Chronicle 5 22 2016

‘Free for all’ days over No. 104559

SUNDAY MAY 22, 2016

Price: $140

(VAT INCLUSIVE)

- Trotman baffled by miners’ claim of a crisis, absence of policies

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Police stunts thrill hundreds Page

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The SWAT team in action as they apprehended ‘criminals’ holding hostages on a bus. (Ivan Bentham Photo)

Rice Cereal GuySuCo No Factory still witch-hunting willing to pay on the cards - Granger maintains

Audit Reports…

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Wales Estate imbroglio...

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- but constrained by injunction

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Police stunts thrill hundreds HUNDREDS braved the rainy weather to watch the police showcase their talents and skills at an aptly titled “Police Day” at the newly built Durban Park on Saturday.

The event was the Guyana Police Force’s contribution to Guyana’s 50th independence celebrations.

Although there were booths that provided information to highlight the force and its activities, the crowd was focused on the thrilling activities on the tarmac.

In attendance was Public

Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud, and other senior officers of the Police Force. Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Clifton Hicken ,was on the ball making sure the event unfolded smoothly.

Ramjattan, in opening remarks, said his ministry will do its best to assist the force in executing its mandate.

“We are now gaining the public trust in the Police Force; without the public trust we are not going to

A clash between TSU ranks and rioters (Ivan Bentham Photo) solve crimes…once there is public trust and confidence in the Police Force, once the crime situation is solved, we can get a lot of things solved that can then attract more investors and people can have more confidence in Guyana,” the minister explained.

He said the happiness level will rise when society experiences crime reduction, given the current

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A canine discovers a grenade hidden in one of several boxes as his handler displays the find in the air (Ivan Bentham Photo)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

‘Free for all’ days over

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- Trotman baffled by miners’ claim of a crisis, absence of policies NATURAL Resources Minister Raphael Trotman is nonplussed by the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association’s (GGDMA) call for more concessions, a clear policy for the sector, and for contending that the sector is in a crisis.

The minister, in a statement, said the “free for all” days in the industry, which had obtained under the previous administration, are over. He noted that he is deeply taken aback by the motive behind the statements and the kind of relationship the GGDMA requires with Government.

Despite record gold production, members of the GGDMA are clamouring for more concessions from Government, and have demanded that the administration unveil a clear policy for the mining sector.

The miners are also seeking an audience with President David Granger because they want him to shed greater light on his green-economy strategy.

Minister Trotman had said on Thursday that, as of May 2016, gold production increased by 92,000 ounces compared

to the same period last year, despite gold prices being a bit sluggish, and this could be credited to the hard work of small and medium-scale miners.

But at a GGDMA members meeting on Friday afternoon, members raised several concerns that they said should be addressed with alacrity by the APNU+AFC administration.

Among those concerns are what they described as the lack of a clear policy for the mining sector, and increased production costs.

GGDMA President Terrence Adams said it is imperative that the administration state exactly what its policy is with regard to the sector. To this end, the miners’ association is hoping to soon engage President Granger.

“You go to a meeting with one person and they tell you this is what they are going to do… you go to another meeting and they tell you something else. It is very confusing,” declared Adams amidst loud rumbles of agreement.

But Minister Trotman said he is at a loss as to what inspired these positions by the GGDMA. He pointed out that

Pan on de Wall

AS part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, a unique presentation of steel bands continues today on the Seawalls. Aptly called “Pan on de Wall,” it is hosted by the Ministry of Education’s Department of Culture, Youth and Sport in collaboration with Republic Bank. Here, the GBTI/Buxton Steel Orchestra entertain patrons at the Georgetown Bandstand on Saturday

continuous engagements with the GGDMA executive have been cordial and fruitful.

The most recent such engagement, he said, was on Tuesday, May 10, 2016, when the ministers of the Ministry, the Chairman and Commissioner of the GGMC, and others sat with the executive of the GGDMA and held discussions on issues that were affecting miners, and the ways to tackle them together.

