Chronicle 12 19 2015

BACK AT WORK SATURDAY DECEMBER 19, 2015

No. 104406

Price: $80

… fired GuySuCo worker reinstated

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Daniel Stephen

Christmas Shopping in full swing Guyanese crowd shopping centres in downtown Georgetown as they prepare for the Christmas holidays (Cullen Bess-Nelson photos)

‘One-eye’ 2 bandit put away for X-mas Page

$1M to 12 produce film on Essequibo Page

Guyana on alert for cyber attacks 9

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Saboteurs attack Region 2 drainage equipment By Alva Solomon TWO Caterpillar model excavators operated by the Region Two Administration are currently parked near the Capoey Lake. They have been in an unserviceable state since April of this year. The two machines were, earlier in the year, taken to the area to carry out works there. They reportedly broke down, and were left at the location ever since. Regional Councillor Hardat Narine told the Guyana Chronicle it is unclear why the two excavators are now unserviceable, but a solution should be found to determine the extent of their damage and the cost of their rehabilitation. Narine also called for an investigation to be launched into how the pump at the Hampton Court seawall became vandalised and is currently being repaired.

Last September, the John Deere model pump, which has been at the location for close to two years, was vandalised when persons reportedly threw sand into its engine and tampered with its belts. The engineer attached to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) was notified, but no investigation has since been undertaken to ascertain who is responsible for the incident. The pump is one of two damaged pumps, from a total of nine which were in working order. In the coming months, much will have to be made of the pumps, as the rice crop, currently in its early stage, matures, he added. He said it was realised that the pump had been vandalised when operators who Prime Minister had gone to start the engine Moses Nagamootoo noticed that a cork had been left open, and sand was in the engine when checks were made to determine the serviceability of the machine. In addition, the exhaust pipe had been left to the mercy of the elements, and water was discovered in the oil and fuel system. Narine said that while he wished not to point fingers, he believed that the act was carried out by persons who are deter-

mined to disrupt government in the discharge of its mandate. During a visit to the region recently, this newspaper observed that the engine was undergoing repairs, and persons reported that the entire machine had to be serviced. The regional administration operates four excavators, Narine said. Narine said the problem of unserviceable kokers additionally needs to be addressed. He plans to inform the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of his concerns when that body meets in a few weeks’ time. During this newspaper’s visit to the area recently, it was observed that the Hampton Court and nearby Devonshire Castle kokers were silted over. This negative situation has obtained for years, and while the pumps can drain the land, the kokers control the water levels there. Former NDIA head, Lionel Wordsworth, had reported in the past that a built-up of “sling mud” in the vicinity of the kokers was the underlying problem. In a recent visit to the Essequibo Coast, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo informed persons at a meeting at the Anna Regina Multilateral School that there are persons who are carrying out their “own little mischief to ensure that the Guyana Bus does not reach its destination to prosperity”. He said the situation is being dealt with. The Essequibo Coast is home to many rice farmers, including the largest number of small rice farmers in the country; and drainage and irrigation has been one of the key factors facing farmers. The Prime Minister assured rice farmers that the administration will continue to support the sector, and he emphasised the important role the sector plays in the economic development of the country.

‘One-eye’ bandit put away for X-mas By Clestine Juan TWENTY-ONE-year-old Deon Marks, who was recently shot in the left eye in a standoff with police at Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was remanded to prison when he appeared before Providence Magistrate Alex Moore yesterday. Marks was required to answer to five counts of armed robbery, one count of being in possession of an unlicensed gun and ammunition, and one count of shooting at police and at a licensed firearm holder. The Lot 156 Kaneville, EBD resident, a father of one, stood in the prisoner’s dock unrepresented by legal counsel, his left eye swollen and in stiches -- after being operated on at the Georgetown Public Hospital -- as the magistrate read him the charges. The first charge read that on December 13, at Grove Housing Scheme, EBD, while being in the company of others and being armed with a gun, he robbed Cheryl Embrack of a quantity of

infamous Grove robbery accused, Devon Marks gold jewellery, two cellular phones, and her stereo set, totalling $252,000. Another charge read that Marks discharged a loaded firearm at three police officers with intent to disfigure, maim, or cause them grievous bodily harm. Another charge read that, on the day in question, he had in his possession a .32 pistol and 10 matching live rounds of ammunition when he was not the holder of a firearm licence. Another charge read that on December 3, at Gold-

en Grove, EBD, while being armed with a hand gun, Marks robbed Collin Semple of two cellular phones valued at $31,000; and looted the phone of Kamacie Semple, valued at $20,000. On November 20, at Grove, EBD, he allegedly held Dracaena Melville at gunpoint and relieved her of all her gold jewellery, totalling more than $250,000. Marks was also charged with allegedly robbing Jacqueline Melville of her gold

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

BACK AT WORK

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… fired GuySuCo worker reinstated

By Ariana Gordon DANIEL Stephen, the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) worker who was summarily dismissed from his post last year, has been reinstated following a 16-month battle with the sugar company. Ministers of Agriculture and Social Protection, Noel Holder and Simona Broomes respectively, announced yesterday that Stephen will be allowed to work at the sugar company as of today. An emotional Stephen told this publication that he is thankful for the assistance he received from the ministers and the union. “I appreciate it…. Without their help, I may not have gotten through anytime soon,” he said. He said his dismissal from the sugar company had left him “very disappointed”, but he was determined to be reinstated. Stephen was verbally dismissed on the night of September 19, 2014 by Skeldon Estate Manager Devendra Kumar following an incident between them. Asked how he feels about being reinstated, the teary-

eyed man said, “I feel comfortable, relieved…. I lose my home…” He explained that just before his dismissal from GuySuCo, he and his wife separated. The separation, coupled with his dismissal from the job and the loss of his house, was a horrifying experience for the 45-year-old tractor operator. “The situation was really tough; but, thank God, I can now make myself comfortable. What I would ask you guys for is if Housing can give me back a piece of land and I can start all over again,” he asked Minister Simona Broomes. “My son’s birthday was yesterday, and all I could have given him was a call; nothing more,” he said as he noted that his son, who is 15 years old, understands the struggle he has been through. “I have lots of debts… I owe people about $295,000,” he replied to the question of him receiving his money from GuySuCo. “It was my friends who were supporting me…they assisted me throughout,” he added. Stephen is expected to resume duty today at the Skeldon Sugar Estate. He

will be taken to the Sugar Estate by a representative each from the Ministry of Labour and the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU). “Once there is life, there is hope,” the optimistic man said, as he noted that although it would be difficult to pick up the pieces, he would be starting life afresh. “I won’t give up so easily,” he said. He explained that his house was repossessed by the bank, but he holds no malice, because the bank had given him “the world of time” to come up with the money to pay his mortgage. Meanwhile, Minister Holder said that an injustice has been corrected, and he is pleased that the situation has been resolved promptly. He said that upon taking office, he was briefed on the situation, and was determined to have a final resolution to the matter. He met with executives of the GuySuCo Board, including Errol Hanoman (CEO ag), who agreed to review the matter. INJUSTICE “We think an injustice

Ministers of Agriculture and Social Protection, Noel Holder and Simona Broomes respectively, speaking with GAWU President Komal Chand and General Secretary Seepaul Narine

Daniel Stephen, speaking with Ministry of Social Protection’s Consultant Francis Carryl; President of GAWU, Komal Chand; and General Secretary Seepaul Narine yesterday at the Ministry of Social Protection had been (perpetrated) on this individual… what I am pleased to say is that, from this government’s standpoint, we have taken a hands-off policy: we will not micro manage, we will not get involved in politics -- be it rice industry, sugar industry, or any industry…. That is not government’s function,” Holder assured. He said that since government was elected to office, there have been positive changes in the sugar industry. “Within the six months, the sugar industry has had a big turnaround. Management has been allowed to manage, workers allowed to work, and you can see the kind of results you are getting,” the minister added. Holder is optimistic that the incident of Daniel Stephen would be the last of its kind occurring in local companies. “I am glad this matter has been resolved promptly, effectively; and hope there are no other situations of this nature to deal with,” he told

‘One-eye’ bandit in jail for Christmas jewellery, her cellular phone, and cash to the total value of $845,000. Besides all these charges, Marks was charged with discharging a loaded firearm at Arlington Samuels with intent to disfigure, maim, or cause him grievous bodily harm. This act was committed when Samuels, a licensed firearm holder, went to the rescue of the Melvilles. Marks was not required to plead to any of these indictable charges. Police Prosecutor, Inspector Michael Grant, objected to Marks being granted bail on grounds of the nature, seriousness and prevalence of the offences. He pointed out that a gun was used in commission of the robberies, and explained that the gun was sent for ballistics analysis. Grant also said that more charges are likely to be laid, since the defendant is currently under investigation by the police. Magistrate Moore refused Marks bail, and remanded him

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until January 25 for report. RECAP On December 13 last, Embrack was entering her home at Grove, EBD in the wee hours of the morning when she was allegedly attacked by Marks and an accomplice, one of whom was armed with a handgun. The men took her into the house and seized a stereo set and a cell phone. While the robbery was in progress, neighbours informed the police, and when they responded, they encountered the perpetrators as they were leaving the scene. The police reportedly came under fire, and returned same, injuring Marks, from whom they retrieved the unlicensed pistol and ammunition. Marks was arrested and subsequently charged. Marks’s capture is another plus for Operation Dragnet, which, at the beginning of this month, came into effect to curb criminal activity, and has already resulted in a reduction in serious crimes.

the media. S i m i l a r l y, M i n i s t e r within the Ministry of Social Protection, Simona Broomes, said it was unacceptable that the previous administration did nothing to assist Stephen. She told the Guyana Chronicle that Stephen was “made to suffer…he lost everything, and it had to take a new government to come in and rectify the situation.” Minister Broomes, like Minister Holder, has said she is pleased that the matter has been resolved and Stephen has been reinstated. “I think your rights were violated and I had promised that it is a matter we would look into…I am happy you’d have your years of service and you’d receive some money,” she said. RE-APPLY The minister urged him to re-apply to the Ministry of Housing for a house lot in a bid to restart his life. “I hope that nothing of the sort happens again. Such things will not be tolerated,” she told this publication. Additionally, Francis Carryl, Consultant to the Ministry of Social Protection’s Department of Labour, described the matter involving Stephen as “quite emotional; sensitive; and very, very interesting.” “This matter struck at the very foundation of fairness, justice, equality, and all of the good adjectives you can think about in labour management relations. I say justice…but it is both justice and natural justice; they are two separate and distinct concepts. I mention them because both of them have been assaulted with great vengeance, and I think that today’s decision brings to an end and the correction to the injustice that Mr Daniel had to suffer,” the consultant said.

Carryl said, “It is indeed a great day that an injustice has been corrected. It took a while, a great while, much too long; but the fact of the matter is (that) it has come to an end.” He, like Ministers Holder and Broomes, said such an issue should not recur. “I hope this doesn’t happen again in this company or any other company; because, at the end of the day, what really matters is the people, and a man has suffered. No reasonable thinking man would have come to the decision that was arrived at. I think that, today, it is reasonableness that has brought us to this point.” The consultant said that, as a practitioner for over 30 years, he has never seen such “an unjust act being made out against anyone”. VERY THANKFUL Meanwhile, President of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), Komal Chand, was appreciative of the work of both ministries in resolving the matter. “Justice has been completed,” he said. “I must be very, very thankful to this ministry and your dispensation.” In January, Stephen and GAWU moved to the High Court after arbitrator Mohamed Akeel concluded that Stephen was dismissed. The union had opposed Akeel’s findings, and Stephen made an application to the High Court in his own name. In March, acting Chief Justice at the time, Ian Chang, sent GAWU and GuySuCo back to arbitration after discharging the interim injunctions that were granted earlier in the year to prevent GuySuCo from treating Stephen as if he were abruptly dismissed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Global displaced to hit record total An average of almost 4,600 people are forced to flee their countries every day THE number of forcibly displaced people worldwide will “far surpass” a record 60 million this year, the United Nations (UN) says. A report by the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) said “one in every 122 humans is today someone who has been forced to flee their homes”.

