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The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com
die in Corentyne smash-up
No. 104362 WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 4, 2015
GUYANA’S MOST WIDELY CIRCULATED NEWSPAPER
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CG bandits storm America St Page
…rob money changers, shoot in the air
Police cordoned off the America Street area following the daring robbery Tuesday evening (Delano Williams photo)
Seawall suicide
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Female identified, male still a mystery
Major revamp for UG - Roopnaraine
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
2 die in Corentyne smash-up TWO persons were on Tuesday morning killed in a horrific traffic accident on the N0. 46 Village, Public Road. The accident which occurred on the eve of the launch of National Road Safety Month has claimed the lives of: 15-year-old Akeem Harry of Rose Hall and 57-year-old Paula Kissoondial . The two were passengers in a car that turned turtle in the vicinity of the No. 46 Village Corentyne just before noon on Tuesday. Those injured are Jermaine Smartt, Winston Collins and Keith Ross also of Rose Hall Town. Collins 24, was the driver of the car at the time, while Smart and Ross were passengers. The accident took place just one day after another horrific accident in the mining community of Mahdia on Monday which caused injuries to 11 persons. Kissoondial was pronounced dead at the Skeldon Hospital while Harry died while receiving medical attention at the same medical facility. Smartt, Collins and Ross were all stabilised
before being transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital. Several doctors were called out as concerned citizens and residents flocked the Accident and Emergency Unit where the three were being treated. As a result of the accident Ross suffered a compressed fracture to his spinal cord and was subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital for specialised medical attention. Official hospital sources confirmed that Smartt suffered a cerebral concussion and fracture to the left humerus and was admitted as a patient. Up to press time he had regained consciousness while hospital sources confirmed that Collins suffered a cerebral concussion and dislocated right clavicle. He too has been admitted to the New Amsterdam Hospital. His condition is listed as stable. Details of the accident are sketchy with relatives refusing to divulge information to the media. However, this newspaper understands that the five were travelling in motor
Dead Paula Kissoondial Injured Jermaine Smartt car numbers PRR 164 when the accident occurred. The five were returning home after dropping off a relative at the Canawaima Ferry Stelling [Guyana/ Suriname ferry crossing. At Number 46 Village, tragedy occurred when the spare wheel which was being used on the car suffered a ‘blow out’ causing the car to veer
off the road. It flew over a trench and ripped out a fence before slamming into a post and spinning onto a bridge. Eyewitnesses say in order to get the passengers
out, the car had to first be moved. Reports indicate that Collins was the driver of the car at the time of the accident. Residents say they had to cut the seat belt to get him out of the wreckage. The front seat passenger
was also locked in with a seat belt, eyewitnesses say. Speaking with this publication, the dead teenager’s mother said she was unaware of the accident until late Tuesday afternoon. “I
saw him morning time, and after that I didn’t see him back for the day. I kept asking for him but nobody told me anything,” the weeping mother said. According to her, the last conversation she had with her son was Tuesday when she warned him not to get into any fight as she left for work. Kissoondial leaves to mourn seven children.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
CG bandits storm America St …rob money changers, shoot in the air
By Leroy Smith POLICE detectives last evening were busy processing the crime scene on America Street, Georgetown’s ‘Wall Street’, after some ten masked gunmen daringly rode up on motorcycles and opened rapid fire while grabbing millions of dollars from money changers. According to information received, the masked bandits who wore long sleeve jerseys appeared from almost every direction while firing into the air and at the money changers on America and Hinck Streets during rush hour in the busy commercial area. While initial reports suggested that four persons were robbed, Ryburn Fraser of 2688 Manatee Place, South Ruimveldt Park, a father of four, suffered the biggest loss of approximately $1.6M. Fraser was shot earlier
this year in South Ruimveldt when he was robbed of more than one million dollars and gold but managed to drive himself to the Georgetown Public Hospital. Speaking with the media yesterday evening at the scene, Fraser said that the other three money changers were lying on the ground as the gunmen snatched their wads of cash but he was standing when he was relieved him of his bag of money and gold jewellery. The visibly upset and shaken man bemoaned the security situation in the country, remarking that it seemed to be getting worse. He lifted his jersey to show scars from the bullet wounds he sustained when he was robbed earlier this year. He related that he has been changing money for approximately twenty- five years and all he has achieved in life came through his currency changing business.
The man vowed, however, not to give up his trade which is vital for him to earn and provide for his family. He recalled returning
weeks since he returned to the America Street area. This newspaper was unable to speak with any of the others who were robbed as they were too distraught at the time. There was already a high police presence on the scene when the Guyana Chronicle arrived. Several persons
confirmed seeing some of the bandits brandishing ‘long’ weapons and other small arms during the attack which lasted for approximately five minutes. Several spent shells were seen scattered on the ground as the police hurried to secure them for ballistic tests. Meanwhile, this newspaper
observed that there is at least one security camera in the area that should enable investigators to secure some useful footage. During the shooting, several persons scampered for cover while others rushed mindlessly and dangerously towards the direction of the gunfire.
High caliber weapons were also used as this spent shell indicates to the street to resume his business after the attack earlier this year, through the generosity of his mother who sent him money from overseas. He noted that it has been only about a month and two
Conflagration averted! A HEAVILY grilled four-storey building currently being constructed at Regent and Alexander streets in Georgetown started emitting smoke, then fire, at the rear end of its top floor yesterday evening, much to the dismay of alarmed passersby, who stopped to stare in disbelief. Prompt response from the Guyana Fire Service saved the situation from deteriorating into a disaster. “We have not been told yet what exactly transpired. As you can see, the building is not being occupied, it is under construction,” a GFS officer on scene told the Guyana Chronicle. “But once the Fire Service got here, they had to rip open the grill at the top of the building to get to extinguish the fire.” The owner of the building, observed in conversation with the police and members of the Guyana Fire Service, declined to speak to the press. (Svetlana Marshall)
Some of the firefighters removing themselves from the building after extinguishing the fire
Money changer Ryburn Fraser speaking to members of the media last evening
Major youth forum on community development for QC on Thursday
The Office of the Presidential Advisor on Youth Empowerment in collaboration with the Guyana National Youth Council (GNYC) will be hosting a public lecture on ‘Rethinking Community Development; A Social Enterprise Approach’, on Thursday at Queen’s College. The event will be held from 17:00h to 20:00h in school’s auditorium, Camp Street, Georgetown. According to a release in an attempt to empower the young people of Guyana, the Government of Guyana (GoG) will be having a series of public lectures and training programmes. This particular lecture will be delivered by Dr. K'adamawe K'nife – Lecturer/ Researcher at the University of the West Indies. In his lecture, Dr. K’nife will explore how social enterprises can contribute to community development with a focus on youth development, gender mainstreaming UWI, Lecturer, Dr. and sustainable development. High youth unemployment K’adamawe K’nife plagues the region, in the case of Guyana as high as 40 percent. According to the release, social enterprises can play a key part of the solution. Young people can benefit from enterprises that can build their skills and confidence; that can create and keep wealth in our most deprived communities; and that can build trust, responsibility, provide role models, reward hard work and give young people a voice and a stake in their own development. Youths are being urged to attend the lecture and learn more about the important role of social enterprises for the development of self and community, and by extension country. For further information about the Lecture, please contact The Office of the Presidential Advisor on Youth Empowerment, Ministry of the Presidency on telephone number: 223-5233 or the Guyana National Youth Council at gnycteam@ gmail.com.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 4, 2015
Slovenia PM says migrant crisis could reignite Balkan conflicts (Reuters) THE migrant crisis engulfing Europe threatens to reignite conflicts between former Yugoslav republics which fought each other during the 1990s, Slovenia’s prime minister said on Tuesday. Hundreds of thousands of migrants, many of them fleeing Syria’s civil war, have taken the Balkan route from Greece to western Europe this year, putting great strain on the finances and infrastructure of transit countries, including the ex-Yu-
Migrants wait for transport to Slovenia after they registered at a new winter refugee camp in Slavonski Brod, Croatia, November 3, 2015.
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goslav states of Macedonia, Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia. The situation worsened when Hungary, an eastern outpost of the European Union’s passport-free Schengen zone, shut its southern border to the migrants on Oct. 16, diverting the flow of around 135,000 people westwards from Croatia into Slovenia. Countries have angrily accused each other of failing to register the refugees properly or to share information. “If the migrant crisis is not adequately controlled as agreed at the summit in Brussels there is a possibility of conflict situations between the states of the Western Balkans,” Slovenian Prime Minister Miro Cerar told a news conference. “It is possible that a small conflict would initiate a wider reaction because of the very difficult recent history (of the region), which is why it is very important that we solve this
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crisis together as no country can solve this problem by itself.” More than 100,000 people were killed and up to four million were displaced during the violent breakup of Yugoslavia during the 1990s, the last migrant crisis to shake Europe. Cerar is known for making dire warnings. At emergency EU talks on Oct. 25 in Brussels, he said the 28-nation bloc faced collapse if it could not agree on a plan to tackle the sudden influx of the refugees. On Tuesday Cerar said the EU must control its external border in Greece much better. He also said the flow of migrants transiting the Balkans could move further west to Albania and Montenegro, though he did not elaborate. Cerar said Slovenia might follow Hungary’s example by building a fence along “relevant parts of the border” to better control the migrant flow, adding: “We do not plan to close the border.”
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Chile miners sue lawyer for fraud over underground ordeal (BBC News) NINE of the 33 miners who in 2010 were trapped by a rockfall in a mine in Chile for 69 days before being rescued are suing their lawyers. The group accuses the lawyers of cheating them out of money. The lawyers negotiated the rights relating to films, TV series and books based on the miners’ ordeal. The plaintiffs allege that they were badly advised by the lawyers, who they say
conned them into signing house that “today we’re being away their rights. rescued for a second time”. “The contracts we signed ‘RESCUED AGAIN’ were not what the lawyers The plaintiffs said that said they would be, for exlawyers Remberto Rodrigo ample of the $150m [£97m] Valdes and Fernando Garcia paid to our company, we “misled the 33, making them only received 17%,” Mr believe they would manage Urzua said. their own company, only to He also said that he hoped harm them and appropriate that by bringing the lawsuit monies that rightfully be- the remaining 24 miners longed to them”. would be convinced of the vaLuis Urzua, who was the lidity of the plaintiffs’ claim. shift leader when the rockfall “Now they’ll see that happened, said at the court- we’re not acting on a whim.”
Murder of Prisons Supt jolts Kamla
Opposition Leader knocks Rowley’s silence on crime (Trinidad Guardian) OPPOSITION leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar has again called out Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley on the crime crisis, querying this in view of the fact the situation “now clearly out of the control of the Government.” “He (Rowley) must speak, he must act - he must assure the nation that initiatives are being taken to bring this crisis to an end,” Persad-Bissessar insisted, noting Rowley heads T&T’s National Security Council. It was the second time the Opposition Leader has queried Rowley’s silence on crime issues. The first was immediately after the launch of the Parliamentary term last month when she said there was a “deafening silence” from his direction on the fact that the murder rate had began to spiral once again and September was termed the “bloodiest “ month of the year. There were 50 murders for the month of September. Expressing sympathies to the mother and relatives of murdered prisons Supt David Millette who was murdered outside his Morvant home on Monday, Persad-Bissessar stated, “With an emerging crime crisis and the brutal murder of Superintendent of Prisons, Mr David Millette, why is Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley so silent on issues that are now clearly out of the control of the Government.”
Antonio Banderas (left) plays miner Mario Sepulveda (right) in the film The 33 A Hollywood film about TV stations around the But Mario Sepulveda, the miners’ rescue starring world. They had hoped their one of the miners who has Antonio Banderas as Mr not joined the lawsuit, said Sepulveda is currently on financial future would be secured, but five years on the plaintiffs were “letting release. The miners became ce- many say they still suffer themselves be led astray by people who haven’t read the lebrities when their rescue from the psychological was transmitted live by scars left by their ordeal. contracts properly”.
