Chronicle 11 13 2015

GUYANA No. 104371

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2015

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

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Odeen Ishmael:

Saudis ties can counter Venezuela’s threats

President David Granger

…also crucial for oil industry support

GDF gets $26M in military aid from Brazil P.2

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Guyana Defence Force Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips receives the military equipment from Brazilian Ambassador to Guyana, Lineu Pupo De Paula, while another officer looks on (GDF photo)

GECOM warns Husband on PPP against $1M bail for ‘ethnic divide’ wife’s death Harbour Bridge ‘accident’…

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Dharam Ramdeo Ramlall

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

GDF gets $26M in military aid from Brazil …equipment to be used at jungle school BRAZILIAN Ambassador to Guyana, Lineu Pupo De Paula on Thursday handed over $26M in equipment to Guyana Defence Force Chief Of Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips, at Base Camp Stephenson.

The donated equipment, is the outcome of continued government-to-government cooperation between Brazil and Guyana, and particularly, between the countries militaries, a release from the GDF said. The military aid package, consists of eight ARUA 600 Aluminium

boats, each outfitted with a Mercury 2-stroke, 40HP electric-start, gasoline outboard motor; 204 Milspec NORMAM5 Jungle warfare life jackets; 200 Ploymer magazine unloaders; six military compasses, 20 GPSMAP62s GPS receivers, and one CASE SV185 Bobcat with accessories. “This equipment will enhance the training and operational capacity of the GDF, at Colonel Robert Mitchell Jungle and Amphibious Training School (CRMJATS) at Makouria,” the GDF said.

Speaking briefly of the donation, which is almost like a 50th birthday gift for the GDF, Ambassador De Paula referenced the long standing cooperation between Brazil and Guyana and said that more has to be done to continue building stronger relations. “We need to go further. We already have military instructors and materials available, but we must look for more ways to improve co-operation,” he said.

Brazilian Military Attaché Colonel Oswaldo

Romo, explained that the reality of the military aid package stems from the fruitful discussions between the GDF and the Brazilian Military, at the 2014 First Bilateral Working Group caucus.

He referenced the coperation between the Brazilian and Guyanese militaries which hails from 1996. “It is an honour to present this equipment which will enhance and impact the training povided at the GDF’s Jungle warfare school,” he said.

GDF Chief of Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips, thanked the Government and people of Brazil as well as the

Brazilian Armed Forces, for their unwavering commitment to aiding the GDF in enhancing the delivery of military jungle training.

“This is concrete proof of the ongoing security cooperation between our nations.

CRMJATS will be better equipped and this equipment will augment the work of your instructors who are with us and who have aided in improving the delivery of training at our premier jungle training school,” he said, “this will help to move forward, our programme to develop JATS as a Centre of Excellence in jungle training

not only for the GDF but for any other country which needs to benefit from such a facility. My highest regards are extended to Maj General Luis Schons, whose promise is now a reality. We are assured that security co-operation between our States and militaries is in good hands as we continue to work together to strengthen our relations.”

Following the handing over of the equipment, at which Officers and ranks of the GDF and the Brazilian Armed Forces were present, there was a demonstration of some of the equipment.

Inequality major barrier to good health

– new PAHO research Persistent inequities across gender, race and socioeconomic groups in the Americas compound every major health challenge facing the Region, according to evidence and analysis presented in a new series of articles in the Pan American Journal of Public Health,

the peer-reviewed scientific journal of the Pan American Health Organization/ World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO).

The 11 articles are part of a new series titled “Equity in Health and Sustainable Development,” published across five issues of the jour-

nal, from July to November 2015. They highlight key social, economic, cultural and environmental barriers to ensuring that quality health care and the conditions necessary for healthy lives are available and accessible to all the people of the Americas, regardless of income level or location. The research findings are especially important to shed light on problems that must be addressed as countries in the Americas work to achieve “universal health,” a goal they collectively endorsed in 2014.

“This mission—our mission—should focus primarily on mitigating the profound and ubiquitous social, economic, and environmental inequities that perpetuate a world of arbitrary and unjust inequalities in terms of people’s ability to live full, healthy, decent, and grati-

fying lives,” writes PAHO/ WHO Assistant Director Dr. Francisco Becerra, in an introduction to the series.

Key findings include that access to health care for women of indigenous and African descent in Latin America and the Caribbean has been stymied by deep discrimination, including patient blaming, neglect, verbal or physical abuse and disregard for traditional beliefs, according to an article in the August issue by Tulane University researchers Arachu Castro, Virginia Savage and Hannah Kaufman.

And while infant mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean has fallen by half overall since 1980, countries like Haiti have not shared equally in these gains. In 2012, Haiti’s infant mortality rate was 64 per 1,000 live births, compared with

the regional average of 27 per 1,000, according to an article by researchers at the International Center for Equity in Health at the Federal University of Pelotas, Brazil.

Problems examined in the series include inequality in reproductive, maternal and child health in Latin America and the Caribbean; the role of ethnicity and gender in generating inequality; and how lack of access to a healthy environment, clean water and adequate sanitation incubates diseases such as tuberculosis.

The authors include noted academics, scientists and researchers.

In the series’ introduction, PAHO/WHO’s Assistant Director calls on the countries of the region to overcome such inequities through an integrated approach by government and society that addresses all

aspects of health. Such an approach is spelled out in the regional Strategy for Universal Access to Health and Universal Health Coverage, which was adopted by PAHO Member States in 2014. It is the first regional strategy to build on a global political commitment to reduce health inequities that was adopted during the World Conference on Social Determinants of Health in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2011.

In the introduction, Becerra also notes the importance of monitoring social inequality in health by implementing systematic assessments of health equity and objective markers of progress. “On our road toward health and sustainable development in the Americas,” Becerra writes, “we must not be indifferent to equity.” (PAHO)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

Odeen Ishmael:

Saudis ties can counter Venezuela’s threats

…also crucial for oil industry support GUYANA now has a golden opportunity to win the solidarity of Saudi Arabia and other governments of the Arab states in supporting its territorial integrity and in offering advice and other backing for the development of its oil potential, retired diplomat Odeen Ishmael has said.

His comments come as

“crucial” it is, since the Saudis also have very close relations with Venezuela through OPEC and the existence of embassies in each other’s capital.” Also, he said there are many politicians of Arab ancestry in the Venezuelan government and they may have strong contacts in Saudi Arabia. “What I can say however, is that Guyana’s ties

in offering advice and other support for the development of our oil potential,” said Ishmael, who had also served as ambassador to Venezuela and the United States.

Additionally, he took particular note of the gesture of Saudi Arabia who sent a chartered plane to transport President Granger and his delegation to and from the

which the member states of that body will render unqualified solidarity in defence of our territorial integrity,” Ishmael said.

He added that the Saudis have been cooperative with us in the past, noting that it was quickly ironing out problems associated with Guyanese going to Mecca for the Hajj.

Retired Diplomat, Odeen Ishmael

will generate greater understanding, peace and solidarity in a world of growing inequality, insecurity and injustice. We all, as member states of the United Nations, have just embarked on the implementation of the new 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We must be committed to the achievement of those SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) for the benefit of our peoples and to ensure that

President David Granger and Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge meet with His Highness King of Saudi Arabia Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the Fourth Summit of South American-Arab Countries (ASPA)

President David Granger returned to Guyana after a successful summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during which he cemented ties with that OPEC country and also forged broader alliances with a number of Arab states.

A former ambassador to Kuwait and Qatar, Ishmael said Guyana’s participation at the summit was significant, coming amid the recent flare-up of the decades-old border controversy with Venezuela - another OPEC nation that has been seeking support in the Middle East following pressure from the West.

Caracas has upped its aggression against this country since U.S. oil giant ExxonMobil announced back in May that that it had discovered oil-bearing rock in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana. The company had said that its Liza-1 well encountered more than 295 feet of high-quality oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs.

Asked how crucial can a Saudi Arabia backing go towards countering Venezuela’s threats, Ishmael said: “I am not too sure about how

with Saudi Arabia can assist in countering aggression and any plans of usurpation by Venezuela since the Saudis are committed based on the Arab-South America agreements to respect the territorial integrity of all states. Thus, they are committed to respect boundaries established under international law, e.g., the 1899 award of the international tribunal,” Ishmael explained.

SIGNIFICANT Meanwhile, in an invited comment to the Guyana Chronicle on Guyana’s participation at the Arab summit, Ambassador Ishmael said the presence of President Granger at the meeting was especially significant.

“He will always be held in high esteem by the Saudis for this, since he showed them respect by accepting the King’s invitation to travel to Saudi Arabia. Guyana can now build on this contact of friendship and win the solidarity of the Saudis and other governments of the Arab states in supporting our territorial integrity and

summit, saying this “shows the Saudi interest in Guyana and particularly in opening up a new level of relations.”

He also noted that an important factor to also keep in mind is that the Saudis are very appreciative of Guyana for being one of the first countries in the western hemisphere to officially recognise the Palestinian state.

Ever since taking office President Granger has been seeking global support against Venezuela’s aggression and his maiden United Nations address was focused on that world body and other developed countries coming to the aid of small countries such as Guyana.

STRATEGIC ALLIANCE Ishmael explained that Guyana has two main linkages with the Arab states - through the Arab-South American group and through the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

“Through especially the latter, Guyana has a golden opportunity to cement a strong political alliance by

“Then they have also expressed interest in expanding improved diplomatic and business linkages,” Ishmael noted, “and in these respects the Guyana government must seize the opportunity in expanding these contacts.”

Back in 2013, the Guyana government had nominated a Saudi citizen to be this country’s honorary consul in Saudi Arabia. “I am not sure if the Saudi government has given its approval, but we need that representation there since we have a relatively large number of Guyanese either residing or studying there, and from time to time they require consular assistance which our Embassy in Kuwait generally provides.

But the presence of a consul in Saudi Arabia can provide assistance much more quickly,” Ishmael added.

He said too that Guyana’s expected membership of the Islamic Development Bank can also boost a number of development projects here.

MEANINGFUL FRIENDSHIP During his address to the

conference, Granger said Guyana, as a country on the continent of South America and a member of the Union of South American nations (UNASUR), was honoured to be at the summit.

He said the Fourth Arab-South American Summit came at a critical time in global affairs. “It offers crucial lessons for successfully cultivating meaningful friendship, peace and mutually beneficial relations even amid disparate national and regional perspectives and challenges,” the Guyanese leader told the conference.

According to him, the Summit also reflected many timeless ideas and ideals that have inspired “our efforts since the initiation of this bi-regional enterprise over a decade ago. The world today stands in even greater need of such collective efforts. This summit signifies a renewed spirit of understanding and cooperation for mutual benefit and progress for our peoples, our governments and our continents. This Summit

no one is left behind.”

Granger also noted Guyana’s deep concern for the Palestinian people, restating Georgetown’s “principled position of support for the Palestinian people in their just struggle for their inalienable rights, including the right to statehood.”

“We need, also, to use this forum to pledge to deepen our cooperation to provide leadership and solutions to the wide array of challenges we face in common. We need to explore means of actualising the prospects and promise of collaboration between Arab and South American countries and expanding South-South ties.”

Noting that the summit afforded Guyana the opportunity to reaffirm the core principles that have animated our cooperation, Granger said it has also reinvigorated “our strong commitment to peace and to working together to expand the platform for a robust and meaningful partnership between our Regions and peoples.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

Specialty Hospital project…

Gov’t says new deal indicts “reckless” PPP – dismisses Teixeira’s comments as absurd THE Guyana Government said the new deal it has struck with the Indian Government to finance the construction of the Specialty Hospital and also the upgrade of three regional hospitals is a serious indictment of the recklessness of the PPP who had signed off the major project with a company that has failed to deliver and has so far refused to honour a High Court judgment to repay the State some $902,192,483.

Government’s statement comes hours after PPP executive Gail Teixeira told a news conference on Thursday that her party has been “vindicated” with regard to the issue of the controversial Specialty Hospital project.

The Chronicle first reported on Wednesday that

government will be going ahead with construction of the multi-billion-dollar Specialty Hospital here, but under a new agreement with India. The new arrangement will see unused funds from the original deal--some US$14M--being channelled towards the upgrade of three of the country’s regional hospitals, while a new pact will be negotiated for completion of the medical facility.

On its assumption of office, the David Granger-led administration had indicated that it would prefer the funds for the hospital to be used for primary healthcare delivery.

Minister of Public Health, Dr. George Norton, told the Guyana Chronicle that talks are continuing on the Specialty Hospital between the Governments of Guyana and India. Government, the min-

ister said, received what can only be described as “an offer of a lifetime”, whereby the Government of India will permit the Government of Guyana to use the remaining US$14M from the Specialty Hospital Project towards the upgrading of the West Demerara, Suddie and Bartica Regional Hospitals, while still being able to benefit from funding for a new Specialty Hospital.

Dr Norton explained that the approach taken by the Government of India is one that has the potential of benefiting all Guyanese. Put simply, he said what they’re actually saying is: “Use your money to do your primary healthcare system in your three hospitals, but we will continue to do the Specialty Hospital.”