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The figure includes 20.2 million refugees, the highest total since 1992, the UNHCR added. The numbers were mainly driven by the Syrian war, conflict in Ukraine, and other protracted conflicts, the report said. The report is based on figures from the first half of 2015. Violence in Afghanistan, Somalia and South Sudan also sparked large refugee movements; as well as fighting in Burundi, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Iraq. Asylum applications had risen 78 per cent over the same period in 2014. While the numbers of internally displaced people reached an estimated 34 million, the number of refugees rose by 839,000 in the first six months of 2015 -- almost 4,600 people on average every day. “Forced displacement is now profoundly affecting our times,” UN refugee chief Antonio Guterres said in a statement. “Never has there been a greater need for tolerance, compassion and solidarity with people who have lost everything.”

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Developing countries bordering conflict zones still host the biggest share of the refugees, the report said. Germany received the biggest number of asylum claims worldwide -159,000 in the six months leading to June -- although the situation has since escalated, with Germany now due to take in one million asylum-seekers by the end of 2015. Russia received the next largest number of asylum applications -- 100,000 in the first half of 2015 -mainly from people fleeing fighting in Ukraine. Europe’s migrant crisis is only partially reflected in the numbers, since arrivals have escalated in the second half of 2015, a period not covered by the report. The report also noted that voluntary return rates -- a measure of how many refugees can safely go back home -- are at their lowest levels in more than three decades. “In effect, if you become a refugee today, your chances of going home are lower than at any time in more than 30 years.” (BBC News)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Major setback for Brazil impeachment

IN a major setback for Brazil’s opposition, the Supreme Court has scrapped a commission set up to deal with impeachment proceedings against President Dilma Rousseff. The court has also given more powers to the government-controlled Senate to block the impeachment process. The ruling means that proceedings initiated earlier this month will have to start from scratch. President Rousseff said she was innocent, and the impeachment attempt would fail. Proceedings were opened on December 2 by the disgraced Speaker of the Lower House of Congress, Eduardo Cunha. He opened the process based on allegations that Rousseff had broken the law in the management of last year’s budget. Rousseff went on national TV hours after Cunha’s announcement to say that she was “outraged by the decision”. Despite re-election last year, her popularity has slumped amidst a corruption

scandal involving the stateowned oil giant Petrobras. She has not been directly implicated in the scandal, but senior members of her governing coalition have been arrested and charged. The kickback scandal has hit politicians from parties on both sides of the political divide. Cunha, a staunch rival of Rousseff, has himself been accused of taking bribes to secure a contract with Petrobras. On Wednesday, Brazilian Attorney-General Rodrigo Junot presented formal corruption and money laundering charges against him. Cunha denies the allegations, and says they are political. It was a good day for President Rousseff, the BBC’s Wyre Davies in Rio de Janeiro says. Mr Junot’s move and the Supreme Court ruling also raise the question of whether Mr Cunha has the authority or support to renew the impeachment process, our correspondent adds. (BBC News)

Venezuela reflects on Chavez era ahead of election “No to the coup,” reads the banner at a pro-Rousseff march in Brasilia on Wednesday

Acts of civil disobedience will continue THE opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) in St Vincent and the Grenadines has said that, right after Christmas, it will continue with a series of massive protests over the outcome of the general elections on December 9, which it claims were neither free nor fair.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves According to the NDP, as a result of this election, the country has an illegitimate government that it refuses to recognise. Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace also announced what he described as two major developments: “We have written to the OAS, formally complaining about the illegitimate installment of Ralph Gonsalves as Prime Minister. We have asked for the

use of the regional mechanism to ensure that democracy is saved and protected in St Vincent and the Grenadines. “Secondly, our first legal motions regarding these elections were filed in court on Wednesday, December 16, 2015. We are moving to challenge these fraudulent elections in the court, where we are confident of legal redress. In the interim, we will continue acts of civil disobedience and non-recognition of this imposed regime.” Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has claimed that the NDP wants to carry out a coup d’état against a democratically-elected government. “I will never allow such to take place,” he said. Dr Gonsalves said at his swearing-in ceremony that the political responsibility of the Prime Minister is to ensure law and order is not undermined, and he takes that obligation seriously; particularly where anyone seeks to subvert the will of the people. Speaking to party supporters at a victory rally, he stated that he would not allow the NDP to undermine the free and democratic institutions of this country. Dr Gonsalves called on the Christian Council to tell Eustace that he must accept his loss, and if he wants to use the court to challenge irregularities, to go and do so, because he did it in 2010 and lost every single case. Dr Gonsalves said the same language Eustace is using now is the same language he used in 2010. He pointed out that his Unity Labour Party (ULP) got over 34,000 votes, while

––St Vincent opposition

Opposition Leader Arnhim Eustace

the NDP got only 30,000. Dr Gonsalves said the ULP has the popular vote now, and the NDP is in a weaker position than in 2010. Dr Gonsalves said leaders must be careful not to mislead people, and the NDP leadership is doing that right now. Dr Gonsalves added that he has learnt that the opposition members will not be accepting any position. “Well, you are elected and you don’t want to come to parliament, I would bring a law early so that you would not get a salary,” Dr Gonsalves said of the opposition members. (Caribbean News Now)

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams

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

Editorial Education and development

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HE truism that education makes a nation still holds sway, and has relevance today. Thousands graduated last month from the University of Guyana. On Wednesday, 174 students graduated from the Critchlow Labour College. On Thursday, 506 teachers graduated from the Cyril Potter College of Education. At the same time, hundreds of teachers have gone into retirement. These figures come at a time when the state of our education system is undergoing review, given its importance to empowerment of citizens, nation building, and development. Congratulations to the graduates and their families, who have made the sacrifice in pursuit of more and/or higher learning. The society must also devise a way to retain these new skills, since the development of every nation is hinged on its human capital. As the new graduates are welcomed to the noble vocation of teaching, the exit -- through retirement -- of those possessing institutional memory and invaluable skills should not be lost on the society. In today’s world, 55 years is considered relatively young, and many are still in the prime of their lives. It is our belief that those who desire to continue in this profession should be accommodated. Some may be fortunate to continue in the public system on a contractual basis; some will go into the private system; and others will be absorbed by other countries. That is not to say that new entrants to the profession are not welcomed. Of course they are! For in addition to wanting to contribute to nation building through this vocation, they also bring new approaches to doing things, and are imbued with zeal, which augurs well for our children’s growth and development. The nation cannot, in its development pursuit, ignore these juxtaposing realities. And there comes a time when, in a nation’s growth, such can no longer be ignored or swept under the carpet. As attention is paid to President David Granger’s pronouncement that education is in crisis, and Minister of Education Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine articulates his vision to reform the system, it is opportune to recognise that a nation’s education system is built on its developmental vision. Education is a community/communal driven, and according to the African proverb, “It takes a whole village to raise a child.” The success of education is hinged on the involvement of all. The government conceptualises, develops, and implements policies, programmes and laws by which the private and public school systems are bound. Teachers/educators play their role in the classroom

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Doing business with Cuba

Dear Editor, I recently returned from a weeklong visit to Cuba, during which I held discussions with a number of government agencies, the Chamber of Commerce, and the United States Embassy there. Arising out of my visit is the clear indication that Cuba is serious about its new development agenda, based largely on the easing of some restrictions occasioned by the normalisation of its relations with America and the anticipated lifting of the embargo, hopefully in the not-too-distant future. This new business environment in Cuba offers, in my view, tremendous opportunities for business enterprises in CARICOM member states. These opportunities will come with some challenges which are not without solution. The Cubans are most appreciative of the role played by CARICOM in helping to pave the way for normalization, and moreso that landmark decision 43 years ago by Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados to establish diplomatic relations with Cuba when other nations were fearful of so doing. The Cubans made it clear

that while trade with, and investment in, their country is based on a level playing field of polices and regulations, special consideration would be given to those segments of the CARICOM private sector that are interested in doing business with Cuba. ExporTT, Trinidad and Tobago’s export agency, already has a trade facilitation office in Havana. I was informed that efforts are currently underway to source large supplies of urea from the twin-island republic, and that a St. Lucia-based food company has begun exporting to Cuba. One of the constraints with supplying Cuba is that that country is looking for credit or payment arrangements that would not require upfront payments in full. In the case of Guyana, perhaps arrangements could be examined to facilitate short-term credit for the supply of products and services. Cuba is a huge market, and getting a foothold early could bring tremendous long-term success to some Guyanese enterprises. The Private Sector Commission, the Ministries of Business and Foreign Affairs, and the local banking community may want to explore an arrangement in this connection.

setting. Parents/relatives partner with the school in ensuring the needs of students are met, and students uphold their obligations. Neighbours look out and over the children’s conduct. Civil society also plays a role through workshops, seminars, donations and other forms of action. This nation came from a past in which the education policy was driven by a colonial outlook of moulding and nurturing citizens to be in service to the values set by the Crown. With independence came the shift, preparing citizens for an indigenous approach consistent with our needs, growth and development. Guyana transitioned to a country in which reality was shaped and skills and abilities were developed on a local identity; events and requirements for nation building, inclusive of awareness/knowledge of external events, likewise informed our education system. As the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was established, with Guyana being a member, and later with the institutionalisation of the Caribbean Examination Council, there was standardisation of an education model suited to the developmental foci of the Region. As our students participate in the Caribbean examinations, it is being seen that, in the basic areas of competencies, we are lagging. Mastery of the English language is one area that begs for improvement, although English is Guyana’s official language. It would not be remiss to say that, in a standardised environment, where Caribbean English in built off the British system, inclusive of spelling, the jostling of American English and British Caribbean English has been challenging for our children. For example,

Among the areas open for trade and investment are agriculture, logistics, transportation, renewable energy, construction, electronic assembly, bio-technology, mining and tourism. The Cuban Chamber of Commerce has portfolios of 326 projects ready for investment. Undoubtedly, Cuba is a country in transition. Cognizant of the need to be fully integrated into the global financial system and to attract massive inflows of capital through investment, the Government of Cuba and the Communist Party have agreed on a series of adjustments, or “reforms”, to provide for private local and foreign participation in the economy. This, coupled with the enlightened Obama policy of normalizing relations and movement towards the eventual lifting of the morethan-50-year embargo, has sparked a new enthusiasm among Cubans, especially its youth. According to US Embassy officials, some 27 per cent of the labour force of Cuba is now employed in the private sector, while a significant percentage is employed in joint-venture associations between the state and private entrepreneurs. The Mariel Special De-

velopment Zone offers a range of incentives, as well as clear guidelines for operating in the zone. I was very impressed with the presentation given to me by the zone’s director, Mr. Carlos Mateu Pereira, and his team, which included a clear explanation of the steps in the process, from application to approval, of a project which is guaranteed to be approved in no more than 65 days. I was also very impressed with the efficiency and professionalism of Cuban officials, especially Mr. Jesus Gonzalez, Director at the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Investment, and Miss Niurka Marsan Morfa, at the Chamber of Commerce. The eventual lifting of the US embargo on Cuba will have an impact on CARICOM economies. That impact can, for most countries, be positive if they begin to work now on the opportunities that are available. The challenges should not be daunting. A market of more than 11 million people should not be taken lightly. For Guyana, doing business with Cuba should be one of the priorities of our private sector. Sincerely, WESLEY KIRTON

where other Caribbean countries still retain the “s” in spelling the word organisation, in Guyana the USA “z” is used instead in public documents and media. As simple as it may seem to some, this undermines standardization, since it poses a challenge for students to identify right spelling from wrong spelling; acceptable usage from unacceptable usage. As the education system is revisited, the importance of diverse training and education of citizens to play their role in personal development and nation building should be factored in. The education of the academics, professionals, technically-skilled, semiskilled and unskilled are all important and are deserving of equal attention and respect for their labour and contribution to development. Each has a role to play, and each ought to be given opportunity to be the best in whatever field is pursued. Discipline is also an important element in education and development. And while conversations continue on the merits or demerits of corporal punishment in schools, suffice it to say that whatever decision is taken, it cannot be lost sight of that discipline plays an important role in human development. A disciplined person is a productive person. Outside of corporal punishment, school sports play a role in instilling discipline, respect for authority, team-spiritedness, determination, and focus to achieve the goals. These influences help students to be responsible and to lead productive lives. Fixing the education system requires holistic approach, and each must be prepared to play his/ her part.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Liliendaal Community Development Group gets $1M