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Guyana
Civility in public life must be restored as a matter of urgency Dear Editor,
EDITORIAL
Sir Gary Sobers and our cricket conversation
SIR Garfield Sobers is regarded as the greatest all-round cricketer to have played the game. His exploits in all departments have been the subject of many books and documentaries. His skills were beyond dispute, but these were complemented by a manner of play that suggested that, for Sir Gary, cricket was more than a game. He was most competitive on the field of play, whether bowling, batting, fielding or captaining. Perhaps because he was such a sensation, the politics of his game has been somewhat overlooked. While the militancy of a Worrell or a Viv Richards has been acknowledged, Sobers is not spoken about in that light. That is why his recent comments on the state of West Indies cricket has caused some to take notice. Speaking in Sri Lanka, Sobers made the following observation: “I have never made a run for me. I have always played for the West Indies team, and it was such a pleasure and joy to be able to do what I did. I don`t think we have that kind of person today. We might have them in different countries, but I don’t think we have them in the West Indies. I think we are going to be struggling for a long time.” At first glance, Sobers’s words and the view therein seem familiar to some, who bother to think about the game as more than bat and ball. Some commentators, notably Professor Hilary Beckles and other students of the game, have made that connection between the West Indies’ decline and the state of the larger society. The problem is that such analysis has not been the dominant one. Many of the cricket journalists and commentators prefer a diagnosis and analysis that explain the decline in purely cricketing terms. That, in itself, is a reflection of the state of the game in the Region. The inability to reach for an intellectual tradition pioneered by the legendary CLR James, which situates cricket in the West Indies beyond the boundary, is a serious indictment of those tasked with articulating a Caribbean liberation praxis. This is the significance of Sobers’s comments. In his quiet way, he implicitly admonishes the chattering
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 4, 2015
THE writing is on the wall that the contempt with which the Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar regimes had conducted the people’s business, and the disdain they demonstrated in interacting with the workers/ citizenry, will not again be tolerated from any other regime. Today, Guyanese are demanding that their rights be upheld, public officials operate within the parameters of the laws, and the people should be treated with due respect. This is a level of awareness and civic responsibility prevalent in progressive societies, and moreso in a democracy that is structured on people’s representation. Guyana has a representative system of governance, and the people’s desire for progress is a complementary factor that ought to be encouraged. It should be said that, notwithstanding the major shortcomings and roguishness of the Jagdeo and Ramotar governments, the basic etiquette of acknowledging letters and returning telephone calls was practised. This is a practice that ought not be discarded by the APNU+AFC government, but should be embraced and strengthened. There was a period in our history, not so long ago, when civility by and among the political leadership, elected leaders and senior government officials was seen as a matter of necessity and public engagement. It is also not untrue to say that, in
that era of leadership, there was an aura of confidence in self and conviction of belief that propelled actions to engage citizens to win their hearts. The majority among that group, even when in disagreement, addressed each other with civility and without a diet of overt crudity and name-calling. Maxims like ‘do unto others as you would like them to do unto you’ and ‘manners maketh man’ held sway. Instructively, the principal political objective of the State did not have ensconced “inclusionary democracy” in the management and decision-making process of State regarding matters that impact a group’s interest, as presently exists in Article 13 of the Guyana Constitution; yet, during the leadership of Forbes Burnham, Desmond Hoyte, Cheddi Jagan and Janet Jagan, the record shows these leaders brought to their political craft a level of civility that forged engagement with stakeholders, regardless of political and policy differences. For instance, the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), a major stakeholder, though this body held different positions on several issues with each government, the then pervasive practice of civil engagement led to agreement on issues or agreed positions to disagree. And in respect for the principle of civility and responsibility to the public and stakeholders, Burnham, Hoyte, the Jagans, their Minister of Labour or shadow minister picked up the telephone and personally engaged the trade union leadership. The same can
class for not recognising the root of our problems, not only in cricket but in almost every facet of the Caribbean experience. James and the equally astute student of the game, Antiguan Tim Hector, would argue that the crisis in our cricket is a signal that there is crisis in our politics, economics and society. Sobers points to a rise in individualism in West Indies cricket that has consumed our cricketers. But those cricketers are not an exception to the Caribbean rule; they are recruited from a society that has been brutally assaulted by this phenomenon. For a Region whose survival and independence have been grounded in a culture of collective action, this is a serious body blow. For some reason, we have been unable
be said of Jagan, Hoyte and Robert Corbin during their leadership in the opposition. I can recall Carl Greenidge, as Minister of Finance, even before he made the pronouncement on the devaluation of the Guyana dollar, met with the President and General Secretary of the GTUC before entering Parliament. This was a period when issues that had direct bearing and impact on labour, the movement would have been informed and engaged before it became public. Today, this nation has deviated from these time-honoured principles. This deviation began under the Jagdeo leadership, and continues unabated. In many instances, labour was informed only through the grapevine or the media. From these sources, we are hearing about a Green Economy; an economy whose success is reliant on an informed and educated labour force; an economy that has to conform to the ILO Decent Work Agenda in a society where the constitution enshrines the trade union’s involvement in production, productivity, and economic development (Articles 38 and 149C); yet, there has been no engagement with labour. Outside of civility, constitutional and international pillars to realising a Green Economy are being cast aside. Consequently, the desire to have rank-and-file workers trained in courtesy and good customer service -- since it is viewed as important to making Guyana an attractive tourist destination - should also encompass the upper echelons.
As one walks the streets, there are numerous complaints about ministers’ attitudes, refusal to reply to letters or return telephone calls. These complaints are not unconvincing when the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) has also been the recipient of this incivility. In one instance, as the GTUC General Secretary, I had reason to call a minister’s office. I left a message. Eleven days later, the minister’s secretary called me to find out if I still wanted to speak with him. The GTUC has also written letters to members of the Cabinet, and has not been accorded the courtesy of an acknowledgement, much less engagement. Publ i c offi ci al s are paid from the public purse. Elected officials offer themselves for leadership, and both are accountable to the people and must treat the people with civility and respect. Civility in public life requires a level of maturity in thinking and behaviour; and since this is absent in today’s engagement, everything is seen within the context of addressing individuality and personality, rather than addressing the issue by first asking: “Is it right what is being said”, or “How can I use the criticism to improve my performance?” There must be growth in public interaction, and the posture of citizens to hold officials accountable must continue as we together seek to build a society better than the one we inherited. Yours sincerely, LINCOLN LEWIS
to balance individual success and collective commitment to overcome as a society. Sobers’s comments should shock us into a new realisation of the root cause of the problem. When an optimistic icon is forced to express such pessimism about the future of a political economy and cultural space that produced his unique genius just a few decades ago, it is time to take stock. So long as we continue to flood the public space with simplistic analyses of the state of cricket in our Region, the search for solutions would continue to miss the mark. Sir Gary has given us yet another opportunity to shift the conversation to higher ground.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 4, 2015
Major revamp for UG
--Roopnaraine plugs greater attention to science
By Tajeram Mohabir WITH science and technology being the focus of development in the 21st century, the University of Guyana (UG) which to a large extent is still stuck in the social sciences, is set to veer in a more modern direction. “My own sense is the days when social sciences had the kind of clout it once had, I think those days are past and the new day calls for a heavier concentration on science and technology,” Education Minister Dr Rupert Roopnaraine told the Guyana Chronicle. But he said for this to happen, a reform in the secondary education system is needed with sharper focus on the Science, Technology, Engineer and Mathematics (STEM) subjects. In 2015, fewer than half of those who wrote English A and Mathematics at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations secured passes. The Ministry
Education Minister Dr Rupert Roopnaraine
of Education had described as ‘unsatisfactory’ the performance of students in the core science subjects of Physics and Chemistry. President David Granger lamented the poor performance in these two subjects at the schools’ national awards ceremony held recently at the National Cul-
tural Centre (NCC). “This performance is unacceptable in the knowledge-based world in which we live. Guyana simply cannot continue along this trajectory if it is to compete with our sisters in the Caribbean,” Mr Granger said. Dr Roopnaraine pointed out that the change is not only required at the secondary school level, but also at the University of Guyana. Early grade levels Ideally, he said, the interest in science and technology has to be cultivated at the early grade levels, and the university has to be a place where young scholars can advance their appetite in these areas. To his credit, the Ministry of Education has begun the push for greater attention to be placed on the STEM subjects. Aside from a focus on science and technology, Dr Roopnaraine also stressed that more is needed from
Guyana’s premier tertiary learning institution in the area of research. “The university has to be a place where they are not only producing graduates but you are releasing knowledge through research and I think that the university has fallen behind in this area. The university really has to be a place where you are producing what the country needs in relation to science and technology. I need the university to be a place where when I want something done at the Ministry of Education, I don’t want to be importing some specialist; I should turn to the University of Guyana, the institution which should be providing all of the expertise that I need. This is where we have to go, I don’t think that this will be achieved by the waving of a magic wand, what we are talking about here is a process and I think that
the process is under way at the university, but it needs to be accelerated,” he said. On assuming office, Dr Roopnaraine said the administration would increase funding for UG as it was more or less on life support then. GENERATE REVENUES But he noted the administration also wants to see the university generate revenues to fund its operations and steps are being taken in this regard. Dr Roopnaraine, a world-class professor of comparative literature, also noted that he would be happy when the University of Guyana is in a position where it would not have to depend on the government for a subvention. He had told this publication that Guyana’s leading tertiary education provider is expected to be transformed into a worldclass institution of learning, geared to meet the needs of
the country and to serve as a national think tank. “We should have the university as a think tank, we should have the quality of persons at the university who can provide the kind of intellectual leadership in society, the scientific reach in society that we need. We have the capacity to generate what we call a think tank, providing the intellectual power to help the government and society. That’s not beyond us; it is what we have to aim at,” he had told this publication in a previous interview. Under his watch, Dr Roopnaraine said the infrastructure of UG will be upgraded, greater attention will be paid to quality of teaching, salaries for lecturers, the relevance of syllabuses, among others, to ensure that programmes are aligned to address priority areas of the country.
Regional symposium addresses challenges in dengue Control MORE than 100 public health experts and stakeholders gathered on Tuesday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for the First Regional Dengue Symposium, led by the Sabin Vaccine Institute (Sabin), the Dengue Vaccine Initiative (DVI) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), regional office for the Americas of the World Health Organisation (WHO). This inaugural meeting, held Nov. 3-4, 2015, comes as the dengue community prepares for the potential availability of the first-ever vaccines to help combat this pervasive disease. Over the next two days, attendees will share their research and expertise, providing a unique opportunity to promote scientific knowledge for all partners to support governments in their decisions about integrating dengue vaccines with existing dengue prevention and control strategies. Dengue threatens more than 2.5 billion people in over 100 countries; it is the world’s fastest growing vector-borne disease. Dengue causes painful fever with headache, skin rash and debilitating muscle and joint pains. Complications include hamorrhaging, shock, coma or death and frequently require hospitalisations, which cause a major burden on public health systems. This is particularly concerning for low-and middle-income countries, where outbreaks occur often and access to healthcare can be limited or poor. In the Americas alone, costs associated with dengue have been estimated at more than $2 billion, from treatment to productivity loss.
“Despite major efforts by countries over the past decade to prevent dengue and control its mosquito vector, the disease continues to be a significant public health problem in the Americas,” said Dr. Jose Luis San Martin, PAHO/ WHO regional advisor on dengue. “This symposium will be instrumental in reviewing existing and new approaches to fighting dengue and how, as a Region, we can come together to strengthen strategies to prevent and control this disease.” Recent decades have seen important developments in dengue prevention and control strategies, including innovations in vector control mechanisms and mathematical modelling to better understand dengue’s burden. In addition, several vaccine candidates are under development. In 2014, the first Phase III trials for one of these was completed and demonstrated an overall efficacy of 61% in Latin America (57% in Asia). In July of this year, PAHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Vaccine-preventable Diseases (TAG) noted the encouraging developments in vaccines for dengue but said there was insufficient evidence to make a recommendation on vaccine introduction at that time. Meanwhile, five other vaccine candidates (all tetravalent intended to protect simultaneously against the four dengue viruses) continue to progress in their clinical trials. A dengue vaccine is viewed as a valuable additional tool for integrated dengue prevention and control. “The approach to dengue prevention and control should be evidence-based and reflect country-ownership,” said
Dr. In-Kyu Yoon, director of DVI. “This meeting will help promote the exchange of lessons among countries in the Region. It will continue to lay the groundwork for decision-making about vaccine introduction in the Americas and around the world.” The Regional Dengue Symposium, the first of its kind, organized jointly by PAHO/WHO, the Sabin Vaccine Institute and DVI, will review traditional and new approaches to fighting dengue. It will bring together perspectives from all partners involved: global health experts, public health practitioners and policy makers from dengue-endemic countries in the Americas and representatives of companies developing vector-control technologies and vaccines. The inclusion of stakeholders across sectors and disciplines seeks to strengthen the conversation about the challenges ahead in eliminating dengue. “This is an exciting time for the global health community — years of on-the-ground implementation experience, improved epidemiology and scientific advances have made progress in dengue vaccine development possible,” said Dr. Jon Andrus, Executive Vice President and Director of Advocacy and Education at Sabin. “In combination with current dengue interventions, a vaccine could help us remove dengue as a public health threat worldwide. As we move forward, advocacy for vaccine introduction and improved, integrated solutions in tackling dengue will be critical to ending the needless suffering caused by this preventable disease.” (PAHO)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
Kingston Seawall suicide pact…
Female identified, male still a mystery By Rabindra Rooplall
CUMMINGS Lodge resident 19-yearold Kavita Ackloo, called “Shevon”, has been identified as the female in the Kingston seawall poison incident that occurred on Monday last. The teen was positively identified on Tuesday evening at the Lyken Funeral Parlour. However, Police Commander Clifton Hicken noted that the body of the young man is still to be identified. There were no marks of violence on either of the bodies, and they were both fully clothed. Police retrieved from the right side pocket of the dead man two receipts which indicated that he had purchased two items from Caribbean Chemicals Limited on Croal Street. Investigators are convinced that the duo took their own lives. They were both discovered lying close to each other with bottles of what is suspected to be poison nearby. The teen, who would have celebrated her twentieth birthday tomorrow, previously attended Leguan Secondary. She did not complete schooling, but chose to move to Georgetown after her grandmother had fallen ill two years ago. The girl’s father, who lives separately from her mother, was devastated by the news, and told investigators that he does not know the young man. Her mother, Romeela Narine, called “Sharda”, has described her daughter as a very quiet and easygoing individual. “Out of my five children, she was my best child. Most of her life was
spent in Leguan with my mother. She never showed any signs of abuse (or) depression. I am totally shocked, I
Dead: Kavita Ackloo, called ‘Shevon’ didn’t realise it was my daughter until I opened the papers and saw the picture, and then I (recognised) that green pants and I looked closely and know it was her,” she lamented. MALE UNKNOWN She added that she did not really know the young man who had been involved with her daughter. Ms Narine said: “I don’t really know the
bai name. Some say he name Rakesh (or) Ramesh, but I don’t know. She only visited me with him once, when her step-father was not at home,” she explained. She continued: “When she come to town to live two years ago -- she lived most of the time with me -- she was always willing to learn. She did lots of computer courses and other things to develop herself.” Reflecting on her daughter’s relationship, Ms Narine said the first relationship her daughter had, she had brought a boy at the house which her step-father owns, something she had warned her against and had expressed total disapproval of. However, after that relationship had ended and her daughter worked as a salesgirl in the city at Bombay Fashions, she apparently became involved with another young man almost a month ago. “Is only couple of week ago they started talking on Whatsapp. This is not a long relationship. She moved out from me couple weeks ago to go stay by her father, and I don’t know exactly what she did or didn’t do. I don’t know how she drink it (poison) or why she drink it; she never said anything that would cause this,” she exhorted. “Her sister which is two years younger had also drunk poison earlier this year, and was admitted to the hospital for a while,” the mother explained. When questioned if any other member of the family had also committed suicide, Ms Narine said her grandmother had committed suicide. “And imagine Shevon said to me she could never do something like that (drink
poison) because this world got too much man. So you can imagine how I feel when I saw that newspaper.”
