the street sweepers and disclosed that he is looking forward to the partnership with Cevon’s, given that City Hall has already been working hard to cleanup Georgetown.

Town Clerk Royston King (left) and another official of the M&CC being shown the sweepers of the machine by CEVON’s CEO Morse Archer.

The new street sweeper in action

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Teen mom dies after third C-section

By Leroy Smith SEVENTEEN-year-old Nikacia Allen, a mother of three of Matthews Ridge, N o r t h We s t D i s t r i c t , reportedly died Sunday at the Georgetown hospital almost one month after having her third baby by Cesarean section (C-Section). Speaking with the media late yesterday at her lawyers’ o ff i c e i n G e o rg e t o w n , Allen’s mother said since her daughter delivered last month, she was never allowed to properly regain consciousness, as the doctors at the hospital kept sedating her so she won’t feel the pain associated with the surgical procedure. She even admitted, in the presence of her lawyers and relatives, that the doctors did warn against her daughter h a v i n g a t h i r d b a b y, since she had her second Caesarian some two years ago, as doing so would be too risky. “I was not aware that she was pregnant when they did the second surgery for her; they put in a five-year coil, but it was bothering her,

and she went and take it out because she was bleeding a lot,” Allen’s mother said, adding: “I advise her to use contraceptives or condoms or those things; but, you know, young people don’t hear you... And then she went into the interior and work.” But despite knowing all this, Allen’s mother is still of the view that her daughter’s death could have been avoided, as she knows of other persons who would have had three Caesareans and are still alive. She said, too, that she is also aware that after the third child, doctors would usually ‘tie-off ’ the individual’s womb. It is with this in mind, she said, that she is seeking justice, in the hope that another mother does not suffer the same fate as her daughter did. She told reporters also that she strongly believes that there is something about her daughter’s death that the doctors at the Georgetown Hospital are not telling her, and she needs the answers. She has, however, not

lodged any official complaint with either the Hospital or the Ministry of Health in relation to the matter. Said she: “I asked the doctor more than one time; I said, ‘Doctor, why you cannot tell me what happen to my daughter? Why you cannot tell me what happen? I am the mother; tell me what happen, or what go wrong.’ But I did not want to tell them, ‘Well, explain to me what y’all do, because I know that something gone wrong...’” R e c a l l i n g Nikacia Allen events leading up complaining of having to her daughter’s demise, labour pains. from the time she was Her first C-Section, her admitted to hospital to the mother recalled, was some day she closed her eyes, four years ago, when she had the woman said Allen her eldest child; the second was admitted to hospital was some two years ago. on September 20, 2015, This time around, and was taken down to she said, she distinctly the theatre the following remembers her daughter day to have the baby, after

being taken back to the operation room after having the baby, as she had had two bouts of seizures. At the time, she said, she didn’t know that her daughter had to undergo surgery, as she was not approached by the hospital or the doctors to sign any papers authorising it. A f e w d a y s a f t e r, she said, she asked the doctors if her child was still bleeding, and they replied in the affirmative, saying she never did stop bleeding. As one doctor explained, they were forced to remove her daughter’s womb, as it had become infected. Here again, she said, she was never asked to give consent, bearing in mind that her daughter, in spite of having three children, was still underage. It was at this point, Allen’s mother said, that the doctors held a meeting with her, and one of the first questions she asked was how it was that the baby was so healthy when the womb was infected. Of course, the doctors could not give her a logical explanation.

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They did tell her, however, that the reason they decided to remove her daughter’s womb was so as to save her life, which, to her, was counter-productive as her daughter still died. “One month after,” the distraught woman said, “she lying there all the time, and as fast as she recovers from it, they sedating her; they sedating her all the time, because of the pain she went through. This is the Georgetown Public Hospital for you.” She said she was also told by the doctors that in addition to removing the womb, they’d had to insert a tube to help her daughter breathe, as the heavy bleeding had s e v e re l y a f f e c t e d h e r brain. The woman is adamant that prior to being admitted to the hospital to have the baby, her daughter was as healthy as an ox. She would know, she said, as it was she who took her to the hospital. She says age or not, she has no intention of giving up her grandchildren, as whatever she eats, they will eat too.

Baby killer had hooked up with granny in jail MARC Angoy the 45-yearold man who shot and killed a baby on Sunday at her grandmother’s Eastville East Coast Demerara home is now claiming that the shooting was accidental. Angoy surrendered to police on Tuesday. This newspaper was informed by the police that the man who was up to late last evening detailing what really transpired on the day of the shooting explained that his intended target was the child’s grandmother who had dumped him and later

took out a restraining order against him. He informed the police that he became very incensed after the woman took out a restraining order against him after all that he had done for her over the years. He also confirmed that the woman was aware that he was charged and on remand for murder in the past. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum confirmed to the Guyana Chronicle that the man did admit to shooting the baby girl accidentally. Angoy reportedly told

Murder Accuse: Marc Angoy

the ranks that when he showed up at the home of the woman on Sunday he went in from the back and saw a movement in the kitchen which he thought to be that of the woman and immediately opened fire. However, the person whom he managed to hit was actually one of the woman’s young daughters who was at the time holding the two-year-old toddler. The man then began shooting indiscriminately with the target being his ex-lover. Angoy told the police that

after he was released from prison he worked very hard in the interior selling marijuana to maintain the woman and ensured that she got everything that she needed. Asked how and where the man first met the woman, the suspect told police investigators that while he was on remand for murder he accidentally dialed a wrong number from inside the Camp Street Jail while he was attempting to make a cell phone call to someone else.

He said that from there he continued communicating with the woman and they struck up a relationship. After he was acquitted of the murder charge and re l e a s e d f ro m p r i s o n , the man and the woman met and concretised their relationship and he left and went into the interior where he began supporting the woman financially. Angoy reportedly said that he was very remorseful over his actions which caused the innocent child to be killed. (Leroy Smith)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday October 21, 2015

Canada’s new Liberal PM Trudeau under pressure to perform (Reuters) CANADA’S Prime Minister-designate Justin Trudeau, having trounced his Conservative rivals, will face immediate pressure to deliver on a swathe of election promises, from tackling climate change to legalizing marijuana. Trudeau toppled Stephen Harper’s Conservatives to win a majority on Monday, giving him the freedom to start implementing his campaign pledges largely unimpeded. The 43-year-old son of former prime minister Pierre Trudeau was swept to victory with 39.5 percent of the popular vote in an election that saw the highest voter turnout since 1993. The win marked a turn in political fortunes that smashed the record for the number of seats gained from one election to the next. The center-left Liberals had been a distant third-place

touch of glamour, youth and charisma to Ottawa. Britain’s Daily Mirror newspaper asked “Is Justin Trudeau the sexiest politician in the world?” while an Australian news website was more direct: “The votes are in and Canada has come out of its election with a super hot new leader.” Trudeau, who kicked off his first morning as prime minister-designate by greeting astonished voters at a Montreal subway station in his home constituency, held a rally in Ottawa on Tuesday. “This afternoon we can celebrate but the work is only beginning,” Trudeau,

Liberal leader and Canada’s Prime Ministerdesignate Justin Trudeau takes the stage during a rally in Ottawa, Ontario, October 20, 2015. Reuters/Chris Wattie

party before the vote. Trudeau campaigned on a promise of change, striking a chord with Canadians weary of nine years of Conservative rule. Harper resigned as party leader after the defeat. “When the time for change strikes, it’s lethal,” former Conservative Prime Minister Brian Mulroney

said in a television interview. Trudeau, a telegenic father of three, also returns a

speaking in French, told several hundred jubilant supporters in Ottawa. The Liberal leader will have to quickly start delivering on his promises to change policy, beginning with a U.N. climate change summit in Paris in December. Major allies have told Canada it needs to commit to more ambitious targets for cutting emissions of greenhouse gases. “Canada has also made a substantial and important commitment in advance of the Paris climate talks. We believe that it’s possible that there is more that Canada can do in this regard,” White House spokesman Josh Earnest told reporters

at a briefing on Tuesday. The White House also said it hopes the new Canadian government will continue to support the efforts of the U.S.-led coalition to fight Islamic State militants in Syria and Iraq. Trudeau has pledged to withdraw Canada’s CF-18 bombers from the coalition fight but maintain humanitarian aid and training. U.S. President Barack Obama was expected to telephone Trudeau to congratulate him on his win, Earnest said. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said Harper’s defeat will not affect Kerry’s decision on whether to approve the controversial Keystone XL pipeline between the two countries.

Slovenia to ask EU for police back-up to cope with influx of migrants Austria and beyond. Attempts by Slovenia to stem the flow of migrants since Hungary sealed its border with Croatia on Friday have triggered a knock-on effect through the Balkans, with thousands held up at border crossings. About 19,500 migrants have entered Slovenia since Friday, the Interior Ministry said, creating bottlenecks as migrants attempted to find new routes through the region. Slovenian authorities said

(Reuters) BETWEEN 1,500 and 2,500 migrants will spend Tuesday night at the Berkasovo-Bapska border crossing between Serbia and Croatia, some of them sleeping on the ground covered with blankets, the U.N. refugee agency (UNHCR) said. Slovenia meanwhile is to ask the European Union to send additional police forces to its border with Croatia to help it deal with thousands of migrants streaming into the tiny country on their way to

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some 6,000 migrants will stay in Slovenia but all of them will be sheltered in refugee camps. At least 12,100 migrants were currently in Serbia, the prime minister said on Tuesday. About 6,000 migrants had entered Austria from Slovenia on Tuesday, a police spokesman in Styria province said. About 3,000 had arrived on Monday. “We need fast assistance of the European Union,” Slovenian President Borut Pahor

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told a news conference in Brussels after meeting European Council President Donald Tusk and EU chief executive Jean-Claude Juncker. “Slovenia will formally ask for additional police forces to guard the border between Slovenia and Croatia and for financial help,” he said. In the last two days, the former Yugoslav republic has deployed 140 soldiers to the border to assist the police, Interior Secretary of State Bostjan Sefic told reporters.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Rambharat: New locations and focus for agriculture

(Trinidad Guardian) AGRICULTURE Minister Clarence Rambharat yesterday announced that staff of his ministry are being relocated to rural areas for easier access to the country’s farming communities. In addition, he said, laws will be amended so that the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and the National Agricultural Marketing and Development Company (Namdevco) can be moved to Chaguanas. The minister said these major changes with take place within the next few months as he seeks to position his ministry to advance agriculture in the country. Speaking at yesterday’s World Food Day celebrations at the Norris Deonarine Northern Wholesale Market, Macoya, Rambharat said staff of the ministry spent too many of their productive hours in traffic. “We cannot have people commuting from Fyzabad to put in a day work in Port-of-Spain when the issues they are dealing with relate to Fyzabad and south west,” he said. “We are not only moving (the ministry’s head office from) St Clair to Chaguanas, we are moving employees of the ministry into the rural areas, rebuilding where we need to, fixing and expanding where we need to, every rural office of this ministry, so that those workers could work close to where they live and provide the services to people.” Rambharat said ministry will focus on three things in first year, which have nothing to do with increasing production in cocoa or any commodity. One is improving the structure of the ministry to form “one happy house.” “In each ministry we have a lot of floaters,” he said, adding that many of the short term employees were “not qualified to work in a ministry that requires technical and specialist support.” He said when those contracts ended in September the Permanent Secretary advised that “we review the staffing requirements in lands, fisheries, forestry and agriculture before we rehire or hire one more person.” He the ministry will soon be advertising for qualified technical staff who can put ministry in a forward motion. He said the major issue facing ministry was not so much the food import bill, or increasing food production but focusing on contribution of agriculture and fisheries to household incomes, particularly rural economies. He said at a recent meeting of senior staff there was “a house full of people, many, many people” but in his discussions to date “no one person could set me right on the future of honey in this country. Not one person could give me a clear direction on cocoa.” He said the Praedial Larceny Squad is headquartered in Beetham with offices in Curepe and Princes Town and there is “absolutely nothing from Curepe to Toco to Moruga, where all the farming and most likely all the challenges take place.” He said the squad will be transferred to the Ministry of National Security. The minister said the Agricultural Society “will be made to account for taxpayers money.”