THE Liliendaal Community Development Group yesterday received a million-dollar cheque from Prime Minister and First Vice President, Moses Nagamootoo, to enhance the community’s development initiatives. The handing over took place at the community’s playground at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, where the group members organised an afternoon of fun and games for the children of the community. The activity also saw the children receiving gifts, enjoying pony rides, jumping on the trampoline, and having their faces painted. In his remarks during the presentation of the cheque to founder of the group, Beryl Haynes, the Prime Minister explained that this is the first time that an activity was held on the playground and, “in a sense we can say that some monies have been given to fence and secure the ground”. The Prime Minister committed to working with the community group to further develop the ground into a community meeting place, one where the youths can undertake meaningful recreational activities. “We want to ensure that

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and wife Sita Nagamootoo hand over the cheque to founder of the Liliendaal Community Development Group, Beryl Haynes, in the presence of the community members

the young people are not involved in drugs, crime, and all other non-productive activities; and for them to move away from all the bad things that are happening,” he told the gathering. The community has an active football group. He urged the group’s members to continue to pursue initiatives for Liliendaal’s further advancement. Meanwhile, expressing gratitude on behalf of the group and the residents of Liliendaal, Haynes said, “We accept this token because I know there is more to come. We appreciate it, and we are grateful for it, and it’s the first time that someone has reached out to us”. The group was first established in 1989, but became dormant; and, according Haynes, it was resuscitated almost four years ago. According to the Government Information Agency (GINA), the overall objectives of the group are to enhance the community of Liliendaal, empower the youths, and to plan and organise activities to the benefit of the residents of the community. Currently, the group has 24 active members.

Rice must have careful husbandry practices Dear Editor GUYANA can once again become the food basket of the Caribbean, given our endowment of extensive and rich agricultural lands. It is a matter of common sense to expand the agricultural sector by diversifying our economic activities through introducing new crops, for example rice/fish culture, soya beans, palm oil, aquaculture. These can bring more profits and benefits to the farmers, but unless they move in this direction, they will continue to experience high costs of production and less income, which will be the direct cause of their poverty. I had the opportunity to visit Ms Sattie Ramnauth, fish and rice farm at Hampton Court. I saw

firsthand how the rice fish culture works; she is reaping two crops at the same time during the rice harvesting. She and her son Mitta told me that if the rice farmers in this region use their paddy farms to grow rice and fish, they can earn more money with less costs, and it will pay them better with less labour. During my tenure as a rice extension officer, I had the opportunity to see many experiments of the various varieties of paddy at Kayman Sankar’s private estate, one being the ‘no tillage’, which was introduced to cut cost and conserve on the wastage of water from the main canal conservancy. For some reason, this experiment failed because the yield and the quali-

ty were both poor. This practice of growing rice is being done in Brazil and other parts of the world, where there is a scarcity of water during the drought period. Ms Sattie Ramnauth then switched to the rice/ fish culture, and is making more money with less expense. I firmly believe that the rice farmers should follow Ms Ramnauth’s lead and go into the rice/fish culture, and stop blaming the government for the low prices offered by millers. From my experience as a farmer and rice extension officer working among the farmers, it is very difficult to change their traditional ways. To this day, some farmers believe that paddy cannot grow under water for 2 weeks by reducing the water gradually.

The Extension Division of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) needs to sensitize and hold regular meetings with rice farmers across the rice-growing regions, and let them know that under a free market system, prices of rice are dependent on demand and supply. Guyana has to supply high-quality rice on the international market, and it must be free of pesticides, then it will be able to compete with its Asian counterpart for higher prices. For this to happen, GRDB has to supply high quality seeds to the farmers, seeds that are free of weeds and red rice. Most of the lands in Region Two are contaminated with red rice and weeds. Some farmers should take the blame for

the state of the high infestation of these weeds in their fields, because they do not want to buy clean paddy from GRDB to sow in their fields. Often, they use their own poor quality seed paddy obtained from their own fields crop after crop, without water rouging. Farmers should know that they have to purchase basic or certified one seed paddy to broadcast in their fields; that’s the only way they can reap high quality paddy from their paddy fields. The seed should change every two crops, or else it will inter-breed and develop red rice; and once the red rice is ripe and falls into the field, it will multiply into thousands of plants and become very hard to get rid of, especially in the long dry spell.

Good husbandry practices by the farmers can keep their fields free from weeds and red rice. These days, the young rice farmers do not pay careful attention to their crops, like the older folks did. I have noticed that, nowadays, the farmers are using deadly systemic pesticides from the germination stage until 110 days, which is the reaping stage. This can cause Guyana to lose its market, because the overseas buyer will test the grains, and if they find drugs in them, they will dump the rice. Farmers will soon have to use integrated pest management if they want good prices for their produce. Yours faithfully, MOHAMED KHAN

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Local gospel artiste launches 3rd album By Ravin Singh

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HE humility of Samuel Medas belies the fact that he’s one of the most prominent gospel artistes in Guyana after just seven years in this particular musical genre. This 27-year-old gospel singer, who attended Stewartville Secondary School, is already internationally recognized, and will be launching his third album, ‘Ink of Intimacy’, today at the Love and Faith Word Outreach Ministries at 7:00pm. Born in the village of Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara, this young artiste -- the eldest of three children for his parents, who are both pastors at the local church -- refers to himself as a “country boy”. He

SAMUEL MEDAS

lived a regular country-boy life, he says, adding that expectations were always high, given the roles of his parents. This made it difficult for him to fit in. “I couldn’t do things like curse in school and get away with it. I got judged based on my parents’ standards as pastors,” he revealed. What is perhaps unusual is the fact that Medas was more recognized in his earlier years as a pianist, an art which he mastered at the tender age of five. But when his musical career commenced at the age of 20, he recalls, it was then people started recognizing him as Samuel Medas, and not as “the pastors’ kid.” By then he was a member of a local Christian group of singers known as Cross Carriers. The group, according to him, had been the “sensation in the Christian community.”

SOLO PERFORMANCES In 2012, he decided to do some self-discovery, and started his solo performances. That year was a successful one for him, he noted, since his first solo album, ‘Heart to Heart’, was launched that November. Almost immediately, his talent was recognized, and his recordings are now being featured in regional and international markets. And despite the successes he has had, Medas was at that time battling the challenges of an academic life at the University of Guyana (UG), where he was reading for a major in English. Though his goals did not turn out as planned, and he was forced to discontinue his academic pursuits, perhaps temporarily, Medas was registering a high level of success in his spiritual life, which was tantamount to him fulfilling his God-given duties. PERFORMING OVERSEAS He began travelling a lot, regionally and internationally, he says, noting that the launch of his

first album was what provided most of his opportunities. This led to him releasing his second album, ‘Peculiar Journey’, in May of 2014. Opportunities after this launch were also forthcoming, and he began collaborating with renowned regional artistes for onstage performances. Some of the events at which he would have performed include the Barbados Gospel Fest, Jamaica Gospel Fest, Elasha Spring Fest and Guyana Gospel Fest. But not limited to just performing at events hosted by his regional counterparts, Medas singlehandedly hosted Hope Fest 2014 in Guyana -– an event which he noted was a major success. Additionally, at the weekend before Mashramani, he annually hosts a concert, ‘Worship like never before’, in Linden. Quizzed on the challenges faced as a gospel artiste in a country which seemingly lacks appreciation for the arts and facilitates little improvement for culture, the young artiste responded, “I see myself as an anomaly.” FULL-TIME He offered this response with the justification that, presently in Guyana, he is possibly the only Christian artiste who does this type of work full-time. In terms of support from a population of 750,000, which is divided in three main factions of religious association, Medas revealed that he has no complaints in this regard. “I get the support from people…. I don’t get some of the problems other artistes complain about, such as copyright and lack of support

and so. For instance, people prefer to wait for my original CDs rather than burn my songs. (Waiting) is far cheaper,” the young gospel artiste said. His third album is one of his most anticipated outputs yet. This can be largely attributed to the fact that the collaboration between himself and other regional and international artistes in songs featured on the album is, to date, one of the biggest ever seen. Medas explains that he is popularly known for worship and praise music, but the fact that his last two albums were lacking in this regard is what motivated him to write from a place of exposing his intimacy with God. “The diversity of Soca, praise and worship, and the international and regional collaboration are just about few of the highlights of this album launch,” he noted. According to him, artistes such as DJ Nicholas, Sherwin Garner, Jermaine Edwards, Positive and John Yarde are but a few of those who collaborated with him on some of the songs on the album. And while Medas will grant those in attendance the opportunity to hear him perform all of the songs live, other local artistes, including Sean Sobers, Miriam Williams, Allan Petty, Kerese Harrinandan and Yadah, are also slated to perform. Tickets are available at Kester D Music Centre on Charlotte Street, Fon Roje on Robb Street, and Keltech Centre on the East Coast of Demerara. The cost per ticket is $1,000, and each ticket holder will be provided with a free album on the night of the launch.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Guyana on alert for cyber attacks By Alva Solomon ORGANISATIONS and businesses processing financial transactions via email in Guyana are at high risk of randomware attacks, a computer containment method used by cyber hackers to restrict access to computers and demand payment for access by users. The attacks are on the rise globally, and at least one government agency in Guyana has experienced it. According to a release from the Guyana National Computer Incident Response Team (GNCIRT), a unit attached to the Ministry of Public Security, citizens should be aware of a sudden surge in randomware attacks being experienced globally. Randomware is a type of malicious software which encrypts or takes control of one’s computer data files, and demands payment in return for the key to decrypt those files. According to the release, a successful randomware attack will encrypt one’s data files and make them unavailable to one. Subsequently, when an individual or member of staff tries to access the data files, that person is pointed to a ransom note with directions on how to make a payment in order to regain access to the data files. The GNCIRT said that security researchers have reported a nine-fold increase in randomware attacks over a two-week period. Regionally, Paraguay has recently experienced a randomware campaign against its citizens. GNCIRT said it has received a recent report of randomware infecting several computers at a prominent government agency in Guyana and causing irreparable damage to important data files and inconvenience to users. Against the backdrop of a global trend, the body believes that Guyanese users, especially organisations and businesses processing financial transactions via email, are at high risk. In addition, the body is advising that payment should never be made, as there is no guarantee that the attackers will provide the decryption key. Instead, all precautions should be taken to prevent a successful attack. According to the release, the current trend is for the malware to be propagated via spam email with malicious attachments, and the subject of the emails relate to alleged ‘Invoices', 'Payments', 'Payment Notices' or 'Wire Transfers' . They typically have a 'Reference Number’ or ‘Invoice num-

ber’, followed by random numbers to appear legitimate. Such emails have an accompanying malicious attachment, which is typically a zip file, and include the reference number and words such as 'invoice' or 'info' or 'note'. The use of these keywords suggests that the attackers are targeting businesses and organizations involved in processing financial transactions, the release said. GNCIRT advises that all staff accessing emails on their desktops or on their mobile phones should be made aware of this threat. They should be alerted not to click on any suspicious emails or download any suspicious attachments. While the immediate threat is against Microsoft Windows desktop users, mobile phone users are also at risk for randomware infection. Persons using a personal computer at home are advised to delete any suspicious e-mails, and to be on the alert for future threats; while persons using an organization’s e-mail service should immediately report these spam mails to their System and Network Administrator, or to any such person(s) who may be administering the network and email services. In addition, several preventative measures can be taken. These include the regular backup of data files to limit the loss of data, while daily backups of critical files should be done by the System Administrator. Such backups should be securely stored away from the computer systems, and flash drives and backup drives should not be left connected to computer systems. Persons should exercise caution when opening emails, since carelessness can expose an entire network to serious loss of data. In addition, persons should pay special attention to emails from unknown email addresses, those with attachments and emails appearing to suggest payments, receipts and invoices. Computers should also be equipped with antivirus software, to scan for malware, and there should be online protection as well as scheduled boot scans. In the event one’s computer is affected, GNCIRT advises, persons should not pay the ransom demanded. In addition, persons should immediately disconnect the impacted system from the network, and quarantine same in a secure location. The GNCIRT should be notified in the event of such attacks. The unit can be contacted on 222-8862 and info@ cirt.gy by email.