However, at her party’s news conference yesterday, Teixeira said: “We have been vindicated, in the sense that they lost two years on the hospital thanks to the behaviour of the then opposi-

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tion…the project was stymied and obstructed deliberately by the same people that are coming back to it now.”

The party’s parliamentary spokesperson on Public Health, Dr. Frank Anthony also said that Minister Norton has not outlined in detail how the remaining money from the past allocation will be spent and who will be funding the project. “According to reports, we were made aware that the US$14M is now going to be used on Suddie, West Demerara and Bartica Hospitals.” He said more information is needed on how much money will be allocated to each hospital and what it would be used for.

RECKLESS SIGNING But the administration responded saying that, “… it was the PPP, despite the vehement protestations of the then combined APNU and AFC opposition, which concluded and forced through a shady deal with Surendra Engineering Company Lim-

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PPP Executive Member, Ms Gail Teixeira

Minister of Public Health, Dr George Norton

ited (SECL). This deal cost the Guyanese taxpayers over $900M, which represents the amount that the dubious SECL drew down before disappearing.”

According to the government, the re-negotiation of the medical facility contract by the coalition government, with the Government of India has not vindicated the PPP “but rather has further indicted that reckless regime for signing off a major project with this highly questionable company against whom a High Court judgment was given to the tune of $902,192,483.”

Government said that for Teixeira and the PPP to now suggest that they have been vindicated is absurdity of no ordinary kind. “The credit for this new extended package of the construction of a Specialty Hospital along with the upgrade of three major medical institutions – Suddie

Hospital, Bartica Hospital and the West Demerara Regional Hospital – ought to be given specifically to the Minister of Public Health Dr. George Norton and his team and the coalition government in general.

No amount of verbal machinations by Ms Teixeira can deny or mask this. The government is confident that the public will see this lame scheme by Ms. Teixeira for what it is.”

Government also gave its solemn commitment that consistent with its policy, these newly negotiated projects will be executed with the highest level of transparency. “It is unquestionable that when completed, these significant health sector projects will redound to the direct benefit of residents in regions 2, 3 and 7 who will receive vastly improved primary health care in addition to all Guyanese who will receive specialised care at the Specialty Hospital,” the statement ended.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

Despite amnesty, Westford charged – attorney

By Clestine Juan SENIOR Counsel Neil Boston is maintaining that the institution of criminal charges against former Minister of the Public Service, Jennifer Westford and her Personal Assistant, Margaret Cummings breaches an amnesty made

by Minister of State Joseph Harmon during a post-cabinet media briefing last June.

Yesterday Boston made an hour-long submission before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court while addressing the court on why court proceedings against the former minister and her personal assistant, should not

go forward.

Thereafter, Police Prosecutor Bharrat Mangru was given until November 30, 2015 to reply to the attorney’s submission.

The former minister was placed on a total of $800,000 bail after she pleaded not guilty to charges that between July 17, 2014 and June 23, 2015, she attempted to transfer eight State-owned vehicles to four persons, including her husband Gary Beaton. Osbert McPherson, Wayne Walker and Delroy Lewis are the others.

Cummings was also slapped with four counts of forgery. She pleaded not guilty to four charges which alleged that she forged documents for the purchase of the eight motor vehicles. She has been released on a total of

Former Minister of Public Service, Jennifer Westford

$1.2M bail.

AMNESTY In his opening remarks, Boston assured the court that his application had nothing to do with prejudice or fairness.

He affirmed that it had to do with “executive abuse.” The lawyer recalled that over the

PSC holds talks with AG on banking data bill

Attorney General, Basil Williams (right) in discussion with officials of the Private Sector Commission during their meeting on Thursday

THE Private Sector Commission (PSC) met with the Attorney General (AG) Basil Williams at his office on Thursday to discuss the Financial Institutions (Amendment) Bill 2015 which is currently before Parliament.

The PSC delegation headed by Major General (Ret’d) Norman Mc Lean included the Immediate Past President Ramesh Persaud, Chairperson of the Legal Affairs Committee Attorney-at-Law Patricia Bacchus and Manniram Prashad. In a release last week, the PSC had called on government to ensure that the bill guarantees financial privacy.

In their statement following Thursday’s meeting, the business umbrella body said that during the discussions, the PSC indicated that they had no difficulty

with the proposed amendments, but were interested in certain safeguards to protect data obtained by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) which included notice to the customer, care and custody of the data as well as the specifying of reasons the data was being requested.

The AG who was accompanied by the Chief Parliamentary Counsel Mr. Cecil Dhurjon SC, CCH gave the PSC the assurance that their concerns would be examined and addressed.

Government last month tabled the Bill which will be seeking to amend section 63 of the Act to permit disclosure of customer information by a financial institution to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), where a law so requires or where the Revenue Authority makes a lawful request or demand

for the information. The Bill was read for the first time.

This amendment seeks to give teeth to the State Asset Recovery Unit that will look into the issue of State assets that have been siphoned off, both locally and abroad, by various people and bodies. Government plans to work with international agencies in order to establish international best practices. State Minister Joseph Harmon had noted that the Unit will be a multi-agency one, independent and free from political intervention. He alluded to the fact that eminent economist, Professor Clive Thomas, roughly calculated that some $300 billion were siphoned off per year, a figure that was upped to $500 billion by a major external financial body.

years, the court had frowned on attempts by any executive to wrongfully misuse the process of the court.

During his submission, Boston informed the court that the Minister of State had announced an amnesty for persons in possession of state assets. He revealed that the amnesty was brought to light during a June 19 press conference, which he said was aired on HGPTV. However, Boston said that all the vehicles were returned to the Office of the President and in spite of the amnesty, his clients were charged. “It offends this court’s sense of justice and priority to be asked to try the two defendants in the circumstances.” He commented that the court process was wrongfully being misused by

the filing of the charges.

The lawyer told the court that his clients had been employed in the Public Service before May 11, 2015. He said that Westford was minister of the Public Service and Cummings was acting permanent secretary.

Boston explained that subsequent to May 11, there were allegations to the effect that attempts were made to transfer seven Government vehicles from the Ministry of Public Service.

At a post-Cabinet media briefing in June, Minister Harmon had opined that the persons who returned the vehicles probably took the opportunity to take advantage of the limited amnesty offered by government, to have persons return state assets before they were prosecuted.

An audit, one of several being undertaken to account for state assets, revealed that vehicles had been transferred, just prior or after, the May 11, 2015 General Elections.

According to the minister, the police investigations into the misappropriation of State-owned vehicles, eight from the Public Service Ministry, had been returned to the Ministry of the Presidency.

Between June 19 and 20, five vehicles were returned then three vehicles were returned before June 19.

The set of vehicles was reportedly transferred in the waning days of the previous administration at the behest of former Public Service Minister, Dr. Jennifer Westford, to several individuals.

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Guyana

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

GECOM warns PPP against ‘ethnic divide’

– accuses Rohee of trying to embarrass the Commission

By Ariana Gordon

EDITORIAL Donald Ramotar: The Road not Taken

FORMER President Donald Ramotar, has been in the news quite a lot recently. The former president has spoken on a range of issues-- from his controversial pardoning of a convicted child-killer to his decision to prorogue Parliament, to the perception that his presidency was controlled by his predecessor. It is not customary for former heads-of-state to be as vocal so soon after leaving office. Even the very confrontational Bharrat Jagdeo took a relatively long time before he actually commented on his presidency or on topical issues.

Perhaps the circumstances under which President Ramotar left office and his subsequently rough treatment by his party have influenced his decision to break with tradition.

He was the first PPP leader to lead the party to electoral defeats—not once, but twice. That he is not his party’s de-facto leader or one of its parliamentary representatives speaks volumes about the extent to which he has been demoted.

One assumes that he is still part of the executive, but clearly he does not command much support in that body. In other words, Mr Ramotar has been abandoned by his party.

Many would contend that he dug the proverbial hole for himself. When he was selected as the PPP’s presidential candidate, many felt that others were more deserving of that role. Mr Ramotar, though a longstanding party diehard, was never considered a frontline leader in the same league as Ralph Ramkarran and Moses Nagamootoo, both of whom had vied for the top spot. Ramotar was the party’s General Secretary, but when he assumed that office it was stripped of the authority it had when Dr. Jagan held it. Further, he lacked the kind of charismatic appeal that is usually associated with the maximum leader.

In the final analysis he was named as presidential candidate by default; the Jagdeo loyalists who had captured the party wanted to deny that top spot to Nagamootoo and Ramkarran. It is, therefore, not farfetched to assume that his ill-fated presidency was controlled by Mr Jagdeo. Whether Mr Jagdeo himself wielded such power behind the scene is debatable, but what cannot be denied is that Mr Ramotar was not his own man.

More than any other president he had the perfect opportunity to move the country in an alternative direction. As a president leading a minority government, the door was wide open for him to strike a power-sharing deal with the opposition APNU and AFC that would have seen him remain as president while moving the country in the direction of national reconciliation. He stoutly refused that option. It was a strange decision which some analysts have argued would reduce Mr Ramotar’s presidency to mediocrity. Mr Jagdeo’s current hardline against power sharing gives credence to the contention that he was the king behind the throne.

Mr Ramotar has apologised for the controversial pardoning of the convicted child killer. In the context of our political culture, such an apology has to be commended. It takes courage for a political leader to admit error. But Mr Ramotar once again lost an opportunity to be taken seriously. He followed up his apology by denying that there was widespread official corruption in his and previous PPP governments. He makes this contention in the face of startling revelations of corrupt practices. He has also led the odious chorus which seeks to declare some leaders as unfit to be in the same place with others.

There is no doubt that Mr Ramotar is a very upstanding individual. Even his detractors have not painted him as a nasty person. Ramotar would go down as a very flawed political leader who lacked the courage to make crucial decisions in the interest of the country and chose party over country. In the end he was consumed by the very party and will be remembered for the road not taken.

POLITICAL parties in Guyana were on Thursday urged to desist from promoting ethnic division

by Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Dr. Steve Surujbally.

Dr. Surujbally was at the time responding to statements made by the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) at a recent meeting.

Attempts to create an ethnic divide will not be tolerated under Dr. Surujbally’s watch, as he called on all political parties to provide facts to substantiate their claims.

The Opposition party requested among other things that the Elections Commission disclose the ethnicity of approximately 12,000 persons who worked during this year’s general elections.

The request made by PPP’s General Secretary Clement Rohee was seen as an attempt to “embarrass this entity called GECOM” said Dr. Surujbally.

Rohee, GECOM’s chairman said, believes there was an ethnic disparity amongst GECOM’s employees during May’s general elections and as such sought to enquire about the perceived ethnic imbalance.

“GECOM has a procedure, a process. We do not employ Afro–Guyanese, we do not employ Indo–Guyanese, we employ Guyanese,” he said, noting that ethnicity was never an issue for the Commission. “Let us stop this ethnicity thing,” he stressed.

On Monday, at a press conference hosted by Rohee at the PPP’s headquarters, it was said that the party had many unanswered questions with respect to GECOM’s preparation for Local Government Elections. The PPP General Secretary said that both Surujbally and Lowenfield, GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer (CEO) failed

GECOM’s Chairman Dr. Steve Surujbally

to address the concerns of the party. As a result, the party considers GECOM to be “indifferent, defensive and evasive.”

This was refuted by both Dr. Surujbally and Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, who made it clear that GECOM answered all questions posed by Rohee. GECOM’s Chairman believes that the attack by Rohee amounted to an assault on the entity.

Dr. Surujbally assured the media that GECOM had bent over backwards to provide answers to the questions posed by the PPP. “The bending over backwards was so blatant in our responses,” said Surujbally, who found it difficult to fathom the PPP’s move to attack and embarrass GECOM. Dr. Surujbally said it was time that the stereotyping of persons based on their ethnicity stops, “because if you are of a particular group there is a feeling that you are pro- or anti- a certain party,” said Dr. Surujbally.

“Obviously, anybody who has been proven to work inimically to the interest of GECOM or a political party I cannot see how we will continue to employ them,” he added.

He noted that every person is partisan to a party but persons need not be judged on the basis of their ethnicity.

“We have right now two officers who have been acting in the position for five years because of this nonsense that this one’s mother was in some way with one party and the other was in some way involved with another party,” said GECOM’s Chairman.

Dr. Surjubally told the media that a document containing the names of persons who were employed

by GECOM was presented to the Commission. “We got about 50 names or so, and the concomitant remarks were that they worked as party agents in 2011. Now, I have to tell you that that disturbs me in some way.

If I am a political party and I am seeing people working at GECOM, that have worked before with a party it is worthy of concern, no question. But…not after the elections; I need that before the elections.”

He said there was no evidence to substantiate the claims by the PPP that those who worked with the Commission in one way or another were dishonest and acted contrary to their mandates.

“Nothing tells me on those 50 people where they erred, where they were miscreant, where they did things that were inimical to the interest of a party.”

All persons employed

by GECOM have passed through a screening process where they are examined by

PPP General Secretary, Clement Rohee

officers of the entity. “Do I worry about the concern?

What can we do? The people have followed that process,” Dr. Surujbally stated.