Reparation talks still on - Golding

(Jamaica Gleaner) THE Jamaican Government remains committed to pursuing the issue of reparation for the historical injustice of African slavery with the United Kingdom, according to Minister of Justice, Mark Golding. He told The Gleaner it was regrettable that the recent public debate about the proposed prisoner transfer has been mixed up with the reparation discussion, with which it has nothing to do. He said that the Government remains resolute in its position on reparation. CAN’T JUST GET OVER SLAVERY “The reparation debate and the reparation movement is a movement which we are committed to and which we will pursue over time, through the CARICOM structures that have been put in place for that purpose. We have many Jamaicans living in the United Kingdom, many Jamaicans travel to the United Kingdom every year, and we are not trying to subvert the normal relations that Jamaica has had ... and has enjoyed benefits from since Independence,” he noted. “Having said that, we are committed to bringing to the United Kingdom’s attention that we can’t just get over slavery, contrary to what Prime Minister (David) Cameron suggested. ... The lingering effects of the past on our people continue

and, therefore, this is not a situation that is going to go away. “It has to be confronted but we want to do so with respect, without undermining the relationship between our two countries, which is mutually beneficial and that is something which we are committed to pursuing,” Golding told The Gleaner. MOVE ON In his address to a joint sitting of the Houses of Parliament during a recent working visit, Cameron urged the region to move on from the legacy of slavery, which he described as “abhorrent” in all forms. “That the Caribbean has emerged from the long, dark shadow it cast is testament to the resilience and spirit of its people. I acknowledge that these wounds run very deep indeed. But I do hope that, as friends who have gone through so much together since those darkest of times, we can move on from this painful legacy and continue to build for the future,” he said. Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, who welcomed the UK leader before he made his presentation to lawmakers, said she discussed the “difficult issue of reparation” with Cameron, which is being considered by the Caribbean Community.

Teachers underpaid, undervalued By Miranda La Rose

(Trinidad Newsday)TEACHERS are under- appreciated and underpaid in this country although they are responsible on a daily basis for the future and success of youths, President of Howard University (HU) and St Mary’s alumnus Dr Wayne Frederick said Monday. “One of the things we must do is invest in them (teachers), making sure we pay them appropriately,” he said noting, “one of the things I have noticed as I visited here is that we undervalue teachers in this country.” Frederick, one of the latest inductees into the school’s Hall of Fame, yesterday told students in an address at an appreciation ceremony for alumnus who obtained 2014- 2015 Open and Additional scholarships at St Mary’s College, Port-of-Spain, to thank teachers on a regular basis for things they do, in order to ensure their success. Urging students to focus on their education, because it will take them from school to where they want to be, Frederick cautioned, “but you should not get there and get obsessed with the trappings of success. You should not get obsessed with how much money you make.” Any education they receive, he said, will only come alive when they go out into the world and

change it for the better. That was “the beauty of a St Mary’s education,” he said while describing his alma mater as the “finest secondary institution in the world.” At St Mary’s, Frederick recalled, he learnt many things, chief of which were academic excellence, discipline and self-regulation, respect, moral ethics, and friendship. While at St Mary’s he was also in and out of hospital. His mother, a nurse, would also work double shifts on the ward to be close to him, while he was hospitalised. Children born at the time with SCD, he said, were expected to live to eight years, the time span given to Frederick’s parents. Frederick, nevertheless graduated from St Mary’s at age 16, and went on to HU where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree, and a doctor of medicine degree on a six-year programme. He also completed his surgical residency training at HU. Frederick also obtained a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from HU, in 2011. He completed his post-doctoral research and surgical oncology fellowships at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and began his academic career at the University of Connecticut. He returned to Howard in 2006 where he has held several leadership positions.

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Guyana

Recruitment of new GO-Invest CEO

Dear Editor

EDITORIAL

The deeper meaning of sport

THROUGHOUT time, mankind has been competing, whether it is to see who the alpha male in the pack was, or to see who could bring home the biggest caribou for dinner time. It is enshrined in us, this need to see who is better. No one puts it better than Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda, who says, “There is no life without sport and no sport without competition.” But how many of us recognise this? How many people realise the role of grassroot sports, its roles and the impact on nation-building? Sure people see a huge crowd at a football game but what people don’t do is look at the deeper meaning. When we go to a local football game, a cricket match or even a basketball game, there is no disparity in social class, ethnic background or age; there are just fans. Fans of a football team do not care who’s rich and who’s poor, they are all fans together and it’s this sort of approach we need to develop as a country. Let’s look at it. The same goals that apply for a sport are the obvious goals that apply for the development of nations, both small and large. The United Nations Report on the International Year of Sport and Physical Education 2005 highlighted the benefits that sport can bring in building national identity, especially at the level of elite sport. It said, “Sport can provide a positive image of the nation to the international community. Studies on specific cases have shown that sport, especially football, can positively contribute to strengthening national pride and forming a cohesive national identity.” That nationalistic pride that fills one when one’s country’s flag is being displayed at the Olympics or at the FIFA World Cup and even moreso when the National Anthem is being played is only one example of the unifying power of sport. More importantly, it erases those lines that often times act as barriers to development. Often times we see individuals who don’t want to engage each other due to reasons that sometimes are flimsy and downright stupid but if we are serious about nation building, then sport is the way to break these barriers. We take a stroll back to just a few years ago when Guyana was in the initial stages of drafting the Cricket Administration Bill the West Indies Cricket Board had downright rejected this act. However, the importance of this matter in the National Assembly led to both the

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday October 21, 2015

A RECENT news item in at least one section of the media informed that the Government of Guyana has engaged a recruitment agency to conduct the “search” for suitable candidates to head the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest). The article did not name the recruitment agency, neither did it give any information about the methodology to be employed in the conduct of this search. Could the Minister of Business advise how the recruited “recruitment agency” intends to conduct this search, and whether this post will be advertised? Investment promotion and facilitation are critical

to a country’s development, particularly at this time when the global economy and trading patterns are undergoing significant changes. There are scores of countries currently in active pursuit of investment in their economies. Just last week, there were more than 30 countries aggressively touting the advantages of their investment climates and incentives to US. businesses at the Florida International Trade and Cultural Conference and Expo, held at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center. Among those countries were Britain, Germany, France, Bahrain, China, Peru, Brazil, Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, Haiti, Macedonia and Sweden, which I cite as examples, given the geographic spread and varying sizes of their

economies. Guyana needs investment in new sectors of the economy. One sector that received significant attention at the conference was the creative industries. Two papers, one entitled ‘Toward Financial Impact: Import/ Export of Caribbean Creative Industries’, presented by Trinidadian Marielle Barrow of the Washington DC based organisation Caribbean Intransit; and the other, an IDB study done by Ramesh Chaitoo, entitled ‘The Entertainment Sector in CARICOM: Key challenges and Proposals for Action’, were among the papers discussed at the panel that focused on ‘The Importance of Culture in the Global Economy.’ According to Ms. Barrow, Guyana has significant

potential for investment in, and development of, its creative industries’ sector. She has visited Guyana but is of the view that, unlike Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, Guyana is still to place significant emphasis on the structured development of this sector. The Government of Guyana must ensure that the search for a new chief executive of Go-Invest is conducted in such a way that as many suitable candidates as possible can be considered for the position. This will be possible only if the methodology of the search ensures that the vacancy is well advertised. Regards, WESLEY KIRTON

Amerindian miners must know they are subject to all laws like other miners Dear Editor I HAVE noticed in the media that the Jawalla Village Council is complaining about a decision handed down by the High Court stating that the Mazaruni River is not part of the Amerindian titled lands. The High Court decision resulted from the Jawalla Village Council filing an ex-parte application in the Full Court for an injunction to stop Timna Mining Guyana Inc. from trespassing and mining on village lands, and to stop the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) from issuing permission to the company

to operate within the boundaries of the village property. Chief Justice Ian Chang and High Court Judge Rishi Persaud ruled that as the Mazaruni River is not part of the Jawalla Village property, the application for injunction would be refused. Council members claim they were not represented in the matter that they had filed before the court. For the record, the Council retained the services of the law firm Hughes, Fields and Stoby, and was represented by no other than the eminent citizen, politician, and legal eagle, Mr. Nigel Hughes, at the Full Court hearing. Additionally, the Village Council complained that pol-

government side and the main opposition agreeing that this piece of legislation was paramount in getting the sport back on the road. Hence it was passed. Another important factor that is often overlooked as it relates to nation building and sport, are the actual athletes. People tend to respect and hold players in high regard. Personally, I feel that many of these sport officials and athletes are not properly used to convey messages - often time messages of discipline, mannerisms and general attitudes.” These are only a few of the examples of the power of sport and its ultimate step in

lution of the river was creating problems, with the village being unable to access clean water and, in this particular case, the village youths being unable to bathe in the river etc. These complaints are now quite familiar to all. What is noteworthy is that the Village Council did not inform the media that, with a population of approximately 1,400, Jawalla residents own and operate about 44 land dredges. Needless to state, these land dredges will produce more mud and silt than a river dredge. Additionally, at the time the complaint was filed, a relative of the village captain had a river dredge working in close proximity to the

Timna Mining Dredge. The undersigned noted with great interest the statement of Minister of Governance, Raphael Trotman, at a meeting he held with the Board of Directors of the GGMC. He said there will no longer be free passes. I hope this sentiment would be communicated to the Amerindian communities which are involved in mining, since it is well known that several mining operations are being conducted illegally, that is to say, without permission of the GGMC and in violation of the Mining Act and regulations. It must be made pellucid that being an AmerindiSee Page 7

nation building and even clearer are the reasons why sport is being looked at more and more for its off-field value as well. Perhaps it might be useful that we remember the words of Abhishek Bachchan: “When I was in school, sport was given utmost importance. I think it’s fantastic for character building, for team playing, and I think it’s a great profile for a nation. One in every six people on Earth is an Indian, and I look forward to the day when we can compete with the heavyweights of the sporting world and do well in the medal tally.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Consensus needed on date for Diwali Dear Editor

IT DOES appear that Viraat Sabhaa is the new official authoritative voice for matters pertaining and relating to the Hindu religion, thus effectively displacing the decades old Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS). How a virtually unknown organisation can suddenly come on the scene and replace a well-established, decades old organisation in such a sensitive matter beats me. One would have thought that this controversy would have been referred to the Minister of Social Cohesion for a mutually acceptable outcome, instead of what is taking place. It is regrettable that common ground and consensus could not be found in the matter of dates for the observance of the Festival of Lights -- Diwali. This controversy will, no doubt, cast a pall on observances which have seen Guyanese countrywide participating. It is hoped the factions in disagreement will cast aside their acrimony and celebrate and observe Diwali in its true spirit -- the triumph of light over darkness -- and in unity. Regards, SHAMSHUN MOHAMED

Ramotar, other PPP leaders face $2.5 billion libel and slander lawsuit Amerindian miners...

From Page 6 erindian does not exempt anyone from being subject to the Laws of Guyana, which include the Mining Act and regulations and the Tax Code. It must be pointed out that this means that an Amerindian must also receive permission from the GGMC to operate his/her mining equipment; and must be subject to inspection by the GGMC of his/her mining operation, lodge the necessary environmental bonds like all miners, sell his/her gold to the Gold Board or to a licensed dealer, and pay his/her royalties and taxes, as well as the tax for his/her tributors.

EDWARD SHIELDS Executive Director (Retired)

These are the things that bother me Dear Editor

THESE are just a few lines on a few matters which were reported in the press recently. 1: Increases for ministers, etc were published in the Official Gazette on September 25, but none of the independent newspapers thought it necessary to publish same. Only Guyana Times, one week later, made the release, and then the other papers followed. Is it a case where the press was told by the Government not to publish this news item? 2: The U.S. Embassy officials are blaming the whole world for nations allowing drugs to leave their shores. The U.S. is worried that these drugs enter the USA. Why does not the USA protect its borders and let other countries look after theirs? 3: Prime Minister Nagamootoo has said he has appointed Dr Ramayyah as REO, but Minister Bulkan is saying that Dr Ramayyah was appointed after advertisement, etc. Can Minister Bulkan say when and where the advertisement was advertised? 4: I think Minister Cathy Hughes is ‘targeting’ her co-Minister Ramjattan. She reportedly did not speak with him, but sent him an e-mail to remove the jaguar skin from his office wall. Are they not on speaking terms? And I use the word ‘targeting’ because she said that she’s ‘looking into the efficacy of nightclubs closing at 2 am. Does anyone remember Ramjattan threatening to bring forward the closing time to midnight? Would this not affect Minister Hughes’s businesses? If dialogue is a dead deal between ministers, what about the citizenry? Back to point one: there has been no discussion with those whose taxes will pay the humongous increases for ministers. 5: The PNC sold lands to Beepat for his storeroom for a few million dollars. Is that a part of the property which the Government gave to the PNC, or did the PNC take over the land? 6: So the former Leader of the Opposition, President Granger, rented premises from the Hugheses for his office for $400,000 per month? And now the Presidency has taken over the same premises. How much are the Hugheses now collecting for the rental? 7: Would those ministers and officials who occupy government quarters still be eligible to collect house allowance of thousands of dollars per month? Can the country discuss these matters? SOHAN CHETRAM