GWI to boost water supply in Corentyne THE Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has said it will install a distribution network for customers residing in sections of Numbers 67 and 68 Villages, Corentyne, East Berbice, because those villages have been without water service for the past six years. In excess of 40 households will benefit from this new initiative, GWI’s Chief Executive, Dr Richard Van West-Charles, has said. Accompanied by members of the company’s management team, he attended on Wednesday a meeting at Number 68 Village, Corentyne organised by representatives of the areas without water service. Residents indicated their challenges in residing in developing areas without access to water, and voiced their willingness to assist the utility with starting the process. Dr Van West-Charles presented to them a proposal which involved each resident registering as a GWI custom-

er and signing up for a payment plan. The plan would allow residents to pay for the new service connections and the installation of the distribution network in small, affordable portions. “We are aware of your financial challenges,” he told them, adding: “If everyone agrees, each resident would be

allowed to pay for the installation of the service in small, flexible amounts.” Community representatives unanimously indicated their approval, and were invited to visit the GWI Customer Services location at Springlands to commence the process. Infrastructural works for

the new distribution network are expected to commence in December 2015. “Safe, affordable water service is the right of every citizen. We will continue to work with communities countrywide to ensure this is a reality for every Guyanese,” Dr Van-West Charles said.

Some of the residents who met the GWI team on Wednesday

Bedlam

A

S was expected, all was not right at this week’s sitting of the National Assembly, at which the government hoped to pass three important bills in what the public feared was a bit of a rushed manner. The Opposition had much to say leading up to the meeting, and things got even more heated when the two sides finally sat facing each other. Turned out, after much argument, that the opposition walked out of the National Assembly. Since heckling is a norm at a random sitting, I can only imagine the chaos that erupted at this last meeting, with the opposition in such high revolt. Either way, it can be said that perhaps the opposition felt some tiny victory as the government’s hope to pass all three of the slated bills was not achieved. Only two bills were passed, leaving the Anti-terrorism and Terrorist Activities Bill to be dropped until the next meeting. So, can we call this a win-win situation? Not sure, because the PPP is still super bitter about the goings on. Stay tuned. No worries! Meanwhile, over at #teambenschop, all things are still positive. The Mayor-hopeful posted on the sea wall a picture of his view, as he contemplated how he’d make his “checkmate” move against the larger parties. He didn’t seem worried about all the bickering over the bills, “especially that suspicious Local Government Elections Bill”, and his followers were in full support. If you ask me, Mr Mayor should have been a bit more aware of the litter in the photograph itself -– seeing that that’s his area of interest now -- rather than his aim to throw shade at the current goings-on in Parliament; but that’s another story. The bottom line is: his is a lesson in positive vibes. Whether or not the Local Government Elections Bill could harm his chances, he's determined to win. Just deserts! So the sugar workers received a tap on the back from government for their performance thus far for the year, as they are expected to exceed their target for 2015. That’s all good and dandy that the government is pleased, but the sugar workers did so well that people are asking why they were not amply rewarded. Following a call by GAWU to have the workers included in the reward meted out to the public servants, the government responded that there is no money at that time to facilitate that. So things will be a little brown for the sugar workers, it seems. That pat on the back will have to do for now. This $50,000 bonus got lots of problems.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Minibus tout now promising policeman Story and photos by Leroy Smith THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) yesterday added another 52 ranks to its manpower, after those graduated from two separate recruit training courses which were running concurrently over the last few months. Among those excelling in the courses was 18-year-old Osbert Cain from No. 30 Village, West Coast Berbice, who graduated as the best student; and 21-year-old Stephon Troy David Pearson of Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara (ECD), a former minibus conductor and tout, who graduated as the runner-up best student. The two were respectively part of training batches 329 and 330. Pearson had applied on two previous occasions to join the Guyana Police Force, but had not been allowed entry. He managed to get into the college on the third try. His commitment and dedication on the job saw him being named the runner-up top student for his batch. Prior to joining the Guyana Police Force, the secondary school graduate, who attained eight subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Examination Council exams with university-accepted grades, worked at Qualfon Guyana Inc as a customer service representative; then at Giftland OfficeMax, before moving on to become a minibus conductor in the Stabroek area. Whenever he was not working as a conductor, he settled for the job of touting passengers for other minibuses, which earned him two hundred dollars or less for each bus he assisted in loading. Best graduating student Cain, who delivered the vote of thanks, proved that he has a very good command of the English language and is well spoken. He told reporters after the event that he joined the Force because he saw it as an opportunity to help his country, not only in maintaining law and order, but also in ensuring that those who violate the laws of

The other graduates getting ready to give the Commissioner of Police the “eyes right” salute during a march-past the land are properly prosecuted. He also said that, in the line of his job, it is his wish to be able to encourage those he will be arresting to stay away from a life of crime and remain on the right side of the law, since anything contrary to that will cause discomfort to them and their families. He said his mother was once a constable in the Guyana Police Force, but is now residing overseas. Cain has to his credit passes in five subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Examination Council (CSEC). Asked which part of the Force he would be more comfortable serving in, the young man said he would be comfortable with any posting the administration sees fit for him, and he has no problem serving as a general duty rank, as it would enable him to learn the work even faster. BUILD ON OPPORTUNITIES In remarks to the graduates, Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud encouraged the ranks to make the best of the opportunities available to them. He said that, two decades ago, serving and former members of the Force were not privileged

or even required to consider taking up the opportunities currently available. He spoke of the new emerging trend, wherein the Force is now looking to have ranks trained as rescuers and first medical responders, as they are very often the first to be on the scene of accidents and other situations where persons are either trapped or injured. He also said it would go hand-in-hand with the climate change effects, which are seeing flash floods and hurricanes devastating so many lives, and the police are often called in to maintain law and order. Often, he said, due to their lack of medical training, the ranks are unable to assist persons, and have to wait until medical personnel arrive. “We have to be able to cut our way into buildings and rescue persons. And we have situations where cars are driving rather fast on our roads, and when there are smash-ups, sometimes persons are trapped; and, more often, we are the first set of people on the scene,” the top cop reasoned. SAVE LIVES He stressed that police ranks have to now learn to save lives, so, accordingly, the Force is ensuring that members of patrols get some medical training, at least to become effective first responders; and this is among the new areas and responsibilities that the Force would be assuming.

Please see page 11

Saturday December 19th, 2015 - 11:30 hrs Sunday December 20th, 2015 - 12:30 hrs Monday December 21th, 2015 - 13:30 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

OVERALL Best Graduating Student, 18-year-old Police Constable Osbert Cain, receiving his trophy from Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud

Second Runner-up Best Graduating Student, 21-year-old Police Constable Stephon Pearson, receiving his trophy from Assistant Police Commissioner, Administration, Balram Persaud

Minibus tout now promising ... From page 10 Persaud added that the work environment and society are changing, and the force needs to be able to adapt to those changes. He spoke of the constant reviewing of programmes within the organisation, and the challenges that the police are preparing for, even as ranks are being socialised to take advantage of emerging opportunities, as these allow them to become even more rounded individuals. The recruits were reminded of their role as members of the force, and of the oath they took, which is “to serve and protect�. The top cop also warned police ranks who believe that it is their job to arrest and punish persons for offences committed. He warned that their job is to deliver the service that they are tasked to deliver. He said the job of the GPF is to arrest offenders and prosecute law-breakers; it does not include punishing them. He advised the new ranks to simplify their jobs by telling individuals what offences they had committed, and why they were being arrested. He also warned the cops not to employ violence in executing their duties. It was against that backdrop that he also touched on the prevention programmes that the organisation has to ease the instances of conflict and other stand-offs with members of the public. Persaud opined that the police often get into conflict with vulnerable members of the public, thus the social crime prevention programmes are very important to the organisation, because they assist in addressing the social ills of the various communities.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

PM gives $1M for Essequibo film

By Ravin Singh

LOCAL film organisation CineGuyana yesterday received $1M from the Office of the Prime Minister, through Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, to aid in the production of a local film which will be done in Essequibo. According to the Prime Minister, the money -- granted upon request -- was not a donation or a gift, since it was one which the organisation deserves for its priceless contribution to the local film industry. The Prime Minister revealed that it was something he had wanted to do since he made the first draft of the broadcast legislation in 1993-94. During that time, he said, he had lobbied for a percentage of the revenue from broadcasting to go to local producers, to encourage them to make local programmes, films and documentaries. And while the organisation is currently equipped with talent that has secured regional and international recognition, the Prime Minister revealed, government wants to create a fund that will be financed by revenue garnered from the National Broadcasting Authority to push the film industry. But this would be a defined percentage, he said, noting that this fund must not be exposed to vulnerabilities in that, if the government changes, it would be discontinued. Therefore, he stressed, the fund would be a fixed percentage of the revenue generated. Further, he revealed that a committee will be set up and mandated to outline the rules as to who can apply to be helped from the fund. Nevertheless, it will be open to all producers, he said. In addition to this fund, the Prime Minister underscored the need for local production to dominate the local film industry. He stressed that the country is capable of producing programmes with humour, which are created by Guyanese

Please see page 13

Board members of CineGuyana receive the $1M cheque from Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo (Delano Williams photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

East La Penitence to have recreational park By Shauna Jemmott THE ward of East La Penitence in the south of Georgetown is set for physical transformation as residents Leroy George, Odirie Chester and Romel July collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism and the Mayor and City Council to redesign its reserve and create an attractive destination for community tourism. Director General of the Ministry of Tourism, Donald Sinclair, has said he learnt about the project at a barbecue held last Sunday to raise funds to effect the transformational project. The all-inclusive semioval play park will be complemented with Wi-Fi access and a football field, basketball court, trampoline, swings, see-saws, slides, and other installations to make it equipped to entertain some

Leroy George (right) and Odirie Chester 100 children who reside within the community. Seating accommodation will also be provided for adults and the elderly, so they could enjoy a beautiful afternoon hang-out in a recreational park that is perfect for a complete family fun event. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle yesterday,

Sinclair praised the initiative of the young developers to put available land into such beneficial use and beautify the area, creating a tourist-friendly space. Georgetown Mayor Hamilton Green has also endorsed the project, Sinclair said. He said that he and the trio had visited the Mayor and City

Another fined for dangerous driving A MAN was on Friday fined for dangerous driving when he appeared before Providence Magistrate Alex Moore. Winston Mitchel allegedly slammed into one of President David Granger’s escort cars last Thursday, injuring two police officers. He pleaded guilty to two traffic-related charges stemming from the incident which occurred at Friendship Public Road, East Bank Demerara. It is alleged that Mitchel, while driving his motor car along the Friendship Public Road, failed to stop and give the right away when he heard the sirens approaching. Because of his failure to adhere to the law, he crashed into the escort car, injuring two police officers in the process. According to Mitchel, he was on his way to the airport with his father, and did not hear the sirens, but saw when one of them attempted to direct him to the curb. He failed to see the oncoming cars. “I tried to prevent an accident and caused another accident. Ah sorry, My Honour,” Mitchel told the court. Magistrate Moore scolded Mitchel about his recklessness, advising that he could have caused serious injury to the country’s leader, other road users and the lawmen. Mitchel has to pay $30,000 in compensation to each of the injured officers; and this has to be done on or before January 15 if he is to avoid serving a custodial sentence.

PM gives $1M ...