OMEN Recollecting on the events that occurred during the day her daughter died, Ms Narine said there were signs of bad omen. “When I was on the verandah, a set of brick and concrete fall from the roof onto my neck. Then when my husband go and put on he boots, a whole set of red ants was around his boots. It’s the same sign when his mother had died. I had bad signs but I didn’t know exactly what it was until now.” Ask if she will be visiting the morgue where her daughter’s body is stored, the mother of five said she would not want to witness the post-mortem, since it would be too painful to watch her daughter in such a state. In offering her advice to other young people who may be contemplating suicide, the grieving mother said that instead of committing such an act, it is better to talk to a neighbour, relative, workmate or somebody who would listen until that mood passes over. “Before she drink poison, why didn’t she go to her sister in Leguan and relax, since the two of them get along well,” she questioned. “I last saw her Sunday; she wore a black pants and pink top, and everybody in this street was shocked. People could not believe. She never complained to anyone. Now look what happen,” she lamented.
Bath woman overpowers bandit during armed attack POLICE on the West Coast of Berbice are looking for two men as they investigate an attempted robbery of a Bath Settlement family early Tuesday morning. This is after a woman was attacked by two bandits who entered her home at 06:00 hrs. According to Miriam Hoosain, she had just seen her husband off to work and was sitting in a hammock meditating. “He has to catch the truck at 05:30 hrs so I would normally get up and cook, and when he left I had both doors open but was backing the road because I did not want to be distracted and then two men came to
The injured Miriam Hoosain
the gate and ask if my husband at home.” The mother of two took on one of the armed men who had entered her house. She said she was hit several times in the face and head. In relating the incident Hoosain said that as soon as she was conscious she started to shout for help and received the full impact of a gun smashing into her face and was told to be quiet. “He threatened to shoot me. So I get up after I catch myself again and I hold on to him and fight him and overpowered him.” According to Hoosain she heard the man on the upper flat opening drawers and asking the children where their mother
bedroom is. However she was able to overpower the man who was wrestling with her but he escaped. “I run under the neighbour house and start to scream for thief and when they left them people start to come around.” According to her the bandits did not get to take anything from the house. Meanwhile Feroze Hoosain told this publication that he was not allowed to leave work and go home after receiving information of his wife’s injury. According to the GuySuCo Security Guard he received information of the incident at about 08:30 hrs but could not leave to go home until 14:00 hrs.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
Estimated two-thirds of global population under 50 infected with herpes simplex virus type More than 3.7 billion people under the age of 50 – or 67% of the population – are infected with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), according to WHO's first global estimates of HSV-1 infection published today in the journal PLOS ONE. Herpes simplex virus is categorised into 2 types: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are highly infectious and incurable. HSV-1 is primarily transmitted by oral-oral contact and in most cases causes orolabial herpes or "cold sores" around the mouth. HSV-2 is almost entirely sexually transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, causing genital herpes. The new estimates highlight, however, that HSV-1 is also an important cause of genital herpes. Some 140 million people aged 15-49 years are infected with genital HSV-1 infection, primarily in the Americas, Europe and Western Pacific. Fewer people in high-income countries are becoming infected with HSV-1 as children, likely due to better hygiene and living conditions, and are instead at risk of contracting it genitally through oral sex after they become sexually active. "Access to education and information on both types of herpes and sexually transmitted infections is critical to protect young people's health before they become sexually active," says Dr Marleen Temmerman, Director of WHO's Department of Reproductive Health and Research. Large number of genital infections In January, WHO estimated that 417 million people aged 15-49 years have HSV-2 infection, which causes genital herpes. Taken together, the estimates reveal that over half a billion people between the ages of 15-49 years have genital infection caused by either HSV-1 or HSV-2. "The new
estimates highlight the crucial need for countries to improve data collection for both HSV types and sexually transmitted infections in general," says Dr Temmerman. Given the lack of a permanent and curative treatment for both HSV-1 and HSV-2, WHO and partners are working to accelerate development of HSV vaccines and topical microbicides, which will have a crucial role in preventing these infections in the future. Several candidate vaccines and microbicides are currently being studied. REGIONAL INFECTION ESTIMATES Estimates for HSV-1 prevalence by region among people aged 0-49 in 2012: •Americas: 178 million women (49%), 142 million men (39%) •Africa: 350 million women (87%), 355 million men (87%) •Eastern Mediterranean: 188 million women (75%), 202 million men (75%) •Europe: 207 million women (69%), 187 million men (61%) •South-East Asia: 432 million women (59%), 458 million men (58%) •Western Pacific: 488 million women (74%), 521 million men (73%) Estimates of new HSV-1 infections among people aged 0-49 in 2012: •Americas: 6 million women, 5 million men •Africa: 17 million women, 18 million men •Eastern Mediterranean: 6 million women, 7 million men •Europe: 5 million women, 5 million men •South-East Asia: 13 million women, 14 million men •Western Pacific: 11 million women, 12 million men
DISEASE SYMPTOMS Herpes is a lifelong infection, which often has mild or no symptoms but can be detected by the presence of antibodies for HSV-1 or HSV-2 in the blood. It is difficult to determine the proportion of HSV-infected people worldwide who have symptomatic disease, as symptoms may be mild or simply not recognized as herpes. In the United States of America, about 15% of people with HSV-2 infection report a prior diagnosis of genital herpes. When genital herpes symptoms do occur, they take the form of one or more painful genital or anal blisters or ulcers. Herpes symptoms can be treated with antivirals, but after an initial episode, symptoms can recur. Recurrences of genital herpes due to HSV-1 are generally much less frequent than for HSV-2. Transmission of HSV most often occurs without symptoms. The virus can have a significant negative impact upon an infected person's mental wellness and personal relationships. People with orolabial herpes symptoms may face social stigma, and can experience psychological distress as a result. In people with weak immune systems, such as those with advanced HIV infection, HSV-1 can have more severe symptoms and more frequent recurrences. Rarely, HSV-1 infection can also lead to more serious complications such as encephalitis or ocular disease. WHO is currently working on the development of a global health sector strategy for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including for HSV-1 and HSV-2, to be finalised for consideration at the 69th World Health Assembly in 2016. (PAHO)
NCERD focusing on ICT - to deliver higher quality education THE National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD) has created the opportunity for stakeholders to partake in a symposium that looks at the use of Information Communication Technology (ICT), as a key driver in re-tooling the education system, towards delivering high quality education and learning opportunities. The two-day symposium themed “Innovation explosion in education delivery,” opened on Tuesday at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston. In attendance were Minister within the Ministry of Education, Department of Culture, Youth and Sport Nicolette Henry, Chief Education Officer (CEO) Olato Sam, Director, NCERD Jennifer Cumberbatch, Regional Education Officers (REOs), heads of department and head teachers. The symposium is aimed at creating a discussion forum for hastening the building of ICT infrastructure and capacity for Guyana’s educational system, by bringing together the stakeholders of the educational sector, with the aim of reflecting how to transform, diffuse and adopt ICT within the system. Delivering the feature address, Minister Henry noted thatGuyana, must similarly strive to harness information, communication and other technologies, in education to transform the economy and society. She explained that Guyana’s future depends on all Guyanese and in this regard, technology in education is an equaliser, giving all
the opportunity to contribute to this goal of a strengthened Guyanese economy. “It is recognised that an investment needs to be made in the education of our future citizens, an investment that would reap a reward in future generations, who would be armed with the tools of the 21st century, to be able to compete globally and thrive locally.” Minister Henry noted that the technology in teaching and the innovation that would be introduced and highlighted during the symposium can reach a wide base of pupils. “In this country we can produce architects in Aishalton, doctors for Parfaite Harmonie and Albouystown, scientists from Vreeden-hoop and Charity, and innovators and entrepreneurs from Georgetown and New Amsterdam, and everything between,” she noted. In his address, Sam counselled the stakeholders that in paving the way forward, they must craft their own niche, and move beyond the stage where the country is constantly borrowing external models then bending them to suit the local realities. “…the future of our children and grandchildren really depend on the work that we would do over the next few days, the foundation that we will lay. As such I urge you all to approach this with the significance that it has for this nation, and I ask you all to consider yourself champions who would return to your respective realms and champion the cause of ICT in Guyana,” he said. He also assured that whatever direction is taken by the
Participants at the NCERD grand ‘Innovation explosions in education delivery’ symposium at the Pegasus Hotel
participants that it will have the support of the Ministry and the Government, as there is very great interest from the highest level of the administration in moving forward the agenda of ICT in the education system. He pointed out that no less than President David Granger had declared publically that ICT has to be one of the major drivers of the system going forward. Cumberbatch in her address issued a challenge for Guyanese teachers to take the lead in using technology, and to make changes in educational practices that prepare students for the future. She noted that in achieving this objective, teachers must be provided with consistent support and extensive training, and in this regard, the symposium is continuing the laying of the ground work for this to happen. (GINA)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
16 women die daily in LAC from pregnancy, childbirth complications BETTER access to ultrasound and other radiology services can reduce maternal and neonatal deaths across the Americas, experts at the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health O r g a n i s a t i o n ( PA H O / WHO) said in advance of World Radiology Day. "Obstetric ultrasound is instrumental in identifying potential risks to mother and child, and interventional radiology makes childbirth safer for some women by managing postpartum h e m o r r h a g e , " s a i d D r. Pablo Jimenez, PAHO/ WHO Regional Advisor in Radiological Health. "But the full potential of these radiological techniques have yet to be realised in our region. On World Radiology Day, we are stressing the importance of strengthening health systems to make lifesaving radiology services more widely accessible."
On average, 16 women die every day in Latin America and the Caribbean from complications of pregnancy or childbirth, while 250 babies die each day before having reached 28 days of age. Many of the complications, including fetal malpresentation, multiple gestations, ectopic pregnancy and placenta previa, can be managed with early diagnosis starting with ultrasound imaging. Interventional radiology techniques such as embolisation, in which radiological images are used to guide a catheter into the body to stop internal bleeding without open surgery, can play a major role in reducing deaths from postpartum haemorrhage. Overall, an estimated 8.2% of mothers who give birth in Latin America and the Caribbean suffer from a severe postpartum haemorrhage that requires transfusion. According to PAHO
pregnant women in highincome countries usually receive early and advanced prenatal care, including radiology services, however, those services are lacking in many parts of Latin America and the Caribbean. And where the services are offered, they are often of questionable quality. In some cases the radiographers are poorly trained to use the equipment, while in other cases the technology either doesn't work or has not been properly maintained. "Ultrasound equipment is relatively affordable, portable and, when operated by trained professionals, completely safe and accurate," Jimenez said. "But radiology requires well trained professionals with extensive knowledge in the acquisition and interpretation of images coupled with the implementation of quality control and assurance programmes to ensure
a reliable and accurate diagnosis. Our goal is to make that level of care much more widely available." PAHO'S "ZERO DEATHS FROM HAEMORRHAGE" INITIATIVE Meanwhile, PAHO said maternal mortality declined 43% in Latin American and 30% in the Caribbean between 1990 and 2010. But this progress was not sufficient to achieve the 75% reduction by 2015 called for in the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). To help countries
accelerate reductions in maternal mortality, PAHO/ WHO is leading the "Zero Deaths from Haemorrhage" initiative. It targets obstetric haemorrhage, the secondleading cause of maternal death in the Americas, by supporting country efforts to expand women's access to the quality health services they need. The initiative promotes quality assurances and respect for women's rights while working to strengthen t h e h e a l t h w o r k f o rc e and the use of simple health technologies, and addresses geographical
and cultural barriers that cause delays in women's seeking care. Access to radiological services is one more tool that can help reduce preventable deaths. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) works with the countries of the Americas to improve the health and quality of life of the population. Founded in 1902, it is the world's oldest international public health agency. It serves as the WHO Regional Office for the Americas and is the specialised health agency of the Inter-American system.
Kwakwani tightens up on stray animals MINISTER of National Security Khemraj Ramjattan has ordered the establishment of a pound at the Kwakwani Police Station, Linden, Region 10. The Minister made the order based on the powers conferred upon him in Section 2 of the Pound Act, and the order has been cited as the Pound (Kwakwani) Order 2015. Stray animals have for long been a nuisance to motorists and persons in residential communities. In February this year, the then Ministry of Home Affairs reported that a total of 357 animals, comprising 150 cows, 71 goats, 94 sheep and 42 horses were caught and impounded at the police pounds in ‘A,’ ‘B,’ ‘C’ and ‘D’ police divisions alone in January of this year. The Georgetown Unit accounted for 38 cows, 50 goats and 37 sheep, while the Berbice Unit accounted for 112 cows, 21 goats, 57 sheep and 42 horses. The government continues its appeal to both cattle owners and all road- users to make every effort to ensure that the roads are safe.
The Linden community of Kwakwani, Region 10 has moved to tighten up on stray animal in its environment
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
M&CC to form anti-crime, canine units … swears in 28 new city constables
THE Mayor and City Council on Tuesday announced that it will soon move to establish an elite squad to fight crime and also a canine unit to augment police management of Georgetown. The announcement was made by Town Clerk Royston King on Tuesday when he swore in 28 new constables. King challenged the new constables to perform their duties at a very high level given that they are the face of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC). Being selected after a vigorous six
months recruitment training course, the constables have taken up a challenge at a crucial time when the city is undergoing a transformation; as the M&CC works to restore Georgetown. King highlighted that although they are not up to their full capacity as yet regarding city constables, they will be tasked with more policing duties rather than the previous security duties, which will be handed to security officers. Classed as the oldest police force in the country, much is expected of these constables, and as such King made
mention of the fact that, “we will be implementing a traffic management unit to control traffic in various sections in the city, particularly on the council roads.” Additionally, he said that training will be given to city constables as to formulate an elite squad to help in crime fighting and also so that they can establish a canine section. Currently out of the 28 new recruits some will be assigned to the anti-litter unit, whilst the others will enforce the by-laws.