“No statements about a crisis or absence of a policy were uttered at that meeting, and it begs the question whether the meeting was a sham. Interestingly, the GGDMA has also declined to share a comprehensive review of the sector sponsored by the IDB on its behalf, even though conceding that the findings would benefit the Government's efforts at reform and be useful in refining its policies,” the minister said.

He added that, unfortunately, this recent attack, havNatural Resources ing taken the Ministry by Minister Raphael surprise, suggests that the Trotman GGDMA prefers to see itself as a pressure group rather than as a committed partner working alongside the Ministry of Natural Resources to regulate an industry that was previously governed in a very unregulated and biased manner.

Further, the minister said, the Government firmly believes that it is only through collaboration that “we can truly tap and exploit the mineral wealth in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly manner.”

“Recent statistics about high gold declarations contradict the GGDMA's utterances about the industry being in a crisis and devoid of any policy to give it direction. The statistics don't lie, and instead, confirm that an industry that is better regulated and incentive-driven will produce results.

“The free for all days that some want to drag us back to are over. The Ministry of Natural Resources remains ready, willing and able to seriously, fairly, and meaningfully engage the GGDMA and all other stakeholders, and is expecting that they are prepared to do the same,” Minister Trotman said.

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sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Audit Reports…

No witch-hunting

By Ariana Gordon

NOTWITHSTANDING the revelations of impropriety, fraud and corruption unearthed in the many reports of audits conducted by the APNU-AFC coalition government over the past few months, Government will not participate in witch-hunting.

During his weekly public programme, “The Public Interest”, President David Granger said while there has been evidence of much malpractice by persons who occupy or once occupied state posts, his government will move to the courts only when it is sure that the evidence in hand can withstand scrutiny.

“Although the audit reports have been accepted, and they point to malpractice, sometimes the evidence is not sufficient to bring prosecution in court,” the President Granger explained.

He noted that, in some cases, many of the persons found culpable of malpractice have left the country and are, often times, citizens of other countries.

“We have not embarked on extraditions because they are sometimes not warranted,” the President added.

He made it clear that the function of the audits is to prevent recurrence of malpractice, corruption, and instances of fraud in the public sector.

“Where the evidence is available, we would do prosecutions in the court. We don’t want to use those audits as a sort of tool for witch-hunting and dismiss people willy-nilly,” he explained.

Notwithstanding this position, the President said he wants to ensure that those cases that the administration

- Granger maintains

decides to place before the courts are successful prosecuted.

Thus far, the findings of twenty audits have been made public by the Ministry of Finance, and in every report presented to the Government, instances of malpractice and/or corruption have been found.

In the case of the Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil), auditor Nigel Hinds Financial Services discovered a “family affair.”

The auditor recommended that strong action be taken against the former Managing Director Badrie Persaud, who was fired in February because he had made decisions that were unauthorized.

According to the forensic audit report, Persaud

“Where the evidence is available, we would do prosecutions in the court.

We don’t want to use those audits as a sort of tool for witch-hunting and dismiss people willy-nilly.” entered into several transactions with close relatives, which reflected a strong conflict of interest.

The audit recommended that Persaud be “disciplined for non-disclosure of conflict of interest” -- for awarding contracts to his brother and a nephew, and for abusing his authority and breaching the procurement policy.

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Persaud was fired at the end of February this year.

It was discovered that, over the period of review, Persaud had awarded transportation contracts worth $62M to his brother Indarjeet Persaud, and a construction contract valued at $860,000 to his nephew Avinash Persaud.

The audit found that apart from the initial sole-sourcing contract to Indarjeet Persaud, there were no subsequent contracts issued between GuyOil and Indarjeet Persaud, but he had continued to provide services beyond the stipulated contractual period, without any written agreement to so do.

Another side of the charge of conflict of interest was highlighted when Badri Persaud decided to become a candidate on the People’s Progressive Party Civic’s (PPP/C) national list for the May 11, 2015 General elections.

“Adherence to the decisions of a political party concurrent with managing a state-owned corporation creates conflict of interest issues that have negative implications for employee morale, use of (GuyOil) resources and the image of (GuyOil),” the audit report stated.