“If you want to change that procedure, and say we should have X amount of this race and Y amount of that… that would have to be under another chairman, because I will not be part and parcel to that sort of differentiation. But the issue that would come up and the word used was the ethnicity, he wanted to know the ethnicity of those 12,000 plus people.”

GECOM’s Chairman said the Commission has a recording of the meeting with Rohee, “This is not something I am making up ladies and gentlemen.

Like I said, I understand a political party saying I am a bit worried about that, but prove to me that this person has done something really badly that would impact upon the result of an election.”

Dr. Surujbally noted that working with information provided by GECOM’s CEO, ethnicity is a “non-issue.”

Rohee believes that based on the responses provided by GECOM during the November 3 meeting, the Commission is not in a position to conduct Local Government Elections. The PPP said GECOM lacks the requisite competence to manage the elections.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

Gunman robs NA Market stall A LONE gunman on Thursday morning robbed Hack’s Variety Stall in the New Amsterdam Market in the presence of other vendors before making good his escape with in excess on $1M cash.

The man reportedly entered the market at about 08:30 hrs, and went into Hack’s Variety Stall, held an employee at gunpoint and demanded cash. Two bags containing large quantities of money were handed over before the robber made good his escape. According to reports, after leaving the gunman took another employee hostage and then discharged a shot in the air before running to the safety of a waiting motorcycle.

Police are now looking for the gunman and his accomplice. An eyewitness said after leaving the stall the gunman met another employee who was on his way to the stall when an alarm was raised. The second employee was taken hostage as the man made his way out of the market. He was released when a shot was fired into the roof of the market as the bandit headed out of the market.

The men got away by riding up into New Street and then into Lad Lane before disappearing.

The employee, Arvin Mature, 35, was too traumatised to speak with the media.

Meanwhile, owner of the

Hack Variety Stall in the New Amsterdam Market closed its doors after the robbery on Thursday

stall Rashid Hack, who was not on site at the time of the robbery, told the Guyana Chronicle that it was reported to him that a gunman had taken away two bags containing money from the stall. He said he received a telephone call at about 08:30 hrs informing him about the robbery.

According to Hack, he was on a business trip for the past four weeks and as a result all of the sales money was left in the store. In addition to that, Hack said he has given one of his employees a large sum of money to make purchases in his absence and all of the money was not expended. “I only came back in the country on Tuesday

and did not have a chance to go through the books and to do any banking as yet; I was hoping to do so today [Thursday] but…”

Eyewitnesses say that a man had been in the vicinity of the stall for close to half an hour and told other stall holders that he was waiting on Hack to open to change some foreign currency. “We didn’t pay attention to him because all day people does be coming to Hack and you don’t want anybody to feel that you looking into their business,” a vendor stated.

Up to press time it was still unknown how much money was taken by the bandit. Police are investigating. No arrests have been made as yet.

Harbour Bridge ‘accident’…

Husband on $1M bail for wife’s death

– asks court to pay last respects

By Sherah Alleyne

DHANRAM Ramdeo Ramlall of 4210 Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo appeared before City Magistrate Judy Latchman yesterday and was placed on $1 million bail. He was charged with dangerous driving and causing the death of his reputed wife Gangadai Persaud.

It is alleged that on November 8, 2015 at the Demerara Harbour Bridge, Ramlall, called ‘Rico’ drove his canter truck in a dangerous manner causing it to overturn and top-

Dharam Ramdeo Ramlall in court yesterday

ple into the Demerara River, thereby causing the death of Persaud.

He is expected to return to court on November 30.

Defence Counsel Sandil Kissoon, in his application for bail, stated that Persaud’s body was laid to rest yesterday and hence he requested that his client be granted bail to pay respects to her. He also submitted to the court that his client did not pose a flight risk and would return for all his court hearings.

Prosecutor Inspector Shellon Daniels, in her submission, told the court that

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Beverage company bids $35.9M for GRA liquor FOLLOWING an advertisement inviting bids for the purchase of an unclaimed container of alcoholic beverages, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) says that the highest bid was provided by a prominent beverage company.

The beverage company provided the highest bid in the sum of $35,960,000.

An advertisement captioned “Sale of Liquor” was published during the period October 31-November 4, 2015 inviting bids to purchase a quantity of alcohol.

GRA received a total of 21 bids. These were subsequently opened on November 5.

The GRA noted that the agency was confident that given the reputation of the beverage company the payment documents for the alcohol beverages will not be recycled.

In the advertisement, the GRA noted that the sale was done in accordance with Section 225 of the Customs Act and in the absence of a claim.

It offered no information on who the consignee might have been. The GRA notice had said that prospective bidders should be free of all tax liabilities and also present their personal identification.

Among the items in the container were 739 cases of

Absolut Vodka, 49 cases of Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky, 25 cases of Johnnie Walker Double Black, 25 cases of Hennessy, 50 cases of Coffee Patron, 100 cases of Jagermeister SE and 99 cases of Tequila.

Last May, the GRA said that it was peeved at the disappearance of approximately $6M worth of foreign liquor from its Eccles Warehouse Facility.

This discovery was made by officers of the agency’s Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) during a routine inventory

exercise, which led to the immediate launching of an investigation on May 13, 2015.

As a result of the discovery, surveillance footage was reviewed and this revealed that officers of the security firm contracted to provide 24-hour security to the warehouse were very much involved, the tax agency said.

“In light of this the GRA has since provided copies of the recording to the management of the private security firm and has indicated to them that they are being held culpable. Additionally, the matter has been reported to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for further investigation and the subsequent institution of criminal charges,” the tax agency had stated.

Commissioner General of the GRA Khurshid Sattaur had assured that the agency would spare no effort in bringing the perpetrators to justice.

He noted that the agency had previously installed a Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) monitoring system to safeguard against such incidents and this had significantly aided the investigation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

6% hike in rice exports …GRDB says forecasts bright for next several months

AMID statements about the lack of markets for Guyana’s bumper rice crop, the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) is reporting a six percent increase in rice exports for 2015 in comparison to the same period last year.

According to a statement by the GRDB, statistics for this year so far show 437,448 tonnes of rice has been exported in comparison to 412,220 tonnes for the same period last year. Acting General Manager of the GRDB Nizam Hassan expressed optimism that the exports for 2015 will surpass that of 2014. He noted that “private exporters have commitments for the export of 220,000 tonnes of rice over the next several months.”

The GRDB is assuring rice farmers that their paddy will be sold and that measures will be put in place to ensure they are paid in a timely manner. The statement noted that “the GRDB has a responsibility to ensure, support and encourage millers to pay their farmers. However, it is largely a private arrangement but because of the law that exists, millers have 42 days to pay their farmers.”

“Government will continue to be proactive in its role in ensuring rice farmers are paid in a timely manner,” the statement noted. In highlighting the challenges farmers face in receiving payment, the GRDB General Manager explained that many millers had purchased paddy with the expectation of receiving

higher prices than they are currently receiving.

Hassan pointed out that when Guyana was exporting to Venezuela it was getting US$780 per tonne of white rice. The price previously offered by Venezuela is almost double that of the world market price which averages at US$390 per tonne. He said presently Guyana has agreed to sell its white rice for between US$335 to US$400 per tonne, while parboiled rice sells for as much as US$600 per tonne.

Late October Guyana made some headway in securing commitments by the Mexican government to buy some of this country’s rice.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, who was attending the Open Governance

Global Summit in Mexico City, had met with Mexico’s Agriculture Minister Jose Calzada, during which the commitment was made.

Calzada advised PM Nagamootoo after representation was made that Mexico is keen on buying Guyana’s rice. During the meeting, Minister Caldaza had assured the Prime Minister that steps would be fast tracked to open the market for Guyana’s rice in Mexico. Mexico imports some one million tonnes of rice annually.

The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Agriculture, continues to search for international markets for Guyana’s rice, in the wake of the closure of the Venezuelan market.

Agriculture Minister Noel Holder also recently advised that Guyana currently sells rice to 50 countries around

Minister Noel Holder

the world, and too much of an issue is now being made out of the collapse of the Venezuelan market.

“As a matter of fact, currently, the Portugal market is as big as the Venezuelan market, about 30 percent or so, I think too much of a big thing is being made out of the lapse in the Venezu-

elan market,” the minister commented. Currently, the government is pursuing the Panama market, as “I have even had discussions with the minister, during the Mexico meeting, so we are pursuing that; we are looking at new markets, it is an ongoing situation, we are even discussing with The Bahamas, they have an interest as well, and Haiti, we are looking at it as well.”

Minister Holder had also stated at a press conference he held to address the issue in early October that Guyana was successful in securing an increased market arrangement with Panama, for which shipment has begun. The shipment has been increased from 4000 to 7,200 tonnes.

The Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) continues to work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in securing additional international markets for Guyana’s rice.

EMPRETEC Guyana hosts Leadership, Planning and Time Management Workshop

By Shirley Thomas TWENTY FIVE persons, 14 of whom are entrepreneurs registered with the Small Business Bureau, recently participated in a one-day Leadership, Planning and Time Management workshop hosted by EMPRETEC Guyana, at the Georgetown Club, 208 Camp Street, Georgetown.

The workshop was facilitated by Ms. Ruth Lee who is a certified Human and Social Development trainer.

Some of the areas covered in the November 3 workshop, included Critical Thinking for Leaders; Planning Tools for Effective Management; Improving Time Management Skills; and Tips for Effective Time Management.

Commenting on the objectives of the workshop, Development Officer Ms. Rhonda Nelson stated that the ability to manage effectively is based on a number of key skills - skills that are highly sought after by employers as they involve dealing with people in such a way as to motivate, enthuse and build respect and that is what the workshop has been able to impart to the participants.

She added that companies also want managers

Ms. Myrna Lee shares with participants during the EMPRETEC Workshop

who can effectively and efficiently manage and utilise time to achieve maximum productivity.

“Good time management requires an important shift in focus from activities to results. It is for these reasons that EMPRETEC chose to host this workshop. In addition, Christmas is the busiest season of the year and this is the time when managers need to maximise the use of their limited resources to achieve maximum results,” Nelson said.

Meanwhile, feedback from the participants was excellent with most saying that the workshop was excellent and the topics covered were most useful. The facilitator Ms. Lee used different methods of teaching which sought to make the workshop interesting.

“Now that these manag-

ers have gained tremendously from this workshop, it is the hope that they would be able to pass on some of what they learnt to their staff,” the development officer concluded.

EMPRETEC Guyana continues to cater to the training needs of entrepreneurs in Guyana. On Wednesday November 18, 2015 EMPRETEC will host a Customer Service workshop and a Water Certification workshop will be conducted from Tuesday November 24 to Friday November 27, 2015. To sign up for any of these two workshops, persons can contact the EMPRETEC office at J Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park or on telephone numbers 225-1219 or 225-4330 or email empretecguyanainc@gmail. com.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

GECOM reports favourable returns …too soon to project final numbers

By Ariana Gordon THE Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has received 558 applications for new registration, 103 applications for transfers, eight applications for entry into the Preliminary List of Voters (PLV) using Form 4 and 192 applications for changes or corrections 72 hours after the commencement of the Claims and Objections Exercises for Local Government Elections.

“Our returns to date are favourable. We have new registrants and also quite a lot of transfer transactions were done over the last 72 hours,” Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield said on Thursday.

The Claims and Objections exercise commenced on Monday with the aim of producing a Register of Voters (RoV) for each of the nine municipalities and more than sixty two (62) Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs). The exercise will conclude on December 13.

Speaking at a media

Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield briefing the media on Thursday

briefing Lowenfield noted that while GECOM had received several applications for registration over the 70 hours of the commencement of the Claims and Objections period, it was too soon to project the final numbers.

He is hopeful that persons would take full advantage of the Claims and Objections period.

Lowenfield noted that lists had been posted in every local authority area with

Georgetown being the largest comprising 15 constituencies; the municipality with the most constituencies. Potential voters or those who wish to clarify their status quo can check the lists posted and make a claim to be on the list if they do not see their names. “…no doubt whatever transactions are required, they can make a claim to be on the list, they can request a transfer, request a change of their addresses or they can apply routinely for a name change.

“The process of Claims aims to ensure that all eligible electors within their constituencies are catered to, so that they will be on our final and official list so they can exercise their franchise as they see necessary whenever the date for election is announced.”

To facilitate the Claims and Objection exercise, 160 offices have been established where transactions can be done in all local authorities.

Lowenfield noted that during the course of the

Claims and Objections, those who request transfers from non-local authority areas to local authority areas will be granted.

“What we are also doing during the course of the Claims and Objections, as you are aware, not all Guyana is located in a local authority area and therefore persons who are living in non-local authority areas; those who probably will transfer themselves into local authority areas we will treat with those, but concomitantly with our C&O is a registration exercise that seeks to register persons who are living in these non-local authority areas; those who would have a registration transaction to do, though they are living outside of a local authority area. That registration period also captures the said period of the C&O exercise.”

Though no objections have been made during the exercise so far, persons have the opportunity to object to those listed in their divisions and sub-divisions, particularly in their constituencies.

The Chief Elections Officer added that after the

completion of the Claims and Objections exercise in December, an administrative process will be employed to ensure that all claimants or new electors that are registered are “cross-matched with the remainder of our database to ensure that it is only one elector listed and there is no duplicity or duplication to our list.”