Dr. Phillip Mozart Thomas FORMER President Donald Rabindranauth Ramotar and other leaders of the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) are being sued for $2.5 billion for libel and slander by Dr. Phillip Mozart Thomas in his personal capacity and as Chairman of GNCPP and GNCSC. The action was filed in the High Court on Monday by Dr. Thomas and two organisations in which he is the chairman - the Guyana National Council on Public Policy, Inc. (GNCPP) and the Guyana National Civil Society, Inc. Council (GNCSC). Dr. Thomas had organised a Guyana National Civil Society Summit for September 17-19, 2014 at the Guyana International Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, but said he was forced to postpone it to December. Further, he is accusing Ramotar and the other PPP leaders of using their offices to maliciously and intentionally publish defamatory statements that were libellous and slanderous to his reputation and character. The other PPP leaders named in the action are General Secretary Clement Rohee, former Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr. Roger Luncheon, former Housing Minister Irfaan Ali and the perma-

Former President Donald Ramotar nent secretaries of the former Office of the President and the former Ministry of Trade, Industry and Commerce. Thomas has hired a battery of lawyers that includes Senior Counsel Stanley Marcus, Senior Counsel Richard Fields, Jonas Coddett, Saphier Husain Subedar and Lawrence Harris. Dr. Thomas is seeking a declaration and enforcement order compelling the defendants to immediately publish a complete, unqualified retraction and apology to the plaintiff for malicious interference and violation of chartered constitutional, civil and human rights; slander, libel, conspiracy to publish defamatory information, interference with economic relations, inducing breach of contract, nuisance, intimidation, defamation of character and false light invasion of privacy. Further, court documents state that the PPP carried out a campaign during and in the course of 2014 and early 2015, which amounted to breach of contract in that the former Guyana International Conference Centre, now the Arthur Chung International Conference Centre, which was entirely controlled by the defendants notified the plaintiff on the first day of their three-day scheduled Guyana National Civil Society Sum-

Former Housing Minister Irfaan Ali mit, and in the middle of the first day of the event, that they could no longer accommodate the ongoing Civil Society Summit so the conference had been forcefully terminated. The lawsuit further noted that a defamatory press release from the then Office of the President was broadcast and published by the defendants--controlled National Communications Network (NCN), the worldwide web via Internet Protocol address (IP), radio medium platform known as Fresh 100.1FM, 98.1FM, Guyana Chronicle, TV Guyana Channel 28, Guyana Times, RCA, and Radio 89.5FM. Dr Thomas stated that these malicious and fabricated acts of defamation by the defendants immediately resulted in embarrassment, humiliation, frustration, ridicule, loss of character and casting a false light in the minds of proposed attendees to the Civil Society Summit. “These utterances by the defendants which the plaintiff states were all untrue, atrocious and wholly unjustified, were broadcast and published with the most malicious intention in that they were repeated completely and/or substantially in several replays and re-broadcasts, both print and visual media,” the lawsuit stated.

GPA roasts anti-media Jagdeo for urging boycott of newspapers

THE Guyana Press Association (GPA) on Tuesday condemned calls made by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo to supporters of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) to cease buying newspapers that do not support the views of that party. Jagdeo while as President had suppressed media freedom here by banning a journalist from covering assignments at his office and also pulled advertisements from the privately owned Stabroek News. In a statement, the GPA said it has noted with much concern Jagdeo’s call to supporters. Jagdeo on October 5 at an event held at the Red House, Kingston said “Please ensure that our people don’t buy newspapers where the sole

purpose of the newspaper is to destroy your party.” The GPA views the statement by the Opposition Leader as “both dangerous and instructive.” “Dangerous, because it highlights the fact that Mr. Jagdeo is bent on stifling the growth and operations of the media, something which he brazenly practised as President when he withdrew state advertisements from the Stabroek News. Instructive, because Mr. Jagdeo’s missive demonstrates that he understands the powerful role of the free press,” the GPA noted. The association believes that the utterances made by the former president were

intended to “stifle the revenue base of the privately owned media” and frustrate their [privately-owned media] efforts to provide the nation with news and information. “The Guyana Press Association condemns Mr Jagdeo’s statement and that of any other politician or official who attempts to thwart the work of the free press,” the statement added. The local media, the association said “continues to be the watchdog of our democratic processes and the Guyana Press Association rallies around a free and independent press.” The GPA encouraged all media workers to continue to “seek truth and report it fearlessly.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Wanted man surrenders over baby killing

MARC Angoy of Buzz Bee Dam, Craig, East Bank Demerara turned himself in to the police yesterday morning at the Grove Police Station following the wanted bulletin in relation to the murder of 13-month-old Arianne Gill who was shot and killed on Sunday in her home at Eastville Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara. According to reports, the suspect was accompanied by a lawyer when he turned himself in to the police. The baby, who sustained a single gunshot wound in the region of her shoulder on Sunday, was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Hospital. Her aunt, 12-year old Ashley Wellington, is currently receiving treatment at the same medical institution for gunshot wounds to her leg and thigh. However, the baby’s grandmother, 35-year-old Shelly Northon, who had recently severed an abusive relationship with the 45-year-old suspect, was not harmed during the attack. Northon told this publication that since the story went public, she has received several death threats from Angoy, who boldly contacted her son yesterday via text message, saying how upset he was at what had been reported. Northon called on the police yesterday for protection, since she had received a cell-phone call from Angoy stating that “I was blaming him, and that I will soon see the real

Dead: Arianne Gill

Murder Accuse: Marc Angoy

thing.” Her injured daughter, 12-year-old Ashley, told this publication that she, too, is scared. Angoy, against whom the court had granted a restraining order, paid Northon a visit on Sunday at her home at Annandale, East Coast Demerara, to make good on a promise that he would get back at her for leaving him. After the deadly deed was done, he reportedly fled the scene in a blue motorcar. Northon said that after being in an

abusive relationship with him for three long years, she finally called it quits two months ago. But according to her, Angoy was having none of it, and reportedly told her that leaving him would be the biggest mistake she would ever make. “I left him because of abuse in every way possible: Physical, mental, verbal, and emotional, every way possible,” she told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday. She said the reason Angoy targeted those two particular children was because he knew how much she loved them; how close they both were to her heart. “I normally call her ‘Princess’, and he know I care a lot for these two…” Northon said, adding: “We tried patching up the relationship many times before, but he is very abusive. He even smoked cocaine in the house, and because of his behaviour towards me, my children could not stand it and they moved out.” Looking back, she said yesterday: “I guess I’ll now have to live with the grief of making a major mistake by allowing the abuse that later ended in the murder of my grand-daughter.” A former member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Angoy, who previously operated a business in the interior, was previously incarcerated for murder but later acquitted. He was charged in 1998 for the murder of a man at Twelve-and-a-Half-Miles Issano, Mazaruni, Region 7. In addition, he was arrested several times, both as a teenager and an adult, for robbery under arms.

Fire destroys top floor of NA hotel AN eight-room hotel in New Amsterdam was on Monday evening saved from total damage thanks to the prompt response of the New Amsterdam Fire Department after smoke was seen coming from

the top of the building. Eyewitnesses around 20:00 hrs saw smoke which was followed by flames coming from the roof of La Chateau Van Fago Ketur Hotel at lot 45 Main Street, Stanleytown,

New Amsterdam, Region 6 (East Berbice/Corentyne). Firefighters quickly arrived at the scene and immediately began tackling the blaze at the top of the three-storey building. Flames were seen in the ceiling as the firefighters encountered problems accessing adequate water from two nearby fire hydrants and

dealing with the height of the building. Guyana Fire Service Berbice Divisional Officer Patrick Carmichael said that the Fire Department had to resort to the trench at Republic Road, which i s 2 0 0 m e t r e s a w a y. “However, after we spoke to an official from Guyana Water Inc., they increased the pressure and must be commended for their

support which was able to let us put out the fire with the building still standing,” Carmichael said. He noted that the Fire Department came out in full force and he was pleased with the work that his officers did. A unit from GuySuCo, Rose Hall Estate also arrived on the scene and gave support. The hotel, which was opened on Valentine’s

Day 2013, also housed a bar, Internet café, and banquet hall. At the time of the blaze, no one was in the building. The owner of the building, Suzan James, left for the United Kingdom two weeks ago and has since moved to the United States. Business had come to a standstill, and the building was closed when she left. M e a n w h i l e , Carmichael is advising persons to exercise more care and caution during this period of “the dry spell.” His comments came in the wake of another fire which on Sunday completely destroyed a small house at West Canefield Canje, Region 6, leaving three persons homeless. The divisional officer also expressed concern over the state of the Republic Road canal which was constructed as a reservoir for firefighting in the town. Heavy vegetation has taken over most of that canal. The cause of Monday night’s blaze is still unknown, but many believe it was of an electrical nature. Carmichael said it was too early to make a comment and added that an investigation would have been launched yesterday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

First Lady hosts workshop on business development in Linden By Shirley Thomas

FIRST Lady Mrs Sandra Granger yesterday declared open a four-day workshop she has sponsored on ‘Self Reliance and Success in Business,’ designed to benefit residents of Linden, Christianburg, Kwakwani, and riverine communities on the outskirts of the mining town. Held at the Christianburg Multilateral School, the workshop was well received, and was a tremendous success. It was delivered by Interweave Solutions, with representative Mr. Wayne Barrow as coach. Participants will be issued Certificates of

Participation at the end of the workshop. The formal launch was held in the school’s auditorium, while the coaching sessions were held in the Information Technology Lab. There was also an impressive exhibition of art, handicraft, condiments, and other items produced by women and girls of the community. Planned initially for 15 persons, the workshop eventually registered and coached 21 keenly enthusiastic participants from diverse backgrounds, but all with an interest in self-reliance and success in business. And despite this increase in number, there were many oth-

ers queueing up outside the doors, expressing an interest in participating in the programme. The people were all elated at the very thought that, with Mrs. Granger’s intervention, there now seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel to help the young people of Linden and its environs realise their potential and find gainful employment. However, as promised by Mrs. Granger in her opening remarks, another workshop is to be held in the new year, and will be facilitated by a core group comprising those who had benefited from the initial training, this time around.

First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger addressing the gathering at the opening of the entrepreneurial workshop. To her right is Mr. Wayne Barrow of Interweave Solutions

Participants during the first day of the workshop on Self- Reliance and Success in Business at the Christianburg Multilateral School

Mrs. Granger expressed gratitude first to Mr. Wayne Barrow of Interweave Solutions--whose brainchild the initiative was-- and to all others who were instrumental in making the workshop a reality. She expressed confidence in the facilitators to effectively deliver, and surmised that the participants were equal to the task. “I think the workshop offers opportunities to the people and to the participants, and I am hoping that they can go back in their communities and help to train people to understand the importance of being self-reliant and having a plan to succeed in business,” Mrs. Granger said. She saw the workshop as having great potential for collective work that offers structure to people’s ideas. “Also, within the workshops, they can form little communities whereby they could help each other, because I think sometimes people might have

ideas but they just need a structure within which to fit it, so they can move forward and progress,” she remarked. Mrs. Granger said that once participants are open to education, they can learn and progress, ultimately realising benefits for all. Commenting on the programme, she declared, “I am very happy with it, and am looking forward to taking it to other areas of the country.” While eager that both men and women should be involved in entrepreneurial training, Mrs. Granger expressed confidence that women’s involvement will have a tremendous ripple effect, and will undoubtedly redound to the benefit of the wider community. According to the First Lady, data indicates that once women are educated and trained successfully, they seek the same for their children. On this note, she said, the families in the community

can benefit from the training, adding: “And this is what I know will happen with this kind of workshop and some of my other projects…” The First Lady said that Mr. Wayne Barrow and his president first approached her with the proposal for holding the workshop, and she immediately saw possibilities opening up, especially for women. Meanwhile, as a mark of appreciation to the First Lady for her many kind gestures to the people of the community, Christianburg Primary and St. Aidan’s Nursery schools presented her with two floral arrangements. The bouquets were handed over by Ms. Aileen Baxter. At the beginning of the new school term, the First Lady presented uniforms to more than 120 children whose parents were unable to provide them with new uniforms for the beginning of the Christmas term.