M&CC officials and the new city constables
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
Greens vendors hike prices over El Nino -housewives using substitutes
By Rabindra Rooplall IN the midst of El Nino weather, the prices for certain cash crops have been rising and farmers are justifying this increase, but consumers in some instances are bypassing the higher prices by using substitutes in their meal preparations. A cash crop is an agricultural crop which is grown for direct sale in the market to return a profit, but many consumers who spoke to this publication said that while they understand that prices will rise because of the El Nino effect, they have to utilise substitutes to avoid the ‘unnecessary expense.’ “Money ain’t easy to come by and I don’t care what El Nino causing, my money hasn’t increased for the market and other things will have to substitute for the vegetables and fruits that gone up,” one housewife said frankly. The dry weather is officially here and most meteorologists expect El Niño to hang around until at least early 2016, and farmers
have already felt the effects of this weather phenomenon and its impact on their crops. ‘MY FARM DRY, DRY’ Farmer Chaterpaul Bharrat said the weather pattern has wreaked havoc on his crops, but the recent rainfall saved acres of fruits and vegetables. The Canal Number Two, West Bank Demerara planter, who has been farming for decades, said that “with limited rainfall, the cash crop them very difficult to produce, and people don’t buy much because cost go up for the crops. I could carry anybody for a visit on my farm and let them see in Canal how my farm dry, dry, I have to use a pump to water my crop.” Noting that at present the fruits and vegetation have stifled, Bharrat said he has not even been getting the normal size of tomatoes, peppers or in some cases fruits, as the “rains give the plant the little nitrogen and stuff that all crops need to bloom. And the trench water
Farmer Chaterpaul Bharrat displaying the differences in size and texture in tomatoes that received insufficient water, as many other fruits and vegetables have taken a beating under El Nino weather conditions don’t give the same thing, eschallot, you name it and of good infrastructure for There is a chance that yuh have to get black water, its pressure when there is transportation, storage, cool- fruit trees will fruit heavily right now we ain’t even limited supply of water.” ing and marketing would as the climate dries further reaching to the black water Expressing optimism, cause food to spoil, espe- and it would be wise for creeks because all over dry.” the cash crop farmer said cially in hot climates. communities to preserve He continued: “Whole that rain will be falling these fruits for future use, day yo got to pump water sooner than later, since NEED FOR so that they are not wasted. for cash crops, plantation slight drizzles and a mild INVESTMENTS Another possible way crops like pak choi, celery, shower were recorded. “Ah to make the most of limbananas, pineapples, lettuce, mean the weather man say M e a n w h i l e , s e v e r a l ited rainfall is through a is until next year we getting farmers collectively not- multi-storey cropping sysproper rain, but according ed that both the private tem. Dr Homenauth exto the dry weather, nobody and public sectors need plained that land underneath can’t predict God’s work to increase investments to coconut trees is often wastand I am hoping for more address shortcomings in ed, but it can be used more rainfall for now… the two farming. They said further productively by planting showers that fall the other that doing so will also have additional crops, growing to day save thousands of toma- additional benefits for food different heights with differtoes for me.” security and mitigating ent root systems, providing climate change, land deg- more diverse food during a PONDS radation and biodiversity drought. For example in dry erosion. areas papaya and pineapple He recommended that Meanwhile, Dr. Oudho can be planted under cocothe Agriculture Ministry Homenauth, Chief Execu- nut trees. and donor agency should tive Officer of the National “Mulching and drip irassist small-scale farmers Agricultural Research and rigation are other effective by digging large ponds in Extension Institute (NAREI), ways of conserving limitfarming communities that told this publication that the ed water supplies, whilst can store water in addition periods of El Nino are par- composting can provide to assisting poor farmers ticularly difficult for farmers additional nutrients to help with pumps and necessary in many parts of the country. plants survive. Watering training to deal with these crops late in the day can weather conditions. DROUGHT-RESISTANT also reduce evaporation,” Another farmer selling CROPS he explained. his produce noted that GuyHe also noted that much ana has rich fertile land He recommended that of the environmental impact that can be reaped, which farmers plan for the year of irrigated agriculture is will maximise Guyana’s ahead by planting drought- linked to the management production because there resistant crops which can of water and salt balances is a food shortage globally. adapt to survive long pe- of irrigated lands. The farmer explained that riods of dryness. ExamDr Homenauth pointharvest losses have sev- ples include saime, yams, ed out that increases in eral causes, including bad cassava, okra and bananas the salinity of rivers and timing and poor conditions among others, and trees streams in many dry parts during the harvest as well as such as breadfruit, coco- around the country would inadequate techniques and nut and mango are also stifle the development of equipment. Similarly, lack drought-tolerant. crops.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
TSC says 2015 promotions above board
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… urges GTU to abandon court action
THE Teaching Service Commission (TSC) says it had stringently followed set criteria and principles to promote between four and 5,000 senior school administrators during the school year, 2015-2016. The TSC and the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) are at loggerheads over the promotion of senior staff. Accusing the TSC of mishandling the issue and unfairly awarding promotions, the GTU has since filed an injunction in the High Court, blocking the TSC from effecting any promotion of senior staff. In a statement issued yesterday, the TSC said the 2015 promotion exercise was done by all the commissioners, representatives from the Ministry of Education, and a representative from the Chairperson of the TSC Leila Ramson Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) who is also a commissioner. “The promotion application form used has one section for the applicant’s particulars and the other section, captioned ‘For Official Use’ for the comments of the Head Teacher, District Education Officer, Regional Education Officer, and the respective level Assistant Chief Education Officer.” The TSC said applicants are scored on the basis of their experience, qualifications and appraisal grades. However, in determining their suitability, the comments of the Head Teacher, District Education Officer, Regional Education Officer and Assistant Chief Education Officer are also taken into account. They provide more insightful details in relation to the applicant’s performance. Their recommendations are therefore considered vital. The TSC said the process adopted for application for the year, 2015 is the exact process that had been applied by the Teaching Service Commission for many years; and during the senior promotion exercise, a GTU nominee is always present, and in this particular year 2015, the GTU nominee who sat with the TSC during the promotional exercise made no objection. Upon completion of the exercise, the TSC said, the preliminary list of promotions was sent to all regions, and was posted on the TSC website. Applicants were given two weeks to “appeal” the decisions listed on the preliminary list. Applicants did so, and all appeals were thoroughly dealt with by the TSC. “In this regard, the Teaching Service Commission, in a bid to satisfy the union’s grievance as stated in the injunction, requested an additional list of teachers with specific grievances, but the union refused to provide such a list and demanded 100% re-examination of all the applications.”
The TSC said it views the union’s demands for a review of all applications as an unnecessary task, which seeks to question the integrity and autonomy of a constitutional body that has been sworn to impartially discharge its mandate. The TSC noted that at its last meeting with the GTU, the commission reiterated that promotion 2015 be concluded as is, and any changes with the criteria for future promotion exercises will be agreed between the TSC and the Ministry of Education. The GTU has rejected this compromise. “The Teaching Service Commission is deeply concerned about the negative impact and repercussions that the delay of 2015 promotions would have on students and teachers preparing for the various forthcoming examinations and the delivery of quality education generally. Apparently, this is not the concern of the GTU,” the TSC has said. The GTU filed an injunction against the TSC in early July, objecting to the publication of the final list of teachers promoted in 2015. The injunction was granted by Chief
Justice (ag) Ian Chang, preventing the TSC from issuing and publishing promotions for 2015. The matter was brought to the High Court by Attorney-at-Law Roysdale Forde, who is representing the GTU. The union feels that the TSC strayed from its rules and regulations in the way it processed promotions. However, subsequent to a meeting between President of the GTU, Mark Lyte, and Chairman of the TSC, Leila Ramson, last week, Lyte said that the union now has no confidence in the TSC or its chairperson. “We were trying to see if the matter could have been resolved outside of the court, so we have had a few meetings with the Minister of Education and his advisers pertaining to the way forward. The minister and his team were serving as mediators to the TSC. They were trying to provide a level playing field so we could have interacted through one representative from the TSC. When that did not work, we were asked to meet with the TSC,” Lyte explained.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
TT doctors pledge to continue charitable mission here F R E S H f r o m completing 10 successful follow-up surgeries in Georgetown, Guyana last week, the St Augustine-based
C a r i b b e a n Vi t re o u s Retina Surgery Limited ( C V R S ) — Wo r l d Class Eye Surgeons are now preparing to conduct locally, some
30 surgeries in its third Gift of Sight on December 19. Head of the CVRS, ophthalmologist Dr Ronnie Bhola told
Newsday that CVRS is looking at December 19 to conduct its third annual “Gift of Sight” to some 30 needy cases in Trinidad and Tobago. Last year the CVRS ophthalmologists conducted 20 surgeries. They will include some who have been waiting on the public health sector’s list for the past two years. This year, the surgeries on the Gift of Sight, will include the use of the new technology, the Femto Second Laser Cataract surgery. Speaking about the surgeries in Guyana that were conducted free of cost on the part of the patients, Bhola said they were done by a four-man team from the CVRS at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) in conjunction with Guyana’s Ministry of Health. The team comprised orbit and oculoplasty specialist Dr Adesh Mahabir, a nurse and an assistant. Bhola, a vitreo-retinal specialist who has been operating on Guyanese patients in Trinidad over the past seven years, performed follow-up retinal surgeries. Vitreo-retinal surgery was not available in Guyana for a number of years, and as such Bhola has been operating in Trinidad on numerous Guyanese patients with retinal diseases of the eye, primarily diabetic patients. Mahabir conducted operations on four children with strabismus (squint eye) to correct the misalignment of the eyes, and one complex p t e r y g i u m s u r g e r y. The four children were operated under general anaesthesia at the GPHC. G u y a n a ’s P u b l i c
H e a l t h M i n i s t e r, D r George Norton, an ophthalmologist himself paid a visit to the hospital during the surgical procedures. Bhola met in August with Norton — who sought his assistance
to Guyana to put faces to the names of doctors, including Norton, who had referred patients to him in Trinidad, and to see how he could assist in developing the capacity of the doctors on the
Dr Ronnie Bhola in helping four of his former patients with retinal surgery. Norton noted that the surgeries done locally saved the Guyanese patients the effort and costs of having to travel to Trinidad. On October 23, the Trini ophthalmologists w e re i n v o l v e d i n a Continued Medical Education (CME) Session, organised by Alcon Trinidad/Ansa McAl Group and the GPHC. They delivered lectures on various eye conditions to enhance the knowledge-base of local ophthalmologists, optometrists, general physicians and students. Bhola and Mahabir said they were extremely happy with this mission and they hope to continue doing such charitable missions to Guyana in the future. Bhola told Newsday that in August he travelled
neighbouring CARICOM sister nation. The August trip involved teaching in partnership with Eye See You Ophthalmics and Medical Supplies Limited. In last week’s exercise, the Trini ophthalmologists were also involved in a Continued Medical Education (CME) Session, organised by Alcon Trinidad/ Ansa McAl Group and GPHC. They delivered lectures on various eye conditions and were able to enhance the knowledge-base of local ophthalmologists, optometrists, general physicians and students. Bhola and Mahabir said they were extremely happy with this mission and they hope to continue doing such charitable missions to Guyana in the future. (Trinidad and Tobago Newsday)
GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
Two confess to killing gold miner
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THE police have said two men have confessed to killing gold miner, Sheldon Rodrigues, a 36-year-old of Onderneeming Village, Essequibo Coast. According to a police release, detectives in ‘F’ Division are currently wrapping up their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Rodrigues, which occurred around 02:15 hrs on November 2, 2015, at Falls Top, Arimu, Cuyuni River. Two suspects who have since confessed to the crime are in custody and are likely to be charged and placed before the court.