Similarly, in the case of the forensic audit into the operations of the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), it was recommended that Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the agency, Dr Mahender Sharma, be disciplined.

That audit, also conducted by Nigel Hinds Financial Services, said: “Strong disciplinary action should be taken against Sharma, CEO, for lax oversight of the fuel-marking system and (for) ensuing fuel-smuggling; (and for) his role in unlegislated and unauthorised polygraph testing of GEA employees from the Fuel Marking Services Division, (which) resulted in the services of over 30 employees being terminated.”

In the Audit Report, it was noted that there were several deficiencies in the Fuel Marking Division, and those deficiencies were as a result of “a weak internal control system.”

Revenue generated from fuel-marking services have averaged Gy$335,853,784 per year for the period 2011 to 2014, but there is a lack of proper validation of fuel marking reports prepared and issued by terminal staff of oil companies to the Marking Services Division (MSD) of the GEA for bulk fuel marked.

The fuel-marking reports are used to determine the quantity of fuel marked, so that fees can be calculated.

Based on investigations by the auditor, it was discovered that the reports were “not independently validated by the MSD staff or by any officer of the vessel that delivered the fuel to the terminal.

“Prior to 2015, there is no documentation that Fuel Marking Services Division requested the Association of Trawlers and Seafood Operators to provide approved Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Custom forms before duty-free markers are dispensed from GEA stores to mark the fuel”, the report detailed.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Guyanese must have a vested interest in reparations – Granger

By Navendra Seoraj PRESIDENT David Granger Friday evening stressed the need for Guyanese and Caribbean people to join the fight for compensatory payments from those who had enforced the Trans Atlantic slave trade.

“What was done during the colonial times go to the heart of our existence.

“Thus, Guyanese and members of the Caribbean must have a vested interest in reparatory justice,” Granger said at a Youth Reparations Rally at Parade Ground in Georgetown, where, in 1823, the heads of over 200 African-Guyanese freedom fighters were decapitated and placed on poles as a warning to others not to rebel.

The rally was staged by the Guyana Reparations Committee. Guyana and other member nations of the regional trade and integration bloc, CARICOM, are pressing for reparations and have written several European governments requesting talks.

To start Friday’s rally, young runners, leaving with a specially made baton, started off at Stabroek where slaves were undocked, and touched several historical stops (Parliament Buildings, The Square of the Revolution (Cuffy Square) and the Sea Wall) before stopping at the Parade Ground.

President Granger described the slave trade as the largest forced transportation of human beings and could be classed as one of the greatest unnatural disasters of all time.

“Most Africans in the Caribbean are the descendants of persons who were involved in systematic capture, illicit transportation, sale and enslavement of their ancestors, which started in the year 1441,” the President noted.

The world conference against racism held in Durban, South Africa, some time ago acknowledged that “slavery and the slave trade are a crime against humanity and should have always been so.”

However, though the damage was inflicted through the horrendous crime, there was no punishment or justice for what was done, highlighted Granger, who said that

the enslavement of Africans, decimation of the indigenous population and oppression of indentured immigrants all add up to the perpetration of crimes against humanity.

The President stressed that the descendants of once colonised nations are correct in their call for reparations, because they are the victims who have been deprived of an apology and reparative justice for the “abominable crimes that resulted in the loss of millions of lives, the expropriation of wealth and property and the legacy of underdevelopment that still bequests us all in the Caribbean.”

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM), at its 34th Heads of Government meeting in Trinidad and Tobago from July 3-6 2013, came to a unanimous agreement to establish a series of reparation committees across the Caribbean and to appoint a high-level committee to oversee the work.

As this move progressed, the CARICOM Heads of Government in 2014 accepted, as the basis for further action, to draft a regional strategic plan for a Caribbean reparatory justice programme, showing that they have taken a firm and irreversible stand to call for reparations.

President Granger iterated that the plan was prepared by the Regional Reparations Committee, and proposed a 10-point reparations plan, which he said, is an analogy to the Ten Commandments, however, not in its religious form but, as regulations for the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe.