The First Lady views exhibits at the exhibition held at the Christianburg Multilateral School yesterday

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Dynamic Airways to increase flights

DYNAMIC International Airlines is set to work collaboratively with the team assigned to organise the events for Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary, and will increase flights in and out of Guyana. The airline is said to be ready to offer more reliable services in Guyana after pulling itself together with proper management and improved systems. Dynamic has secured a back-up aircraft within the Region to prevent a repeat of last December’s predicament, when there were numerous flight problems causing a number of flights to be postponed. During a press conference yesterday at Roraima Duke Lodge, Captain Gerry Gouveia of Roraima Airways disclosed that Dynamic Airways has been operating at a 95% on-time schedule with a 90% capacity. CARGO SERVICE The U.S.-registered carrier is also seeking approval from the Guyanese authorities to launch a full c a rg o s e r v i c e b e t w e e n Georgetown and New York. This service will focus primarily on Guyanese

farmers and producers, who may be looking to penetrate the North American market w h e r e t h e r e i s a l a rg e Guyanese population. Gouveia said the U.S. authorities have already given the headway for the cargo service and all documents have since been sent to the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority for approval here. The carrier is also expected to partner with the Guyana government and other airlines to p ro m o t e G u y a n a a s a tourism destination as the country approaches its 50th Independence anniversary. Hundreds of Guyanese are expected to return home for the celebration and Dynamic intends to play a key role in ensuring that they are able to enjoy competitive flights to Guyana. Meanwhile, Chief Operations Officer of Dynamic International John Mullins, is currently in Guyana and has already held discussions with government officials and other aviation personnel. Mullins said the airline is on "firm footing" and is operating better than it had done in the past, noting that, “the carrier is now a full -schedule carrier between Georgetown and New York

- for Independence Anniversary

and management is moving to ensure better service.” Mullins recounted the problems encountered by the airline in the past and gave a

experience that again and as a community serving the Guyanese market, we do not expect the Guyanese to tolerate that," Mullins

of local produce to the New York market. Gouveia disclosed that the company has already begun engaging the government and local producers to ensure that everything is up to scratch

CAPTAIN Gouveia, along with his wife who is the manager of Roraima Group of Companies, Debbie Gouveia, shares a moment with Chief Operations Officer of Dynamic International John Mullins, (centre) and another Dynamic Airways official commitment that there will be no such repeats. "I will make sure that there is a back-up aircraft in the Region just in case, because as you know it’s Christmas time. And so as a company we will not

assured. Mullins and local handler Gouveia also announced that the airline will be making a move to support locally grown cash crops and fruits as Dynamic International is looking to get into the export

as it relates to the export of goods. “We are looking to find a mechanism to flood the New York market with Guyanese fresh produce. There is [sic] ten tons of cargo space and Dynamic intends to fill that

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cargo space with fresh fruits and vegetables,” Gouveia stated. The local handler for Dynamic International said that the company is strongly encouraged by the reception and the opportunities that exist in the sector. He said that already systems have been put in place to ensure the necessary requirements are met by the local producers and there is a hassle-free process in getting the produce into the U.S. market. “What it means is that we will have people working with Dynamic that will have to meet phytosanitary systems and regulations of the U.S. market.” The New Guyana Marketing Corporation (NGMC) has already indicated that an export market potential exists for citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruit, tangerines and limes, as well as exotic fruits such as mangoes, sapodillas, papayas, pineapples and passion fruit. Additionally, opportunities exist for a range of vegetables such as cucumber, pumpkins, watermelon, melon, saeme, bora, and callalloo within the Caribbean and North American markets.

NCN…CEO gets higher pay than ministers new board uneasy about performance

THE Chief Executive of NCN, Molly Hassan, takes home close to $1 million, but her management of state-owned radio and TV network puts her on slippery ground with the new board. The new administration has expressed dissatisfaction with the state of NCN, and now some members of the new board are said to be extremely disappointed with Hassan’s management. This leaves Hassan’s further role at the entity hanging in the balance. Sources at NCN revealed that Hassan’s pay package is as follows: Basic Salary: $707,347 Duty Allowance $25,000 Entertainment Allowance $25,000 Security Allowance $30,000 Housing Allowance $50,000 Landline Telephone fully paid, on average $5,000 Cell phone bill fully paid average $25,000 DSL Services for her home $9,980. Fridge allowance for the office $10,000. Tea Items for herself average $5,000 Vehicle and a Driver. Gratuity every six months 22.5% The salary was approved by the previous board under the influence of then information liaison to the president Kwame McCoy. Hassan’s pay package is similar to that received

by some previous Presidential Advisers, including Gail Teixeira, Odinga Lumumba and others. It is in fact almost double what current advisers to the President receive and more than some government ministers. At the recent establishment of the Board of Directors of NCN, Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo had pointed out that the state broadcaster had fallen on hard times, mainly because it did not communicate properly nor was it national. “It is a network and it is a network that Bish Panday (new NCN chairman) and his team would inherit but still has Molly Hassan a lot of cobwebs that have to be cleaned,” he said. NCN he said has tremendous potential, but yet its reach is not national today as it was before. The Rupununi and the North West District at one time received the Voice of Guyana (VoG) but no longer do. “Could you imagine living in Guyana and you can’t receive the Voice of Guyana? How awful it

is that you are tuning in and you are receiving the Voice of Venezuela, the Voice of Brazil and not the joyous voice of Guyana? It is an indictment,” the Prime Minister said. He said he has been in touch with veteran broadcaster Dr Rovin Deodat and from their discussions the prospect for extending the reach of radio appears bright. There are plans also to extend the reach of radio to the North West District, Region 8, to the Rupununi, beyond Radio Paiwomak or use Paiwomak as a booster and set up other transmitters to take signals way down south of the border. These plans, Nagamootoo said, will be shared with the new NCN Board. And still on NCN, he said that there are also plans to enhance the aesthetics of the building, pointing out that the company has the money to carry out these works. A Bob cat will be taken to the company to do some clean-up works, while 14 derelict vehicles will be removed. The new board also heard that NCN was owed in excess of $600 million, but has managed to cut this down to $200 million. NCN, the Prime Minister, said is not in debt but in receivables. The pile up in receivables occurred with the company continuing to engage persons who owe it outstanding sums. This will happen no longer, said new Chairman Bish Panday. NCN can be transformed with good leadership, Nagamootoo said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

NICIL preparing response to ‘prelim’ audit findings …claims it did no wrong, was following procedures THE National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), the Privatisation Unit, on Monday chided Kaieteur News for an article published on Sunday, October 18. NICIL, via a press release, claims that the article, titled ‘Forensic audit recommends criminal charges against Brassington,’ and utterances by Junior Finance Minister Jaipaul Sharma are premature, as it believes the assertions by Sharma were based on an “unreleased preliminary audit report of Mr. (Anand) Goolsarran.” “The facts contained in the Report will ultimately show that there has been no

evidence of illegality, fraud or corruption by NICIL,” the statement said. The preliminary report, NICIL added, fails to allege any personal enrichment of officers or directors of the entity which includes Chief Executive Officer Winston Brassington. “NICIL maintains that all actions taken by NICIL over the years on matters identified in the preliminary report, were on the lawful authority of its Boards (Privatisation Board or NICIL Board) and/ or Cabinet.” The preliminary report, the statement said, “does not allege corruption or fraud by the CEO.” The entity refutes the position taken by forensic auditor Anand

Goolsarran on the grounds that NICIL has “substantial legal advice” that says that Articles 216 and 217 of the Constitution have no bearing on NICIL. NICIL argued that if the identified articles of the Constitution were applicable, then NICIL would “be in violation of the Companies A c t a n d N I C I L’s o w n Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.” The entity maintains that NICIL does not fall within the definition of ‘Guyana’ as stated in Article 232 (1) of the Constitution and Section 5 of the Interpretation and General Clauses Act Chapter 2:01. “As a consequence, Article 216 of the Constitution is not applicable to NICIL.”

Goolsarran recommended that “disciplinary action be instituted against all those who were complicit in the violation of Article 216 and 217 of the Constitution, including the Board of Directors of NICIL, the

the Companies Act and its financial statements were not prepared in accordance with applicable accounting standards.” Ram and McRae the press release added: “Assisted NICIL is

Minister Jaipaul Sharma

Chief Executive Officer of NICIL, Winston Brassington

former Minister of Finance and the previous Cabinet, as provided for under the following sections of the Fiscal Management and Accountability (FMA) Act:(a) Section 48—Misuse of public moneys; (b) Section 49-Liability for Loss of public moneys; and (c) Section 85—Liability of Official.” Article 216 of the Constitution states that “all revenues or other moneys raised or received by Guyana (not being revenues or other moneys that are payable, by or under an Act of Parliament, into some other fund established for any specific purpose or that may, by or under such an Act, be retained by the authority that received them for the purpose of defraying the expenses of that authority) shall be paid into and form one Consolidated Fund”. N I C I L’ s p o s i t i o n on Goolsarran’s recommendation is different. The entity holds strong that it has had “clean” audit opinions from 2002 to 2013 and that is evidence that the Auditor General (current) does not consider NICIL to be in violation of Articles 216 and 217. In 2001, NICIL said it received advice from Ram and McRae that “clearly showed, that NICIL prior to 2002, had violated

preparing its accounts in proper accounting form, after which it received a clean audit opinion. At no time, did NICIL receive advice that it had to deposit all of its revenue into the Consolidated Fund.” NICIL believes that if it in contravention of Articles 216 and 217 then “all state-owned entities would be similarly guilty” as it operates like any other company under the Companies Act. “Further, this would defeat the very purpose of having government conduct commercial business via companies,” the statement added. Also, NICIL stressed that there is no legal precedent or court ruling that suggests that NICIL “is obliged to deposit its revenues into the Consolidated Fund or that Articles 216 and 217 are applicable to NICIL.” Goolsarran in the preliminary report recognised that from 1991 to 2001, NICIL transferred $3.415 B to the Consolidated Fund. “Between 2002 and 2012, over $12B was paid as dividends from NICIL to the Consolidated Fund. M r. G o o l s a r r a n a l s o recognises that the accounts of NICIL, prior to 2002, were “qualified” audit

opinions, but for every year since, NICIL has received “unqualified” or “clean bills of health” audit opinions,” the release stated. NICIL believes that Goolsarran, notwithstanding the facts before him, has continuously accused NICIL of being in violation of Articles 216 and 217 of the Constitution when all funds were retained and invested. “This argument, which contradicts the facts as stated by Mr. Goolsarran, is the basis of the above recommendation by Mr. Goolsarran.” NICIL has been in receipt of the draft preliminary audit report that covers 13 years of business and is in the process of responding. The entity said it understands that the draft report was only communicated to NICIL through its Chairman Dr. Maurice Odle. Goolsarran, the statement said, is awaiting NICIL’s responses so that he could finalise the document. “NICIL further understands that once the formal draft is submitted to the government (via the Minister of Finance), NICIL will be able to respond to the final version of the report, and its response will accompany the final report,” the statement said. However, given the statements attributed to the Junior Finance Minister Sharma, NICIL deemed it necessary to respond. “It is unfortunate t h a t t h e p ro t o c o l f o r addressing the forensic audit is not being followed, and sensational public statements are being made without balance, much to the detriment of a fair and balanced audit and audit process. Incendiary accusations without specificity as to wrong doings lack any semblance of objectivity and is one form of prejudicing a fair and balanced audit process. Such actions are more akin to a “witch hunt” than to a fair, independent, impartial, professional, and objective audit process,” NICIL’s statement said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Gouveia hails govt’s move to hike ministers’ salaries FORMER Chairman of the Guyana Private Sector Commission (PSC), Captain Gerry Gouveia, says he sees no issue with the move by the APNU+AFC administration to increase the salaries of ministers and Members of Parliament. Late September, Finance Minister Winston Jordan issued an order increasing the salaries for ministers by 50%, and parliamentarians were given a 19% increase. The vice presidents and Prime Minister were also given a substantial increase. While the move has not resonated well with some sections of society, Gouveia on Tuesday told reporters that the increase of salaries for ministers was something that should have been done years ago. He explained that with the increase, Guyana’s citizenry now hold ample right to demand the best from them, since they are being duly paid out of the nation’s coffers. “I actually believe that it is long overdue. I think we must pay our leaders adequate salaries for them to live, and then we can judge them by the work they produce,” stated Captain Gouveia. Gouveia was emphatic of the fact that the increase may have been done at an inconvenient time, but it was necessary, given the scope of work that the ministers will have to undertake. “The fact that it happened so quickly, the timing may have been a challenge…I would say that I really don’t have an objection to an increase of salaries because I want them to be able to perform,” the former PSC Chairman noted. “Now we can judge them by the results they deliver to us. Now they can understand and have a better appreciation that they must support salary increases across the board for our public servants, but I have no problem taking care of our ministers and paying them proper salaries,” he added. Gouveia, however, is not the lone voice outside of the APNU+AFC administration who sees the increase as necessary. President of the Guyana Trades Union

Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis and Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU)