“Once that administrative sub-set is completed, we are moving towards certification of the list; [and] inform the honourable Minister that he can pronounce on a particular date for elections.”

GECOM’s READINESS Pointing to GECOM’s readiness for the elections, Lowenfield said the Commission had to ensure that all “areas that have lacunae especially those of a legal nature were satisfied.”

“We had to wait until the Honourable Minister of Communities had indicated to us those local authority areas, be they the Municipalities or NDCs (and whether they) were properly established within the ambit of the law before we commenced this exercise.

Sometimes you hear noises about commencement…[but] we are operating within the framework of the laws that guide the operations of the conduct of local elections in Guyana.”

PUBLIC RELATIONS DRIVE GECOM announced that it also has embarked on a “full-fledged information drive at grassroots level with the use of Public Announcement (PA) systems and flyers, while awaiting the production of infomercials via the electronic media. “We are now engaged with placements of the infomercials via every available electronic media house. This will be done in addition to the publication of full-page advertisements in the print media focusing on specific aspects of the Claims and Objections exercise initially and then with a shift towards Local Government Elections. These activities are included in a comprehensive Civic and Voter Education Strategy which has already been approved by the Commission.”

Statement in murder trial tells of gun rental

By Michel Outridge

FOLLOWING a voir dire (trial within a trial) yesterday morning the caution statement of the number one accused, Orwin Hinds called ‘Redman’, was admitted and tendered in court as evidence in the murder trial of 72-year-old Clementine Fiedtkou-Parris who was murdered in her Lot 42 Robb Street home on June 30, 2011.

Police witness Mark Garnett, who was present when the caution statement was recorded, read from it, narrating the story of a plot to kill Fiedtkou-Parris after they were hired.

The statement said a .38 handgun was left in his care by a friend who was leaving Guyana for Cayenne. He then gave the gun to his brother Cleon Hinds to keep for him.

The document said three

days before the ‘lady get kill’ in Robb Street, ‘Blackboy’ approached Cleon to borrow the gun and he called me after which a meeting was arranged.

The caution statement added that ‘Blackboy’ met them at the Route 40 bus park where he told them that he does work for a ‘big Indian man’ and he want to kill a woman over some land problem.

The document stated that they decided to do the ‘work’ and also use the gun to do it.

Afterwards, we asked how much money we were going to get and ‘Blackboy’ said $1.5M for “she head”.

The statement continued: “And yall gon get paid $100,000 to rent the gun.

Me tell he that I gon rent the gun when he ready. The next day ‘Blackboy’ call me directly because I gave him my cell number and we arranged another meeting at

Kitty bus park between 8pm and 9pm.”

It further stated that Orwin Hinds, Cleon, ‘Dutchie’, ‘Troy’ and ‘Blackboy’ discussed the ‘work’ and a plan was hatched after another meeting in Kitty and ‘Troy’ was the driver when they went to see the place the ‘lady’ was living in Robb Street and decided that the next day they would execute the plan.

The night, at about 8pm, the group went back to the Robb Street house and the gun was given by Cleon and Orwin and ‘Dutchie’ went in the yard, up the steps and asked for the woman after encountering her brother on the stairs. She was called out and then she was shot two times by ‘Dutchie’, who was observed with the gun in his hand after Hinds was ordered to hold the man.

After that they were picked up and the next day

money was collected and divided among the group.

Previously, caution statements taken from Roy Jacobs and Cleon Hinds were admitted to the trial, following a voir dire. In both statements the accused told police of a plot to murder the elderly woman, who was involved in a legal dispute over the land where she lived.

Orin Hinds, called ‘Redman’, of Burnham Boulevard in Mocha, East Bank Demerara; Kevin October called, “Troy,” of Second Street, Agricola, East Bank Demerara; Cleon Hinds, and Roy Jacobs called “Chippie” or “Black Boy” of Evans Street, Charlestown, are currently facing Justice Navindra Singh and a mixed jury for the murder.

The accused are being represented by Attorneys -at-Law, George Thomas, Moti Singh, Raymond Alli

and Maxwell Mc Kay, respectively.

According to the indictment, on June 30, 2011, the four men murdered Clementine Fiedtkou-Parris pursuant to an arrangement whereby, money was to be passed from one person to another.

The State prosecutors are Teshanna James-Lake in association with Narissa Leander.

On the evening of June 30, 2011, two men went to Fiedtkou-Parris’s Robb

Street home asking for ‘Auntie,’ a title by which she was called. They were directed up a side step and as Fiedtkou-Parris emerged from her bedroom, one of the men pulled out a gun and shot her several times to the upper part of her body.

The men then jumped into a waiting car while the injured woman was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

Husband on... on the day in question defendant was driving at a fast rate, as stated in his Ramlall lost control of the vehicle on the retractor span causing the vehicle to go overboard. Persaud who was seated in the passenger seat succumbed after the vehicle sank. Ramlall swam to safety but the strong current prevented divers from retrieving the truck and the

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body in a reasonable time.

According to an eyewitness, the driver of the canter was trying to pick up a bag of boulangers (egg plants) that had fallen onto the bridge. Reversing on the ramp, Ramlall’s vehicle wheel slipped over the ridge of the retractor causing the entire vehicle to topple overboard.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

AFC Queens Chapter elects office bearers – at Annual General Meeting CHARLES Sugrim has been elected President of the Alliance For Change (AFC) Queens Chapter (NY). Its Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held recently, and the returning officer, Dr Euclid Rose, in declaring the results of the elections, announced that Sugrim was elected President; Leyland Chitlal Roopnarine was elected Vice-President, and Sasenarine Singh was elected Secretary.

Other persons elected to serve in the party structure were as follows: Collin Haynes, elected as Treasurer/Director of Communications and Director of Youth Affairs; Rajesh Singh (Paul Harald), as Director of Fund Raising; and Jean Ram and Margaret Sihdahnie, as Co-Directors of Women’s Affairs.

During the AGM, a work plan for the next 12 months was developed. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Alliance said: “As one of the three official chapters of the AFC in North America, the AFC Queens Chapter would want to intensify its outreach to the some 100,000 Guyanese in the Queens area, to stimulate the diaspora to act as an incubator for foreign direct investment and financial inflows into Guyana.”

Those present at the meeting committed to a membership drive to help with the critical work needed between now and the Local Government Elections. Primarily, the Queens Chapter will be looking to raise funds to assist the AFC with its contribution to the political construct in those elections.

Additionally, the Chap-

ter is seeking to be more proactive in discussing issues affecting the Queens Community. It also seeks to conduct socially uplifting projects here in Guyana, starting with a clothes drive to assist the poor.

“All members were asked to spread the word, and to deposit their used clothing [at] the offices at Imperial Home Reality at 12810, 111th Ave in South Ozone Park in Queens.

These non-winter clothing will be shipped to Guyana before Christmas, and [will be] distributed to the poor and underprivileged.”

The hosting of a seminar in Queens is another project which has been identified, and will create a platform for persons in the area to be updated on developments in Guyana.

“It is hoped that the

Executive members of the AFC Queens Chapter

feedback from this diaspora community shall seek to enhance the relationship between the diaspora and Georgetown in developing the homeland. There are plans to worker closer with the Guyana Consulate.

We are in full support of any move to relocate the

Guyanese Consulate to the Queens area.”

A special emphasis will be placed on expanding AFC membership among the youths and women, with two special teams being formed under the leadership of Collin Haynes and Jean Ram and Margaret Sihdahnie to

develop these two very important constituencies.

The AFC Queens President and Vice-President will work along with vibrant leader Ms. Asha Balbachan in playing a strong role in the nation’s 50th Anniversary Celebration Committee.

Minister Harmon receives Bible from Gideon International Guyana MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon was yesterday paid a courtesy call

by Mr. Joel Tucker and Mr. Peter Assing from the Gideon International Organisation, who presented him a copy of the Bible.

In accepting the Bible, Minister Harmon noted that any religion plays an important role in the building of

society and a country.

“I believe that the word of God is the foundation of all faith and a country that builds on a foundation of the word of God is a country that will stand for a long time and so we are going to build on that foundation to make this country a strong nation,” Minister Harmon said.

The group had paid a courtesy call on President David Granger a week ago, during which they also presented a copy of the Holy Bible to him.

Gideon International is an evangelical Christian association, whose primary activity is distributing copies of the Bible, free of charge.

Mr. Peter Assing handing over the Holy Bible to Minister Harmon

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

Second phase of CDPs underway – 160 hinterland communities to benefit SOME 160 Amerindian communities and villages are to be supported in their economic development through the implementation of their Community Development Plans (CDPs).

The project aims to strengthen entrepreneurial and institutional capacities of the village economy of Amerindian communities/villages, improve linkages with the private sector to further develop value chains and strengthen institutional frameworks to support local economies.

The Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is in the process of implementing Phase II of the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF) Project. The CDPs fall under the ambit of the ADF. According to the ministry’s Community Development Facilitator, Romanus James, the ministry is currently completing the first component of the project, which is to

engage with residents of the communities to finalise their projects. He explained that this element involves visiting the community, reminding residents of their proposals, and examining them to ensure they are viable.

Communities are also being sensitised about the project, what it entails and what is expected of them. A team of officials will then assess the management and implementation arrangements, and examine the business and economic feasibility of each CDP, James told the Government Information Agency.

Training is being conducted in this regard.

Thus far, 92 communities in Regions 1, 6, 7, 8 and 9 have been visited. James added that the team is currently in Region 9 and when it completes that leg, 110 communities will have been covered.

During Phase l of the project, 27 communities were selected to execute the project. However, 26 received

disbursements to implement their respective CDPs. Projects to be executed include farming, agro-processing, aquaculture, poultry and cattle rearing, mining, village infrastructure - including construction of village office and a multi-purpose building, village shop and museum, and transportation and tourism.

The last element of the project will see communities benefiting from up to $5M to execute their community-based projects. James noted that the monies will be disbursed into tranches; the first is to start the project and the second will be for its completion. He added that the project will be closely monitored to ensure sustainability, in keeping with the agreement signed with the UNDP. This project is one of the many initiatives the Government will be implementing over the next three years to ensure that Amerindian communities are economically independent. (GINA)

First Lady meets HERO reps FIRST Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger yesterday met with executive member of Health and Educational Relief Organisation (HERO), Dr. Mallika Mootoo and the organisation’s Vice President, Dr. Andrea Lambert.

Mrs. Granger has been working extensively to build

partnerships with groups and organisations, which are focused on reaching the most vulnerable in the society.

This recent meeting is a part of that partnership-building effort and allowed the First Lady to be briefed on the services offered by the organisation and how col-

laborative efforts may benefit target groups.

HERO is a non-profit organisation, which is registered in the United States of America and has been providing healthcare and other services to Guyana and other developing countries since 2000.

Pictured here are, (from left) Dr. Mallika Mootoo, executive member of HERO, First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger and Dr. Andrea Lambert, Vice-President of HERO, following their meeting at the Office of the First Lady

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

Duo injured in Mahaicony fatal – hit-and-run driver accident discharged still at large THE two persons who were badly injured after a car ran into them, and also killed a mother of seven girls, along the

Harmony Hall, Mahaicony public road last Saturday, have been discharged from the Georgetown Public Hos-

pital.

Alanca Cummings, 32, of 45 Zeskendren, Central Mahaicony and Ruth Percival, 26, of Perth Vil-

lage, Mahaicony were both discharged on Tuesday afternoon from the GPH after doctors there determined that they were out of danger.

Sources at the hospital told this newspaper that Cummings was treated for a fractured pelvis and

Friday, November 13, 2015 - 05:00 hrs Saturday, November 14, 2015 - 05:30 hrs Sunday, November 15, 2015 - 05:30 hrs

Percival was treated for a fractured hip.

Meanwhile, the driver who allegedly struck them down and fled the scene remains on the run, while another driver who was held on the night of the accident has been placed on station bail.

However, the Police Public Relations Officer yesterday said that a wanted bulletin has not yet been issued for driver Altab Bacchus of Cove and John, who reportedly fled the scene of the accident, leaving one woman dead and three others injured.

Eyewitnesses had said that Bacchus appeared at the time to be under the influence of alcohol. Earlier this week, he reportedly made contact with the police and indicated that he would turn himself in, accompanied by a lawyer, but he never did.

According to members of his family, Bacchus has apparently turned off his mobile phone and they have been unable to make contact with him.

Family members had also indicated to this publication that the man, when contacted just after the accident, had said that he was unaware that one person had died in the crash last Saturday evening.

The mother of seven, Irene Ramsey, was killed in the accident while she and other friends were standing on the roadway at Mahaicony awaiting transportation home from a birthday party.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

41st meeting of COTED…

Gov’t, private sector cooperation imperative for production, productivity – COTED Chair

By Rabindra Rooplall

IT is imperative that governments and the private sector work together to increase production and enhance productivity and include competitiveness, says Chairperson of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED), Surinamese Minister of Trade and Industry Sieglien Burleson.

The Surinamese minister made this disclosure yesterday at the 41st meeting of the COTED held at the Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown. The two-day special session will also address various issues affecting the private sector.

She said this session of COTED underscores the willingness to cooperate and support each other in order to bring prosperity and growth for all in the Region.