From page 12

for Guyanese. And this, according to him, would attract and create an advertising market. “Ultimately, this would lead to development of CineGuyana,” he said said. President of CineGuyana, Phillip Williams, who received the cheque, expressed his appreciation for the contribution on behalf of the organization, which currently represents over 800 individuals across the country. He disclosed that the money, which was granted upon request, would be invested in a project which represents Guyana. “We are very passionate about telling stories about Guyana, and in the interest of creating unity, solidarity and nationalism,” Williams said. The film will be done in Essequibo. And while the Prime Minister refers to the contribution as “a kick-starter,” the organisation’s president noted that the body is gifted with the talent to make any amount of money sufficient for selected projects. In light of this contribution, CineGuyana remains hopeful that corporate Guyana would be motivated to commit to supporting the local film industry, which has braved major challenges over the last few years. CineGuyana is a film organisation that was founded by local artistes, and aims to promote Guyana’s culture through film. The organisation has been making strides for the past five years, during which it has produced 11 short films, eight of which have been shown internationally.

Council yesterday morning. The mayor, he said, has promised to invest in the project after an official proposal is presented early next week. “The mayor was happy to hear about it, and said that that is the kind of project (the City Council) would love to support, bearing in mind what they are doing with the Merriman Mall and a number of other areas. Within two weeks, they will meet again with a structured plan of

what the project is going to be, so that City Council would see what resources they could connect to it,” Sinclair told the Chronicle. He said the project, already moving apace, has now reached a stage where more support is needed. Community developer Leroy George said he and colleagues Odirie Chester and Romel July made the decision to clear this area, which was once used as a garbage disposal site. He said youths once used the

reserve as a football field, but it was abandoned and became overgrown with bushes while persons disposed of their garbage there. He said they thought it fit to transform the area, and have, for months, raised funds and cleared and levelled the plain. They are now seeking support through funding and other forms from government, the Mayor and City Council, businesses, donors, and private individuals to make manifest their plan.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Fined for illegal departure CITY Magistrate Annette Singh has fined an Essequibo woman $25,000 for illegally departing Guyana. Gangadai Narine of Philadelphia, Essequibo Coast pleaded guilty to the charge alleging that on October 1, at Charity, Essequibo, she departed Guyana without presenting herself to an immigration officer. She was deported to Guyana from Venezuela on December 16, and was handed over to law enforcement officers at the Criminal Investigation Department. She was questioned by police officers, and admitted committing the offence. A default in paying the fine will result in Narine serving three months’ imprisonment.

Man with illegal gun refused bail REUBEN Cavils, 24, of Baramita, Region 1, was refused bail when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on threatening language and firearms charges at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court yesterday. Cavils pleaded not guilty to the charge that, on December 14, at Central Baramita, North West District, he made use of threatening language to Andre Coachman. It also alleged that on the said day, in Central Baramita, he had a single-barrel shotgun in his possession even though he is not the holder of a firearm licence. According to the prosecution’s facts, Cavils and Coachman were involved in an argument over a solar battery when Cavils threatened Coachman. He reportedly left the scene of the argument and returned with the shotgun. The matter was reported to the police, and Cavils was apprehended with the gun on his person. He was refused bail on both charges, and is expected to be spending Christmas and New Year’s Day behind bars. The matter was transferred to Matthews Ridge Magistrate’s Court for February 1, 2016.

Man on bail for fraudulent conversion FORTY-year-old Reaz Bacchus of Lot 87 Fourth Avenue, Subryanville, Georgetown was yesterday granted bail in the sum of $50,000 when he appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on a fraudulent conversion charge. The charge against the defendant stated that between May 5 and 8, 2014, at Kitty, he obtained some $650,000 from Gavin Williams to acquire a house lot, but converted the money to his own use. Bacchus pleaded not guilty to the charge, and was granted bail in the sum of $50,000. The matter has been adjourned to January 18, 2016. (Clestine Juan)

Miner sues another for $8M MINER Ivor Goddette has sued fellow miner Ramnarine for $8M, being an unpaid balance in an agreement of sale and purchase of land in the Cuyuni area. The agreement is dated January, 2015. It was a term of the said agreement that the defendant was to pay to the plaintiff the sum of $9M. The plaintiff has acknowledged receipt of $1M, leaving $8M to be paid by the defendant. According to the summons filed in the Supreme Court Registry, both the plaintiff and the defendant attended a meeting of the Geology & Mines Commission, where a transfer for the $8M ownership claim was effected. Repeated demands for payment have been made by the plaintiff on the defendant, without success. The matter is expected to come up for hearing in Bail Court.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Guyanese scholar receives top security award By Allison Skeete THE 2015 William J. Perry Award for Excellence in Security and Defense Education recently honoured Dr. Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, one of the world’s leading scholars on Caribbean defence and security issues at the National Defense University. Named after the centre’s founder, former U.S. Secretary of Defense Dr. William J. Perry, the Perry Award is presented annually to individuals and institutions making significant contributions in the fields of security and defense education. Awardees are selected for achievements in promoting education, research, and knowledge-sharing in defence and security issues in the Western Hemisphere. Dr. Griffith has years of service as a scholar, author, and educational leader. His teaching and innovative research achievements have informed a generation of policy makers and practitioners, and have enabled the advancement of an international and cooperative environment for security among nations throughout the Caribbean Diaspora. Dr. Griffith’s selection for this prestigious award was aided by his significant and tangible work at several colleges and universities across the United States, where he has served as Dean, Provost, Senior Vice President, and University

President. He is currently a Senior Fellow at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. His scholarly contributions and participation in countless international forums have been instrumental in building many relationships that have

this honour. He expressed his admiration and thanks for the knowledge that has continued to be a source of his own excellence in his profession. Other notable supporters in attendance at the event included Guyana’s Ambas-

Mr. Mark Wilkins, Director, Perry Center (left), presents the 2015 William J. Perry Award for Excellence in Security and Defense Education to Dr. Ivelaw Griffith further increased democratic security, to the Caribbean Diaspora’s benefit. The work contributed by the stellar scholar Dr. Griffith is of course a well-deserved source of pride for his native Guyana, and many throughout the Caribbean Diaspora who have come to know him either as a student, colleague, or otherwise; such as the case of Mr. Sheridon Hill of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, who spearheaded the nomination of Dr. Griffith for

sador Bayney Karran; Luigi Einaudi, former US Ambassador to the Organization of American States; Sherry Tross, Ombudsman of the OAS; UN Assistant Secretary General, Dr. Edward Greene; former Ambassador of Jamaica to the United Nations, Curtis Ward; Captain Gerald (Gerry) Gouveia, CEO of Roraima Airways Inc.; and Colonel Darnley E. Wyke, Defense and Military Attaché of Trinidad and Tobago.

A common remark resounding by his guests and the presenting group is the high regard they have for Dr. Griffith -- his work, dedication and commitment to every aspect of security and defense education. He shared the stage with Admiral Vidal Francisco Soberón Sanz, Secretary of the Navy of Mexico, who was also honoured; and Dr Griffith delighted him and the audience with his greetings of congratulations in Spanish, as he began his acceptance speech. As Secretary of the Navy and a member of Mexico’s Federal Executive Cabinet, Admiral Soberón has responsibility for overseeing the country’s navy and marine. He has been consistent in promoting education, research, outreach, and the sharing of knowledge. Under the leadership of the Secretariat of the Navy, the doctoral programme at the Center for Superior Naval Studies (CESNAV) has become a leading defense curriculum in the Americas.

Captain Gerry Gouveia (L) and Sheridon Hill (R) nominated Dr. Griffith (centre)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Salvation Army fetes over 500

By Shirley Thomas

THE Guyana Division of the Salvation Army on Wednesday brought comfort and joy to the hearts of more than 500 needy persons residing in and around Georgetown with its annual distribution of food hampers for the Christmas season. While this distribution at the Army’s South Road and Alexander Street Headquarters catered for persons in Georgetown, over the next few days, distribution will be done at other Salvation Army worship centres in outlying areas, including Mahaica, New Amsterdam and Vergenoegen. Special guest at the event was First Lady Sandra Granger, while Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence, was the

guest speaker. The programme, spiced with a rich medley of Christmas carols rendered by Divisional Commander Major Emmerson Cumberbatch, Major Augusto and members of the Divisional Youth Band, was most entertaining. The musical performance was such a delight that when the carol ‘Down from His glory’ was played, many of the seniors in attendance spontaneously took to their feet, waltzing to the amusement of others, as they openly put their dexterity and exuberance on display. Minister Lawrence, in greeting the seniors, affectionately addressed them as ‘My beloved senior citizens’, and ‘valued members of society’. She also expressed appreciation for their contributions to society in myriad ways during their productive years, and for their creating strong families. CORNERSTONE “You have been the cornerstone of love, guidance and protection for generations. Your efforts have helped build this nation,” she assured. She reminded them that while government’s present resources cannot provide greater increases in pension and other benefits, the administration will not renege on its promise of a better life for all, including senior citizens. “But be assured (that) you are our top priority, and we are working to ensure that substantial increases are provided,” the Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence, addressing the seniors at the distribution of hampers (GINA photo)

minister emphasised. The minister encouraged them to use every opportunity to help restore love and lost values through their daily conversations and interaction with the youths, since the Ministry of Social Protection is committed to improving their lives and values their contribution. RESILIENT She observed that, despite challenges, the Salvation Army has been resilient, and continues to play a meaningful role in

First Lady Sandra Granger addressing the gathering at the distribution of Christmas hampers to the needy (GINA photo)

the lives of the vulnerable in society. “You have touched so many lives through your witness for Christ. You have brought solace and comfort to many a sad life. You have cared for the sick and the feeble; offered shelter to the homeless; and today you put a smile and gladden the hearts of our many elderly,” she said. The minister also congratulated the Advisory Board for its sterling contributions and support to the divisional commanders and officers of the sub-division. First Lady Sandra Granger congratulated the officers of the division and members of the advisory board for their great humanitarian work. The First Lady commended the ongoing work of the Army in ‘sharing and caring’ for the needy; bringing joy to persons in difficult circumstances; and looking out for those in distress. She specifically acknowledged the work being done to rehabilitate substance abusers; the Salvation Army’s dedicated work of raising funds to finance its programmes; and moreso, its tireless efforts at ‘keeping the kettles boiling’ in the streets at Christmastime, in order to generate much-needed funds. The First Lady also had kudos for the music makers in the Salvation Army. She noted that they uplift Guyanese with their music, which is always lively and encouraging. Meanwhile, in acknowledgment of the senior citizens’ contribution to the nation over the years, the First Lady, like Minister Lawrence, iterated that senior citizens are precious, and deserve to be honoured and recognised for their contribution to Guyana over the years. The First Lady also acknowledged and commended the Minister of Social Protection’s substantial financial contribution to her projects, such as the Care for the Elderly Workshop, among others. Leading up to the start of the programme, the First Lady had a ‘walk around’, during which she greeted many of the enthusiastic and appreciative senior citizens.

Minister Lawrence and First Lady Sandra Granger assist in the distribution process (GINA photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

The First Lady hands over a hamper to a senior citizen (GINA photo)

Minister Lawrence delivering a hamper to a senior citizen (GINA photo)

A section of the gathering of senior citizens who came to receive their Christmas hampers from the Salvation Army (GINA photo)

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PRESIDENT David Granger and Rotary Club of Georgetown Secretary Ralph Persaud compare cricket bands, while the other members of the Club look on

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Granger now honorary member of Rotary Club

THE Rotary Club of Georgetown inducted President David Granger as an honorary member during a courtesy call at the Ministry of the Presidency. The group was represented by Club President Elizabeth Cox; Vice President Clyde De Haas; Rotary Foundation Director Pearson Burch-Smith; President-elect 2016-2017, Lisa Foster; past President Ronald Burch-Smith; Club member Colonel Christine King; and Club Secretary Ralph Persaud. Club President Cox said the aim of the meeting was to garner the administration's support for the Club’s humanitarian efforts. "I know that, having spoken to him, I know he is very excited about literacy; and that is one of our areas…because we feel (that) if you have an educated population, they will be taken out of poverty faster," Cox said. Members also used this opportunity to brief the President on the Club's work, and to enquire how best they can aid the government in its ongoing efforts to improve literacy throughout the country. Coming out of the meeting, Cox said the Club was pleased with the outcome, as the sentiments expressed by President Granger indicate the administration's willingness to support the efforts of the Club. During the meeting, President Granger was presented with a token from Club Secretary Ralph Persaud. The Rotary Club of Georgetown Guyana was first constituted on May 20, 1959. Dr BBG Nehaul, the then government pathologist and bacteriologist of British Guiana, who conceived the idea of establishing a service club in Guyana, chose the Rotary.