Captain Gerry Gouveia President Patrick Yarde have both endorsed the decision by the administration. President David Granger has also been forced to defend the

issue saying that it should not be seen as selfish or g r e e d y. T h e P r e s i d e n t explained that since Guyana attained independence in 1966, government had been designed to attract talent and “sometimes persons were paid at different rates.” “This has continued. What we did is nothing n e w, ” t h e P r e s i d e n t underscored, adding that his administration inherited a situation where “there was already differentiation in salary payment at some levels.” “Everyone knows that Ms. Gail Texeira, Dr. Roger Luncheon, and Anil Nandlall were not paid normal ministers’ salaries…I would like to emphasise that we did spend quite a lot of time; it was not a rash or hasty decision,” the President remarked. “It was not a selfish or greedy decision. “We took time to consider all aspects of this problem, and in the final analysis we felt it was the correct thing to do to

ensure a quality of governance from our cabinet,” he said. Granger noted that many of the ministers of government are not “in their early careers.” “They have established themselves in various professions and in public life, and it would have been unreasonable to demand they have a sudden or massive drop in income.” There are five lawyers and many other professionals in the Cabinet, the President said. As a result, he believes “some consideration had to be given not to damage the quality of life by drastically reducing their incomes.” President Granger explained that there are four levels of ministerial appointments. The Prime Minister is the first level, followed by vice presidents, cabinet ministers and then junior ministers. In the past, he said, there was only one level of ministers. “What we had is that

there was one level and ministers performing different functions, some with heavy workloads. “Administrative and regulatory or supervisory functions were being paid at the same level as the person they are supervising.” “There is a precedent issue that every government has had to pay to attract talent, and we have talent and many of our people are late career, and it is not as though this is their first job. “This is a job to which they bring tremendous amounts of experience and knowledge, and it

is appropriate that they should be adequately rewarded,” Granger told Guyana Chronicle. The naysayers of the increase include the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP), which has argued that the increases are essentially “meat for the boys.” But the President was firm that “It was not a selfish or greedy decision… we took time to consider all aspects of this problem, and in the final analysis we felt it was the correct thing to do to ensure a quality of governance from our Cabinet.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Govt in moves to tackle child labour

A PEOPLE’S Progressive Party/ Civic administrationcommissioned survey back in 2011 found that children and young workers in Guyana are involved in the worst forms of child labour here, including prostitution, snippets of the study released by the government on Tuesday have revealed. The PPP had “ducked” the survey findings for five years despite pressure from the international community. However, the new government through the Ministry of Social Protection on Tuesday released the findings of the study titled “National Child Labour Rapid Assessment Survey.” The survey was conducted in Georgetown, New Amsterdam, Linden, Corriverton, Black Bush Polder, Number 58 Village, Charity, Kwakwani, and Ituni among three categories of children, 15 years and younger (as young as five years old), 15 to 16 and 16 to 18. Some 532 children and young workers were involved in the survey, which was done during the period April 4 to 15, 2011. According to the ministry, the enumerators spent one week focusing on child labourers who were involved in daylight and night activities. The night

visits were done at hotels, nightspots and places where child-labour activities were deemed prevalent. Many of the youths canvassed were involved in selling and agriculture in all three

categories, while hidden evidence of prostitution was found in all of the age ranges. “Also troubling was the fact that a small percentage of the children and working youths sustained illnesses and injuries while working. These occurred while the children and young workers were involved in mainly weeding, begging or carrying out sexual activities. Also found were many children and young workers involved in carrying heavy loads and operating m a c h i n e r y. S o m e w e r e also exposed to all weather conditions, chemicals,

pesticides, glues, dust, fumes and gases at their places of work,” the report stated. Most of the homes of the children and working youths were headed by single females who had more than one dependant and most times more than one working child. The guardians/parents reported that the main reason for the children and young individuals working was to help support their families. Sixty-seven per cent of the children in the 15 years and younger categories were males with 40% of this age group not being in school and 36% of them being employed on a full-time basis. One primary level child in this group had never attended school. In the second category, 15 to 16 years, 77% of the child labourers were males, with 49% of them not being in school. While most of the children in both categories (19% and 23% respectively) were involved in rice- farming, 8% of them in both groups were involved in prostitution and stripdancing. Interestingly, among the older working individuals (16 to 18 years) 1% was involved in sex work with the majority (40%) being involved in retailing. During

…after PPP ‘ducked’ report for five years

the 12 months prior to the survey, 12% of the working children and young workers sustained illnesses and 42% said the injuries were workrelated. Of that number, 49% of them had to stop attending school to recuperate. The younger children, according to the survey, were paid $6,000 a week and worked mainly below 32 hours per week while the older children (16 to 18) worked for $8,000 a week but for longer hours. It should be noted that not all of the children in the younger age group were paid.

creating a unit that focuses specifically on the issue of child labour which will be expected to create strategies to address this phenomenon, including the poverty factor;

National Child Labour Rapid Assessment was conducted through the Statistical Unit of the ministry with funding through the ILO’s International Programme

URGENT STEPS

enforcement of the requisite laws that cover child labour; remove working children off the streets and ensure they are in school; and provide more funding to facilitate labour inspections The ministry said it should be noted that the recent United States Department of Labour (DOL) child labour report found that Guyana’s children are engaged in child labour in agriculture and in the worst forms of child labour -- commercial sexual exploitation. That report had bemoaned the fact that the findings of the 2011 survey were still to be released. The Guyana

on the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC) from its Tackling Child Labour through Education (TACKLE). While the report was completed in 2011, several objections from the past PPP/C administration resulted in the findings not being released. The report underwent six reviews. The government will also take steps to release, through the Bureau of Statistics, the findings of the Guyana Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) done in 2001 and 2006 with s p o n s o r s h i p f ro m t h e United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) .

Meanwhile, the new government said that while the findings of the survey are troubling to say the least, the Ministry of Social Protection will take urgent steps to address this problem, “since we [are] aware of the debilitating effects of child labour. Our nation’s children and youths are our future and they should be provided with the best possible opportunities to ensure they achieve their full potential.” According to the ministry, planned steps to be taken to address this problem include, but are not limited to,

Gov’t concerned about labour CJIA sacks security officer breaches in mining industry - for stealing passenger’s money

AN aviation security agent attached to a private company contracted by an airline has been fired for stealing U.S. currency from an outgoing passenger at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). The officer, a female, was processing the passenger at Gate 1 around 17:21 hrs last Friday when she swiped the cash out of the passenger’s wallet, and placed it in one of her gloves, the CJIA said in a release. When the passenger realised the money was missing, she immediately alerted staff in the vicinity. The cash was subsequently found and returned to the passenger. The incident was reported to CJIA’s management by a relative of the passenger on Sunday, and an internal investigation was immediately launched. The airport’s security footage corroborated the sequence of events. Meanwhile, head of the CJIA’s Security Department, who has been in contact with the passenger’s relative, said on Monday that the relative was informed of the investigation’s findings, and that action was taken against the security officer. The matter is now in the hands of the police.

THE Ministry of Social Protection has expressed concerns about the increasing number of reports of labour violations being committed by entities in the mining industry and again called for the labour laws to be respected. In recent months, the Labour Department of the Ministry of Social Protection said it has received numerous reports from workers about being forced to work under deplorable conditions, including having to work for months without pay. “We have also had reports of arbitrary dismissals attended by nonpayment of severance entitlements, including salaries and terminal benefits. Other earlier reports of similar alleged employer transgressions are on file,” the ministry said in a release. Some workers in the mining sector have told stories of having to work long hours without adequate compensation. In some instances, they would have left

their families for months at a time, and must return home without money or with insufficient amounts, often stricken with malaria or some other ailment. “These cases often prove difficult to investigate, since employers are not only out of telephone contact, but frequently do not operate registered businesses,” the ministry said, adding that it continues to investigate all reported cases. “We are comforted to know that we have had some success stories; success for exploited workers, that is. That notwithstanding, we continue to be concerned that too many employers continue to circumvent the law, and, up until now, to get away with it.” Accordingly, the ministry plans to collaborate with the Guyana Geology & Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Gold & Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) in an effort to address this issue in a holistic manner. The ministry is of the firm view that

the GGMC, the regulatory body for operators in the mining industry, and the GGDMA, the association that represents miners, can play an integral role in this process. The ministry also believes that the process can be twofold: Education of employers on the labour laws, and empowering workers on their rights. There are too many workers suffering, and employers need to understand that they have an obligation when hiring persons to work in the interior, and not operate as if they are a law onto themselves, and hire and fire at a whim. The ministry said it wishes to put all employers on notice that the labour laws will be enforced, and workers’ rights will be respected. “We urge that the labour laws be respected and we open our doors to employers who may need assistance in understanding their obligations to their employees,” the release concluded.

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Wanted man arrested after two years in hiding - picked up in town, selling newspapers

MORE than two years after police issued a wanted bulletin for Shawn Maltus Fordyce, who had gone berserk and chopped several members of his family in August 2013,

o f f i c e r s a r re s t e d h i m yesterday morning in the city. Fordyce was found on the corners of Church and Alexander Street selling newspapers for Dorothy

Fordyce, his wife, who was one of the persons he had allegedly attempted to murder. According to reports, Fordyce, who was taken to the Brickdam Police Station

at the time of his arrest, is likely to face charges of attempted murder, felonious wounding, and assault. He was subsequently transferred to the Turkeyen Police Station and the matters will be heard at the Sparendaam Magistrates’ Court. Fordyce, whose last known addresses were Lot 132 ‘D’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, and Paradise Village, West Coast Berbice, had launched a cutlass attack on his wife and three children in their Sophia home. It is alleged that an argument had developed between the attacker and his wife because he did not want her to leave the house. The accused allegedly hacked away at his wife, known as ‘Paper Lady,’ and

SHAWN FORDYCE later turned his attention to three children in the home, which included Attorney-atLaw Wanda Fortune. During the confrontation,

12-year-old Donnette Fordyce, Latoya Wilson, 20, and Fortune, were attacked. Meanwhile, Fortune told this publication yesterday that the moment she heard her step-father was picked up, she dropped everything and went to the police station to confirm that it was him. “I am ecstatic that he is finally caught. You can run, but not forever,” she said. She recalled how the attack still affected one of her sisters who cannot yet use one of her hands properly. Another sister almost died twice on the operating table, Fortune recalled. Ms. Fordyce did not offer a comment as to whether or not she would proceed against her husband.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday October 21, 2015

President to address Green Conference and Expo

--Georgetown aims to be most eco-friendly Caribbean city By Rabindra Rooplall PRESIDENT David Granger and several international speakers and agencies are expected to participate in the Green Conference and Expo to be hosted from October 31 – November 1, 2015. The programme seeks to encourage eco-friendly practices by promoting various conservation methods, domestic and commercial. It will target the energy sector, manufacturing, food and beverage distributors, electrical, construction and mechanical services, mining, health and waste management, among other areas. According to communication liaison for the event, Zena Henry, the Mayor & City Council (M&CC) has embarked on a new approach in its efforts to rebrand, renew and revitalise the city of Georgetown and its image. She said that based upon a ‘Presidential Order’, the country is pursuing its developmental programmes within a green framework and environmentally friendly atmosphere. “Since the ascension of the current Administration, a serious position has been taken to restore the capital Georgetown and other regions, to promote a ‘clean and green environment’.” This approach was further emphasized in the 2015 Budget entitled, ‘A fresh start to the good life in a green economy.’ Henry said that the M&CC recognises the importance of this direction and the potential benefits of operating in a green environment, with the focus on human and environmental health and prosperity. In that light the M&CC, as the capital’s keeper, deems it essential to take the lead in promoting the advancement of an

eco-friendly, sustainable city, and has put forward a number of ideas and programmes to boost this eco-challenge. “Georgetown’s aim is to become the most eco-friendly city within the Caribbean and South American region; and to be a model city for those seeking to attain green development,” she declared. Acknowledging that public support and acceptance is key to achieving such goals, Henry said, “We understand the necessity of restructuring citizens’ perceptions on the benefits of developing and maintaining a green economy because they are most affected. It is for this reason that the Georgetown M&CC has focused immensely on public eco-friendly re-education programmes.” While the Council has commenced physical repair of the city, on an educational front it is introducing the first of many such programmes like the upcoming ‘Green Conference and Expo’. The Council has partnered with prominent branding and advertising company, Impressions, in the ongoing ‘Green City Campaign’. Impressions is a major force in the creative and branding sector having been in the forefront of many expos such as GuyExpo, Building Expo, CPL cricket and Festival Guyana, among others. Henry said the conference will be held in the beautiful Promenade Gardens, while the expo is at Parade Ground, both venues located on Middle Street, Georgetown. The conference will start a national discussion that raises awareness on the present state of Guyana’s green potential, to sensitize stakeholders on the M&CC’s green campaign and to establish partnerships in prompting and maintaining a ‘clean and green’ environment.

OFFERS FOR PARTICIPANTS Participants have the opportunity of choosing from three support levels - Gold to Bronze sponsors. The Gold supporters will pay $1M for a 40ft X 40ft ground space, equipped with a 20ft X 40ft tent. Impressions will provide unlimited branding on the ground, with logo and advertising materials, while the agency receives a green city plaque of appreciation and is entitled to one year’s free usage of the council’s new ‘Green City’ logo for various company’s promotional and public relations purposes. Silver supporters who contribute $500,000 will receive a 20ft x 20ft tent, limited branding on the ground with logo and all advertising materials. Silver sponsors will also receive a green plaque of appreciation and one year’s free usage of the ‘Green City’ logo for the company’s promotional and public relations purposes. With financial support in the sum of $100,000, Bronze sponsors are entitled to a 10ft x 7ft pre-fab booth, complete with tent, flooring and electrical fittings. They are entitled to one year’s free usage of the council’s ‘Green City’ logo for the company’s promotional and public relations purposes. Meanwhile, on the ground a 8ft x 8ft space will be available for food and beverage vendors, gaming agencies and photo booths, among others for a contribution of $15,000. In addition, fast food agencies will contribute $50,000 for a space. The Green Conference and Expo will be an annual event, supported by the Government of Guyana. The council encourages all interested parties to make early reservations. Also on board is the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ministry of Communities and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), among others.