The COTED Chair noted that the world economy

is moving at a fast pace and it sometimes seems that the council cannot keep up. “I think that the time has come for us as a council that is responsible for trade and economic development to bring trade and economic development to the Region.”

She continued: “We must find ways to actively engage with the private sector. It is only by working together that we will be in a position to make policies and implement new strategies. It is the private sector that are the ones trading and doing business.” In this regard, she said the session with the private sector is one of great importance.

GREATER USE OF TECHNOLOGIES The Suriname Trade Minister explained that the community’s effort to make greater use of technologies has influenced the devel-

them to match supply with demand. It also has the potential to provide a boost to the small and medium-scale enterprises by expanding their market reach and facilitating investment in the development of the sector.

“While deliberations of COTED will include inter-regional trade, we must not lose sight of the opportunities provided by bilateral trade agreements which CARICOM has concluded. We are in

a fortunate position that these agreements and free trade are partners in our hemisphere in order for us to take advantage of our opportunities provided by agreements,” the chair said.

Judge gets tough with ‘honking’ drivers Chairperson of COTED and Surinamese Minister of Trade and Industry, Sieglien Burleson

opment of the CARICOM interactive market place and the suspension of procedures such as the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) application processing system.

She said this is a further attempt to make procedures more efficient and user friendly; it will give economic operators real-time information and will allow

JUSTICE Navindra Singh yesterday held six of seven drivers in contempt for honking their horns in the silent zone areas of the High Court and Magistrates’ Court, which had caused disruptions in both courts. Seven drivers were ushered into court in the afternoon and told the particulars of the traffic violations. They were also given a chance to respond.

Only one driver escaped a penalty. Justice Singh gave him the benefit of the doubt based on his explanation for honking his horn in the environs of the courts.

The others, all men, were fined between $5,000 and $7,500 to be paid within seven days or they face imprisonment.

Of the lot, one driver was unlicensed and was escorted to Brickdam Police station where he will face other charges. Another driver said he was in the Magistrate’s Court

and was unaware that his alarm was going off for 45 minutes.

On Wednesday, 15 drivers were held in contempt by Justice Singh and fined varying amounts, not exceeding $5,000.

The noise nuisance campaign will continue on Monday, when officers will be strategically placed on Avenue of the Republic, Croal Street and South Road.

The judge noted that such traffic offences were usually dealt with at the Magistrate’s Court, but there were other legal means by which persons in default could be sanctioned for essentially minimal traffic offences.

It is universal knowledge that drivers cannot sound their horns around quiet zones such as the hospitals and courts, since this can result in disruption of the work being done there. (Michel Outridge)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

60% of Caribbean

– Ambassador LaRocque says this affects CARICOM competitiveness

By Rabindra Rooplall SIXTY per cent of Caribbean adults are overweight and the health of the workforce is a major factor which affects CARICOM competitiveness and its ability to maximise opportunities, both within the Single Market and ex-

ternally, according to CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque.

The envoy made this disclosure yesterday at the 41st Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) held at the Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown. The two-day special session will also

address various issues affecting the private sector.

“Our Region has consistently been recorded amongst the highest mortality rates related to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) of any region in the

Americas, with heart diseases and diabetes responsible for the greatest number of deaths. More than half of the adult population has the presence

of at least three of the four major risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes,” the CARICOM Secretary-General disclosed.

CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque during his address yesterday for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) held at the Pegas

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, November 13, 2015

adults overweight

He noted that over the last 15 years there has been an exponential rise in diet-related NCDs in the Caribbean. More than 60 per cent of Caribbean adults are overweight; and this is an increasing cause for concern, as well as the rate of obesity in Caribbean children over recent

y at the 41st Meeting of the Council sus Hotel

decades.

Seven to 12 per cent of preschool-aged children in the Region are estimated to be overweight or obese and up to 14 per cent of adolescents in some member states are obese.

UNHEALTHY DIETS Ambassador LaRocque said these disturbing statistics point to the need for cross-sectoral action to address the burden of unhealthy diets and related NCDs and their impact on productivity and expenditure, both public and private.

In particular, the CARICOM Secretary-General said that some of the areas that lend themselves to action in COTED relate to mandatory nutrition and labelling on all packaged goods, recommendations on measures to encourage the consumption of healthier foods and disincentives for unhealthy foods.

Action should also be taken to incentivise production of improved productivity of healthy local foods.

“The seriousness of this issue cannot be overemphasised and this council must join this fight to ensure that there is a healthy workforce to boost competitiveness and productivity by reducing absenteeism in the workplace and the associated cost to the public and private purse respective to healthcare,” LaRocque stressed.

He said the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has prepared a brief which sets out the need for a comprehensive and coordinated regional approach to combat the challenge.

PRIVATE SECTOR Meanwhile, in addressing the special session of COTED with the private sector, Ambassador LaRocque said “Since assuming office as Secretary-General, I have been ad-

vocating for the greater involvement in the private sector in the work of this council. The importance of this involvement cannot be overemphasised, given the Community’s commitment to boost growth and employment as underlined in our strategic plan.”

He explained that the private sector is a critical partner with governments to stimulate economic growth in CARICOM, and that partnership is integral to the formation of public policy for regional and national development, in particular in the areas of production, trade, investment and finance.

He added that the CARICOM Secretariat has embarked on a consultancy on Caribbean export to examine public and private dialogue within the Region with a view to developing a roadmap for improved dialogue towards regional development.

Building on and in support of the work the Community has done in Caribbean export, LaRocque said the secretariat is also working to define an agenda for regional business climate reform. Strength in the public-private linkage will therefore require a deepening of the consultative modes currently used with the engagement of the private sector.

And key to facilitating this necessary dialogue is a representative regional body for the private sector which can reflect the views of the entire spectrum of interests, he added.

He said also that a competitive and vibrant private sector is critical for the deepening of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) which is the main tool for building economic resilience and to provide a platform for further integration in the global economy.

The CSME needs to be addressed in order to strengthen the platform and base interface of external partners, LaRocque said. “This includes elements of the regime for trading goods; the application of technical measures,

especially trading services and services regulations, investment and commission policy among others.”

He said the objective of that policy must be grounded in the Region’s developmental imperatives in the language of the strategic plan, and it must contribute to the building of economic and social resilience. Critically, there must also be coordination between external trade strategies

and the community’s foreign policy outreach.

“Such a policy must therefore have the effect of placing regional enterprises of all scales of operation in the best position to take advantage of and participate in global and regional value chains,” he explained.

“We need a dynamic regional programme of trade and investment promotion to complement the na-

tional programmes. This along with trade, research and market information would help to further identify CARICOM’s opportunities in the global economy.”

He concluded that the meeting would help to further strategise for regional investment promotion prepared by Caribbean export which benefitted from consultation throughout the community.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

Ms GDF 2015...

LCpl Daniella Castillion takes coveted title

By Clestine Juan

a swimsuit segment, physical fitness, talent segment and lastly the evening gown. There was also the final “THRIVE to be competitive” is a mantra of the Guy- interview segment. ana Defence Force (GDF) Sports Department, and was It commenced with the candidates introducing themcertainly the motivating force behind 29-year-old Lance selves and proclaiming the respective arms of the corps Corporal Daniella Castillion, who was crowned Queen they represented. The crowd, though small, kept the show Wednesday evening in the Ms. GDF Pageant 2015. lively with their cheering and comments.

This was one of the many events held at the National Besides the men ogling the ladies, women in the auCultural Centre, and coordience cheered when GDF dinated by the GDF Wombodybuilder, Sergeant Davis en’s Army Corps (WAC) took to the podium to exhibit ‘The Miss Guyana Defence Force Pageant in celebration of its 50th his sexy, muscular body. is not only a beauty pageant, but rather an anniversary.

As he wowed the laorganised showcase of the physical fitness, However, unlike tradidies, the delegates backstage marksmanship, talent, poise and eloquence tional pageants, the Miss prepared to strut their stuff GDF 2015 Pageant is not in their swimwear. One by of a military woman’ – Lieutenant Colonel just about pomp and cerone, they took centerstage Natasha Standford emony. to show off their well-cut In her opening refigures, honed to perfection marks, Commanding Ofby the physical activities of ficer of the Women Army Corps, Lieutenant Colonel the army.

Natasha Standford said: This segment commenced after the intermission, and “The Miss Guyana Defence Force Pageant is not only the crowd was amazed by the glamour, grace, poise and a beauty pageant, but rather an organised showcase of the beauty of the contestants. physical fitness, marksmanship, talent, poise and eloquence The men lined the stage and subsequently greeted the of a military woman.” army women at the top of the staircase, which was part of Along with Queen Castillion were 18 other con- the stage setting. As they escorted them, with a kiss on the testants vying for the royal title who had entered the hand or cheek, the men handed the ladies over to the crowd, pageant after being sashed on August 12 last. giving them the spotlight to work the stage.

Soon after, Calvin Burnett, one of the GT&T jinFOUR-STAGE EVENT gle finalists serenaded the delegates with a romantic The pageant was a four-part event which entailed tune from sweet reggae. Burnett had the audience in

Miss GDF 2015, Daniella Castillion

sing-along mode, while he shared out roses to the GDF Pageant 2015 delegates.

Army Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips is flanked by the top five beautiful Miss GDF delegates

DECISION TIME This performance gave the five judges time to make their decisions. After a lengthy deliberation, the judges finally decided that Private Fambo Ramsay, 20, of Base Camp Stephenson; Lance Corporal Daniella Castillon,29, of Sports Department, Lance Corporal Tiffany Miles,22, of Air Corps, Lance Corporal Alicia Jack, 21, of G6 Branch and Lance Corporal Letita Myles of Training Corps, had performed well enough to go through to the last stage of the pageant.

Following the ladies’ answers in the last question of the segment, Jack ended up in the fourth runner-up position.

Smith took third place, Ramsey took second and Myles was first runner-up leaving the Queen in tears and amazed that she was the new Ms. GDF. During the announcement of the special prize, Miss Coast Guard 23-year-old Ann Reynolds copped Best Gown and Ramsey won Best Talent while Myles won Best Physical Fitness.

Miss Base Camp Ayanganna, Lance Corporal Carlesia Laundry won Best Smile. Jack took the Congeniality Title and Smith Massiah had the Most Beautiful Body.

Queen Castillion won the grand prize of a Toyota IST, while first runner-up Myles won a motorcycle.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

Miss Guyana Universe 2015...

Who will the lucky damsel be?

The nine delegates with reigning Miss Guyana Universe, Niketa Barker (with crown) THERE is much buzz around town about the upcoming Miss Guyana Universe Pageant, all the more so since franchise holder, Odinga Lumumba has sworn that the caliber

of contestants this year is by far the best he’s ever had.

Well, the pageant proper kicks off at the Princess Hotel, at Providence, East Bank Demerara), on Sunday, and from all accounts, the

competition promises to be ‘electric’.

Judging from the performance of the nine contenders when the event was launched not so long ago, and during the airing Thursday of the In-

telligence Segment on NCN Channel 11, it was evident that each girl was out to outdo the other come pageant night.

Well your only way of soaking up some of the fun

and excitement is by ensuring you get your tickets early, as it is said that this year’s pageant has attracted a larger than usual magnitude of patrons.

Those competing for the

coveted title this year are Shauna Ramdian, Zeena Bland, Najuma Nelson, Babita Seelall, Malike Russel, Tricia Quail, Diana Hamad, Kiswana Jefford and Melissa Defrietas.

Flashback!!!

Celebrating Christmas with Kross Kolor Records

KROSS Kolor Records has done it again, and just might have pulled out all the stops in the music industry for the 2015 Christmas season in Guyana.

On Sunday last, the KKR team created history by launching the first ever all-original Christmas album in the country, and they did it in fine style.

Under the stars on the lawns of Colgrain House, now home to the Ministry of Tourism, in a semi-formal setting, patrons came out to experience a taste of Guyanese Christmas, as the event was themed.

It was indeed a jump-start to the upcoming holiday season, as it featured a masquerade display and performances from Shawn English, Gavin Mendonca, Jovinski, Leeanna Allen, T’Shanna Cort, Shivanie, Chynah, Tennicia De Freitas and Wilbur ‘B52’ Levans, who are all featured on the album.

Kross Kolor artistes at the Christmas album launch at Colgrain House The idea for the album was birthed in early June this year by Melissa ‘Vanilla’ Roberts and Simeon Browne and production began shortly after in July. It is a collaboration of young artistes, as it was aimed at empowering

young people in the creative industry with a strong emphasis on working together.

Kross Kolor Records has, over the years, played a pivotal role in the Guyanese music industry, not only by producing some of the top

acts, but also great quality music.

This new initiative puts the country’s stamp on Christmas music worldwide, and is another representation of the diversity of our nation as the studio continues in its

quest to take Guyanese music to the world.

Kross Kolor Records wishes to thank the Ministry of Tourism, Banks DIH Ltd, Quality Plus, Spicy Dish, Pam & Steve Bakery, the artistes and producers

and everyone who helped to make the album and the launch possible. The album is now available for sale at Nigel’s Supermarket, Gizmos & Gadgets, krosskolor.com, ITUNES and Amazon.