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ACIC, Islamic Anjuman to appoint regional officers throughout Guyana
GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015 PRESIDENT General of the Anna Catherina Islamic Complex (ACIC) Hakeem Khan, has announced that ACIC and its partner the Guyana United Sad’r Islamic Anjuman (GUSIA), will shortly appoint regional officers throughout Guyana, to allow the organisations to be able to better serve the Muslim community of Guyana. This move is expected to decentralise the activities of these organisations, and to ensure that the numerous projects, programmes and activities of these leading Muslim groups are made available to a wider ambit. A C I C i s G u y a n a ’s leading Muslim organisation, and is the centre of cultural Islam. It recently received o n e o f t h e c o u n t r y ’s national awards for its role in the Muslim and wider Guyanese community. It has established relationships with organisations throughout the world over its more than 75 years of existence. Formed in 1945, the GUSIA is Guyana’s oldest Islamic organisation, and is the only Muslim organisation authorised by an Act of Parliament to represent Muslims in Guyana. It
had lost its vibrancy in the last decade because of the imposition of another Islamic group on the Muslim community. It has operated the Shaheed Orphanages for over 50 years. The organisations will shortly hold a national convention of the leadership of the Guyanese M u s l i m c o m m u n i t y, to engage them in the
President General of ACIC, Hakeem Khan ways of better serving their communities and to establish a list of their needs in order to have them addressed. The reformation of the Jamiatul Miadeen (the Imams Council of Guyana) is high on the
agenda of this convention. Throughout the Muslim world, the fantastic work being done in Guyana by ACIC/Sadr & Shaheed orphanages are recognised. The establishing of these regional councils for the Muslim community is an absolute necessity of these organisations, to take their projects, programmes and activities to the people. The President General stated that it is time Muslims of Guyana stop being forced into affiliation to a particular group because of being given zakat (charity) or other forms of charity. Masjids have been forced into affiliation to one particular group because of zakat, hampers and monetary stipends provided; and real development of the Muslim community has been severely affected. He sees the development of ACIC as a model for other Muslim communities throughout Guyana, with the bottom line being that, despite challenges, discrimination and stifling of resources, it has shown how to achieve effectiveness and serve the Muslim and wider Guyanese communities.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 4, 2015
Unions protest GuySuCo’s delay in wages talks
FOLLOWING discussions with the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) yesterday at the corporation’s staff club Ogle, East Coast Demerara, the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) along with the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Guyana Labour Union (GLU) staged a protest, in an effort to express their dissatisfaction in the corporation’s decision as it relates to collective bargaining. A delegation from all seven estates representing NAACIE met with GuySuCo at the Ogle staff club. However, like GAWU last Friday, the NAACIE was also told about the Corporation’s need to be guided by a framework flowing from what is now understood to be an incomplete Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the sugar industry report. The meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere where the Chief Executive Officer Mr. Errol Hanoman informed the Union’s team of the losses suffered as a result of the three days’ strike called by GAWU. He indicated that some estates are still feeling the effects of that strike as a result
of the staling of canes and the breaking of the production momentum that was generated over the past few weeks. “GuySuCo failed to produce approximately 6,000
but asked that they be patient as the road map to secure the future of the industry is being developed. Hanoman cautioned the union on the loss of goodwill developed
of Inquiry. “We were given a history of the crisis that the company [GuySuCo] is now claiming that it finds itself in…We were invited to hear and not to ne-
Members of the various unions during protest action yesterday at Ogle (INEWS Photo) tonnes of sugar which would have generated $450M in cash revenue which is now delayed and a permanent loss of some 450 tonnes sugar valued $38M as a result of deterioration of the canes,” said Hanoman. Mr. Hanoman appealed to NAACIE and its members for their patience as they await a basis to guide the negotiation process. Given that there will be negotiations with the union
over the past weeks prior to the GAWU strike and he explained that the opportunity still exists for their members to earn tax free incentives over the remaining six to seven weeks of the crop. According to Head of NAACIE, Kenneth Joseph, the meeting did not mention anything about salary negotiations but instead they were told of the delay with the final report of the GuySuCo Commission
gotiate; the company is not in a position to negotiate,” said Joseph. He explained that when the issue was brought up, GuySuCo could not provide any date or time frame for wage talks. “The last question I asked is when would they be prepared to negotiate? And I was advised I might know better than them…so it is correct for me to say that GuySuCo does
not know when it will negotiate,” he told reporters. Having submitted wage and other proposals in the first quarter of this year for GuySuCo to consider and engage in Collective Bargaining. Although since 1997, there is a law - the Trade Union Recognition Act (TURA) – through which Section 23 (1) makes it compulsory for bargaining to take place, the behemoth Corporation continues to flout it. The referred section of the Act reads:Head of GAWU, Komal Chand disclosed that “Where a trade union obtains a certification of recognition for workers comprised in a bargaining unit in according with this Part, the employer shall recognise the union, and the union and the employer shall bargain in good faith and enter into negotiations with each other for the purpose of collective bargaining.” GAWU represents thousands employed in the field and factories; NAACIE the supervisory and clerical staffers; and the GLU the workers at the Demerara Sugar Terminal. Despite appeals to the Corporation to meet at the bargaining table, the Unions and by extension their members are becoming frustrated with the
stance of GuySuCo. As a red herring the Corporation is using the recommendations of the Sugar Commission of Inquiry as the stumbling block. It appears that the government has deemed the report of the CoI as incomplete. Minister Noel Holder is reported to have said that the report is in need of “tightening”. What then will be GuySuCo’s new excuse for not talking and negotiating? GAWU at a meeting with GuySuCo on October 30, 2015, was advised that the Corporation is awaiting a framework within which the negotiations would take place. The framework, GAWU understood, was being awaited from the Government possibly through GuySuCo’s Board of Directors. “The productive sugar workers of the corporation must not be used as a football. In the interest of the industry, the workers, the corporation, the three (3) sugar unions call for the immediate engagement without further procrastination between the unions, on one hand, and the Sugar Corporation, on the other, with a view to bring a speedy resolution of the wage/salary hike for all sugar workers for year, 2015,” said Chand.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 4, 2015
Better conditions at West Dem post offices
SENIOR citizens on the West Coast of Demerara will now receive their pensions in comfort, as Minister of Social Protection Volda Lawrence and Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Annette Ferguson have commissioned the newly rehabilitated Meten-Meer-Zorg and Fellowship Post Offices. These rehabilitation works were done in collaboration with the Commander of ‘D” Division and members of the religious and business communities, following a visit by Minister Lawrence. At that time the minister was made aware of the level of accommodation that was available for pensioners. The post offices are now outfitted with seating accommodation and sheds. According to Minister Lawrence, when one goes around the country, there are always complaints of pensioners falling down and others becoming sick because they had to stand in long lines at the post offices. “The country’s pensioners are precious elements of society and they should be treated with dignity and respect,” she noted. “I was very happy to know that after I commented on the treatment that pensioners had to endure in order to collect their pensions, action was taken.” The minister is hopeful that other regions will adopt similar Ministers Volda Lawrence and Annette Ferguson commission the Meter- Meer- Zorg Post Office initiatives so that other pensioners can uplift their pensions in comfort. She also expressed gratitude to the Guyana Post financial constraints that the post offices faced. However, had a mandate to provide services to citizens, and that under Office Corporation and the Ministry of Infrastructure, which notwithstanding the challenges, those on the West Coast were her tenure, all such offices countrywide would be transformed has responsibility for post offices, for embracing the initiative. able to collaborate with stakeholders to better the services to ensure that pensioners and other citizens transact their Meanwhile, Minister Ferguson said she was aware of the offered at the facilities. She further noted that the post offices businesses in a comfortable and clean environment. (GINA)
Police, soldiers get international training in human rights
THE International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) recently conducted a one-week Trainer of Trainers Course for members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). Fourteen ranks from the GPF and 10 from the GDF attended the programme, conducted from October 26 to 30 at the Police Officers’ Training Centre. A GPF release said that some of the subject areas addressed were International Law and International Human Rights Law; Law Enforcement Functions and Responsibilities; Law Enforcement Powers; Command, Control and Accountability; and Situations of Armed Conflict. The participants also used case studies from Guyana’s position, and applied local and international laws and best practices. The ICRC delegation, during its visit to Guyana prior to
the National and Regional Elections, had engaged the joint services and looked at local joint protocols, standard operating procedures, and international best practices in respecting human rights while carrying out mandates and responsibilities to serve and protect. The delegation was highly impressed and convinced that both services, during their internal security posture and separate activities, do have correct mechanisms established to observe and respect human rights. It was, however, noted that there was a shortage of trainers, because most of the trainers would have retired or would be deceased; persons such as Senior Superintendent Patrick Robin, Inspector Edward Greene and the late Assistant Commissioner Derick Josiah. The last two internationally trained Human Rights’ Trainers within the Guyana Police Force are Senior Superintendent Paul
Williams (Force Training Officer) and Assistant Superintendent Angela Harding, who were trained in Barbados in 2008. This programme, having been conducted locally, has created history within the Guyana Police Force, since it is the first of its kind wherein both GPF and GDF personnel were trained jointly on the International Rules and Standards for Policing by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The Guyana Police Force says it thanks the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Ms. Alexandra Ortiz; the trainers, Mr. T. Husty, President of GRCS, and Mrs. Dorothy Fraser, Director of GRCS; also the Chief-of-Staff for allowing his ranks to be recipients of this important training. The Joint Services are now equipped with an additional 24 Human Rights’ Trainers.
Participants and trainers of the course pose for a photograph on completion of the programme
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 4, 2015
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Action plan to boost Region 9 submitted as Rupununi Exposition concludes
A FIVE-year action plan which is expected to significantly boost the food and nutrition situation in Region 9 was handed over to Agriculture Minister Noel Holder during a recent visit to the Rupununi Exposition, where the Ministries of Business and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs were highlighted during the Rupununi and Agriculture Exposition, 2015. During the Rupununi Exposition, held from October 30 to November 1, 2015, several booths displaying varieties of locally grown and manufactured agricultural commodities were on display. The annual event, held under the theme “Promoting Entrepreneurial Development through Partnerships”, was held at the Triple ‘R’ Rodeo ground at Tabatinga, Lethem. Delivering remarks during the Rupununi Exposition, Agriculture Minister Noel Holder echoed the call for farmers to capitalise on activities such as these to not only build network, but also to strengthen market linkages. He added that enhanced focus will be placed on agricultural interventions such as input subsidies and technology transfer, to better contribute to the social protection of farmers, especially at the small and medium levels. “Our government has made a commitment to provide a good life to all our citizens, and I believe agriculture has a major role to play in addressing these social issues, food insecurity and economic development,” he said. The Agriculture Minister reminded the gathering of the potential which lies within the region, saying that agriculture development of the hinterland region remains a top priority of the Ministry of Agriculture. Government, in its 2015 Manifesto, spoke of the development of the hinterland as a priority, with policies being implemented particularly to develop the Intermediate and Rupununi Savannahs. The Intermediate Savannahs have long been considered as the next frontier for agricultural development, as Guyana’s agriculture is primarily concentrated on the coast, which remains below sea level and is increasingly being exposed to the ravages of climate change. Minister Holder said transfer of the country’s economic base inland has to be a priority in order to achieve sustainable development. Among the plans which the Ministry of Agriculture will
be pursuing is establishment of an agriculture station at Manari, besides development of pasture and animal nursery, and rainwater harvesting, among other things. The importance of not only accessing food, but developing land and establishing market linkages, was underscored by Hon. Sydney Allicock, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, who added that it remains critical for survival of the region. The minister said the time for action is now, if the region is to fully capitalise on its potential as an agriculture frontier. “This is necessary as it is the only way we will overcome food shortages in the region…. Works such as this strategy, and interventions being undertaken at the Ministries of Agriculture and Indigenous Affairs remain critical,” the minister said. Minister of Investment and Business, Dominic Gaskin, who declared the business expo officially open, spoke of the importance of the event in linking sellers to markets. He said that efforts expended in 2015 provide a better picture of advancement and opportunities in the region, as the opportunities remain endless. An integrated, sustainable agriculture development strategy for Region 9 (The Rupununi) is the response to policy recommendations emanating from the study entitled State and Food of Agriculture in the Rupununi (SOFA), which was done by the UN-FAO, CI-Guyana and the Ministry of Agriculture in 2014. The Strategy, expected to improve food and nutrition security; reduce poverty; and enable sustainable and integrated development of local communities, is built on 5 goals, which are: integrated sustainable agriculture development strategy, which would improve food and nutrition security, reduce poverty, and enable sustainable and integrated development of local communities; strengthen coordination between agriculture-related institutions, to improve public and private sector linkages and to promote a more business-like approach to agriculture; enhance food systems’ production, diversification, efficiency and profitability; enhance the growth, competitiveness and efficiency of marketing systems and agro-food enterprises, both in the domestic and international markets; and develop infrastructure and services in support of agricultural expansion.
Agriculture Minister Noel Holder; Minister of Investment and Business, Dominic Gaskin; Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock; and other officials who received the five-year action plan
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
Citizens urged to forgo political differences to transform Guyana – Amna Ally
SOCIAL Cohesion Minister Amna Ally has called on citizens to work side by side with the government and to forgo their political differences in an effort to transform the country – politically, socially and economically. Minister Ally made this call on Sunday while meeting
recommendations coming out of the National Roundtable, which was held on September 3, 2015 at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre (ACCC). “These principles serve as the touchstones of our social cohesion work-plan and are aimed at fostering greater cohesion within diverse communities and
administration and it is the residents' hope that much-needed changes will take place under this administration. CALL FOR YOUTH EMPOWERMENT
“You have the clear responsibility to foster unity among diverse populations and create a vision for a common future that pivots on the acceptance of differences with a view to harvesting the strengths that are inherent in diverse societies.” – Minister Amna Ally with residents at Mabaruma and Port Kaituma in Region 1 (Barima/Waini). “Regardless of our political persuasions, we must unite and work as one for the development of our region,” she said, while noting that Guyana could only experience true development if there is cohesion and co-operation. Addressing the large gatherings, first at the Mabaruma Primary School and subsequently at the Port Kaituma Community C e n t re , M i n i s t e r A l l y explained that the government through the Social Cohesion Ministry is engaging citizens at the community level in a national conversation in its quest to foster togetherness and national unity. This, she explained, was one of the short-term
national unity between them and across the country,” Minister Ally asserted. In outlining her plan for the achievement of cohesiveness in the country, she stated clearly that it cannot be achieved solely by the government. “You have the clear responsibility to foster unity among diverse populations and create a vision for a common future that pivots on the acceptance of differences with a view to harvesting the strengths that are inherent in diverse societies,” Ally declared. She added: “You can make a positive change in our country...We recognise that behavioural change is a pillar of reconciliation in this country and we must all contribute to achieving the good life that we all want
Elizabeth Ramascindo, a resident, sharing her concerns with Social Cohesion Minister Amna Ally on Sunday (Photo by Ministry of the Presidency) right here in Guyana.” In capitalising on the opportunity, some of the residents raised several concerns, including the
neglect of their roads, children and social welfare, which the minister promised to look into. One resident, Antonio
(only name given), in welcoming the minister's visit, said that the region had been neglected for far too long under the previous
Elizabeth Ramascindo, a n o t h e r v i l l a g e r, u s e d the meeting to call for opportunities for youth empowerment and the need for better roads. “We need jobs for our youths and we have our roads; we need a better road in our community and this should be done as early as possible,” Ramascindo said. Late last month the Ministry of Social Cohesion, which falls under the Ministry of the Presidency, started the implementation of some short-term recommendations that were put forward during the hosting of the Social Cohesion Roundtable.