The 10-point plan includes a call for a full formal apology from the countries who colonised the Caribbean states; repatriation; an Indigenous People’s Development Programme; the establishment of Cultural Institutions; a solution to the Public Health Crisis; Illiteracy Eradication; African Knowledge Programme; Psychological Rehabilitation; Technology Transfer and Debt

Cancellation.

“Out of the 10, the most important is the psychological rehabilitation, because if you go to any part of the world you will see that something terrible has happened to people of African descent,” said Granger, who declared that the plans is a holistic and carefully thought out one which will in time bear fruit.

President Granger went on to say that the case for reparative justice can be established in respect to three

against humanity whether in time of war or peace.”

Apart from that fact, reparative justice can be claimed since, the evidence of the huge wealth which was generated during the time of slavery, by expropriation and transfer, is visible in Europe and the UK. “Colonisation allowed for the unjust enrichment of Europe…the vast wealth extracted through forced labour, impoverished those who generated those fortunate,”

Sir Hilary Beckles in a message which was presented by Deputy Chairman of the Guyana Reparations Committee, Jonathan Adams, related that through the Guyana leg of the CARICOM reparations relay and rally, “cleansing fires are beginning to burn in the hearts across the Caribbean nations, which will ignite the souls as we move forward.”

He said it is important that Guyanese recognise and honour the sacrifices made in order to build Guyana by the

Passing the baton of the Youth Reparations rally. At left is Mr Eric Phillips, chair of the Guyana Reparations Committee claims, given that for enslavement and genocide, which are crimes against humanity, victims ought to be recompensed because, Europe’s enrichment came through the wealth of exploitations and deprivations of enslaved persons.

The first basis for reparative justice rests on the fact that crimes against humanity are punishable under international law and persons, organisations or even institutions who commit the act do not enjoy the protection of any statute of limitations or immunity.

The convention on the non-applicability of statutory limitations to world crimes and crimes against humanity adopted by the United Nations (UN) provides that “no statutory barrier shall apply to crimes

lamented the President.

Meanwhile, the third basis of reparative claims is that the Caribbean, even after gaining independence, is yet to shake off the legacy of colonialsm, which left it underdeveloped due to consequence of European conquest and conflict.

To date, real-estate in some parts of the Caribbean is owned by the UK, the region is still fragmented and bares stamps of a plantation economy.

Thus, the victims who have been deprived are yet to be compensated, said President Granger, as he called on all Caribbean countries to continue their fight for reparations and unite as one.

Chairman of the Caricom Reparations Commissions,

enslaved Africans brought here against their will and forced to toil in horrible conditions.

According to Sir Beckles, the valiant and timely struggles across the Caribbean can be viewed as the next step to consolidate the nations’ independence and sovereignty, while creating an avenue for equity, political democracy, economic equality and social justice.

In essence, strengthening independence and reparatory justice are part and parcel to

enhance cohesion of the Caribbean civilisation.

“Our ancestors are calling on us to make this struggle an imperative one of our time… and acclaim for the restitution for the unspeakable injustices and brutal system of chattel slave labour, which claimed over 450,000 African lives,” he outlined.

Repairing the horrendous damage of colonialism and imperialism is pivotal for growth, so it must never be placed behind by members of the Caribbean nations.

Sir Beckles added, “Black and brown lives continue to matter all over, given that we in the Caribbean concern ourselves with the challenges of budget deficits and burdensome national debts. But, in our search for a solution we must recognise and analyse the situations that the deficits we have were inherited.”

He said CARICOM awaits a positive response to letters sent to France, Britain Spain, the Netherlands, Portugal and Sweden, requesting that they meet with the heads of CARICOM to engage in talks of reparations.

This, he said, needs to be addressed quickly because, “a legacy of white supremacy is still prevalent in our region and continues to be impediments to the full realisation and practice of democracy, racial equality and access to various economic opportunities in our respective nations.”

The Baton from Guyana’s leg of the Youth Reparations Rally will then be sent across the country when activities are cloncluded here at the end of the month.

Guyana has produced three replicas of the Baton, in beautiful Mahogany, representing each of the three original counties of Essequibo, Berbice and Demerara.