Prem 'Abundant' Dhan Payo: Salman breaks all records with 'PRDP’ This festive season has turned out to be crackling for Salman Khan! The superstar's latest release "Prem Ratan Dhan Payo", which released a day after Diwali, managed to mint over Rs.40 crore with its Hindi version on its first day in India. Its performance has been "outstanding" and "phenomenal", say trade experts.

The family drama, which reunites Salman with his "Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!" and "Hum Saath Saath Hai" director Sooraj Barjatya after 16 years, has majorly appealed to family audiences, who have contributed to its Rs.40.35 crore box office opening figure, said the film's spokesperson.

The figures of the film's Tamil and Telugu version are yet to be compiled. However, chances are that this will turn out to be a big commercial success. Also starring Sonam Kapoor, Anupam Kher, Swara Bhaskar, Armaan Kohli and Neil Nitin Mukesh, the movie is replete with elaborate song and dance sequences, palatial sets, grand clothes and the grandeur one can expect from a movie around royalty.

After the record-breaking `Bajrangi Bhaijaan`, Salman may once again create history with `Prem Ratan Dhan Payo`. rade expert Taran Adarsh also validated the facts and figures garnered by the film, and wrote: "#PremRatanDhanPayo has a MIND-BOGGLING start. Salman + Sooraj Barjatya + Diwali results in MAGICAL figures at the box office... OUTSTANDING START." Clearly then, Rajshri Productions has nothing to worry about.

Made on a budget of Rs.60 crore with Rs.20 crore spent on publicity and advertising -- Barjatya's costliest ever film -- "Prem Ratan Dhan Payo" has already recovered a sum of Rs.57 crore from satellite and music rights. Having released in 4,500 screens in India and in 1,100 screens in traditional international markets, the movie is well on its way to be a success. (santabanta.com)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

Jonathan ‘Lil Red’ King

Artiste of the Week

‘Lil Red’ A man on a musical mission

HE created quite a stir, when, still in his early teens, he appeared on the local entertainment scene just a few short years ago.

Pretty soon, Jonathan ‘Lil Red’ King was chalking up notable points around the city, and enhancing and enlarging his fan base as he went along.

Born here in Georgetown, Guyana, he is the younger of two of Michelle ‘Big Red’ King’s children to have chosen to follow closely in her footsteps, carving a niche for themselves in the field of entertainment.

Jonathan started singing at the age of 11, and even before he graduated Primary School, he felt he was ready to contest the Junior Calypso Competition. That was back in 2002.

Over time, he continued to follow his passion for singing, but still made time to pursue a secondary education. It was while attending the Academy of Apex Education, a private secondary school on the East Coast Demerara, that he joined an R&B/Hip-Hop group called

“Real Hard Crew”.

As a member of the band, he had the privilege of performing at just about every school concert and other events the group could lay their hands on, and with the help of his mother, they were able to land a gig with the local label, ‘Kross Kolor Records’.

But after leaving ‘Apex’, things started to go south for the group, as some members decided it was t6ime they went their separate ways, which eventually resulted in its disintegration. But this little impasse did not deter ‘Lil Red’ from following his dream.

He would record his first soca song, “Hold Meh Tight”, in 2011, which was used to contest the Carib Soca Monarch Competition. Surprisingly for a first-timer, he made it to the finals, but did not place in the ‘top five’.

Not long after, he launched his debut mixed album, titled, “Just Buss” in the soca genre, consisting of ten songs. Among them was his hit single, ‘Hold Me Tight’, which became an instant hit among teenagers in Guyana.

He is presently working on a new album, and is managed by folks at the Vizion Sound Recording Studio in Queenstown, Georgetown.

The Buzz would like to take the opportunity to wish this dude the best of luck in his future endeavours.

‘Popcaan’ to grace ‘the Stadium’ November 21

J

AMAICAN artiste, “Popcaan”, is set to perform live at the “Jail Time is Waste Time” concert billed for the Guyana National Stadium on November 21.

Also in the lineup to perform at the event are Timeka Marshall, Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson, Jumo Primo, Calvin Burnette, Brandon Harding, Lil Million, Shelly G, Solutions, Flava, Remar and Jory Hector.

The emcee for the evening will be Malcolm Ferreira, better known as “Mr Wickedee”, and steaming up the event with the vibes will be Gully Ras, Magnum, Selector Face and Deejay Puffy.

In addition to the main

Negla Brandis

(Supervisor), In-Service Coordinator/Health Educator in hospitals as well as long-term care facilities (nursing homes).

Her exploits in this arena and superb mentoring skills have allowed her to upgrade Nursing Assistants to multi-purpose care providers at York College, New York.

Though it was challenging, her enterprising personality later had her involved in HIV Care and Treatment in the early stages of the virus discovery.

The grande dame of local pageantry

WHEN we talk of divas, we customarily associate the word with classical ladies of high fashion and very stunning appearance, who indeed command attention wherever they go, and rate high points in the fashion world.

Sometimes, we also associate the word with intense glitz and glamour, irresistible allure, and a distinct talent for pulling out all the stoplights in their areas of specific interests.

Just recently, I embarked on a quest to find a true Guyanese diva; one who possesses both beauty and brains; is gifted with a balanced personality, and also possesed of positive morals.

During my search, I met dozens of dazzling damsels, but none could represent all the attributes I was looking for in one package.

But just as I was about ready to give up in frustration, I remembered the likeable Negla Brandis, who has practically stood out in everything that she did or promoted. And my instincts told me that she is the woman I was looking for.

TALKING PAGEANTRY She was more than ready to be featured on our pages. During an exclusive interview, I realised that she did not only have the traits we were seeking, but was ready to share much from her extensive experience

in pageantry.

Being the franchise holder of the Miss Renaissance Pageant for mature women, she skilfully detailed what it entails to promote a good pageant and to make it a success.

“Pageantry is serious business, and should never be a rushed process,” she said.

“Ever so often, we fail to shine at both local and international pageants because our girls are not properly trained or given the much needed exposure and training.

“With my pageants, my girls are trained for quite a while in areas of poise, grace, speech, etiquette, and all the other relative ‘must dos’ that guarantees their eventual success..

“Proper preparation is a main factor when preparing our girls if we ever intend to stand out as beauty ambassadors. Besides, effective screening of potential candidates is of vital importance to a successful pageant.”

I was amazed to find out also that, to date, this very sophisticated and fashionable lady holds the position of Executive Director of the Miss Renaissance Pageant, and has the overall responsibility for hosting this prestigious pageant for mature women from 2003.

Moreover, Ms Negla Brandis was the former coordinator of the Miss Guyana-New York Pageant from 1990 to 1999.

MEDICAL BACKGROUND

concert, the Jamaican artiste will be performing at a pre-concert event at Palm Court, on downtown Main Street, and will also be a part of the ‘after-party’ lime at Club Next, at the Princess Hotel, at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

“The Jail Time is Waste Time” concert is sponsored by the Ministries of Education, Public Security, Social Protection; Palm Court; Corona Extra; E-Networks and National Hardware.

Part of the concert’s proceeds will go to the rebuilding of the Tiger Bay Community Centre, and the commencement of the Hope Project’s Mechanical Engineering Programme for Inner City Youths.

Negla Brandis

This Guyanese-born fashion icon is a phenomenal woman with lots of talent and skills. She received professional nursing training in London, and completed her midwifery training at the Simpson Memorial Maternity Pavilion in Edinborough, Scotland.

She qualified as a Registered Nurse (RN), Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RMN), and State Certified Midwife (SCM) while in the United Kingdom. From the UK, she moved to the USA, where she continued her higher education, receiving her BSc. (Hons) in Health Administration from the St. Francis College in Brooklyn, New York, and MSc. in Health Education from Teachers’ College of Columbia University.

Negla, who delights in shocking viewers and dropping jaws with her riveting fashion ideas, has been a nursing leader in the USA for over 20 years in roles as Nurse Manager

STYLE DAYS Negla has always been concerned about the health systems and welfare of senior citizens in Guyana, and returned annually during the 90s to host her fundraiser, dubbed ‘STYLE’, which she used as a fashion vehicle to garner much needed revenue for her many projects. ‘STYLE’ raised the bar of Guyanese fashion significantly, and must have provided clues for budding fashion enthusiasts to work with.

Ms. Brandis has also held the franchise for the Miss Guyana Queen of Queens International Pageant, and is the recipient of several awards and citations which includes the Medal of Service (MS) in 1989, for her numerous contributions to Healthcare in Guyana. She also offers services as a Special Event Planner, Pageant Consultant, Health Educator and Senior Care Specialist at home and abroad.

Her workshops, ‘How to Produce a Pageants of Quality’, were fantastic, and should be used as stepping stones to perfection for many of the so-called pageant promoters who have sprung up around Guyana.

The Chronicle is more than elated to present Ms. Negla Brandis as a woman of substance and strength. She is indeed a diva with a positive difference.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

ARIES If you experience resistance or frustration in a certain area, you should take this as a sign that you should follow a new route. Things should flow smoothly and easily. This is one of those days in which reality is going to conflict harshly with fantasy, especially if you don’t have them well separated in your mind. Enjoy your imaginary world, but deal with the practical world, too.

TAURUS Indulge your sensual nature today. This part of your being doesn’t get expressed regularly. Go for a long walk with someone you love. Light some candles in your bedroom or take a leisurely hot bath. Tastes and smells are extra potent for you now. Enjoy a romantic dinner for two. Don’t get so caught up in the intellectual aspect of things that you forget about the sensuous side of life.

GEMINI You may experience some push and pull today. One minute you feel like you should sit back and wait for things to go your way, and the next you feel a stick poking you to get moving. Life is a delicate balance of incorporating these two modes of operation. Neither way is more correct, so recognise and honours both.

CANCER You may experience some raw emotions today, which you should use as your ally instead of your enemy. Your heart may feel rather abused, so do what you can to gently care for it. Be careful of letting others get too close if they simply don’t know how to act around something so fragile and pure. Protect yourself.

LEO The annoying restlessness that you experience today is simply a reminder that it’s important to start engaging in art projects or musical endeavours that make you happy. Learn from people who aren’t afraid to follow their dreams. Don’t be so concerned with what other people think of your work.

Now it’s important to do these things for yourself.

VIRGO People may be relying on you in many ways today, so be careful that you don’t let anyone down. You may feel like judges are evaluating your performance. Try not to get too carried away with this concept. What’s most important is that you do your best, not necessarily that you achieve perfection.

LIBRA Try not to get caught in the crossfire of a heated emotional battle today.

Your happy, freedom-loving nature is too precious to be tainted by abrasive words and emotions. If things begin to flare up, erect a mental protective wall. These people may be too caught up in their own drama to see how their actions affect the people around them.

SCORPIO You should feel emotionally stable today, but you may feel a bit unsure of yourself when it comes to data. Someone is challenging your way of thinking and demanding that you take a step farther out on the fragile limb.

You’re happy on the part of the branch that’s much thicker and more stable.

Feel free to stay there if you don’t feel comfortable taking a chance now.

SAGITTARIUS Go out and see a movie that you’ve wanted to see for weeks. You’ll be happiest in a reality that isn’t necessarily yours. Fantasy and imaginative scenarios are what tickle your fancy now. Be careful of being weighed down by heavy emotional issues that don’t have anything to do with you.

CAPRICORN You may be faced with a choice between two different realities. Friends and family are choosing sides while you remain on the fence. You’re able to understand both sides of the issue, making it difficult to put your energy in only one camp. Perhaps you wish to serve as a bridge between the two camps. Things don’t have to be as black and white as others see them.

AQUARIUS Be careful about letting your imagination run away with your emotions.

Grand scenarios you work up in your head may send your heart crashing when they end unfulfilled or crushed. There’s a realistic tone to the day asking you to be serious and practical, especially when it comes to your feelings.

PISCES Your heart’s in the right place today, but somehow you find it hard to execute the things you want to do. Art and music projects are especially difficult for you now. They require a more cerebral approach than you’d like to admit. Perhaps you’re drawn to the spiritual nature of things more than you’re opposed to the rational nature of things.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday November 13, 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: 4 (4 catches) 4 (4 catches)

Today’s Quiz:

What was the highest stand made by the SL openers in the recent WI/SL ODI series?

What was the highest stand made by the WI openers in the recent WI/SL ODI series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

National School Championships

District One aiming to lift standards NORTH West/District One are aiming to improve their standings in the pecking order of the National Schools Championships when the contests begin on November 23.

Always finishing in the cellar at the event, Sports Representative of District

One, Laurence Emmanuel, has a realistic goal for his squad; to finish higher than second to last.

“We are bringing a full contingent so we are confident, it is the first time that we have a full contingent, along with a full teachers’ squad. We want to participate in every event in order to gain points so we expect to do better this year,” Emmanuel hoped.

In terms of preparation, Emmanuel assured that the squad is ready to compete, stating, “Preparations are going smoothly. We are 100% prepared and everything is set … we are on track to achieve our goals,” he noted.

Another first for the squad is that the athletes have been provided with 60 pairs of track shoes that Emmanuel hopes will motivate the squad to perform at their optimum.

The team will be leaving North West on November 22 and should arrive on the same day.