The audience at the Port Kaituma Community Centre on Sunday (Photo by Ministry of the Presidency)
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Paternal grandmother loses court battle ‘68 -judge grants custody of infant to mother
PATERNAL grandmother Stella Gill took care of the infant David from 1964 to 1967, when she objected to returning the infant to the custody of his mother, Maureen, resulting in the mother applying for a writ of habeas corpus to regain custody of her child. Justice Victor Crane, who heard the application in 1968, held that under the Infancy Ordinance, Cap. 39, the mother of the infant is the infant’s guardian and is entitled to custody. The grandmother was therefore ordered to forthwith give up possession of the child David to his mother. APPLICATION GRANTED According to Justice Crane, D.H. is an infant child who is illegitimate. He was born in England. With the consent of his father and mother, who were both undergoing courses of study there, custody was given to his paternal grandmother, of whom it was known would be bringing him to Guyana. It had been expected that, at the end of their studies, the child’s parents would marry, but this did not materialise. T h e c h i l d ’s m o t h e r eventually obtained a job as a typist in England, and, in December 1967, came to Guyana and tried to obtain custody of her son from his grandmother, because she intended to take her son to England. This failed, and she instituted the present proceedings. Granting the application t o t h e m o t h e r, J u s t i c e Crane explained, “In a case involving custody, the principle must be borne that the welfare of the child is the first and paramount, though not the exclusive, consideration; and in considering the child’s welfare, account must be
taken of its moral, spiritual, social, educational, material and medical welfare. M r. C . A . F. H u g h e s , associated with Mr. Fields, appeared for the applicant, w h i l e M r. J . C . N u r s e appeared for the respondent. Delivering judgment in the case, Justice Crane disclosed that David was born of the body of the applicant, Maureen Priscilla Husbands. The birth took place out of wedlock on the 26th March, 1963 at the Hackney Hospital in England. The judge added, “This is an application by the mother for an order on the respondent, Mrs. Stella Gill [the paternal grandmother], of Lot 12 Costello House, La Penitence, East Bank Demerara, calling on her to show cause why a writ of habeas corpus ad subjiciendum should not go commanding the child’s release, he now being in her possession in Guyana. “The facts and circumstances under which Mrs. Gill got possession of the child are revealed in both the affidavits in support of and the reply to the application and the viva voce evidence adduced. They arose in this way: Dennis Gill [the father] became attached to the applicant while they both resided in England pursuing courses of study there. So fond were they of each other that their attachment deepened into affection. This caused them to associate on the closest terms of intimacy, and the result was the birth of David. “I think the evidence affords the fair conclusion that both father and mother expected to be married to each other when their studies were completed. They each worked to this end – mother at Lyons & Co. in London… The child David was, however, in the way to
the smooth accomplishment of their future plans. It was not convenient to keep him in England, and this is where Mrs Gill came into the picture. She, too, was in England in September 1964, and when requested, readily agreed to take David to Guyana, it being more convenient for the mother that such a course should be taken until the mother required him back. “Accordingly, with the consent of both son and prospective daughter-in-law, Mrs. Gill and David sailed for Guyana in the month of October, 1964. “The putative father, however, broke faith with the applicant. Very shortly after the arrangement, he failed to maintain correspondence with his mother, or to make any enquiry about his child. He fell in love with another, to whom he got married in 1966. “The mother, on the other hand, constantly wrote letters to Mrs. Gill, all of which showed an anxious and sustained interest in David’s welfare, for she often sent such gifts and money as her slender means could afford. “Ever since David came to Guyana, he has been continuously in the care of Mrs. Gill, who administers to his every want. But Please turn to page 22
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Paternal grandmother loses ... From page 21 trouble began on the arrival of the mother in Guyana on the 16th December, 1967. Immediately upon her arrival, i.e. the very next day, December 17, she went to Mrs. Gill’s home to see David. She was well received. She and Mrs. Gill had lunch, after which she tried to renew acquaintance with [David] as best she could. “On December 26, she paid Mrs. Gill another visit, but with the intention on this occasion of taking
David away with her for all time. Fearing that Mrs. Gill would not be a willing party, she did not consider it wise to reveal her intention, because she had never before disclosed her plans to resume custody of David, although she had conceived then in England during 1967, when her domestic and financial situation there had improved,” the judge said. He noted that the applicant had filed a writ of habeas corpus to recover custody of her son. Justice Crane in his concluding remarks said: “If I may
recapitulate for a moment, the original bargain between the mother and the grandmother was that the child should be brought to Guyana and kept by the grandmother until the mother’s situation changed, when [the child] would be handed back to her. “Throughout [his] three years in Guyana, there was continuous correspondence between mother and grandmother about the interests and welfare of the child. The mother sometimes sent gifts and money for [his] upkeep, while the father did not even care to enquire about [him]. “In all correspondence, the grandmother acknowledged the mother’s authority over her child, knowing fully well that she would have to give [him] up one day; but [she] has so fallen in love with [him] that she is not willing to face that inevitable day. Come what may, she would only be willing to give up David, she says, when he is old enough to exercise a discretion as to the person with whom he would like to stay; and [she]would, if she is allowed to do so, be willing to adopt him as her son. “David, of course, has not yet reached that age; and even when he does, I am sure he would opt for her rather than his mother, whom he does not now know, nor from what I have seen in Chambers, wants to know. “I find that the grandmother’s claim that David should exercise the discretion she claims when he is of age to do so is without legal or moral foundation; and I think it would be a fitting end to this judgment if I close with a quotation from a distinguished Irish Judge, Fitz Gibbon L.J. in Re. O’Hara (1900) 2. I.R. 240, which has received the repeated approval of the English courts: “Where a parent is of blameless life, and is able and willing to provide for the child’s material and moral necessities… the court is, in my opinion, judicially bound to act on what is equally a law of nature and of society, and to hold (in the words of Lord Esher in R.v. Gyngall (1893) 2 Q.B.232 at p.243) that the best place for a child is with its parent. “The grandmother is therefore ordered to give up possession of the child David to its mother forthwith. Application granted,” said Justice Victor Crane, who delivered the judgment.
Wednesday November 4th, 2015 - 12:30 hrs Thursday November 5th, 2015 - 13:30 hrs Friday November 6th, 2015 - 14:00 hrs
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
Murder accused Kowlesar freed by jury A MIXED jury on Monday freed Morris Kowlesar called “Little” of murder allegedly committed on Ganesh Rattan called “Jukka,” who was pushed off a pavilion to his death below. Rattan was said to have been on the top floor of the pavilion when according to the lone eyewitness, he was pushed or thrown from the 15-foot high building by the accused. Prosecutrix Miss Orienthia Schmidt with Miss Shonette
Youths remanded for armed robbery NINETEEN-year-old Germaine Scott and 18-year– old Shemar Singh of 67 Durban Street, Georgetown, are alleged to have robbed Chris Forde of $2000 and Jeremy Jarvis of a haversack, hat, shirt and one cellphone, to a total value of $30,000. These incidents allegedly occurred on November 1, when the defendants were in the company of others and were armed with a cutlass. Arraigned before city Magistrate Judy Latchman yesterday, they both pleaded not guilty to the charges, and their attorney, Mr Paul Fung-A-Fat requested that his clients be placed on bail, since the offences are bailable. He also said the items were not found on the person of either of his clients, and that they were never placed on an I.D. parade. The police prosecutor in her objection to bail, mentioned that the cellphone was found on the number two defendant; that the weapon used, a cutlass, is considered a serious weapon; and that the defendants were re-captured by the virtual complainant, Forde, after they had fled the scene. The accused were both remanded, and are expected to make their next court appearance in Court Two on November 12. (Sherah Alleyne)
Austin conducted the case for the prosecution. Madam Roxane George was the presiding judge. Subsequent to police investigations, “Little” was arrested and charged with the murder allegedly committed on March 18, 2012 . Attorney-at-Law Mr. Sandel Kissoon, who represented the accused, had urged the jury to find that the star witness was not worthy of belief.
Morris Kowlesar
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Hafeez hauls Pakistan back into final Test
(REUTERS) - Opener Mohammad Hafeez made a brave unbeaten 97 to lift Pakistan to 146 for three, 74 runs ahead of England at the close on a tense third
Ali was farcically runout for 34, James Anderson trapped Shoaib Malik lbw for nought and Stuart Broad dismissed Younus Khan for
before being the last man out. Hafeez, on two, was given out, caught behind off Anderson, but the opener immediately reviewed the decision and got it overturned. After adding nine more runs to his score, the righthander edged Moeen Ali but wicketkeeper Bairstow could not pouch the deflection. Earlier, England lost three wickets on the third morning after resuming on 222-4. The visitors’ hopes of forging a big first-innings advantage on the Sharjah Cricket Stadium’s slow surface suffered a double blow when they lost both their overnight batsmen early. James Taylor (76) added just two runs before he edged left-arm paceman Rahat Ali behind for wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed to complete a low one-handed diving catch to his right. Taylor’s dismissal end-
ed a resolute stand of 89 and Bairstow soon followed him back to the pavilion after he failed to read an arm ball from left-arm spinner Zulfiqar Babar and was bowled. Patel, who passed his previous Test best score of 33, and Adil Rashid offered resistance, forcing captain Misbah-ul-Haq to call on part-time off-spinner Malik. He repaid his captain’s trust by dismissing Rashid in his second over of the day with Ali completing a sharp, low catch at short leg. Malik went on to dismiss Anderson and Stokes to claim Test-best figures of 4-33. Stokes will not bowl again in the match. “His injury will be reviewed in seven-to-10 days once it has had a chance to settle. A decision about his return to play will be taken at this time,” the England and Wales Cricket Board said in a statement.
SCOREBOARD Mohammad Hafeez walks off unbeaten on 97 on the third day in Sharjah. day of the final Test in Sharjah yesterday. England claimed a 72run first-innings lead to push for a series-levelling victory but Hafeez and Azhar Ali shared an opening partnership of 101 to bring the hosts back into the match.
14 in the final session to give England hope after they had been bowled out for 306 soon after lunch. Jonny Bairstow (43) and Samit Patel (42) contributed useful cameos while Ben Stokes came out to bat despite a broken collarbone,
PA K I S TA N 1 s t i n n i n g s 2 3 4 (Misbah-ul-Haq 71; J. Anderson 4-17) ENGLAND 1st innings A. Cook c Az. Ali b Shah 49 M. Ali c Y. Khan b Malik 14 I. Bell stp. S. Ahmed b Shah 40 J. Root c S. Ahmed b R. Ali 4 J. Taylor c S. Ahmed b R. Ali 76 J. Bairstow b Babar 43 S. Patel b Shah 42 A. Rashid c Az. Ali b Malik 8 S. Broad not out 13 J. Anderson b Malik 7 B. Stokes b Malik 0 Extras: (lb-6, nb-4) 10 Total: (all out, 126.5 overs) 306 Fall of wickets: 1-19, 2-90, 3-97,
4-139, 5-228, 6-245, 7-285, 8-287, 9-296. Bowling: R. Ali 22-12-48-2 (nb-1), Y. Shah 36-3-99-3, W. Riaz 20-533-0 (nb-3), Z. Babar 37-6-80–1, S. Malik 9.5-3-33-4, Az. Ali 2-0-7-0. PAKISTAN 2nd innings M. Hafeez not out 97 Az. Ali run-out 34 S. Malik lbw b Anderson 0 Y. Khan lbw b Broad 14 R. Ali not out 0 Extras: (lb-1) 1 Total: (for 3 wickets, 53 overs) 146 Fall of wickets: 1-101, 2-105, 3-146. Bowling: J. Anderson 14-5-36-1, S. Broad 12-4-19-1, S. Patel 110-40-0, M. Ali 6-1-25-0, A. Rashid 10-2-25-0.
Mourinho denies player revolt at Chelsea LONDON, England (Reuters) - Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho rejected suggestions there was a player revolt against him yesterday and dismissed reports that one player would rather lose than play for him as “dishonest”. He also said he expected to be at Chelsea for the remainder of his four-year contract and that Chelsea would finish first or second in their Champions League group. The Premier League champions’ turbulent start to the season shows little sign of abating after successive losses to West Ham United and Liverpool in the Premier League and being knocked out of the Capital One (League) Cup by Stoke City. But Mourinho said his squad were totally united and determined to turn
their season around. “It’s a very sad accusa-
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho tion because you are accusing players, or one player, of dishonesty,” Mourinho told reporters before today’s
Champions League Group G match against Dynamo Kiev at Stamford Bridge. “If I accuse you of being a dishonest journalist, I think you would be very upset and probably you would take legal action. It is a question for the players, not for me.” Mourinho said he had a “fantastic personal and professional relationship” with his players who were united in their efforts to improve results which have left them 15th in the table, with three wins from their opening 11 matches. They are third in their Champions League group but Mourinho said they would finish first or second to qualify for the last 16. “Tomorrow is not a mustwin game, it’s a must-not-lose game, so if we draw and then
win the last two matches we will qualify,” he said He also said he knew why their form had been so bad, but would not elaborate. “It’s a combination of factors and some of them I don’t want to touch on, but yes I know,” Mourinho added. “Everything is football-related.” Earlier midfielder Cesc Fabregas denied suggestions of a rift with Mourinho, accusing “certain individuals from outside” of trying to destabilise the club and rejecting reports that he is leading an alleged dressing-room revolt. “I would like to clarify that contrary to a few reports from some online websites, I am extremely happy at Chelsea and have an excellent relationship with the manager,” Fabregas wrote on Twitter.”