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sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Sunday Editor

Neil Marks

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

Editorial

Reflecting on Independence FIFTY years ago to this date, then British Guiana was abuzz with activities. Guianese were ushering in a week of celebratory events leading up to, and after, the lowering of the Union Jack and the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead on 25th May at midnight. Those were fitting actions to mark an achievement which came through centuries of resistance to domination, marginalisation and oppression.

The mere thought of Independence is deserving of deep reflection. Foremost, it starts with the thought of thinking not in conformity with others, or accepting things as they are.

The history of the nation, which was established on the debunked belief that some will serve, live and be treated at the behest of another, to recognise and decide that such ways of looking at life and treating with others are unacceptable have redounded to this country’s benefit. Where the enslaved, indentured and colonised had the presence to fight against systems that denied, abused and deprived them, such was emboldened and sustained by independent thinking.

Independence for Guyana comes at a time of mixed emotions. There would be no pretence that there continues to be questions as to whether Guyanese were ever ready for this stage of our development, or deserving of same. Persons can point to various issues as proof of what is considered to be inabilities or unpreparedness to manage our affairs and treat each other with respect and dignity.

This is not lost sight of, equally as it raises the question as to whether anyone thinks that colonisation is deserving of us.

It also is no secret that the struggle for Independence was premised on the principle that, in being left alone to charter our destiny, things could be better with ourselves and among our fellow man.

In that this period attracts pensive reflection as to how far the country has progressed and human relations improved cannot be lost sight of.

Outside of the institutions that have come to define our indigenous identity and place us as equal among other independent nation-states in articulating and pursuing our interests, domestic and foreign, there exists legitimate concern of the state of affairs on the local front.

And these ought to be addressed, as Independence must not only find a nation growing in age, but also its people feeling their forebears’ efforts were worthwhile. Where some feel they have no

part in this society, or should dominate the other, it highlights the presence of thinking that undercuts the spirit and determination that propelled the efforts to secure Independence.

While moments of pessimism can be addressed, the sense of belonging as equals in this society must never be questioned or compromised. A people who have emerged out of unpleasant experiences moving forward do not necessarily require ignoring these, given that lessons can be learnt, mistakes avoided, and strengths built on them. In the process of doing such -- which is an important element in human evolution -- the need for appropriate context and truthful lens ought not to be lost sight of. Unfortunately, the society continues to witness forces more inclined to recount history through lenses not built on truth and in furtherance of partisan political agenda; lenses that are dismissive of the contributions made by others, or employing efforts to wipe those contributions off the nation’s records. And where, over the years, our politics have been characterised as racially driven and in another instance class driven, the failure to honestly look at the past and ‘give Jack his jacket’ will discard significant aspects of the nation’s evolution and contributions of its people.

Independence also requires looking within ourselves to truthfully examine what has been achieved, who played what role in achieving them, where we have faltered, how we can learn from our missteps, and grow from strength to strength. In 2016, independence of thinking will find us refusing to accept things as they are when we know we are capable of making them better. Equally, it must not find us overtaken by pessimism, but imbued with awareness that we who today are alive have a role to play in improving the conditions under which we live, and have the confidence to know that we can do it.

Even as the 50th is being observed with deserving merriment, it should be seen at the state of fulfilment; for it merely marks a milestone in the continued journey on the path of self-determination. Consequently, this must see the redoubling of efforts to safeguard our sovereignty from any invader equally as we strengthen and deepen systems in the quest for full attainment.

Until every man, woman and child has the opportunity to function in an environment that allows for his/her God-given potential to thrive and the assurance of knowing he/she will be respected and protected as equals, there remains work to be done.

sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

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Op-Ed

Celebrating Guyana’s rich natural heritage

by Dr. Russell Mittermeier

GUYANA is a truly privileged country, a ‘green’ country; indeed, one of the greenest countries on earth. It is biodiversity-rich, it is freshwater-rich, and it is set for rapid economic nature-based growth. As the heartland of the Guiana Shield, it will shape the future of the Region through its green economy choices.