One of the many scenes during the current clean-up programme in Georgetown

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

GDF training exercise in Region 7

THE Guyana Defence Force will be conducting a Force Tactical Exercise code-named ‘Exercise GREENHEART’ in the Bartica/Potaro area over a seven-day period, beginning October 20. As such, residents in Region 7 have been asked not to be alarmed by the build up of troops in the area.

Schoolgirl seeks help after fire destroys SBAs, books By Jeune Bailey Vankeric

FIFTEEN-year-old Sarah Shivpersaud is pleading for help after losing her School-Based Assessment assignments along with other school material, following a fire of unknown origin, which gutted her home at Lot 56 West Canefield, East Canje last Sunday night. The teen, a fifth former of Berbice High School, along with her mother Lalita Bedessie, was spending the weekend away from home when they received news that their wooden one-flat, two-bedroomed house was on fire. By the time they arrived on the scene at approximately 18:30 hrs, the structure was already flattened, with smoke emanating from the debris. Two fire tenders from Rose Hall Estate and New Amsterdam were already exiting the area, having brought the blaze under control and preventing it from spreading to nearby houses. Neighbours told the Guyana Chronicle, that some young men were seen smoking in the house after the woman and her daughter had left on Friday. The mother said she had not cooked meals on Friday and the house was not powered by electricity for many years, a situation which had forced the schoolgirl to study with a fuel lamp. Meanwhile, the mother was unable to estimate her losses, but revealed that there were four beds, wardrobes, a chair set, wares, kerosene stoves and several school text books. The family is currently staying with friends and can be contacted on telephone number 639 5002. Investigations are continuing.

Fifth former, Sarah Shivpersaud finds her destroyed SBA folders in the debris following a fire at her home in East Canje

Troops assembled for deployment on ‘Exercise GREENHEART’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Munesh jailed for 57 years for killing Jagdeo escorted to prison to begin his sentence when crying

By George Barclay WELL-dressed Ravindra Paramdar called Manesh or ‘Moe,’ who between the 20th and 21st of December, 2011, murdered Roopan Jagdeo called ‘Lil Baby’ and ‘Rabbie,’ was on Monday jailed for 57 years at the Demerara Assizes. Justice Ravendra Singh imposed the penalty after a mixed jury returned a unanimous verdict of guilty. Earlier, the same jury were deliberating when they returned to the judge for further directions relating to provocation. Justice Singh gave the jury the legal definition of provocation, pointing out among other things that provocation, if it existed, could be used by a reasonable person to accuse another of using provocation to cause that reasonable person to temporarily lose self-control by committing an offence. The judge explained that in fitting submissions, a murder could be reduced to manslaughter. The jury returned to the jury room but returned some 40 minutes later with a unanimous verdict of guilty of murder. At this stage Justice Singh enquired from the welldressed accused who was at-

Murder accused Ravindra Paramdar called ‘Munesh’ at court on Monday. He was sentenced to 57 years tired in a spotless white shirt with pants and tie to match, whether he wished to say anything about why sentence should not be passed. The prisoner was reticent. Lawyer Miss Sonia Parag, counsel for the accused in a plea of mitigation, urged the judge to be lenient with his client,

pointing out that he has an hitherto clean record. Justice Singh noted that the behaviour of the accused that day of the crime was horrible, as he sentenced the 25-year old man to 57 years. Prosecutrix Miss Narissa Leander said that the prisoner had a clean record. The prisoner was being

shouts of his aged father shattered the existing silence in the court room. Reports state that on that fateful day the accused and Jagdeo had an altercation over a bicycle during the morning hours.

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That being finished, it is said that the accused was on his way to purchase a drink later that day, when a fight started between the men and Jagdeo was struck on the head with a stick and subsequently died.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Wednesday October 21st, 2015 - 11:00 hrs Thursday October 22st, 2015 - 12:30 hrs Friday October 23st, 2015 - 13:30 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

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Slingerz FC ‘boss’ withdraws threat ... From back page nothing of the sort was discussed.” Ali said that he wants to make his case clear. “I provide employment for all of those players who also got their responsibilities to take care of and they depend on me, so the club will be participating in the League but under the conditions of a protest.” The club has so far written to the GFF’s General Secretary Deidre Davis, outlining the grounds of their further participation in the league, which will be played under protest. Slingerz FC also said that an appeal will be sent to the league’s Appeals Committee. However, it was stated by the General Secretary that at present, no Appeals Committee is in place, with such only happening by the end of October. The General Secretary also informed the club that the decision handed down will remain in place and the club is free to file an appeal. Meanwhile, though no official release was sent by the GFF, it was published in the Tuesday, October 20 edition of the Guyana Chronicle, that Technical Officer Lyndon France has been suspended for three months. The article stated that the grounds of the suspension were not known, but sources close to the situation suggested that France was at fault for Slingerz being in their position presently. France, the Transfer Matching System (TMS) Manager of the GFF, is part owner of the Buxton United Football Club; the same club that had written to the GFF questioning the legality of the four players from Slingerz FC. According to the article, it would have been impossible for Buxton United to be privy with any information within the TMS if France did not allegedly leak the information. “If they suspended the individual who is responsible for all of this that happened, then why still sanction us? The team will play and I hope everything works out well. I’ve invested millions into getting my club to where it’s at today in football” “I have an obligation to the players, the fans and the league to continue playing but we must let everyone know that we will be playing under a protest,” Ali said. Slingerz FC, based on the official standings of the league, are in fourth position with nine points behind Pele FC (14), rivals Alpha United (13) and the GDF (12).

ENGLISH RACING TIPS Newmarket 08:30 hrs Farandine 09:00 hrs Secret Ambition 09:35 hrs Wave Reviews 10:10 hrs Mootaharer 10:45 hrs Hayadh 11:20 hrs Generalship 11:55 hrs Nice Future 12:25 hrs Fruit Pastille WORCESTER 08:45 hrs Sandynow 09:15 hrs Bold Conquest 09:50 hrs Days Ahead 10:25 hrs Ballyandy 11:00 hrs Avispa 11:35 hrs Lady Of Longstone 12:05 hrs Always Lion 12:35 hrs Alcala FONTWELL 09:25 hrs General Ginger 10:00 hrs Calipto 10:35 hrs Taradrewe 11:45 hrs Owner Occupier 12:15 hrs Miss Crick SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS

Durbanville 08:40 hrs Moment To Shine 09:15 hrs Icy Trail 09:50 hrs Ilium 10:25 hrs Kirumbo 11:00 hrs Shishangeni 11:35 hrs Little Chapel IRISH RACING TIPS Navan 09:05 hrs Piazzini 09:40 hrs In Salutem 10:15 hrs Goodwill 10:50 hrs Hazamar 11:25 hrs Bairns At Bay 12:00 hrs Jackie El;lis 12:30 hrs Ringside Humour AMERICAN RACING TIPS Belmont Race 1 Call Me Stoney Race 2 High Ridge Road Race 3 Frasil Race 4 Weather Girl Race 5 Just Got Out Race 6 Thamaan Race 7 Sister Sophia Race 8 Drama King Race 9 Sauvignon

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

FIFA to elect next president in February … leaves door open for Platini presidential bid By Brian Homewood ZURICH, Switzerland (Reuters) Suspended European soccer chief Michel Platini may be able to run for president of FIFA if he wins an appeal against his 90-day ban, the world governing body said yesterday. Outgoing FIFA president Sepp Blatter and Platini were both suspended earlier this month, plunging FIFA into even deeper turmoil as authorities in the United States and Switzerland pursue corruption investigations in which 14 people have so far been indicted. Meeting for the first time since the suspensions of the two most powerful men in soccer, FIFA’s executive committee confirmed that the election to replace Blatter would take place at an extraordinary Congress in Zurich on February 26, when members would also vote on reforming the organisation’s statutes. That initially looked like a blow for former French midfield star Platini: a delay in the election would have given him more time to appeal, as candidates have to register by October 26 and undergo an integrity test in the following 10 days. Domenico Scala, who oversees the electoral process, told the committee

that candidates’ bids would not be processed if they were banned, FIFA said in a statement. But a subsequent line appeared to

UEFA president, Michel Platini give hope to Platini. It read: “Should such a ban be lifted or expire before the FIFA presidential election ... the Ad-Hoc electoral committee would decide, depending on the respective exact point in time, on how to proceed

with the candidacy concerned.” Whoever next takes the helm at FIFA will face a huge challenge to restore the reputation of the organisation responsible for running the most popular sport on the planet. Platini’s appeal will first have to go to the FIFA Appeal Committee and, if unsuccessful, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), a process which UEFA said last week should be competed by mid-November. Platini, who has been UEFA president since 2007, had, until his suspension, been considered the firm favourite to succeed Blatter. Since then, the race has been thrown open. The only other candidates to register so far are Jordanian Prince Ali bin Al Hussein and former Trinidad and Tobago midfielder David Nakhid, who have both submitted the required five nominations from national associations. Earlier yesterday, the Asian soccer chief, Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa of Bahrain, said he had been urged to stand, but was still gauging opinion. Sources close to UEFA have said they are still uncertain if Europe will find an alternative candidate to Platini before the deadline.

Ponting tells court about Cairns’ ‘business proposition’ RICKY Ponting, the former Australia captain, has described to a court how he was present in a hotel room in India during the 2008 IPL when Brendon McCullum received a call from Chris Cairns that McCullum described as “a business proposition.” Ponting was appearing at Southwark Crown Court in London via a video link from Australia as the latest prosecution witness against Cairns, who is charged with perjury for allegedly lying under oath in a libel trial, saying he had “never” cheated at cricket. At the time Ponting and McCullum were team-mates for Kolkata Knight Riders in the first year of IPL. “I was staying with Brendon in the team hotel in Kolkata in 2008 on the eve of the first IPL tournament,” Ponting recalled. “We were just sitting, sharing a drink, when he received a phone call - his phone rang. It was a very brief phone conversation, probably less than five minutes. He put the phone down, hung up and said it was Cairnsy and he ‘just made me a business proposition’.” “We stayed together for a short time. I didn’t ask any more questions ... As soon as I heard it was about business, I wasn’t interested anymore.” Giving evidence last week, McCullum, 34, had claimed Cairns sent him a car which took him to his hotel, where

McCullum’s alleged spot-fixing was discussed. Ponting, whose long-time nick-

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting gives evidence by video link. name of ‘Punter’ was given to him by Shane Warne, was asked by Orlando Pownall QC, for the defence, whether he considered McCullum knew about match-fixing, and would have understood terms like “spot-fixing” and “spread betting”.

He replied: “Right now I would; in 2008, maybe not as much.” Leanne McGoldrick, a players’ agent, also took the witness box yesterday to describe an evening when McCullum, whom she was managing at the time, had asked at a dinner at her Christchurch home after New Zealand’s 2008 tour of England whether she thought Cairns was involved in match-fixing. It was on that tour where McCullum gave evidence last week that he had had breakfast with Cairns in a Worcester café where Cairns allegedly made a second approach to him to spot-fix. McGoldrick said McCullum had first asked if she thought any New Zealand players were match-fixing. When she said she didn’t think so, he asked about Cairns. She said she did not think he was. “He said he’d had an occasion in England - in a bar or cafe, I can’t remember which - with Chris, and Chris had asked him whether he knew how to spot-fix.” McGoldrick said: “I was completely shocked ... I couldn’t believe what he was saying.” She told McCullum to report the approach and he said he would, but their business relationship ended soon after. The trial continues. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Australia tour matches a roll call of auditions for Test side MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Australia’s opening tour matches against New Zealand will be a roll call of auditions for the hosts’ rebuilding Test side, with a number of batsmen hoping for big runs. A Prime Minister’s XI take on New Zealand in a day-night match at Canberra’s Manuka Oval on Friday, where players will grapple with the pink ball ahead of the maiden day-night Test in Adelaide next month. Many of the same squad will then pad up the next day for a Cricket Australia XI to play a two-day tour match against the visitors at the same ground. The squads for each game have given the strongest clue as to who selectors hope will step up to replace former captain Michael Clarke, opening batsman Chris Rogers and all-rounder Shane Watson, all of whom re-