Michelle Payne wins ... From back page
fifth. Payne, who has fought back from life-threatening race injuries during her career, said she hoped her win would inspire other women: “It’s a very male-dominated sport and people think we (women) are not strong enough and all of the rest of it, but it’s not all about strength. “There is so much more involved, getting the horse into a rhythm, getting the horse to try for you. “It’s being patient and I’m so glad to win the Melbourne Cup and, hopefully, it will help female jockeys from now on to get more of a go. We don’t get enough of a go.” Japan’s Fame Game had been a firm favourite to win Australia’s biggest race, but it was Payne who rode to victory, beating odds of 100-1. The Payne family is steeped in Australian racing. The youngest of 10 children, Michelle was raised by her father on the family farm in Victoria after her mother died when she was just six months old. Eight of her nine siblings have also been jockeys, but none has won a race as big as this. For the Australian owners of Prince of Penzance, a horse that cost just $50 000 (£25 000; $36 000), it was a lucrative day as they will take home almost A$3.6M (£1.7M; $2.6M) in prize money. Dubbed “the race that stops a nation”, the Melbourne Cup is the world’s richest two-mile handicap race, worth A$6.2M ($4.2M; £2.9M). Eleven international horses were among the 24 in the race. Only one of the local starters, Sertorius, was actually bred in Australia. Meanwhile, vets have reportedly operated on three-time Melbourne Cup runner-up Red Cadeaux. Racing Victoria said earlier the horse had a suspected fetlock injury to his left foreleg. “On-course veterinarians have splinted and stabilised the horse’s leg and he has now been transferred to the University of Melbourne Veterinary Clinic at Werribee to undergo further assessment,” it said in a statement . Last year’s cup ended controversially after two horses died. Pre-race favourite Admire Rakti died after finishing last, while seventh-placed Araldo was put down after fracturing a cannon bone. (BBC Sport)
AMERICAN RACING TIPS Aqueduct Race 1 Street Jersey Race 2 Old Mexico Race 3 Welcoming Race 4 Late Night Mark Race 5 Stevie’s Moonshot Race 6 Future Show Race 7 Marking Race 8 Mohagmen Race 9 Bargaining Table
11:00 hrs Captain Scooby 11:30 hrs Minty Jones 12:00 hrs Gone Viral
IRISH RACING TIPS Fairyhouse 08:25 hrs Wrath Of Titans 08:55 hrs Rock On Fruity 09:25 hrs Tomcoole Lad 10:00 hrs Wingoldandwearit 10:30 hrs Crown Of Gold 11:05 hrs Solatentif 11:35 hrs Elusive Ivy 12:05 hrs Misdflight
CHEPSTOW 09:10 hrs Drummond 09:45 hrs Delaroque 10:15 hrs Ozzy Thomas 10:50 hrs Alibi De Sivola 11:20 hrs Sykes 11:50 hrsd Johns Luck 12:20 hrs Desert Retreat
ENGLISH RACING TIPS Nottingham 08:20 hrs Illegally Blonde 08:50 hrs Pillar 09:20 hrs West Drive 09:55 HRS Storm Rock 10:25 hrs Mercers Row
WARWICK 09:00 hrs Crickel Wood 09:35 hrs Conas Taoi 10:05 hrs Pemba 10:40 hrs Ballyalton 11:10 hrs Net Work Rouge 11:40 hrs Aloomomo 12:10 hrs Zara Hope
SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Greyville 08:50 hrs Master James 09:20 hrs Sir earl Grey 10:05 hrs Mr Winsome 10:40 hrs Jade Vine 11:15 hrs Out My Way
33
GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
UDFA double-header at MSC ground today By Joe Chapman THE Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) senior First Division League will begin tonight when Net Rockers and Winners Connection come to grips at 18:00hrs in the opening game. The second of the double- header feature starts at 20:00hrs with Blueberry Hill taking on Botofago at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. This tournament gets into actual play after last Sunday’s opening with a march past where Regional Chairman Renis Morian congratulated the UDFA for playing a league tournament, despite the odds, and ensuring the game is played in the region in a competitive atmosphere. UDFA president Shar-
ma Solomon, in brief remarks, encouraged the clubs to be committed to the sport since it is one that the clubs should be proud of. According to Solomon, “We are not starting this tournament with $10M but we are starting it with money; we are starting it with resources. If you notice, we do not have it branded as any organisation league. This is your league, it is the UDFA League.” In light of this, Solomon cautioned the clubs that “this is our league. So it means that sort of commitment and seriousness must come from us in the football fraternity. That is how we will convince people to subscribe, to support, to sponsor and to give us the resources that we need to continue to play. We have to do that. Nobody is going to
put effort and support behind things that they don’t have
UDFA president Sharma Solomon confidence in.”
King James becomes youngest to assume 25 000-point throne (THE SPORTS Xchange) After becoming the youngest player in NBA history to surpass 25 000 career points on Monday, LeBron James sat in the locker room in the Wells Fargo Center with his feet in an ice bucket, an ice bag on each knee and another ice bag on his back. No matter the aches and pains for the Cleveland Cavaliers forward, the 13-year veteran makes it look easy. Needing 21 points at the start of the road game against the Philadelphia 76ers to reach the milestone, James scored 22 while collecting 11 assists and nine rebounds in Cleveland’s 107-100 victory. He surpassed the mark when he dunked a lob from guard Matthew Dellavedova with 8:07 remaining and left the game for good shortly after that. At 30 years and 307 days, James surpassed Kobe Bryant (31 years, 351 days) as the youngest to achieve the milestone. James, who is 20th on the all-time scoring list, could not immediately put the mark in perspective. “It’s pretty cool,” he said. “I haven’t had an opportunity to categorise the list of things I’ve done.” James did say that it was great to reach the mark in a victory while playing with a group of team mates he enjoys and, he added, “in a building that loves the game of basketball”. Cavaliers coach David Blatt called it an “extremely important, extremely impres-
sive” mark. “To be the youngest player in the history of the game to score 25 000 points
were still on his knees and his feet were still in the bucket. Sixers coach Brett
Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) dunks during the fourth quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. (Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports) -- particularly when you’re every bit the passer as you are the scorer -- is just a testament to his greatness,” Blatt said. The Philadelphia fans accorded James with a standing ovation during a timeout with 7:45 left, when an announcement was made about his achievement. “Obviously, they’re Sixer fans to death, but they know and they respect the game of basketball,” James added. “To get a standing ovation reaching that milestone, it was very special.” The former Miami Heat leader said the mark was a tribute to playing with “two great organisations” and having great team mates and coaches around him. The most important thing, he said, was, “I’ve been able to stay healthy, relatively, in my career”. Then he knocked on a wooden bench. The ice bags
Brown was, of course, asked about James afterward, and he talked not so much about his scoring as his leadership and intellect. “He sees stuff,” Brown said. “He’s telling us about an assist before he even passes it. It’s just the whole package he brings to the table. He’s very, very unusual and very unique.”
On the heels of Solomon’s comments recently, the Guyana Football Federation’s Normalisation Committee made a donation of $1M to the UDFA and, according to General Secretary of the UDFA, Terrence Mitchell, the league will be played until December 9 after which there will be a break for the annual year end tournament. Looking at the First Division league, Mitchell noted, “The winners who will be the first place finishers will get 40 per cent of the gate receipts for the entire tournament, which was agreed upon by the General Council and the executives of the football clubs at our first meeting. Second prize is 20 per cent and third prize 10, while fourth-place finishers get five percent while 10 per cent will
ara Queens scored a 2-0 win over the Little Divas of Georgetown, behind goals from Naomi Allsopp and Shirley Kingston. Tomorrow, the league continues with another double header at the MSC ground instead of Friday. This is due to the opening of the Stag Beer Futsal tournament, organised by the New Era Entertainment. Tomorrow the first game will be between Topp XX and Amelia’s Ward Panthers at 18:00hrs while at 20:00hrs Silver Shattas take on Eagles United. The tournament continues on Sunday with Hi Stars playing Net Rockers in the first game and the second game brings together Milercok and Blueberry Hill at the tournament venue, MSC ground.
St Margaret’s and No.5 Primary storm into Scotiabank Kiddy final ST Margaret’s Primary and No.5 Primary made their way into the final of the North Georgetown Zone and West Berbice District, respectively, with contrasting wins in the Scotiabank Kiddy Progression One Cricket. St Margaret’s became the first team to reach the final when they defeated Green Acres Primary by 54 runs at the Racquet Centre yesterday. Batting first, St Margaret’s racked up 170-3 in their 14 overs. Leading the way was Shameer Haynes who struck an unbeaten 42 and he was supported by Michael Morgan who was left unbeaten on 24. Jeron Payne led the way with the ball as he bagged 2-2. In reply, Green Acres openers Shawn Thompson and Omish Balgobin got them off to a quick start; they were 20 in just 1.5 overs. However, although they threatened St Margaret’s total for the first half of the run chase, they were eventually held to 116-6 when their overs expired. Shawn Thompson finished with 30 while Haynes followed up his batting with excellent
NOTABLE DATES
‘VICIOUS’ Vivian Harris had an amateur record of 45 victories against five defeats when he turned professional. He started a long and eventful professional career in Tunica, Mississippi on November 4, 1997. Harris only needed one round of the scheduled four-rounder to knock out
go to the UDFA for the development of football.” In addition, each club will be given tickets to sell for the matches and the clubs will benefit, according to the UDFA Public Relations Officer (PRO) Victor Wright. He indicated that during the tournament each club can gain as much as $50 000 with proper pre-selling of tickets for the matches in the First Division League championship. In Sunday’s opening exhibition matches there were two nil-all draws when the East of Linden met their West counterparts, and the Linden Rest Schools team held the National Secondary Schools champions, Christianburg/ Wismar Secondary, to a goalless stalemate also. In the female encounter, however, Linden’s Demer-
Leviticus Long. The Guyanese was a 19-year-old at the time and the stoppage increased his propensity for abbreviated encounters. Ten of his next 11 bouts ended inside the distance. Harris suffered his first professional defeat at the hands of Ray Oliveria in February 2000. At age 24, he became the youngest Guyanese to
bowling figures of 2-5. Playing at the No.5 ground, Blairmont Primary could manage only 108-6 with Veera Farhad making an attractive 34 while Jameer Elgin contributed
SHAMEER HAYNES
29. They were held to their final score by Leron Smart and Nalessa Johnson who both claimed 2-2. The home team, backed by their supporters, reached their target (110-2) in 12 overs. Leading the way was Ronell Savory with 54 while Maisha Jameer took the only two wickets to fall for five win a world title. The power-puncher was crowned World Boxing Association (WBA) junior welterweight king in October 2002 following a second-round technical knockout (TKO) of champion Diosbelys Hurtado in Houston, Texas. The gangly orthodox boxer had three successful defences but was then dethroned by unknown Colombian Carlos Maussa via
runs. No.5 will now play Hopetown Primary in the final on a date to be announced. Meanwhile, Redeemer Primary dispatched Rama Krishna Primary by 13 wickets in the East Georgetown Zone. Rama Krishna, who won the toss and decided to take first strike made 92-8. Bryan Gordon (11) was the only batter to get into double digits while extras top-scored with 44 extras. Linden Ogle recorded two wickets to head the bowling attack. When Redeemer Primary took to the crease, they blasted their way to 93-1 with Sharlon Millington smashing an unbeaten 50 which included eight towering sixes, one of which ended the match. Ogle completed an excellent all-round display by also smashing 36 runs which were all scored in sixes. Kenisha Sandy took the lone wicket to fall. Today, North Georgetown Primary and St Agnes Primary will battle in the second semifinal of the North Georgetown Zone at the Racquet Centre, to see who will meet St Margaret’s in the final. seventh-round knockout. He then secured three victories before unsuccessfully challenging Junior Witter of England for the WBC junior welterweight title. Of the four male Guyanese to have won world titles, Harris is the only one still to have a professional fight at home. Despite losing his last two fights via the knock-out route, Harris remains active and is confident of heading back to the top.
34
GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
Windies Women complete series sweep in super over ST GEORGE’S, Grenada (CMC) -- West Indies Women came from behind to stun Pakistan Women in a nerve-jangling super over and make a clean sweep of their three-match Twenty20 International series here Sunday. Bundled out for a paltry 88 off 19.5 overs, West Indies Women capitalised on a rain break, which saw Pakistan Women’s target adjusted to 78 off 17 overs, and hit back to restrict the visitors to 77 for seven at the National Stadium to leave the scores tied. In the all-important super over, seamer Deandra Dottin snatched two wickets as Pakistan Women scraped together just three runs and West Indies Women survived the loss
of Dottin off the first ball, to reach their target off the last ball of the over when Kyshona Knight struck a boundary. Sent in, West Indies Women were 63 for four in the 14th over but lost their last six wickets for 25 runs to be dismissed under 100. Opener Kycia Knight held the innings together with a fine knock of 49 off 48 balls with three fours before she was sixth out with the score on 76 in the 17th over. She was the only player to reach double figures as captain Sana Mir ripped through the innings with her off-spin to claim four for 14, while left-arm spinner Anam Amin supported with two for ten. In reply, Pakistan Women were held up by rain after
Duncan breaks record, Harden inspires Rockets TIM Duncan recorded his 954th win with the San Antonio Spurs on Monday with a 94-84 victory over the New York Knicks. Tim Duncan set an alltime record of NBA wins with one team after recording his 954th victory with the San Antonio Spurs, who beat the New York Knicks 94-84. LaMarcus Aldridge scored 19 points as Kawhi Leonard had 18 and 14 rebounds at Madison Square Garden. However, the night belonged to 39-year-old Duncan, who joined the San Antonio franchise in 1997 as the number one overall pick. The five-time NBA champion contributed 16 points, 10 rebounds and six assists in a historic game, with long-time team-mate Tony Parker also finishing with a 16-point haul. Carmelo Anthony topscored for the Knicks with 19 points but struggled to just four-of-17 shooting. Rookie Kristaps Porzingis had 13 points and 14 rebounds before hurting himself late on. Elsewhere, the Oklahoma City Thunder fell to their first loss of the season as they were beaten 110-105 by the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center. James Harden scored 37 points to help Houston to their first win of the season with Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook’s 54-point combined tally not enough. LeBron James became the youngest player to score 25 000 career points, leading the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 107-100 win over the Philadelphia 76ers. James had 22 points, 11 assists and nine rebounds as the Cavs rallied from an early 15-point deficit. Jahlil Okafor top-scored
James Harden scores 37 points to help Houston to their first win. on the night for the 76ers with 24 points. The Golden State Warriors thrashed the Memphis Grizzlies 119-69 at Oracle Arena. Steph Curry scored 21 of his 30 points in an emphatic third quarter as the reigning NBA MVP sat out the fourth. The Warriors have started the season with four straight wins. Marc Gasol put 13 points on the board for the Grizzlies and nine rebounds on a disappointing night for Memphis. The Los Angeles Clippers continued their unbeaten run with a 102-96 win against the Phoenix Suns at Staples Center to record their best start to a season since 1985-86. The Portland Trail Blazers beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 106-101 and the Milwaukee Bucks overcame the Brooklyn Nets 103-96. (Sportsmax.com)
they had reached seven for one in the fourth over. With an adjusted target on resumption, Pakistan lost Nain Abidi (3) and Ayesha Zafar (5) cheaply to slide to 18 for three in the sixth over as West Indies Women took control. However, Bismah Maroof top-scored with 30 off 37 deliveries and captain Sana Mir supported with 22 from 24 balls, in a 39run fourth-wicket stand to bring their side back into the contest. Bismah was bowled by off-spinner Anisa Mohammed in the 14th but Nidar Dar scored a precious 11 off 12 balls in a 19-run, fifth-wicket partnership with Mir that left Pakistan Women with eight runs to get off the last over. In a dramatic final over,
Windies Women celebrate their T20 series win over Pakistan at Grenada National Stadium, St George’s, Grenada, on Sunday. (Photos: WICB Media) Mir scrambled a single off the first ball of the over from Dottin and Dar slammed a boundary off the second to put their side on the brink of victory, with just three runs
required from four balls. But Dottin showed her character, keeping Dar scoreless off the next delivery before having her caught and bowled off the fourth.
Sana Mir was run-out off the fifth delivery and Sania Khan followed, also via run-out, off the final ball of the over, as West Indies Women tied the game.