The swimming championships will be held on Monday, November 23 at the National Aquatic Centre at Liliendaal. In addition to the swimming competition, two field events, long jump and shot put, along with the 10km road race, 40km and 25km cycle races will also take place on November 23.

Games Village will be established on Woolford Avenue. Tutorial High, North Georgetown Primary and Secondary schools and Richard Ishmael Secondary will house the 16 Districts from across Guyana who will compete at the Championships.

The Games Secretariat has been officially opened at GTU Headquarters, Woolford Avenue, with Districts submitting their entries.

The Opening Ceremony for the championships is scheduled for November 24 at 10:30hrs.

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Guinness Greatest of the Street 2015

Georgetown leg kicks off tonight

THE Georgetown leg of the 2015 Guinness Greatest of the Street Football Tournament was officially launched yesterday in the Banks DIH Conference room and kicks off tonight with eight matches at the National Cultural Centre Tarmac.

Following a traditional kick-off ceremony, the Petra-organised event enters its sixth year with 32 teams vying for the Georgetown title, and also one of two opportunities to compete in the National Championships.

Present at the simple launch were

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste, Banks DIH Communications Manager Troy Peters and Petra Director Troy Mendonca.

Baptiste disclosed that this year is projected to be the best so far, after narrowing down 63 registered teams to 32 - an increase from last year when 53 Georgetown teams had entered.

He (Baptiste) mentioned that Banks DIH has seen tremendous support from the communities of the numerous teams featured in the tournament and that is why the company does not hesitate to put back into those areas.

The Guinness Brand Manager further stated his company is quite pleased to once again be associated with the Petra organisation, as they embark on the event, which concludes around the country in the month of July next year.

The teams will divided into eight groups of four, 24 of which were already decided while the other eight had to face a qualification process which concluded last night.

Tonight the action gets under way at 19:30hrs as North Ruimveldt meet Island Allstar then South Ruimveldt go head-to-head with Festival City Street Fighters, Queen Street Tigers challenge North East La Penitence and Globe Yard battle Cross Street.

In the other half of the programme, Sophia will tackle West Back Road, Albouystown ‘B’ meet Hope Street Tiger Bay, Alexander Village oppose East Front Road and the night wraps up when Sparta Boss confront Broad Street Bullies.

This year’s Georgetown winners take home the top prize of $500 000 while second-placers pocket $200 000, third-placers $150 000 and fourth-placers $100 000.

Fourth Annual Payless Variety Store 11-race cycle programme billed for tomorrow

LINGFIELD 08:20 hrs Summer Chorus 08:55 hrs Emirates Comfort 09:30 hrs Ajaadat 10:05 hrs Silverheels 10:40 hrs Dougan 11:15 hrs State Of The Union 11:50 hrs Smile That Smile HEXHAM 08:40 hrs Master Jake 09:15 hrs Engrossing 09:50 hrs Elusive Theatre 10:25 hrs Clan William 11:00 hrs Native Optimist 11:35 hrs Lake View Lad CHELTENHAM 09:05 hrs Minella Present 09:40 hrs Aside Mee 10:50 hrs Josies Orders 11:25 hrs Baraka De vThaix 12:00 hrs Our Sox Arab Emirates Racing Tips Jebel Ali 08:20 hrs Kilt Rock 08:50 hrs Hammurabi SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Greyville 11:45 hrs Astroman 12:20 hrs La Gitano 12:55 hrs Diamond Drop 13:25 hrs Split The Breeze 13:55 hrs Cat In Command 14:25 hrs Way Out Front 15:10 hrs Across The Ice 15:43 hrs News Weekly IRISH RACING TIPS Dundalk 14:05 hrs Kimbay 14:35 hrs Nice And Dandy 15:05 hrs Agent Of Chaos 15:35 hrs Pick Your Battle 16:05 hrs National Service 16:35 hrs Udogo 17:05 hrs Pour Deux American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Northern Screamer Race 2 Skinner Box Race 3 Time for Angie Race 4 America’s Kitten Race 5 Love You Babe Race 6 Sugar Mags Race 7 Unstoppable Race 8 Fire Away Race 9 Linkappleyard

THE FOURTH Annual Payless Variety Store-sponsored 11-race cycle programme is set for tomorrow and will be held around the inner circuit of the National Park beginning at 09:00hrs.

The programme, which is being coordinated by National cycle coach Hassan Mohamed, for yet another year will see schoolboys, novices and invitational cyclists compete for top honours in the feature 35-lap race.

It is expected that the race will attract most of Guyana’s top racing cyclists, including Team Gillette Evolution’s Orville Hinds, Marlon `Fishy’ Williams and Michael Anthony as well as Continental Wheelers’ Geron `The Lone Soldier’ Williams, Roraima Bikers’ Alanzo Greaves and Team Alanis’ Paul DeNobrega.

Last year’s winner of the event was veteran rider Junior Niles, who stopped the clock at one hour 22 minutes 34.96 seconds (1.22. 34.96).

There will also be a 10lap event for juveniles with the defending champion being Romello Crawford of Berbice, who last year

returned a time of 25.35:38.

He will, however, get stiff competition from the likes of Crawford who is still a juvenile as well as Berbician Andrew Hicks, the `Most Outstanding Rider’ at last Sunday’s Flying Ace Cycle Club’s `Track Attack’, held in Berbice.

Shameer Baksh is the defending champion of the five-lap event for veterans Under-50 age group. Last year, Baksh returned 11 minutes 57 seconds, but this year he will have his work cut out with the likes of Eon `Dumb Boy’ Jackson, Linden Blackman, Jude Bentley and Kennard Lovell also set to face the starter.

Shawn Bodhram will try to defend the title he won last year when he clocked 13 minutes .06 seconds in the five-lap race for Mountain Bikers, while Rakena Blair of Berbice will have to be wary of her opposition if she is to retain her boys & girls 12-14 years three-lap title.

A representative of Payless Variety Store will be on hand to witness the day’s proceedings as well as make the presentation of prizes to the respective winners.

NOTABLE DATES

looked back since. At present the southpaw has racked up 20 wins and one draw. Thirteen of the victories came from stoppages.

‘2 Sharp’ fought three times this year winning all by knockout. He secured the vacant World Boxing Council, Caribbean Boxing Federation (CABOFE) title in 2011 following a unanimous 12-round decision over Kelsi Jones at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

However, Allen’s career had slowed thereafter with him having one fight in 2012 and a similar number in 2013.

GUYANESE Lennox ‘2 Sharp’ Allen became the USA New York State super middleweight champion following a seventh-round technical knockout (TKO) over previously undefeated Nick Brinson.

Referee Ken Zimmer stopped the contest at two minutes 59 seconds of the round to hand the undefeated Allen his 13th professional victory. The heavy-handed Guyanese had his first professional bout in April 2004.

He knocked out Troy Lewis on debut and has not

29

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

17-year-old Matthew Assing to Annual Souvenir make Superbike debut on Sunday Ramdyal Table THE new breed of riders are stepping in and looking to cement their names in Motor Sport and Matthew Assing is one who hopes to pick up some valuable points.

Assing, aboard his 2007 YZF R6, will make his debut at one of the biggest motor racing events of the year, the Seaboard Marine Caribbean Motor Racing Championship’s Guyana leg, set for Sunday at the South Dakota circuit.

However, the 17-yearold is unfazed by the competition, telling Chronicle Sport, “My hopes for Sunday will be just to have fun at what I’m doing and race but at the same time be competitive and remain focused.”

“As I continue to compete in races I will learn from my mistakes and better my-

self and learn from experience. As far as personal goals, I am willing to push myself 100% and if that’s not

and come better next time,” continued Assing.

Nonetheless, the youngster is optimistic about his Matthew Assing banks Turn One at the South Dakota Circuit (Sean Charles photo)

good enough, I will just have to analyse what I did wrong

future as an upcoming rider, telling this publication that

he “only started practising one week before the races and I have improved a lot in the past couple days. Now all I have to do is clear my mind and remain focused.”

As it is, Assing is one of several youngsters expected to line up on the grid, come Sunday, and he has no doubts about his ability.

“Preparations are coming along well; still getting use to different settings and getting in a lot of seat time but I feel very confident about the bike and myself..

The 17-year-old will have to put up with namesake Matthew Vieira, Nikhil Seereeram, Elliot Vieira and Kevin Persaud; all of whom are within his age group, while the older gentlemen in Stephen Vieira and Joel Neblett are expected to be teachers in the coming days.

(Stephan Sookram)

Director of Sport hands over trophies to hearing impaired DIRECTOR of Sport, Christopher Jones, yesterday handed over a quantity of trophies and medals to the Deaf Association of Guyana for their two-day sporting action.

Jones, who took the time out to watch some of

the action yesterday at the Colgrain Pool, said that the donation was part of his commitment as well as the government’s commitment to ensuring that the differently-able and of course female participate in sport.

“The contributions to the Deaf Association, like

the contributions that we made to the Blind Association a few weeks ago, are to encourage them, persons that are differently able, to come out and participate in sport, because there is support,” said Jones.

The two-day event

commenced yesterday with the swimming championships and concludes today with the athletics segment at the Eve Leary ground Events today will feature 400m boys and girls U-14, U-16, 16-18 as well as the boys and girls 200m U-14.

Director of Sport Chris Jones poses with the members of the Deaf Association of Guyana after handing over trophies and medals for their two-day Athletics championships.

Tennis Tourney sees changes

… School teams to be introduced this year for Alton Holder memorial trophy WITH the announcement of the staging of the annual Souvenir Ramdyal Table Tennis Tournament set for tomorrow, at the New Amsterdam Technical Institute (NATI), a few changes have been made.

Initially set for schools in the New Amsterdam, Canje District which includes New Amsterdam, East and West Canje and East Bank Berbice, the tournament has now been expanded to include all schools and school-age children in the East Berbice area and will begin tomorrow.

The competition, which is sponsored by overseas-based Guyanese, Berbician Souvenir Ramdyal, a 2009 Hall of Fame Realtor of Queens, NY, will be played in the New Amsterdam Technical Institute, auditorium, beginning at 09:00hrs.

This is the fourth year that Ramdyal is sponsoring the tournament which over the years has taken different formats.

Apart from the individual schoolchildren category and ‘C’ class players to be featured this year, an inter-school team competition has been introduced for the Alton Holder Straker Memorial Trophy. The team tournament is expected to feature teams of three and should include a teacher or female players.

A number of categories will be contested including U-10, U-13, U-15, U-18 and U-20. A special category will be played for ‘C’ class players and is expected to see the best Berbice racquet-wielders in action.

Play is intended for both male and female in all the categories. The organisers are asking interested players to make contact as early as possible.

A special invitation has also been sent to the GUYSUCO Training Centre, while students from the University of Guyana and recruits from the Guyana Police Force are also expected to participate. The sponsor, along with members of his family and company, is expected to be on hand to meet the players, declare the competition open and distribute the prizes at the end of the competition.

Berbice has a rich history in the table tennis arena and among some who would have gained stardom in the past are former Caribbean champions Anand Sookram and Doreen Chow Wah, Former National female table tennis and ninetime champion Desiree Lancaster is the only female to have won the tournament on five consecutive occasions. Former National champions Donna Sue and Vida Moore, along with former National junior champion Petal Bennett-Denny, won the Caribbean junior doubles title in the 90s.

Other outstanding players include Isaac Sewnarine, Leslie Amsterdam, Alvin Kallicharran, Clairmont Saul, the Duffs and the Alphonsos and Floyd Conway and the late Roy Fredericks. Incentives will be available for the top four performers in each category. Incentives will also be given to the most outstanding player; most promising and most improved, among others.

Interesting persons can make contact with any of the following persons - Floyd Conway, 6238481, Richard Thompson 673-9112, Desiree Lancaster 668-0088, Steven Beharry 647-5090 and Levi Nedd 641-9592 for more information.

Apart from Ramndyal, others contributing towards the sponsorship of the tournament are overseas-based former players Patrick Narine and Lanny Anthony.

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

Minister Henry meets GFF names the legendary Silver Fox two committees

MINISTER within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, received a courtesy call from well-known Korean Actor, Hwang Jang Lee, better known by many as ‘Silver Fox.’ The visiting delegation included Grandmasters Dr Kevin Hufford, Professor Christopher Francis, Eric Kovaleski and Sensai Andrew Murray.

While in Guyana the team will conduct a training seminar for martial arts students and the general public at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on November 13 from 16:00hrs.

Minister Henry was informed by the team members that the intent of these engagements is to channel the energies of youth towards positive lifestyles.

This two-day visit was organised by Troy Bobb of Harpy Eagles Martial Arts Academy and Max Massiah, the producer of Maximum Sports Combat and Strength.

The general public is invited to watch the popular actor showcase his talent for the small price of $1 000, while martial artists around Guyana will have to pay an entrance fee of $2 000.

Children under 10 years will have to pay $500.

The legendary Silver Fox with Minister Nicolette Henry.

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has named two committees which will be ratified at the November 14 Congress in accordance with Article 60:3 of the Federation’s constitution.