Uncapped wicketkeeper batsman Cameron Bancroft tired in the wake of Australia’s Ashes defeat in England. Uncapped wicketkeeper-batsman Cameron Bancroft and Joe Burns have been named in both sides, and their performances could determine their hopes of partnering opener David Warner for the first Test in Brisbane starting November 5. Queensland captain Usman Khawaja and Adam Voges, who had a patchy Ashes series, will also play both matches. Khawaja, who has played as an opener but would more likely slot in at three or four in the order, will captain the Cricket Australia XI, and is under pressure to make the chance count after a number of false starts earlier in his career. “This is also another good leadership opportunity for Usman Khawaja,” selector Rod Marsh said. “He performed well when he captained Australia A side on the recent tour of India, and this will allow him to build on that experience.” Selectors’ hopes of bedding down a side before the home series against New Zealand were dashed by security concerns in Bangladesh, which prompted the scrapping of a two-Test tour for Steven Smith’s team. Though most of Australia’s Test players have competed in the ongoing domestic one-day tournament, they have been starved of international cricket since the tour of England ended in early September. Australia’s bowling lineup is more settled, with Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood battling for a place in the pace attack, with left-armers Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Johnson. Selectors are clearly keen to have another look at young left-arm spinner Ashton Agar, however, naming him in both tour matches. The highly-rated 22-year-old featured in Australia’s one-day international series against England but has not played a Test since his surprise selection in the opening two matches of the 2013 Ashes tour.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Giroud, Ozil lead Arsenal to victory over Bayern By Mike Collett LONDON, England (Reuters) - Olivier Giroud struck two minutes after coming on as a substitute, and Mesut Ozil scored with almost the last kick of the game to give Arsenal a 2-0 win over Bayern Munich and kick-start their Champions League campaign yesterday. Giroud replaced Theo Walcott after 75 minutes, and headed in a Santi Cazorla header from close range in the 77th minute of the Group F match at the Emirates Stadium after the otherwise superb Manu-

el Neuer flapped at the ball, to put Arsenal on their way to their first win after losing their opening two games. Ozil scored with virtually the final kick when his shot just crossed the line before being scooped out of the goal by his World Cup-winning team mate Neuer. That outcome never looked likely, though, against the German champions, who forced Arsenal back for long periods of the first half and totally controlled possession for most of the second half, until Giroud scored. The result ended Bayern’s run of 12

Sehwag retires from international cricket FORMER India opener Virender Sehwag has announced his retirement from international cricket and the Indian Premier League on his 37th birthday. Sehwag, who won the World Cup with India in 2011, played 104 Tests, 251 one-day and 19 Twenty20 internationals. He scored 8 586 Test runs at an average of 49.34, and is the only Indian to score an international triple-century. He also scored 8 273 ODI runs at 35.05. “Cricket has been my life,” Sehwag said in a statement. “I did it my way.” He will continue to play firstclass cricket, saying he “still has the hunger inside”, and will try to help young players coming through. Sehwag, who had a spell with Leicestershire in 2003, has not played for India since 2013. MS Dhoni, who captained India to victory in 2011, led the tributes to his former team-mate, as he compared Sehwag to West Indies batting legend Sir Viv Richards. “Didn’t see Viv Richards bat in person, but I can proudly say I have

witnessed Virender Sehwag tearing apart the best bowling attacks,” Dhoni wrote on Twitter. Sachin Tendulkar, who retired

VIRENDER SEHWAG in 2013, added, ‘Sehwag had been a joy to watch and play with.’ Tendulkar said he “had the best seat during most of his superlative performances on the field,” and “loved his instinctive approach to batting and life.” (BBC Sport)

Olivier Giroud scores the first goal for Arsenal. (Reuters/Dylan MartinezLivepic) successive wins in all competitions and kept Arsenal in the fight in the group. Bayern and Olympiakos Piraeus have six points apiece, Dinamo Zagreb and Arsenal three each. “They dominated the game, we knew they would do that, but finally we managed to score and then finished with Mezut’s goal,” Giroud told BT Sport. “We played against a fantastic team. (The win) is nice for the future.” The highlight of an outstanding first half of superb football came in the 34th minute when Neuer made a brilliant stop, leaping low to his left to save a powerfully executed, goal-bound close-range header from Theo Walcott. Neuer had earlier pushed away another shot from Ozil, while at the other end Petr Cech blocked a point-blank

TTFA president Tim Kee loses support of his vice-presidents TRINIDAD and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) president Tim Kee, after deciding to run for re-election, has run

FACTBOX: India batsman Virender Sehwag (REUTERS): Factbox on Virender Sehwag, one of India’s greatest opening batsmen, after he announced his retirement from international cricket yesterday: * Born on October 20, 1978 at Najafgarh, Delhi. * Made one-day International debut against Pakistan in 1999 as an all-rounder batting at No .7. * Scored maiden ODI century from 69 balls against New Zealand in 2001. * Scored a century on Test debut against South Africa in 2001. * In 2008, Sehwag scored the quickest triple-hundred in a Test match, taking 278 deliveries against South Africa in Chennai. * He scored the quickest ODI century by an Indian against New Zealand in 2009,

taking just 60 balls, a record which was broken by Virat Kohli four years later. * In 2011 against West Indies, Sehwag became only the second batsman, after Sachin Tendulkar, to score 200 in an ODI. * He has 23 centuries in Test cricket, including the only two triple-centuries by any Indian batsman. * Sehwag is one of the four batsmen in the Test history to score two triple-centuries, alongside Don Bradman, Brian Lara and Chris Gayle. * He was a member of India’s victorious squads in the 2007 World Twenty20 and the 2011 World Cup. * Sehwag played 104 Tests, 251 ODIs and 19 T20Is, scoring over 17,000 international runs.

shot after 11 minutes from Thiago, then tipped another effort from the electrifying Douglas Costa away for a corner, after Costa had capitalised on a mistake in midfield by Alexis Sanchez. Although there were no goals before the break, both teams produced football of the highest quality, with Bayern’s relentless attacking, prompted by Arturo Vidal and Costa, penning Arsenal back for long periods; but Arsenal looking dangerous every time they counter-attacked. The pace never relented from the kickoff, which some 300 Bayern fans missed as they staged a “stay-away” for the first five minutes to protest over the cost of a ticket for the match, but when they took their seats, applause rang around the stadium from both home and visiting supporters.

TTFA president Tim Kee into a little bump in his campaign, with his vice-presidents announcing they won’t support him. Lennox Watson, Rudi Thomas, and Krishendath Kuarsingh were responding to reports that the TTFA executive were in full support of Tim Kee’s re-election campaign.

Kuarsingh said Tim Kee’s reign as president was marked by complete control, to the exclusion of the executive. Kuarsingh further went on to say that Sheldon Phillips, the TTFA’s general secretary, and Tim Kee failed to account for monies the organisation received and, in his opinion, poorly managed those monies. Thomas, for instance, explained that a finance committee created to deal with fundraising and headed by Tim Kee did not meet once in three years. The very public inability of the TTFA to pay staff and players for protracted periods of time has also been suggested as one of the reasons the vice-presidents will not support Tim Kee. Watson, the other vice-president to say he will not support Tim Kee, has said he will not be seeking re-election. He says he will step aside immediately after the November 29 election. The TTFA has appointed Elton Prescott SC, Mervyn Campbell and Dinanath Ramnarine to serve on its election committee. So far, only Tim Kee and president of the DIRECTV W Connection, David John-Williams, have offered themselves up for election. Deadline for nominations was yesterday. (Sportsmax.com)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

Bravados claim ECCB 2nd Division 40-over title BRAVADOS Cricket Club crushed Better Hope Sports Club by 109 runs before a large crowd, on a good outfield and in brilliant sunshine in the East Coast Cricket Board’s (ECCB) Second Division 40-over Tournament final. The eventual victors won the toss and elected to bat on an excellent track. Anthony Ifill and Nigel Estrado started the innings briskly. Estrado struck three boundaries and a massive six before he was trapped lbw on 20 with the score at 23 in the third over. Marcus Watkins joined Ifill and both batsmen batted sensibly to reach 1101 in the 18th over before Watkins was bowled by Jayadev Mana for 44 then Ifill was next to go for a well-played 40. Kellon Carmichael, Lionel Wordsworth and Kelwin

Bovell went in quick succession as the score ticked over to 139 for 6 in the 28th over. Better Hope looked to tighten the screws but captain Earl Gilkes joined Rawle Merrel to steady the ship and press forward. Merrel was removed for a well-played as Bravados reached 200-7. They were eventually stopped on 242 in the 39th over with captain Gilkes contributing a well-constructed 37. Jayadev Mana finished with 2-36 while Daniel Kowlessar had 2-38 and Amir Khan, 2-20. Roy Persaud and Daniel Kowlessar started the Better Hope Sports Club innings as Ifill and Seon Sampson opened the attack for Bravados. Needing to score more than 6 runs per over to win, Persaud was removed early for 6. Some indifferent bowl-

ing by the Bravados attack saw some 31 extras given away as Better Hope were skittled out for 133 in 24 overs. Simpson, Gilkes and Alex Culley were the bowlers responsible for Better Hope’s demise as Seon Simpson finished with 4-31, Gilkes 3-22 and Cully 2-28. Amir Khan was left unbeaten on 42 while Mulchan Singh (18) and Daniel Kowlessar (13) were the only other batsmen to meet double figures. Gilkes was adjudged man-of-the-match while Khan was awarded a medal for his outstanding performances for the losing side. Following the match, president of the ECCB Mr. Bissoondyal Singh congratulated both teams for reaching the final especially Bravados for winning the competition and expressed

Bravados Cricket Club celebrate with their trophy. At left is ECCB president Bissoondyal Singh his gratitude to Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall, Corporate Guyana, the

clubs, the NDCs and the umpires for their continuous contributions and sup-

port of development of the game on the East Coast of Demerara.

Christianburg Wismar Secondary School seal Region 10 Track and Field title By Joe Chapman CHRISTIANBURG Wismar Secondary School are the Region 10 Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice) Inter-Secondary School track and field champions after tallying a massive 869 points at the meet which was held last Thursday and Friday at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. Mackenzie High School had to settle for second position with 831 points, New Silvercity Secondary came in third on 516, while Linden Foundation Secondary followed with 469, Harmony 251, Linden Technical Institute 122, Marcia Craig’s Institute on 54

and Linden School of Excellence in the cellar spot on 49 points. Sprinters took the spotlight as Jamal Tofawa was crowned the Under-12 Boys’ Champion representing Christianburg Wismar Secondary School, while Linden Foundation’s Andrea Headley copped the Champion Girl title. Field athletes were also in the spotlight with Akeem Venture of Christianburg Wismar Secondary, the Boys Under-14 Champion and Mackenzie High’s Analese Barclay claiming the Champion Girl title. Christianburg Wismar Secondary’s field athlete Tremaine Brown was the

England opener is world’s best - Graham Gooch

ALASTAIR Cook is the best opening batsman in international cricket, says former England captain Graham Gooch. England skipper Cook hit 263 runs in 836 minutes of his side’s first innings in the drawn first Test with Pakistan. Scored in reply to Pakistan’s 523-8 declared, it was the longest ever innings by an Englishman and the third-longest in Test history. “It was one of the great innings,” Gooch told BBC Radio 5 live’s Sportsweek programme. “Ali has always been very mentally strong, his concentration and application have always been there from a young age,” added the 62-year-old, who worked as England’s batting coach between 2012 and 2014. “I think Alistair is the premier opening batsman in world cricket and has been for a number of years. He’s been

playing for nearly 10 years but he’s still only 30. “The best years for a batsman are from 25 to 35, with the really premium years probably from 27 to 33, so he is right in the middle of his best period.” Cook is already England’s record run-scorer in Tests, with 9,593 from his 120 Tests, at an average of 47.49, having passed Gooch’s previous record of 8,900 earlier this year. “He should go well past 10,000 runs and really, the world is his oyster,” added Gooch, a mentor for Cook since his emergence at Essex. “I don’t think he will have any problems fitness-wise. The only question is whether you can retain your mental stability, that drive and hunger. That tends to go first and then there is danger you get burnt out.” Cook’s stamina-sapping innings in Abu Dhabi has seen him rise to eighth in the world rankings for batsmen, with team-mate Joe Root second behind Australia’s Steve Smith. (BBC Sport)

Under-16 Boys Champion as Chantoba Bright of Mackenzie High School dominated and copped the distaff Under-16 crown. Junior National sprinter Compton Caesar representing Wismar Christianburg Secondary showed his class by taking away the Under-18 Champion Boys’ title and middle distance athlete Vonette Hinds of New Silvercity Secondary emerged the Under-18 Champion Girl. The Under-20 Champions were middle distance athlete Shaquille Smart of Linden Technical Institute and Mackenzie High

School’s Naiomi Allsopp all-round athlete, the Champion Girl. The Region 10 ‘Champion of Champions’ track and field and cycling meet will be staged tomorrow and Friday at the Mackenzie Sports Club beginning at 10.00hrs each day. The cream of the region’s best athletes will be vying for places on the Upper Demerera/Upper Berbice team to contest this year’s National Schools Track and Field, Cycling and Swimming Championships scheduled for mid-November.