Tom Graveney dies at the age of 88 TOM Graveney, the former England batsman, has died aged 88, after a long fight against Parkinson’s disease. Graveney gained a reputation as one of the most elegant batsmen in world cricket in the post-war years. But he proved there was substance behind his style in becoming the 15th of the 25 men to reach 100 first-class centuries - he was the first to do so since the Second World War - with 11 of them coming in his 79-Test career. 21 times he made 1 000 runs in a season - twice on tour - six times he passed 2 000 and four times he made a century in each innings of a match. 4 882 Test runs at an average of 44.38 tell their own story. He was almost lost to the game. He had decided upon a life in the military - he had been an army captain at the age of just 20 - but was introduced to Gloucestershire while on leave by his brother (“I can’t get one past him,” the swing-bowling Ken told the club by way of recommendation), who was already in the team, and went on to enjoy a quarter-of-a-century in the county game. While he was initially seen, at Gloucestershire at least, as a replacement for Wally Hammond, Graveney was never going to be that sort of player. He was more artist than accountant – ironic, as accountancy had been his targeted profession while at grammar school - and too easy-natured and full of fun to compare with the man he rated as the best batsman - Bradman included - on all types of wickets he ever saw. For a while the reputation - a largely unfair reputation as something of a dilettante counted against him. He was viewed, by the England se-
lectors at least, as somewhat brittle under pressure and it is true that his front foot technique - “I even hooked off the front foot,” he said, “I don’t know how I wasn’t
TOM GRAVENEY 1927-2015 killed,” - did not always look ideal on the quickest pitches. Only one of his Test centuries - a two-hour innings of 111 at Sydney in 1954 as makeshift opener - came in or against Australia. But against other opposition - including the fast bowlers of the West Indies (Wes Hall and Charlie Griffith) - he proved his class and his determination. He recovered from a serious bout of dysentery - he spent a week in hospital - to register his maiden Test century in his second Test - and his first overseas - in Bombay in 1951. His affable manner hid an inner steel. Dropped for the tour of South Africa despite enjoying a prolific 1956 season - he scored well over 2 000 runs - he made his point in eloquent style by stroking a sublime 258 in his second game back, against West Indies at Trent Bridge in 1957, and followed it with 164 in the next Test at The Oval. Then, after an absence of almost three years, he was recalled by England in 1962 to face Pakistan, against whom
he made scores of 97, 153, 37 and 114 in consecutive Tests. He captained Gloucestershire in 1959 and 1960 but, after losing the captaincy, he decided to leave the club. Having turned down Leicestershire - he said he suffered splinters from the dilapidated pavilion every time he had a shower - he signed for Worcestershire and, having served the necessary qualification period - proved himself as good a batsman as any in the land. Twice (in 1964 and 1965) the club won the County Championship - the first time they had so in their existence - and Graveney was recalled to the England team, aged 39, in 1966. 24 more Tests - and four more centuries - ensued. “I was the best batsman in the country between 1963 and 1966,” he later said. “I just didn’t get picked. And then to be brought back after my 39th birthday was a bit ridiculous.” He captained England once. With Colin Cowdrey injured, Graveney took charge for the Ashes Test at Leeds in 1968 which ended in a draw, but he was rarely
a favourite of the England hierarchy. He could at times be a forceful personality, a fact not always welcomed - and he complained bitterly about safety on a tour of Pakistan in 1969. The previous year he lobbied hard for the inclusion of Basil D’Oliveira for the 1968 tour of South Africa, expressing his fury when D’Oliveira, a Cape Coloured, was initially omitted because of pressure from the apartheid regime. Worcestershire chief executive David Leatherdale said: “Tom has been a major figure in Worcestershire’s history and everyone at the club is saddened by today’s news and our thoughts go out to the Graveney family at this sad time. “He was one of the stalwarts of our first two Championship triumphs and will be hugely missed by everyone at Worcestershire CCC and by cricket as a whole.” Tom’s brother, Ken Graveney, who also captained Gloucestershire and later became the club’s chairman and president, died aged 90 on October 26. (ESPN Cricinfo)
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday November 04, 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:
Rangana Herath-15 wickets Jerome Taylor, Kraig Braithwaite & Jomel Warrican-6 wickets each
Today’s Quiz:
Which SL had the best innings bowling figures in the recent WI/SL Test series? Which WI had the best innings bowling figures in the recent WI/SL Test series?
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
35
GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday November 4, 2015
GDF retain Championship honours at GBA Terrence Ali Open boxing … Lewis, Eastman and Mounter win `Best Boxer’ awards
THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) maintained their dominance of amateur boxing at the senior level by retaining the Guyana Boxing Association’s (GBA) Terrence Alli National Open Boxing Championship which concluded on Sunday at the Andrew `Six Head’ Lewis Gym, situated in Albouystown. Apart from winning championship honours, GDF’s Colin `Superman’ Lewis was adjudged `Best Boxer’ in the Elite category (seniors) after defeating Forgotten Youth Foundation’s (FYF) Marlon Darrell in the final of the junior welterweight division. Rose Hall Jammers’ (RHJ) Jamal Eastman was adjudged `Best Boxer’ in the Youth category with a victory over FYF’s Junior Henry in the final of the bantamweight division, while Essequibo Boxing Gym’s
Akeem Mounter won the junior category `Best Boxer’ award with a victory over Stephan Smith in the middleweight final. The Guyana Prison Service (Republican) boxing gym placed second for the overall championship title. All in all, the GDF won five titles including two by walkovers, one by a technical knock-out (TKO) and another in an all-GDF affair. The Republican gym won two bouts which included a walkover and another by the TKO route. Rose Hall Jammers won one fight and the Guyana Police Forcer one. In other results from Sunday’s finals; Diwani Lewis (FYF) lost to Joel Williamson (RHJ) in the lightweight final; Clairmont Gibson (GDF) defeated Delon Charles (FYF) to take the bantamweight
Samuels to captain Windies in second ODI today Banks Beer Inter-Ministry Futsal Tournament continues tomorrow THE preliminary round of the Banks Beer Inter-Ministry Futsal Tournament continues tomorrow at the Cliff Anderson Sports with another eight matches. On Sunday the competition continued as Bank of Guyana defeated Ministry of Agriculture 2-1, Customs trounced Public Security 9-3, Transport and Harbours needled Ministry of Tourism and John Fernandes got the better of NIS 3-1. Ministry of Infrastructure and Republic Bank claimed walkover victories from GNIC and Wartsila. Registering 2-2 draws were Oasis Water in their match against Guyana Power & Light, and Ministry of Forestry versus Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Carlos Monkhouse led Customs’ carnage against Ministry of Public Security with a performance which saw him produce five goals in a hurry. Monkhouse scored in the seventh, eighth, ninth, 14th and 16th minutes and was supported by Rawle Johnny, Terrence Adams, Vincent Thomas and Muel Lee who all scored once. Gavin Bobb had a consolation double for the opposition while Shemar Andrews accounted for the other goal.
title; Dennis Thomas (GPF) secured a 47-second second-round TKO victory against Trevon King (GDF); GDF’s veteran amateur boxer Markember Pierre lost by TKO also, against his gym mate Desmond Amsterdam, who caused the referee to top the heavyweight bout at two minutes 29 seconds of the second round. In the super heavyweight division, Eon Fraser (Republican) scored a round one two-minute 45 seconds TKO win to claim the title. Walkover victories were also registered by GDF’s Quincy Boyce and team mate Teuismar Peters. Boyce recorded his walkover win against Travis Hubbard in the lightweight final, while Peters got his victory against RHJ’s Tyrone Lashley in the junior flyweight final.
Part of the action in Sunday’s final of the bantamweight category between GDF’s Clairmont Gibson (left) and FYF’s Delon Charles. (Samuel Maughn photo) In an all-GDF affair, Tefon Green defeated Aluko Venture on points, to win the flyweight title while Clifton Graham of Republican won by a walkover against FYF’s
MARLON SAMUELS
COLOMBO – Marlon Samuels will captain the West Indies in the second One-Day International against Sri Lanka at R Premadasa today. Captain Jason Holder received a one-match suspension and the West Indies were fined for maintaining a slow over rate during the first ODI. David Boon of the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees imposed the fine and suspension after Holder’s side was ruled to be two overs short of its target when time allowances were taken into consideration. In accordance with Article 2.5.1 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Players Support Personnel, which relates to minor over-rate offences, players are fined 10 per cent of their match fees for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, with the captain fined double that amount. As such, Holder was fined 40 per cent of his match fee, while his players received 20 per cent fines. As this is Holder’s second slow-over-rate offence within the last 12 months, having previously been found guilty of a minor over-rate offence in the fifth ODI against South Africa in January, he also receives a one-match suspension for the next match in the same format of the game, meaning he is suspended from the second ODI, which is scheduled to take place on 4 November in Colombo. Holder pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing.
Kellon King, to capture the welterweight title. Meanwhile, the GBA selectors will meet shortly to name its team of boxers to be encamped in prepa-
ration for this month end’s `Back to the Future’ Caribbean championships which will be hosted by Guyana at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. (Michael DaSilva)
WICB director Mahabir resigns BALDATH Mahabir, a West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) director, has resigned with immediate effect, citing among other factors a certain level of unprofessionalism, exercised by the organisation in recent times. “In the recent past, this incarnation of the WICB has had to endure even more verbal onslaughts than some of its predecessors. The events that have attracted these negative outpourings have not always been the sole responsibility of the WICB, but the onus of cleaning up after the mess falls squarely on its burdened and at times under-resourced shoulders. And this the organisation must understand,” Mahabir said via a release. WICB director Baldath “Having said that, one Mahabir has quit with must recognise that the immediate effect. WICB has been less than satisfactory in other areas. The management of the business has been unprofessional, tardy or lax in many instances, and this, coupled with the very public spats with our players – men and women – have activated an increase in the quantity and decibel counts of voices against the actions of the Board.” Mahabir, a Trinidad and Tobago cricket director, was turned back in his bid for vice-presidency of the WICB after losing in an election to incumbent Emmanual Nanton. According to Mahabir, such constant criticism of the board by such a wide cross-section of West Indies society could not be very far off base, and perhaps it was a time to look at the problem away from the source. “I have decided to step back from the forest, for it seems that I need to look again at the trees. Maybe being within for the past six years, I have become lost in the forest and what is needed is a view from another place, get another perspective. Six million West Indians cannot be wrong,” Mahabir said. (Sportsmax.com)
Sport CHRONICLE
The Chronicle is at http://www.guyanachronicle.com
GDF retain Championship honours at GBA Terrence Ali Open boxing See story on page 35
Michelle Payne wins Melbourne … fourth female to ride Cup on Prince in its 155-year history of Penzance
AUSTRALIAN Michelle Payne has become the first female jockey to win Australia’s most prestigious horse race - the Melbourne Cup. The New Zealand-bred Prince of Penzance won despite being an outsider, with French horse Max Dynamite second and New Zealand horse Criterion third. Frankie Dettori was banned for a month and fined A$20,000 (£9,338) for careless riding on Max Dynamite. Payne said winning was “everybody’s dream as a jockey in Australia”. “My sister and I had a feeling I was going to win, and it turned out exactly how I thought it would,”
the 30-year-old told reporters. Only the fourth female to ride in the Cup during its 155-year history, she added: “It’s such a chauvinistic
sport, I know some of the owners wanted to kick me off.” She praised Prince of Penzance trainer Darren Weir and owner John Rich-
ards for their support but said: “I want to say to everyone else, get stuffed, because women can do anything and we can beat the world.”
Michelle Payne said she had been dreaming of winning the Melbourne Cup since she was five years old.
Red Cadeaux broke down before the finish line with an injured leg, but officials said they did not believe the injury was life-threatening. Jamie Spencer was
suspended for 14 days for causing interference on British-trained Big Orange, who finished See page 32
Game on! Seejattan tells Group 2 Invaders
WITH one of the largest Group 2 grids expected at the Guyana leg of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championships (CMRC) 2014, Guyanese driver Shan Seejattan has confirmed that the locals will be looking more at retaining the country championships, than individual glory Speaking to Chronicle Sport yesterday, the Group 2 driver indicated that he will be ready to race, come November 14-15, and intends to fly the Guyana flag high. Sending a message to the touring contingent, which includes some 9 cars from Trinidad and 6 cars from Barbados,
Seejattan said, “I don’t want to make personal threats that I can’t fulfil but it’s gonna be game on!” “We gotta stick together, it’s basically country points that we are after. It’s nothing personal for us Guyanese guys; all of us are trying to work together,” continued the Group 2 driver. On the personal front, he noted that gym work has been progressing well as he continues work on his fitness, noting that his car is currently in pieces. “We are currently doing some work to it (the car) right now in terms of handling and suspension and stuff like that. We are also
Shan Seejattan’s Honda Civic doing some quick reviews of the engine and things like that, and we are basically getting the car back together,” said Seejattan. Currently, Guyana sit in third place in the Caribbean country Championships with
511 points, being led by Trinidad and Tobago, (658 points) and Barbados (533) Guyana are the defending country champions and will look to retain that title on the November 14-15 race weekend.
Singapore track intruder jailed for six weeks
SINGAPORE, (Reuters) - A Singapore district court sentenced a 27-year-old man to six weeks in jail yesterday, for breaching security fences and entering the circuit during this year’s Formula One grand prix in September. British national Yogvitam Pravin Dhokia was arrested and charged with committing a rash act as to endanger the
personal safety of the drivers, after television pictures showed the intruder strolling along the track as cars sped past. “His act was not only rash but was both selfish and foolhardy,” District Judge Chay Yuen Fatt said in a brief statement on the decision, adding that Dhokia had admitted he had wanted to film the race from the track.
“Any dangerous intrusion onto the race track can and could have resulted in disastrous and fatal consequences.” Dhokia’s lawyer Shashi Nathan told the court that his client’s actions were “a childish endeavour” and he did not intend to disrupt the race or spoil the spectacle, according to the Singapore-based Channel NewsAsia news channel.
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Singapore Grand Prix organisers are considering tighter security for next year’s race, with higher fences and more marshals, after this year’s incident. The race was won by Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel, who was one of several drivers to speed past Dhokia and alerted his engineers of the intruder over his team radio. WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2015