Better late than never BUSINESSMAN Kevin Jordan, who was convicted of a criminal offence involving a young boy, is attempting to appeal his case, although the time to file an appeal has passed. He was sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment by Justice Dawn Gregory. Jordan’s application to the Court for an extension of time within which to appeal states that he was waiting until he was sentenced by the trial judge before giving his lawyer instructions to appeal. That, he said, was the reason he filed his Notice of Appeal late. Acting Chancellor Carl Singh, Justice of Appeal B.S Roy, and additional Judge Rishi Persaud began hearing the application at the Court of Appeal on Thursday. The hearing continues on Monday. Judith Mursalin, Assistant Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), is representing the respondent. Senior Counsel Rex Mc Kay and Attorney Neil Boston are appearing for Jordan.

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Yesterday’s results

crossword

sudoku

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Boult strikes before rain ends first day early (REUTERS) - Trent Boult took two wickets in one over and broke a partnership that had threatened to take the game out of New Zealand’s reach as Sri Lanka reached 264 for seven by the end of a rain-shortened first day of the second Test yesterday. Captain Angelo Mathews

dominate the New Zealand bowlers. “They played very well,” Boult told Radio Sport. “I think it’s still relatively (delicately) poised. I don’t think we let them get too far away. “It was nice to get them seven down, so obviously (we need) three wickets in the morning and then get out

Angelo Mathews plays a pull shot during his unbeaten 63 on the first day.

was 63 not out when the players left the field at about 16:25hrs. (0325 GMT) with Dushmantha Chameera yet to score. In total, 23 overs were lost due to the rain. The visitors, who were asked to bat on a green Seddon Park pitch in Hamilton, had been in control of the contest after tea with Mathews and Milinda Siriwardana starting to

there and have a bat.” Boult, who has struggled to rediscover his rhythm since returning from a back injury, however, bowled the best over of the innings, with the older ball swinging appreciably as dark rain clouds began to inch towards the ground. THREE WICKETS

at the crease and attacking left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner in particular. The pair had been brought together at 121-4 after New Zealand had got back into the game when they broke a 71-run partnership between Dinesh Chandimal (47) and Udara Jayasundera, who was runout for 26 after some good fielding by Santner. Chandimal, who scored half-centuries in both innings in the first Test in Dunedin, then chased an outswinger from Doug Bracewell that caught the edge and gave wicketkeeper BJ Watling his third catch of the innings. New Zealand won the first Test of the two-match series at University Oval by 122 runs.

quarter to maintain their good form. Kevin Durant (25), who was backed by James pregame to challenge Kareem Abdul-Jamar’s all-time career points scoring record, and Thunder team-mates Russell Westbrook (27, 10 assists) and Serge Ibaka (23) combined for 75 points. However, the star-studded match-up was overshadowed by an incident involving the wife of PGA

From back page best players compete against each other.” Additionally, the CEO pointed out that “in the upcoming year, there are a number of tours in and out of the region and with that amount of cricket added, along with the phased roll out of the high performance programme, the players will have a chance at better preparing themselves for producing at the highest level.” Tournaments we can confirm so far are: NAGICO Super50: January 7-24 Second round of the PCL: February 11– March 18 World T20: March-April (India) International Home Series: June-August CPL (Year 4): July-August The CEO also noted that the Board will confirm any additional international tours for the 2016 period but pointed out that in rebuilding our programme “we are keen on offering enough playing opportunities at home and abroad”. Guyana Jaguars lead the first round of the PCL and are the defending champions; Trinidad and Tobago are the defending champions of the NAGICO Super50 and the Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel are the defending CPL T20 Champions.

SCOREBOARD

SRI LANKA 1st innings D. Karunaratne c Watling b Southee 12 K. Mendis c Watling b Southee 31 U. Jayasundera run-out 26 D. Chandimal c Watling b Bracewell 47 A. Mathews not out 63 M. Siriwardana c Taylor b Boult 62 K. Vithanage c B. McCullum b Boult 0 R. Herath run-out (Williamson) 4 D. Chameera not out 0 Extras: (lb-7, w-12) 19 Total: (for 7 wickets, 67 overs) 264 Fall of wickets: 1-39, 2-44, 3-115, 4-121, 5-259, 6-259, 7-264. Bowling: T. Boult 17-2-43-2, T. Southee 16-5-51-2 (w-1), D. Bracewell 19-2-79-1 (w-1), N. Wagner 7-0-49-0 (w-2), M. Santner 7-0-34-0, K. Williamson 1-0-1-0.

Cavaliers extend streak, Hornets down Raptors in OT

LEBRON JAMES THE Cleveland Cavaliers maintained their good form against the Oklahoma City Thunder, while the Charlotte Hornets won. THE Cleveland Cavaliers extended their winning streak to four games after edging the Oklahoma City Thunder 104100 in the NBA on Thursday. LeBron James had a game-high 33 points and 11 assists as the Cavs rallied from four points down at the start of the fourth

He coaxed Siriwardana (62) into an edge that flew to first slip Ross Taylor, who having already dropped two earlier catches, bobbled the ball before holding on to it as he broke a 138-run partnership with Mathews. Kithurawan Vithanage was then caught by a diving Brendon McCullum at mid-off for a duck three balls later after he got a leading edge to a swinging delivery. Rangana Herath was then run-out in Boult’s next over from a direct hit by Kane Williamson as the visitors lost three wickets for just five runs. Prior to that short period, Sri Lanka had looked to have seized control of the day with Mathews and Siriwardana untroubled

WICB wants best players ...

Tour star Jason Day. World number two Day’s wife, Ellie, was taken to hospital on a stretcher when James stumbled into the first row of seats as he chased a loose ball toward the end of the fourth quarter, landing directly on top of the mother of two. James later tweeted: “Ellie Day I hope you’re doing okay! My apologies! Hope u guys come back to another game soon. Love

LJ!.” Jeremy Lin, meanwhile, starred as the Charlotte Hornets defeated the Toronto Raptors 109-99 in overtime. Lin posted a season-high 39 points to lead the Hornets. Kemba Walker contributed 27 points, while DeMar DeRozan had 31 points for the Raptors. In Thursday’s only other game, the Houston Rockets accounted for the Los Angeles Lakers 107-87.

ENGLISH RACING TIPS Haydock 07:55 hrs Baratineur 08:25 hrs Pain Au Chocolat 08:55 hrs Yes I Did 09:30 hrs Whispering Harry 10:05 hrs Montdragon 10:40 hrs Final Assault 11:15 hrs Issacstown Lad LINGFIELD 08:05 hrs Alshaqee 08:35 hrs Temple Road 09:10 hrs The Steward 09:45 hrs Good Trip 10:20 hrs Energia Davos 10:55 hrs Calling Out 11:30 hrs Silver Lining NEWCASTLE 08:15 hrs Imperial Leader 08:50 hrs Clan Chief 09:20 hrs Bernardelli 09:55 hrs Near To Tears 10:30 hrs Gold Opera 11:05 hrs Applaus ASCOT 08:40 hrs Say My Name 09:15 hrs Blue Fashion 09:50 hrs Mountain King 10:25 hrs Saphir Du Rheu 11:00 hrs The Young Master 11:35 hrs Sternrubin

IRISH RACING TIPS Fairyhouse 08:00 hrs Roi Des Frances 08:30 hrs Allblak Des Places 09:00 hrs Gangster 09:35 hrs Au Quart De Tour 10:10 hrs Blazing West 10:45 hrs Mic Milano 11:20 hrs Cherry Bomb SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Kenilworth 08:15 hrs Artic Blast 08:50 hrs Juan Two Three 09:25 hrs No Worries 10:00 hrs Rabada 10:35 hrs Coltrane 11:10 hrs Same Jurisdiction 11:45 hrs League Of Legends AMERICAN RACING TIPS Aqueduct Race 1 Smiling John Race 2 Awesome Gent Race 3 Fortuitous Path Race 4 Adventist Race 5 Wake Up in Malibu Race 6 Malibu Action Race 7 Roman Revival Race 8 Tommy Macho Race 9 Corinthian’s Joy

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Hodge, Ross fifties set up Adelaide Strikers win A RECORD partnership between Brad Hodge and Alex Ross ensured Adelaide Strikers coach Jason Gillespie enjoyed a fairy-tale homecoming.

Defending 187, Strikers overcame a nervous start in the field to restrict the power-packed Stars batting line-up to 7 for 168. Assisted by a pitch offering turn, English

Alex Ross crunches seven fours and three sixes

The pair complemented each other perfectly during a record BBL fifth-wicket stand of 115 to punctuate Strikers’ 19-run win over the fancied Melbourne Stars at the Adelaide Oval.

import Adil Rashid menaced with figures of 2 for 27, including the prized scalp of Glenn Maxwell who threatened to seal the deal for the Stars. Strikers fluffed as many as five chanc-

Hussey laughs off World Twenty20 comeback chatter SYDNEY, (Reuters)-Retired test batsman Mike Hussey has laughed off suggestions he could return to Australian colours for next year’s World Twenty20 after scoring an unbeaten 80 to lead the Sydney Sixers to victory in the domestic Big Bash League. The lefthander, who retired from international cricket two years ago, will be on the flight to India for the March 8-April 3 tournament as a coaching consultant to the Australia team. Shane Watson was one observers of the 59-ball knock who suggested his 40-year-old Sixers team mate would not look out of place back out in the middle in the international game but Hussey was having none of it. “No, I wouldn’t have thought so,” Hussey laughed. “I’m happy to try and help out as much as I can off the field. “We’ve got so much talent in this country and I’m excited to be working with the Australian team. “It’s the one trophy we don’t have

MIKE HUSSEY in the cabinet, so there’s a lot of motivation for the team. “Everyone I talk to around Cricket Australia, it’s the one they really want. If I can help out in some small way, I’d be ecstatic.” Australia’s best showing at the World Twenty20 was reaching the final of the 2010 version, when they lost to England.