It is therefore most timely that ‘International Day of Biodiversity’ falls on the day that begins the week celebrating the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Even as the country marks the occasion of its birth as a nation, it is also an occasion to celebrate and recognize its stewardship of this amazing natural heritage.

The Guiana Shield is the largest remaining block of intact primary tropical forest on Earth. It has a critical role to play in mitigating climate change and

fortunate enough to still have high forest cover are provided the greatest opportunity to do everything possible to conserve it into the future.

But we must also be aware that the ecological value of the Guiana Shield is under threat. The region has the largest portion of recognized investment opportunities based on extractive industries, while isolated communities lead culturally rich yet globally threatened livelihoods.

Characterized by immediate availability of investment funds and global demand, intensive extraction of natural resources is among the few immediate economic development opportunities perceived to be available.

Illegal mining is also widespread in the region. In the context of a rapidly growing population, the urgent need for electricity and other services for isolated villages and towns is driving investments, while

Dr. Russell Mittermeier, President Emeritus and Executive Vice-Chair, Conservation International, is a primatologist and herpetologist by training. He is regarded as a world leader in the field of biodiversity and tropical forest conservation; has travelled in over 160 countries, and has worked in the Guiana Shield for over 40 years. Named a “Hero for the planet” by TIME magazine, Dr Mittermeier has helped promote the concept of “avoided deforestation” (now known as REDD+) by highlighting the importance of tropical forests in mitigating climate change, and has also been a leader in highlighting the importance of species-focused ecotourism. conserving globally important biodiversity and livelihoods. The region contains the highest per cent of primary forest cover on Earth, with over 90% still intact; produces up to 15% of the world’s freshwater, and has the lowest human population density of any major tropical wilderness area in the world.

The region is also of crucial importance for climate change adaptation. Due to its huge area of intact forest, the core of the Guiana Shield is predicted to be especially resilient to climate change, providing a refuge for biodiversity and ensuring the maintenance of critical ecosystem services, such as the world’s most voluminous water cycles, in perpetuity. In fact, more than 70% of the region has been considered a priority for both biodiversity and the production of critical ecosystem services.

In sum, the Guiana Shield demonstrates how Nature is an essential component in the fight to prevent large-scale climate change; and beyond that, to demonstrate how Nature must underpin any future efforts to achieve sustainable development.

Indeed, given that there is growing recognition that tropical forests may provide as much as 50% of the solution to the climate crisis, it is not just wise, but absolutely essential that those countries

improved roads will lower transportation costs and increase access to, and pressure on, the region’s natural capital.

While these developments will generate income, they can come at a high price if unplanned and unregulated. Destruction of critical ecosystems that mitigate global climate change, provide food and freshwater, and support local livelihoods will ultimately make future generations exceedingly vulnerable to external shocks, and place the long-term sustainability of the region at risk.

I have been working in and visiting the Guianas for over forty years, and I have always been impressed by the vision and leadership shown by the people of the Region. In the midst of the harsh realities of cash poverty, there has always been great pride in considering the needs of future generations, especially in the way people care for Nature. And it is impressive that successive Guyanese administrations have embraced the pursuit of a model development path which places the maintenance of natural capital at its centre. This was again reinforced most recently when His Excellency, President David Granger, pledged to allocate another two million hectares of forest for conservation. This is truly historic in its value and impact, and provides a major cornerstone to Guyana’s Green Economy.

Apart from contributing towards meeting Guyana’s international commitment under the Convention of Biological Diversity, it further demonstrates the seriousness with which Guyana continues to take its commitment to Nature.

I congratulate President Granger on this bold and visionary move. This is exactly the kind of leadership and visionary thinking that we need throughout the world.

The theme for today’s International Biodiversity Day is “Mainstreaming Biodiversity; Sustaining People and their Livelihoods.” It reminds us that while we celebrate the immense value of, and applaud our commitment to, Nature, our efforts in conservation have a fundamental relationship to the well-being of people.

This is oftentimes best seen at the local level, where there is a strong dependence of communities on fresh water from creeks and rivers; and food, medicines and building materials from forests. But over the last several years, as the world experienced some of the most intense weather patterns, scientists and decision-makers have come to realize that we depend on Nature, and that Nature doesn’t depend on us!