The Disciplinary Committee will be chaired by Sanjeev Datadin and includes Trevor Beckles and Natasha Veira. The Appeals Committee will be led by Simone Morris-Ramlall along with Marcel Bobb and Michael Shahoud.

Meanwhile the GFF’s Normalisation Committee (NC), in the absence of an appointed Ethics Committee, has assumed the role for the upcoming Elections set for tomorrow at the Marriott Hotel in Kingston.

A full turnout of the 22 members is expected since all have completed the NC’s mandate to be eligible to participate in electing a new executive for the National Federation. The dress code is formal and a prompt 11:00 hrs start is anticipated.

Camille’s Institute and Covent Mayor Green’s 81st Birth Anniversary sevena-side football tourney reaches round of 16 Garden book place in final … St Stanislaus College, Bishops’ High and Christ Church Secondary also victorious

CAMILLE’S Institute and Covent Garden Secondary registered victories to book their place in the final of the East Bank Demerara Zone of the Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB) National Secondary School Cricket League (NSSCL), sponsored by Banks DIH Ltd, Coco Cola, Rainforest Waters and Digicel.

At Thirst Park, Camille’s Institute batted first and scored 197 all out in just 24 overs as Andsuegay Rodrigues top-scored with a well-played 69.

He was well supported by former national Under-15 all-rounder Bhognarine Singh who scored 39 and D. Fernandes 30.

Bowling for Diamond Secondary, Jante Thomas returned impressive figures of 4-34.

Diamond Secondary, in reply, fell short by 30 runs as they were dismissed for 167 in 24.1 overs. S. Hassan made 27, but it was M. Araun with a shot-filled 65, that gave Diamond Secondary great hope of reaching the target. However, such was curtailed by some intelligent and economical bowling of the Camille’s Institute. Bhognarine Singh and N. Evelyn returned figures of 4-26 and 4-18 respectively.

In the second semifinal of the East Bank Zone, Covent Garden Secondary prevailed against Friendship Secondary by 53 runs.

Batting first, Covent Garden Secondary amassed 202 all out in 27 overs as Sagar Hetheramani stroked 48, Anthony Antonio hit 37 and Scott Singh 22. Bowling for Friendship, Orlando Ghisiawan took 4 wickets while Shem Zaman had 2 wickets.

In reply, Friendship Secondary were limited to 149 all out. Orlando Ghisiawan’s (top score of 29) and Shem Zaman (24) were the only batters to offer any real resistance. Bowling for Covent Garden Secondary, Scott Singh had 4 wickets, K. Kaisie 3 wickets and Anthony Antonio had 2 scalps.

Meanwhile, in the North Georgetown Zone, St Stanislaus College defeated Brickdam Secondary by a massive 101 runs.

Batting first, St Stanislaus College reached

156-7 in 27 overs, due to some sensible batting from Kennard Moonsammy 48 and Joshua Bankay 40. Bowling for Brickdam Secondary Kempton David grabbed 3-20.

Brickdam Secondary, in reply, were blown away for 51 in 19.1 overs as Moonsammy returned with the ball to snatch 3-9, as Joshua Bankay and Travis Thomas added to the misery of Brickdam Secondary by grabbing 3-8 and 3-7 respectively.

At Everest, Bishops’ High School brushed aside The Business School by five wickets. After being inserted to bat by Bishops’ High, the Business School were dismissed for a paltry 82 in 18 overs, as David Sears had terrific figures of 6-15 off five tidy overs. Troy Persaud supported with 2-13.

In reply, Bishops’ High School overcame a shaky start to complete a five-wicket victory thanks to 34 not out from a level-headed Sachin Ramroop. A. Singh and D. Rhonohan had two wickets each.

The final game of the first round of matches in the North Georgetown Zone was played between Christ Church Secondary and St Mary’s High, where Christ Church Secondary got the better of St Mary’s by 58 runs. St Mary’s won the toss and chose to bowl first. However, Christ Church Secondary managed to get to a respectable 174 all out in 25 overs as Alphius Bookie hit 54 and Aaron Beharry struck an even fifty. Bowling for St Mary’s, Enos Brathwaite returned excellent figures of 6-34.

In reply, St Mary’s batsmen folded for 116 in just 19 overs, as Aaron Beharry returned with the ball to bag 4-15. Junior Phillips had 3-28 with Alphius Bookie also completing a good all-round performance with 2-18.

Matches continue today. Marian Academy will battle Queen’s College at Everest while St Joseph High will play Tutorial High School at Thirst Park. East Ruimveldt Secondary will face North Ruimveldt Secondary at GNIC ground.

THE annual Mayor Hamilton Green’s birth anniversary seven-a-side football tournament has reached the round of 16 stage which starts on Sunday at the Victoria ground, East Coast Demerara.

The tournament, which is being coordinated by the Mayor’s close friend and former national player and coach, Lennox `Mullen’ Arthur, has seen 16 of the 32 registered teams eliminated in the two days of competition so far.

Four matches are set for Sunday at the East Coast Demerara venue and another four will be played on Wednesday at a venue to be announced.

Arthur told Chronicle Sport Banks DIH Limited’s Outdoor Manager Mortimer Stewart, a former National footballer is making every effort to have next Wednesday’s games played at the Banks DIH Thirst Park ground.

On Sunday, however, the Victoria ground will come alive from 18:00hrs when Buxton Youth Developers face Lima Dam in the opening fixture.

Home side Victoria will come up against New Amsterdam 30 minutes later.

Match three brings together Ann’s Grove and Haslington, while the final match of the evening will see Golden Grove tackle Mahaica.

When the tournament opened last Sunday Victoria defeated Diamond by

a 4-1 margin, Lima Dam edged Kuru Kururu 1-0 and Buxton Youth Developers won by a similar margin against Plaisance.

Mahaica trounced BV Triumph 4-0, Agricola beat Paradise 2-0, Kitty registered a 2-0 win against Herstelling and Haslington edged South Sophia in a penalty shootout.

On Tuesday, matches were played at the Den Amstel ground, West Coast Demerara and Stewartville, Pouderoyen, Uitvlugt and Den Amstel registered 2-0 victories against Bagotville, Wales, Sara Lodge and North Sophia respectively.

The other fixture on that card was one between New Amsterdam and De Kinderen and the former came out victorious by a 4-0 margin.

The winning team in the final will receive $200 000 and the John

Fernandes trophy, while the runners-up will collect $100 000 and a trophy, compliments of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport.

The team finishing third will be rewarded with $70 000 and a trophy, compliments of China Trading, while the fourth-place team will receive $30 000 and a trophy from The Business School.

Other sponsors of the tournament include: Banks DIH Limited, Beepat and Sons, C.B.R. Mining, MACORP, Guyana Beverages Limited, GUYOIL, Winston Rambarran, Vincent Thakur, Nigel Pile, Satar Gafoor, Crown Mining, Kennav H.D.L., Starr Computers, Nigel’s Supermarket, Hotel Princess Raven, Pavnic Press, GBTI and Ramchan Ragabeer.

(Michael DaSilva)

First-ever 5-a-side football in Port Kaituma

THE ‘I’ Movement Promotions will be staging the first-ever 5-a-side football tournament in Port Kaituma this weekend and from all indications expectations of the football fraternity are very high.

Chief organiser of ‘I’ Movement Promotions, Isalam, said that the two-day tournament will provide another opportunity for the footballers of the Region to showcase their talents in the now popular version of the sport.

The Oronoque Tarmac in Matarkai, Sub-District, Region One would be full of excitement on Saturday and Sunday with action starting at 18:00hts each day.

Cornel St Romain is providing the lights. Chinee and Daughters Hardware is the major sponsor.

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday November 13, 2015

Lumumba leaves ‘Team Unity’ ahead of GFF Elections … cites personal attacks from opposition as primary reason

IN ONE of the biggest football news locally, Alpha United Club president Odinga Lumumba has withdrawn from the Nigel Hughes-led slate where he was named as the 1st vice-president.

Hughes, an Attorney-at-Law, will go up against businessman and president of the Fruta Conquerors, Wayne Forde, when the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) 22 members head to the polls tomorrow, at the Marriott Hotel to elect a new Executive body.

Lumumba, flanked by members of ‘Team Unity’ Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major (3rd vice-president)

and Mark Waldron (2nd vice-president), broke the news to the members of the media, at a Press Conference held at the Water Chris Hotel yesterday.

“I do this with a heavy heart but my interest is to put football first always for the good of the game,” said the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Member of Parliament, who reasoned that “for the past three weeks attempts have been made by members of the Integrity group, in particular Mr (Wayne) Forde, Mr (Rawlston) Adams and Mr (Bruce) Lovell to drag my name, character and contribution to football into the mud.”

ODINGA LUMUMBA Lumumba also accused the aforementioned individ-

uals of going too far, after they allegedly “suggested that the honourable Counsel Mr Nigel Hughes and fellow-respected Counsel Mark Waldron were hired by me to secure a victory in the upcoming GFF elections then after elections they would ride away in the sunset. Not only do I find this position ridiculous; it also shows the level of unscrupulous behaviour that is presented by members of Team Integrity”.

“This group has decided that in order to win it must say degrading things about two young Attorneys, strip them of their integrity and accuse them of taking bribes.

In any other society they would have been brought before the courts or, at the least, the Ethics council of the governing body for the sport,” Lumumba said.

“I wish to point out to members of Team Integrity that my desire is not to seek power in GFF but to take local football to a level that will set the course for better players, so that Guyana as a country could become competitive and one day compete at the World Cup. While enduring the personal attacks, I want to assure the football federation and the public at large that Lumumba doesn’t have any interest in the presidency

and will never attempt to undermine Mr Hughes for him to leave,” Lumumba added.

To concretise his announcement, Lumumba said that he had submitted a letter to the Chairman of the Normalisation Committee (Clinton Urling), requesting an adjustment of Team Unity’s slate which would reflect that he’s no longer running for the position of First vice-president.

This letter, Lumumba said, would take effect prior to the elections tomorrow (Saturday) and will be the mandate of the Normalisation Committee or new General Council.

GT&T National Indoor Championships

THE three leading men’s first division sides - Old Fort, Pepsi Hikers and GCC, all cruised to easy victories on the third evening of the GT&T National Indoor Championships, being held at the National Gymnasium.

While the Hikers amassed the highest margin of victory with an 11-0 hammering of Saints Hockey Club, Old Fort’s 5-0 victory over Phoenix sees them comfortably retaining the top spot of the table midway the pool round.

With the noticeable absence of Saints’ number one goalkeeper Azad DeAbreu and inspirational leader Robert Fernandes, the Hikers men had a field day against a much weaker opponent on the night.

National midfielder Jamarj Assanah led the tally with three goals, Shane Samuels, Orlando Guirola and Randy Hope all netted doubles. while Sheldon Corlette and Robert France scored one each to round out

the 11 unanswered goals for the Hikers.

GCC had to come from behind against a defiant Pu-

...GCC, Pepsi Hikers and Old Fort register wins

opening minute through an

Aroydy Branford, however,

Old Fort goalkeeper Andy Sampson gets to the ball before Phoenix striker Stephon Sprosta. mas side, who scored in the

Aroydy Branford conversion.

Youthful National prodigy,

found it difficult to exert his usual control of the match,

as GCC’s Dwayne Scott and Orland Semple applied a high press which proved successful in creating several turnovers deep in the Pumas half of the pitch.

Semple opened his team’s account in the 7th minute and later returned to complete a hat-trick before his team’s 7-2 victory at full time.

Eric Hing added two goals for GCC, with Kevin Spencer and Scott scoring one each, while the single additional goal for Pumas came off the stick of Shaquille Leung.

The highly anticipated duel between Old Fort and Phoenix sadly resulted in a one-sided affair, as Old Fort stamped their authority on the match from the beginning en route to their 5-0 victory.

Phoenix came within inches of scoring on a few occasions but it was not their lucky evening and Old Fort grew in con-

fidence as the match progressed.

John Abrams top-scored with two goals while the Simon brothers, Ascofu and Aderemi, added one each.

The GCC Tigers and Panthers remain the only unbeaten sides in the women’s competition and sit at the top of the ladies pool with six points each.

The two sides were hardly troubled on the evening, as the Panthers defeated the Under-21 side by 4-0 and the GCC Tigers knocked off the Hikers 3-1.

In the men’s second division competition, Old Fort’s 3-0 victory over St Stanislaus College sees them in the lead of the competition with nine points.

The Hikers, meanwhile, have managed to draw even with GCC for second, after a 3-1 win over Saints.

Matches continue throughout the week with the four finals set for Sunday from 17:00hrs.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

GCC, Pepsi Hikers and Old Fort register wins See story on page 31

Guinness Greatest of the Street 2015

Georgetown leg kicks off tonight See story on page 28

Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste (2nd right) displays the Guinness Greatest of the Street Georgetown Trophy with Petra Director Troy Mendonca and they are flanked by Banks DIH PRO Troy Peters (right) and Rainforest Waters Brand Manager Errol Nelson (left).

Minister Henry meets See story on page 30 the legendary Silver Fox

Lumumba leaves ‘Team Unity’ ahead of GFF Elections

See story on page 31

The legendary Silver Fox with Minister Nicolette Henry.

… cites personal attacks from opposition as primary reason

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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2015