es early in the chase, most notably Craig Simmons’ dropped sitter at first slip when Marcus Stoinis was on 2, but they recovered to grasp the initiative. The bowling attack stepped up to curb Stars’ batting line-up, with discipline, highlighted by the visitors’ inability to hit a six until the 14th over. Stars seemed on track to overhaul the target when they reached 1 for 90 after 11 overs, but Ben Laughlin changed the complexion of the match, taking the key wickets of Stoinis and Kevin Pietersen in the next over. Apart from a brief whirlwind partnership between Maxwell and captain David Hussey, the total appeared beyond Stars. Amid sweltering conditions where temperatures hovered at 38 degrees when the match started, Hodge and Ross starred and rescued Strikers from early trouble, after being sent in by Hussey. When Travis Head (16) fell to a questionable caught-behind decision, despite replays showing the ball appearing to land in front of wicketkeeper Peter Handscomb, Strikers slumped to 4 for 64 in the 10th over, and were in serious peril of posting a competitive total on a flat pitch. Hodge, the Strikers new captain, showcased his experience and composure during a stabilising period of batting where he was content to rotate the strike with clever singles. Juxtaposing this was Ross’ audacious batting

complete with a plethora of bold sweep shots, which accounted for two of his three sixes in the innings. Fittingly, Ross notched his maiden BBL half-century, off just 25 balls, when he swept pacer Scott Boland for a massive six. Boland then got his revenge by trapping Ross lbw in the last over of the innings, but the damage had been done. Showcasing his class, Hodge timed his innings to perfection scoring 29 off as many balls before accelerating towards the end to finish unbeaten on 56 from 41 deliveries. The Strikers plundered 67 runs in the final four overs. The Hodge and Ross brilliance came after Strikers’ top order had failed to fire, despite a tease from openers Craig Simmons and Tim Ludeman, who hit two sixes each. However, they were unable to produce scores of substance. Mahela Jayawardene, a replacement in the Strikers’ squad for the injured Kieron Pollard, seemed likely to try to bat throughout the innings but looked out of touch. Jayawardene was dropped by Handscomb before he had scored, but soon perished attempting a rash slash off James Faulkner, who was the pick of the Stars bowlers finishing with 1 for 21. It eventually turned out to be a satisfying start for the Strikers’ new leadership combination of Gillespie and Hodge. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Swiss announce extraditions to U.S., and Uruguay in football corruption probe By Malena Castaldi MONTEVIDEO, (Reuters) - Switzerland extradited a former Costa Rican football boss to the United States yesterday and approved the handover of a former South American federation chief to Uruguay in the latest judicial steps in the corruption scandal that has engulfed the sport. Costa Rican Eduardo Li was sent to the United States, accompanied by two U.S. police officers, after withdrawing his appeal against extradition, the Swiss Federal Office of Justice (FOJ) said. It said it would send Eugenio Figueredo, a former head of South America’s CONMEBOL football body and former vice-president of world federation FIFA, to Uruguay, where he is accused of abusing his office for personal gain. Both men were arrested on May 27 in Zurich as part of investigations led by the United States and Switzerland that span dozens of countries and centre on alleged corruption at the highest levels of the world’s most popular sport. Figueredo had appealed against the FOJ’s September 17 ruling to extradite him to the United States,

but agreed on November 9, to be sent to Uruguay, the justice office said. It said it had decided to give priority to the Uruguayan extradition request because “Figueredo could be tried in Uruguay for all of the offences of which he is accused”. “In the USA, the prosecution would cover only some of the charges. For this reason, the FOJ yesterday decided to give priority to Figueredo’s extradition to Uruguay.” The FOJ gave no details on the timing of the handover. CONMEBOL, an influential grouping that includes traditional football powers such as Brazil and Argentina, is heavily embroiled in the corruption probe led by the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Of 14 football officials and sports marketing executives indicted in the United States in May on bribery, money-laundering and wire fraud charges involving more than $150M (£100M) in payments, eight were from South America. Football bosses from across South and Central America were among 16 other people charged on December 3 with multi-million-dollar bribery schemes for marketing and broadcast rights.

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Ntini helps to mark historic day for cricket in Rwanda ‘CRICKET is bringing people together in Rwanda after a troubled past. For too long Rwanda’s small but growing cricket community has been held back by a lack of facilities’ While the first words were being written on England’s tour of South Africa – as it began in Pochefstroom – some 1700 miles away, in the outskirts of Rwanda’s capital Kigali, an altogether more important venture was getting underway. In Gahanga, seven kilometres from the city centre, and with the help of former South African international Makhaya Ntini, construction began on Rwanda’s first international cricket stadium. The symbolic groundbreaking ceremony took place at the site of Rwanda’s future ‘home of cricket’ – a project that will see the construction of two cricket pitches, practice facilities and a state-of-the-art pavilion. The construction is the work of the Rwanda Cricket Stadium Foundation (RCSF), a British-based charity, and will form a

Makhaya Ntini lifts a spade at the groundbreaking ceremony that marked the start of construction on a new stadium in Rwanda, Wednesday. (Rwanda Cricket Stadium Foundation) base for them alongside the Rwanda Cricket Association, as well as provide an educational space and free HIV testing for the local community.

With the construction of the pitch due to begin in early 2016, the first match at the ground is scheduled for 2017, with Prime Minister David Cameron as well as

West Indies legend Brian Lara – both patrons of the charity – pencilled in for the inaugural game. RCSF’s new Project Director is Alby Shale, son

Khawaja firm for Boxing Day Test against West Indies MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Usman Khawaja’s bid to reclaim his spot in Australia’s top order for the Boxing Day Test against West Indies is back on track after the batsman was passed fit to play in the domestic Twenty20 competition. Khawaja missed the West Indies series-opener in Hobart and the third and final Test against New Zealand in Adelaide last month after suffering a hamstring injury against the Black Caps in Perth. The left-hander was rested for Sydney Thunder’s ‘Big Bash’ opener on Thursday but passed a fitness test yesterday and will pad up for the side at the Melbourne Cricket Ground tomorrow. If he emerges from that unscathed, Khawaja is expected to be picked for the second Test against West Indies in Melbourne, leaving selectors with a tough call

to drop either opener Joe Burns or batsman Shaun Marsh. Marsh has performed well since replacing Khawaja at Ade-

USMAN KHAWAJA

laide and smashed 182 in Hobart in a record-setting partnership with Adam Voges that set up a dominant win and a 1-0 lead in the three-Test series. Burns starred in the series-opener against New Zealand in Brisbane, scoring 71 and 129, but has had a modest output in the three Tests since. “Whoever they leave out, they’re going to be hard done by,” former captain Michael Clarke told local media. “Joe Burns got a beautiful hundred in the first Test and I think his contribution with (opener) David Warner has been really important. “Shaun Marsh grabbed his opportunity with both hands. “Whoever they go with will perform. Whoever they leave out will go back to state cricket and continue to make runs and wait for another opportunity.”

of Christopher Shale, described as ‘a close and valued friend’ of Cameron, who died in 2011 and in whose memory the foundation was established – with the aim of realising his vision of building a proper home for cricket in Rwanda. Speaking about the project, Alby Shale said: “Cricket is bringing people together in Rwanda after a troubled past. For too long Rwanda’s small but growing cricket community has been held back by a lack of facilities. “We are building this

ground to provide a permanent home for the sport and facilitate community reconciliation through cricket. All Rwandans, from all different backgrounds, will have the opportunity to use the facility. “We are extremely excited to move into the construction stage of the project and our success will be measured by the legacy we leave behind.” In 2013, Shale broke the world record for the longest continuous batting net, batting for 26 hours at the indoor school at The Oval, to raise awareness and funds for the charity. The RCSF was also involved in setting the record for the highest game of cricket ever played, 5,752m up, near the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro – a 2014 expedition that included Ntini, the first black South African to represent his country at cricket. Ntini said: “It is great to see the RCSF investing in Rwanda’s future, enhancing its sporting landscape and helping to spread the game I love. “Investing in facilities will build on the excellent work of the Rwanda Cricket Association and allow as many persons as possible to take up the game. I look forward to seeing Rwanda take on South Africa very soon!” The foundation hopes the ground will be operational by the beginning of 2017, a date when Rwanda can start to write its own cricketing history.

NOTABLE DATES THE legendary Lennox Beckles suffered his only first-round knockout defeat on December 19, 1969. Beckles, a slick and talented boxer, travelled to Milan, Italy to challenge Sandro Lopopolo in a fight scheduled for 10 rounds. However, the 30-year-old Lopopolo, a former World Boxing Association (WBA) and World Boxing Council (WBC) junior welterweight champion, took control of the contest early and finished off the Guyanese in the opening round. The result was a complete opposite of their first encounter, which Beckles won on points. Born on October 12, 1942 Beckles is still considered one of the best from Guyana to have laced up the gloves. Very few would deny that his skill and ring craft is unmatched by any of the current crop of pugilists. Beckles had brushed aside the likes of Rugged Mack, Caesar Barrow, Eddie Perkins, Vernon Lewis and Johnny DePeiza to name a few, while in his prime. He made his professional debut in 1960 and won the British Guiana welterweight title five years later. He closed an eventful career 14 years later.

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Upper Corentyne to oppose Lower Corentyne in CGI Franchise League final UPPER Corentyne defeated Georgetown in the playoff match on Thursday to book their place in the final against Lower Corentyne/New Amsterdam/Canje as the Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI) Local Franchise League (LFL) continued. Playing at Port Mourant ground, the home team won the toss and made a brave decision to bowl first against a Georgetown team, strengthened with the inclusion of Guyana Jaguars captain Leon Johnson and all-rounder team mate, Christopher Barnwell. Upper Corentyne claimed their first wicket with the score on 10, when Andrew Lyght Jr was caught by Joshua Ramsammy for 6 off medium pacer Assad Fudadin. Jeetendra Sookdeo and Shemroy Barrington

then shared a third-wicket partnership of 42, before Sookdeo was caught

JONATHON FOO behind by Anthony Bramble off the bowling

of Fudadin. Captain Leon Johnson followed caught by Jonathon Foo off Sharaz Ramcharran. Christopher Barnwell, who joined Shemroy Barrington, gave some hope of revival early on when he clobbered a boundary just after arriving at the crease. However, such hope was shortlived as Shawn Pereira had him caught and bowled with the score on 67 for 4. Shemroy Barrington was soon after runout for 26, with the score on 73 for 5. With both Leon Johnson and Christopher Barnwell back in the pavilion for such a meagre score, youth player Shurfane Rutherford had the enormous task of rebuilding. He took up such responsibility in a very mature manner,

Malta Supreme Christmas basketball …

Bulls, Raiders seek to remain unbeaten tonight in final preliminary round By Joe Chapman RETRIEVE Raiders overpowered Victory Valley Royals Jets, handing them their second loss, and keeping their unblemished record intact with their third win. Meanwhile Amelia’s Ward Jets kept their hopes alive by eliminating Block 22 Flames out of contention when the Linden Amateur Basketball Association’s organised Malta Supreme Christmas Open basketball championship continued on Thursday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court. The Raiders, with the experienced former national Abdulla Hamid at the helm, will tonight go for their fourth win when they face the Allister Webster-led Jets at 21.00hrs. Preceding that feature at 19.00hrs, the other unbeaten side Half Mile Bulls, led by young national players Dennis Niles, Michael Turner and Terron Welch, Half Mile Bulls will face Bankers Trust Falcons who, after four previous defeats, will certainly not advance to the semifinals but would have to turn up, failing which sanctions will be instituted. The Royals were able to tie their tense game 45-45 against the Raiders where tempers flared in this ‘dog-fight‘ encounter, but Raiders pulled through under testing circumstances 49-46. In that win Derwin Robertson had a game-high 25 points leading their unbeat-

en run with national player Keon Cameron getting 14 and Deul Garner 10. For the Royals Alwyn Rodney had another good game offensively with 15 points, while current national small forward Harold Adams (their best player), was consistent with 13 points and Nevin Grenville added 12 in their losing cause. In the other game Thursday, Jets trounced past Flames 60-28 as Joel Webster and Akini Wilson both got 11 points and Chris Gill 10 for the winners, while Rawle Williams scored eight and Keith Sullivan seven for the Flames. The previous night the Royals had romped past Block 22 Flames with a resounding 53-37 when Rodney topscored 16 and Adams contributed 14 with Nevin Glen 11. Rawle Williams was the best shoot for the Flames with eight points. The Falcons had failed to show up for this game on Wednesday night which gave the Jets a walkover victory. The battle therefore this evening will determine which four teams will advance to the semifinals, as the Bulls, led by national shooting guard Terron Welch and Raiders seek to top the points standings after being unbeaten. The clash between these two sides is set for next Wednesday. However, they must surpass their opponents tonight before that final play-off game to end this preliminary round.

coupling aggression with temperance to register a half-century and simultaneously give his team an outside but fighting chance, as Georgetown ended their innings on 142 all out off 43.2 overs. Bowling for Upper Corentyne, Eon Hooper grabbed 3 for 20, Jonathon Foo 2 for 24 and Assad Fudadin, with his useful medium pace, 2 for 37. In reply, Upper Corentyne were in an early spot of bother when Andre

Stoll had Sharaz Ramcharran adjudged lbw for 11 with the score on 14. Lloydell Lewis then followed for 9, caught behind by Kemol Savory off Kellon Carmichael, to make the score 50 for 2. Jason Sinclair, who took the fight to Georgetown, was bowled by Devon Lord for 29, giving Georgetown a glimmer of hope. But in this case, hope turned into despair, as Assad Fudadin 38 and Jonathon Foo 40, guided Upper

Corentyne to a well-deserved victory, finishing on 145 for 3 from 27.2 overs and winning the playoff match (between the second and third teams from the preliminary stage) by 7 wickets. Upper Corentyne will now meet Lower Corentyne/New Amsterdam Canje for Inaugural Local Franchise League Championship honours at Albion Community Centre from 14:00hrs today in a day/night affair.