For a country like Guyana, where there are so many intact ecosystems and so much potential to grow an economy without losing natural capital, Conservation International is proud of its association with the Government and People of Guyana. From the work we do, which range

Dr. Russell Mittermeier from the very local level to the productive sector, to the highest levels of government, we continue to be inspired by its people.

Happy International Biodiversity Day! Happy Independence! Congratulations on the huge and visionary commitments that you have made to date. We all look forward to Guyana becoming one of the world leaders in demonstrating that a green, truly sustainable nature-based future is the best alternative for the world as a whole.

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sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

The Caribbean Voice launches Community Outreach and Students’ Self-Esteem Workshops

IN its continuing efforts at suicide prevention, The Caribbean Voice launched its community outreach and students’ self-esteem workshop in Demerara in April.

The community outreach is geared towards reaching out to communities from where suicide emanates and within which suicide potential is potent and investing in sessions that enable such communities to voice their fears, concerns, experiences and suggestions. Additionally, the outreach provides the communities with strategies and information that will help them to be proactive first responders for their respective communities.

Held at Parfaite Harmonie on April 8th, 2016, in collaboration with lead organiser, Orchid Foundation, along with GIVE Foundation, the inaugural community outreach focused on self-esteem, suicide awareness and prevention and related issues, especially teenage pregnancy. Presenters included Bibi Ahamad, Chandanie Rooplall and Rayon Mantoos of TCV, Dr. Mark and Ms. Indra Constantine of Orchid Foundation and Daniel Ali of GIVE Foundation.

According to Dr. Constantine, “We From the Orchid Foundation found it an extreme

delight to have partnered with CaribeanVoice in the hosting of a Community Awareness outreach on Suicide Awareness and Prevention. The session was very well attended with some 45 people from the community of Parfaite Harmonie and its environs in attendance.

It is my hope that we would be able to, in the future, partner again for such programmes in other communities, as we together seek to inform and educate the Guyanese populace on these social issues.”

Daniel Ali of GIVE Foundation, added, “Overall I think the audience was well informed. They got to know about the suicide hotline , the reason(s) why the Caribbean Voice is pleading with the Government for the age of consent to be raised from 16 to 18 , and also they got an opportunity to better understand the dilemma in today’s society regarding suicide and depression. The audience received leaflets with the suicide hotline numbers and words of encouragement to build their “self- esteem.” In addition, they got brochures revealing information about suicide, prepared by the Give Foundation.”

The occasion was also used to launch TCV’s two petitions, calling on H.E. President David Granger and his government to

establish a registry of sex offenders and raise the age of consent to 18 years. Attendees also signed and pocketed the “ME” pledge developed by The Caribbean Voice and lunched during a press conference at Cara Hotel on February 9th. The pledge encourages self-esteem awareness and provides the suicide hotlines to signers. This pledge has already been widely distributed, including to a number of schools in Berbice and Demerara.

The self-esteem workshop is a follow-up to similar workshops held last year in high schools in Berbice, by the New Jersey Humanitarian Mission (NJASM), in collaboration with the Peace Corps and the Ministry of Education. It provides students with information and strategies to build self-esteem, develop self- confidence and practise self-forgiveness. The occasion was also used to interact with students to solicit first-hand information and views about suicide and general mental health issues, drawn from their experiences and experiences from their schools and communities.

Held at Covent Garden Secondary School on April 28th, in collaboration with lead organiser, GIVE Foundation, along with POTS, GRPA and the US Ambassador Youth Program, the self-esteem workshop was combined with another community outreach.

Based on feedback and information gathered, GIVE Foundation, The Caribbean Voice and other stakeholders will return to the same venue for a follow- up. Also in the coming months this workshop hopefully would be taken to secondary schools and youth entities throughout Guyana, again in partnerships with locally based groups and other stakeholders.

It must be noted that both in Berbice as well as at the workshop at Covent Garden Secondary, it was learnt that many young people suffer from depression and suicide ideation, as well as sexual and physical abuse, which are often hidden via threats and appeal to family “honour.”