LABA meets to discuss 5th Brusches Classic tournament today THE Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA), ahead of the staging of this year’s Brusches Classic Basketball championship which starts on Saturday at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court, will today hold an executive meeting to finalise arrangements for the biennial championship. The meeting will also accommodate the Brusches Basketball Foundation to outline the setting up of the championship. Georgetown’s Ravens are the defending champions and will be seeking to retain that crown from among the contesting ten teams drawn from across the country. The playing dates are October 24, 25, 27, 30, 31. . The tournament will conclude on November 7 with the final at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court.

The meeting this afternoon starts at 17.30hrs at the Mackenzie Sports Club Lounge. All LABA executive members are asked to at-

tend the meeting which is to be chaired by LABA president Lawrence Simon. The fixtures, the tournament rules and prizes are expected to be finalised also.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday October 21, 2015) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & the City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) &AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

Darren Bravo 50; Jermaine Blackwood 92 Shannon Gabriel (1st innings) & Marlon Samuels (2nd innings)

Today’s Quiz:

What were the opening partnerships for WI in the first Test of the current series against SL? Sri Lanka had a huge third wicket partnership in the first Test against WI. What was the value of it in terms of runs?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday October 21, 2015

GREGORY RICHARDSON

Richardson’s Pele to battle Lanferman’s Alpha United tonight

By Rawle Toney AFTER seven rounds of the STAG Elite League, it’s safe to say that Pele Football Club are the ‘ones to beat’. Behind their star forward and prolific scorer Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, the club - one of the oldest in Guyana – must be regarded as the league’s biggest ‘drawing card’. Tonight, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) base Camp Ayanganna ground will be the battlefield for the Pele versus Alpha United clash which has the potential to be the ‘game-of-league Genesis’. The two sides will play in the night’s second encounter from 20:30hrs after the

Georgetown Football Club (GFC)/Slingerz FC game at 18:00hrs. It will be the second meeting between Pele and Alpha United in the STAG Elite League, with the first ending in an exciting 2-2 draw at the GFC ground. Richardson, the league’s leading goalscorer (seven goals), netted twice for Pele FC. One of his goals, a free kick, scored late in the game, was also adjudged the E-Network’s Goal-of-the-Month. ‘Jackie Chan’, as he’s more popularly known, will have the services of National player Kpnata Manning, who will team up with Travis ‘Zorro’ Grant in midfield. The former Alpha United player and the

first Guyanese to play in the USA’s Major League Soccer (MLS), Richardson, says that he’s on a mission to not only prove his critics wrong, but also be the most dominant player in the STAG Elite League. Pundits regard him as the best player of his generation and the 32-year-old has so far lived up to all the hype and while football is a ‘team sport’ he has demonstrated that one man can make a difference. Meanwhile, head coach Wayne `Wiggy’ Dover has found a gem of his own in striker Delon Lanferman. The well-built forward is behind Richardson in the goal tally with five goals and based on his current form, Pele’s defence will be in

DELON LANFERMAN

for a long night. Alpha United have scored 10 goals in total; four less than Pele. Lanferman will have Kithson Bain and captain Daniel Wilson to assist him and, along with Dwayne Lawrence, Pele FC will have their hands full. Pele picked up their first defeat last Sunday at the hands of the GDF (2-1) while Alpha United were held to a 1-1 draw by Monedderlust at their No.5 ground in West Coast Berbice last Saturday. One thing for sure, patrons will be in for a treat tonight, served up by two of the top teams in the league and it will be hard to resist not attending the highly anticipated clash.

Local cyclists fail to overcome opposition at 15th Annual Caribbean Elite championships T H E c o n t ro v e r s i a l l y selected Team Guyana were unable to overcome their opponents at the 15th Caribbean Elite Road Race Championships Men’s Road Race in Bushy Park, St Phillip, Barbados, yesterday, as Michael Anthony and Orville Hinds were the only riders of Guyana’s four contenders to complete the challenging 117-kilometre course. Orville Hinds crossed the finish line in the 14th

position with an overall time of three hours 23 minutes 53 seconds. Anthony placed 15th, 11 minutes 28 seconds adrift of Hinds, while the other two Guyanese riders Geron Williams and Alanzo Greaves failed to complete the course. There have been some amount of controversy surrounding the selection of the local team for the Caribbean Elite championship and Oswald Hatton, a former cyclist, had

ORVILLE HINDS

this to say,“Riders need to be informed earlier of their selection ... let’s say about two weeks before these events so that they can start training ‘together’ and be properly prepared and go to the event a bit earlier so that they can evaluate the course” In responding to Hatton’s comments on Guyana Cycle News, former national champion Linden Dowridge responded “I agree with Hatton. In order to compete and place in those

events, cyclists must be made aware long enough before the event. “I would say a minimum of 18 weeks,” adding, “this stands to strengthen my comments a few weeks ago, where I was asking to set up a race calendar, and more club involvement in promoting events.” “With this, cyclists will be exposed to local events of similar duration. It is extremely difficult to ask guys to “suddenly” get ready in about a month, to

compete internationally in an event of such duration, when their primary competition is built on 35- and 50-mile events. If there is no change in our racing structure, our guys will have to sit out a few of these short events, in order to prepare themselves for the bigger events.” “Folks, for our guys to make us proud, it is our responsibility to give them the tools to do so,” Dowridge stated.

Blackwood looks to build patience and restraint THE strikes down the ground are high and sweet. His pull is whiplash-quick and the cut severe. So it’s not his strokeplay Jermaine Blackwood seeks to sharpen in Sri Lanka. It is his instinct to survive. “If I’m at the crease for a long period of time, I’ll be making runs” is his belief. Blackwood has been among West Indies’ brightest emerging talents over the past 18 months, in which he has put together an encouraging record spanning 11 Tests. He averages 42.47 from 20 innings so far, and has runs against quality Test attacks. His maiden innings of 63 against the likes of Tim Southee and Trent Boult

suggested West Indies had unearthed a good batsman. His excellent turn against James Anderson, Stuart Broad and England in the middle of the year confirmed it. He hit 311 runs at an average of 77.75 in that series, having struck a first Test ton, then hit the winning runs in a chase that levelled the series. A relatively lean series against Australia followed, but Blackwood has rebounded in Sri Lanka, hitting 92 from 135 balls in the second dig in Galle, while his teammates floundered around him. Blackwood says it was restraint that allowed him to unlock his attacking game, after having fallen for 11 in the first innings.

“I made a mistake in the first innings playing to a ball outside the off stump that I shouldn’t be playing to,” he said. “After I get out I go back and rethink my innings. I got out there in the second innings and told myself I’m not going to play any balls outside the off stump early up. I did that and in the end I got a good result. I was trying to push into a century but in the end I get out. I thought it was a good innings.” It is the kind of restraint he seeks to refine and reproduce. Sometimes hailed as a disciple of the destructive school of Caribbean batting, Blackwood said he is learning to incorporate prudence

into his attack. “There’s one major issue that I’m still working on - shot selection early up in my innings. Once I’m past that early phase it’s quite easy for me. I used to play a lot of shots and loved to feel the ball on my bat. When I reached Test level I realised it’s much different because you get less bad balls in Test cricket than you do in first-class. So I need to learn to be much more patient. Once I’m patient I’m adapting to that very quickly.” Blackwood was among the few West Indies batsmen to survive long spells from Rangana Herath, and even ventured two straight sixes and a four in one Herath

over, near the end of the Galle Test. His team had come to Sri Lanka with a poor reputation for playing slow bowling, but Blackwood is undaunted by Sri Lanka’s top spinner. “Herath is a wonderful bowler, but a bowler is a bowler,” he said. “Once he bowls a bad ball, I’m going to hit any bowler. If we can bat him out, it’s going to be much easier for us. “Right now my defence is pretty good, as you can see. Last game Herath was bowling brilliantly and I was batting easy. For me it’s about staying patient and batting more sessions. If I do that I’m going to score more runs. I just need to control my tempo while I’m batting

and trust my defence.” Blackwood has not made a limited-over debut yet, but said Tests had always been his dream format and remain his “pride and joy”. He wants a hundred in his next match, as every batsman does, but he has high hopes for his batting statistics as well. He averages 45.66 so far in 2015, with one hundred and four fifties from 14 innings. “I do want to get my Test average for this year up to 50,” he said. “For that I’m on the right track right now. My game plan is very simple. If I see a ball to hit, I’ll hit it. Choosing the right ball to hit - that’s what I’m working towards.” (ESPN Cricinfo)

Sport CHRONICLE

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Richardson’s Pele to battle Lanferman’s Alpha United story tonight onSeepage 35

GBBC/Next Generation Boxers host tree-planting exercise By Stephan Sookram AHEAD of this weekend’s Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC)/Next Generation Promotion boxing card, several fighters yesterday took time out to beautify the Garden City, Georgetown. Boxers, inclusive of Clive ‘The Punisher’ Atwell took part in the tree-planting exercise at the Merriman’s Mall where they joined with Ms Earth Guyana 2014, Stacy Ramcharan, Minister with Responsibility for Sport Nicolette Henry and Mayor Hamilton Green. Atwell will take on Dexter Marques for the (Central American Boxing Federation) FECABOX Super Lightweight title. After the planting exercise, Next Generation’s Aleem Hussain indicated that things are on track for this weekend’s mega card, adding that the scenery will mirror that of international boxing matches. He continued by adding that patrons will be treated to an atmosphere of international flavour and action at a higher level. Minister Henry while lauding the initiative said,

Minister Nicolette Henry (centre) holds the tree in place while Clive `The Punisher’ Atwell (left) places some dirt back into the hole. Miss Earth Guyana 2014 Stacy Ramcharan (right) watches on as do several boxers and models in the background. (Samuel Maughn photo) “It does encompass all three of my areas of coverage. Stacy represents youth and she’s also involved in fashion which is culture and there are also the boxers here which

represent sport. I think it’s a good combination.” Miss Earth Guyana 2014 Stacy Ramcharan said, “When I was asked to participate in this tree-planting,

of course I didn’t hesitate, I think it’s a wonderful initiative and I want to encourage everyone to contribute to your environment.” Apart from the Marques/

Atwell fixture, the night will feature professional debutant Imran Khan taking on David Thomas in a lightweight fight over four rounds. The opening bout of the

night features debutant Terrence Adams against Keeve Allicock over four rounds in a featherweight contest while the main supporting bout has Anson Green and Quincy Gomes in a six-round junior welterweight contest. In the amateur division, at the Youth lightweight level, Orin Bancroft of the Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) is matched against Harpy Eagles’ Travis Hubbard while in the Elite flyweight division Tefon Green (GDF) faces Dexter Wray (Republican). Welterweight action would see Glenroy Smith (Essequibo Boxing Gym against Republican’s Clifton Graham while Nankumar Singh (Republican) and Kelon King (FYF) would have a lightweight contest. The event’s corporate sponsors are: Banks DIH Limited, COURTS Guyana Inc., Giftland OfficeMax, Ansa McAl, Guyana Oil Company, Hand-in-Hand, GTM, Digicel Guyana Inc., Guyana Beverages Inc., Guyana Tourism Authority, King’s Jewellery World, Massy Industries Guyana Limited, Queen’s Atlantic, Fly Jamaica and Top Brand Distributors.

Slingerz FC ‘boss’ withdraws threat to pull team ...Club to battle GFC tonight and compete in STAG Elite League under protest

OWNER of the Slingerz Football Club, Javed Ali, has said that his team will play in tonight’s STAG Elite fixture against the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) at the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ground. The two teams will meet in the opening game of the planned double-header from 18:00hrs. Alpha United will meet Pele in the second match from 20:30hrs. Ali noted that initially, his intention was to pull

his club from further participating in the STAG Elite League, citing unfair treatment and punishment handed down by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF). On October 12, Slingerz FC was scheduled to play the GDF but after receiving Notice from the GFF that four of their players were ineligible, the club could not have taken the field, reasoning that the timing was too short for them to find a replacement and had

Slingerz FC owner Javed Ali

also asked that the game be rescheduled. However, their actions were interpreted as a forfeit of the GDF match and the Normalisation Committee (NC) of the GFF deliberated on the non-appearance of the club and noted that Slingerz FC had violated Article 4 (19) of the Rules and Regulation of the League. According to the rules that govern the League, “a No-show is when a team

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wilfully does not appear at a game without a specific agreement approved by the GFF”. Should a club be found guilty of deliberately withdrawing itself from the game, the rules state that “a 3-0 loss, a 3-point deduction from their standings and a League fine of G$200 000, of which 50% is awarded to the aggrieved club”. “I believe that the punishment wasn’t justified because it was not a case where

the club blatantly refused to play because to us and the evidence we have, we don’t have an ineligible player, plus they didn’t give us the stipulated 48-hour notice. We could not have gotten a replacement for some of those players. That’s why we couldn’t play” Ali reasoned. He added “I was upset after getting the news that the club was fined because we met with the GFF and See page 31 WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2015