Van Gaal fears same fate as Mourinho if United keep losing LONDON, (Reuters)-Under-pressure Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal knows losing too many more matches “could be the end of the world” but said he still has the full backing of the club’s board. Jose Mourinho’s sacking by Chelsea took the spotlight off Dutchman Van Gaal on Friday but the vultures are circling after his side were knocked out of the Champions League after defeat by Wolfsburg and lost to modest Bournemouth last week. He said his side, labouring in fourth in the Premier League, have to beat Norwich City on Saturday. “The only answer is to win this game. It’s still difficult because we are playing in the Premier League, but at home you have to win, and that’s for sure,” Van Gaal, under fire for his tactics all season with fans blaming him for a lack of flair, told a news conference. “I have the full confidence of my board and my players, that is what I feel. “But we have to get results, we have to win. We know that, the players know that, I know that and the members of staff know that. There is no doubt that we have to win because when you lose too much then even for me it is the end of the world.” Van Gaal spoke of the “crazy” world of football when discussing Mourinho’s sacking.

“It was a big surprise for me I didn’t expect that, a fantastic manager with a record that nobody has in his foot-

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal Reuters / Toby MelvilleLivepic ball world,” Van Gaal said of title-winner Mourinho’s exit. “But I said last week is that the main thing is results and the second thing is the chemistry between the

players and the manager and his staff. “I cannot judge what was happening there but was very surprised. “It’s like that, managers know in advance, it’s this world. My players are fine (with me). I’ve read more than one article that doesn’t look like that, but that’s this crazy world.” Van Gaal said three or four players who have been out injured could be set for a return and he is hopeful striker Wayne Rooney will be fit after a full week’s training. Rooney has missed three matches with an ankle injury. Defender Chris Smalling and midfielder Ander Herrera are also in contention for recalls. “Rooney has been out for more or less two weeks so it is possible that he will play but we have to wait and see,” Van Gaal said.

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

Answers to Thursday’s quiz:

(1) 269* (2) 2052 runs

Today’s Quiz:

(1) How many WI have now played Test cricket against Australia? (2) How many Test matches the WI and Australia have now contested against each other to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday December 19, 2015

Continental Group of Companies continues to support KMTC’s Boxing Day Horse Race Meet THE Continental Group of Companies continues to support the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club’s (KMTC) Annual Boxing Day race meet with a monetary contribution for the first race on the December 26 race meet card. The company is sponsoring all cash prizes for the top four finishers of the `K1 and Lower’ five-furlong race, as well as the winning trophy. The first-place winner will receive $120, 000 and a trophy, while the other top three finishers will earn $60, 000, $30, 000 and $15 000 respectively. Marketing and Sales Manager of the Continental Group, Avalon Jagnandan, in a brief address at Justice Cecil Kennard’s office yesterday, said his company is pleased to be associated

with the KMTC race meet, which has become an annual event on the Guyana Horse Racing Authority’s calendar of events for each year. Jagnandan noted that this particular event is always of a high standard, and his company is happy to continue its association with the KMTC and with sports in general. Over the years, the Continental Group of Companies has supported sports in Guyana in a wide array of areas, including motor racing, horse racing, badminton, football, table tennis, hockey, karate and golf, among other disciplines. Jagnandan, however, stated that horse racing is a growing sport locally and it is a sport that brings all our peoples together, “thus, Continental’s continuous

brief remarks, thanked the Continental Group for its continued support, which started some 27 years ago. Meanwhile, Rohan Auto Spares of Corentyne, Berbice is sponsoring the fourth race on the day’s programme, and not the third event as was previously stated in this newspaper. Rohan’s will be sponsoring the `J3 and Lower’ six-furlong race, with the winner collecting $140 000, while the other top three finishers will receive $70, 000, $35, 000 and $17, 000 respectively. The feature event on the day’s card will be a one-mile race for horses classified `C In photo, Continental Group of Companies Market- and Lower’ (WA) and carries ing and Sales Manager Avalon Jagnandan (right) a first prize of $1M along hands over the sponsorship cheque and trophy to with a trophy. The other top KMTC’s honorary president Justice Cecil Kennard. three finishers will receive $500, 000, $250, 000 and involvement in this sport”. Justice Kennard, in very $125, 000 respectively.

Three more six-furlong races are also carded for the day, with one being for horses classified H1 and Lower, another for J3 and Lower and the other for horses classified J1 and Lower and two-year-old Guyana-bred horses. One five-furlong race will be staged for K1 and Lower (WA) horses. Race horse owners and trainers are reminded that registration of horses for the event closes today, and owners/trainers who have not registered their animals as yet and wish to do so can make contact with either Roopnarine Matadial (325-3192), or Ivan Dipnarine (3310316); Justice Kennard (623-7609, 225-4818 or 226-1399); Isabella Beaton (693-7812) or Dennis Deroop (609-9143).

NSC, corporate Guyana Jeffrey Webb to face to pay homage to sentencing next June Guyana’s boxing stalwarts THE National Sports Commission (NSC) in collaboration with corporate Guyana will today pay

MICHAEL BENJAMIN homage to Guyana’s boxing stalwarts at the launching of Guyana’s first boxing Hall of Fame at the Andrew `Six Head’ Lewis Boxing Gym, Callender Street and Independence Boulevard at 13:00hrs. According to a press release, boxers, managers, promoters and other officials of the sport, including president of the Guyana Olympic

Association, K. Juman-Yassin, and Georgetown’s Mayor Hamilton Green, are expected to grace the function with their presence. The launch will coincide with the Demerara Distillers Limited’s sponsored Under-16 Boxing Tournament that will see the Simon Pires slug it out for honours. A number of Guyana’s past outstanding professional boxers and those from the current crop will be honoured. These include Guyana’s first-ever world champion, the late Andrew Lewis; Wayne `Big Truck’ Braitwaite; Gairy St Clair, Vivian Harris, and Guyana’s lone Olympic medallist Michael Parris, along with Guyana’s three female world champions Gwendolyn O’Neil, Shondell Alfred and Pamela London. The genesis of the Hall of Fame was conceptualised by Guyana’s former Continental of America’s welterweight champion Michael Benjamin and businessman/ boxing enthusiast Maurice Pile.

Among the corporate entities that have given the venture financial and other support are Abdool and Abdool Insurance, Hand-in-Hand Insurance, Ramchand Auto Spares, Dr Max Hanoman, Modern Optical Service, German’s Restaurant, Attorneys-at-Law Joe Harmon and Euclin Gomes, Claude Raphael Real Estate, Eddy Grant, Lawrence Atherly, Guyana Football Federation (GFF) president Wayne Forde, Ansa McAl and Philip Fernandes of John Fernandes Limited.

FORMER CONCACAF and Cayman Football Association president Jeffrey Webb will know how much jail time, if any, he will face next June. Webb pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy, three counts of wire fraud conspiracy, and three counts of money-laundering conspiracy in a United States court recently, and agreed to forfeit US$6.7 million as part of the plea. The former FIFA vice-president was one of several football officials arrested in a raid by Swiss police at the offices of FIFA. Indictments alleging an elaborate racketeering and corruption scheme followed shortly. Webb agreed to be extradited to the United States, where he first pleaded not guilty. The former FIFA executive member changed that plea not long after that.

JEFFREY WEBB He has been on a US$10-million bond, under condition that he remains under house arrest at his home in Atlanta. (Sportsmax)

Pepsi U-16 Boxing

Shaquancy Wright to lead Essequibo Boxing Gym THE Essequibo Boxing Gym would be armed with confidence heading into today’s DDL Pepsi/Michael Parris Under- 16 tournament which punches off at the Andrew `Six Head’ Lewis gym in Albouystown. Included in the Gym’s eight-man lineup is 12-year-old Shaquancy Wright, one of Guyana’s leading junior boxers. Wright was a part of a 28-member team of boxers who completed a three-week encampment at Camp

Seweyo, leading up to the recently concluded 13-nation Caribbean Development Boxing Tournament. The diminutive boxer was set to make his international debut at the November 26-29 competition, but was unable to find an opponent. This has forced the Guyana Boxing Association to plan an international Under-16 competition for March next year. Wright will now turn attention to local opponents, some of whom

are part of the Pocket Rocket Gym from Linden. Today’s tournament punches off at 10:00hrs. Also in the hunt for medals are boxers from the Harpy Eagles Gym, Carryl Gym from Linden, Rose Hall Jammers of Berbice and Albouystown’s Forgotten Youth Foundation. The tournament brings down the curtain on the association’s activities for 2015.

Continental Group of Companies continues to support KMTC’s Boxing Day Horse Race meet See story on page 31

Trophy Stall presents top-place trophies for UDFA/GT Beer Football

UDFA president Sharma Solomon receives the first-place trophy from Ramesh Sunich of Trophy Stall, while Jeoff Clement, GT Beer Brand Manager, looks on.

WICB wants best players for regionals

PROPRIETOR of Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich, yesterday presented the top-place trophies to president of Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA), Sharma Solomon, during a simple ceremony at Trophy Stall’s main office in Bourda Market. Also present was Jeoff Clement, GT Beer Brand Manager. Trophy Stall of Bourda Market has signed on as sponsor for the 3rd Annual UDFA/GT Beer Knockout Football Cup, being played at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground in Linden. Solomon expressed gratitude to Sunich for sponsoring the trophies for the 14-team tournament, organised by the UDFA with the main sponsor being Banks DIH Limited through its GT Beer brand. The winning team will receive $800, 000 and the GT Beer Trophy, with the runners-up taking home $500, 000 and a trophy. Third-placers will collect $300, 000 and a trophy, while the fourth-place finishers will receive $200, 000. There will also be prizes for the Most Valuable Player (MVP), Highest Goalscorer, Best Goalkeeper, Most Disciplined Team, Best Defender, and Best Coach. Meanwhile, a double-header card is set for tomorrow, with Hi-Stars coming up against Netrockers in the first match at 18:30hrs. The feature game will bring together Amelia’s Ward and Botofago at 20:30hrs.

Sri Lanka investigates attempt to fix international cricket match

WICB Chief Executive Officer, Michael Muirhead

ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) is calling on the region’s top players to be available for the regional tournaments to ensure that they remain eligible for selection for international competition. With the WICB Professional Cricket League (PCL) now on a break and with the 3rd NAGICO Super50, scheduled to bowl off on Thursday, January 7, “there is an opportunity to have the best players compete for regional supremacy in the upcoming events”. noted Chief Executive Officer, Michael Muirhead. The CEO emphasised that “the Board has looked at its tournament schedule and has placed each tournament at a time that allows our international players to participate in other competitions overseas. We, however, value our competitions and we think the fans would want to see our See page 27

SRI Lankan authorities are investigating an attempt to fix an international cricket match involving the national team and the West Indies. Sports Minister Dayasiri Jayasekera said a suspected bookmaker had approached two Sri Lankan players ahead of the match to try to convince them to under-perform and lose the match. Both players turned down the approach, and the authorities were informed, Mr Jayasekara said. Sri Lanka went on to win the game. Wicketkeeper Kusal Perera and bowler Rangana Herath were approached shortly before the match in Galle, Sri Lanka, in October, the minister said. “After Kusal turned

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9

Players reported the match-fixing attempt to authorities, the sports minister said down the offer, the man approached Herath, who also rejected the offer and alerted the authorities,”

he added. Both a police inquiry and anti-corruption investigation by Sri Lanka Crick-

et have been launched. The International Cricket Council has also been informed.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2015