Meanwhile, The Caribbean Voice extends an open invitation to community-based organisations, faith-based organisations, educational institutions and other NGOs and locally based entities to contact us to organise outreaches and self-esteem workshops in communities and schools across Guyana. Call Bibi at 621-6111 or 223-2637, Pandit Deodat at 627-4432, Chandanie at 697-9968 or email bibiahamad1@hotmail.com or caribvoice@aol. com or caribbeanvoice101@gmail.com.

The Caribbean Voice

People are spinning hypotheses regarding Minister Broomes WHY are people spinning hypotheses as if they are facts and speculation as if it is reality? Please indicate where Minister Broomes has “abused her office for private gain.” Don’t speculate.

Now the Minister of Health is a doctor with private interest in an eye clinic. The Minister of Tourism has a private interest in a Sidewalk Café; the Minister of Business has a private interest in a jewellery store; the Minister of Public Infrastructure has private interest in an engineering consultancy, and the Attorney General has private interest in a law firm. Additionally, several other ministers have business interests in areas unrelated to their ministries. All these ministers were successful in their private lives and have chosen to now serve their country with the stated intent of also making Guyana a success.

Now study this: many of Minister Broomes’s relatives are miners or work in the mining industry. Should they give up their mining interests as well? And what about her friends and neighbours? She is from Bartica; the majority of her associates are miners.

Should they also quit the industry? And what of the other ministers, should they also quit their ministry? Absolutely absurd!

It is a fact that whatever decisions a minister makes will affect persons they know. This is not corruption. Corruption occurs when an official accepts a reward to influence his/ her decision or action. Any minister can be corrupt because they have the authority of the State. Conflict of interest can be imagined in any ministry as well, but that is only speculation. A minister would have to decide to violate the public trust and accept a reward for his or her actions. Then and only then can the

accusation of corruption arise. It is therefore not the office that the minister holds that causes corruption; it is the action that the minister takes. This is why democracies try to choose leaders with integrity so as to minimise the possibility that they will abuse their positions for personal gains. Those are the actions that should be scrutinised. The rest is speculation and fiction, not fact.

A “permission to operate,” is not a gift, it is a contract between a claim- holder and a miner, whereby the miner is given permission to work on the claim-holder’s land. The miner is required to pay a percentage on every ounce of gold produced to the claim-holder. It is the law in Guyana that you receive such permission before you operate a dredge. Every gold-miner knows that mining a piece of land guarantees you nothing. It is an investment in which you lose more times than you gain.

Now there is a gentleman named Donald Trump; he is the Republican candidate for president of the United States of America who has substantial business interests.

Mr. Trump is a multi-billionaire, he has transferred control of his vast business interests to his kids, yes, his kids I say.

So we see that using the logic of Minister Broomes’s accusers, this man could not run for president of the United States, because in theory, we can speculate that anything he does as President could potentially benefit his children, relatives, friends and associates. But theory and speculation are not facts. It might be wise for us therefore to keep our imagination to ourselves and discuss facts.

Allan Blackett

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sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

City Hall’s behaviour shows it has refused to accept that times have changed Dear Editor, THERE was a time in this country, at the level of government, when not to know what was happening in the area of responsibility was considered a travesty and persons held to account. In some instances, time has regressed to the point where pretence to claim of not knowing is considered an acceptable form of justifying unsavoury conduct, and lending support to unsavoury acts.

Following the Georgetown Mayor and City Council’s (M&CC) treatment of vendors since this new council has been installed, its conduct reflects flagrant transgressing of rights, disregard for decency in civil engagements, the violation of laws, and refusal to accept that times have changed.

Let me make it very clear, lest what is said is misconstrued and focus is diverted from the thrust of my position: there is no opposition to the efforts of the M&CC to bring order to Georgetown and regularise the vending situation. There is opposition to these efforts being executed without regard for the laws, time-honoured principles, and respect for the rights of the vendors.

The vendors are a part of this nation’s formal economy and can be categorised as small business. There is no question about their legitimacy, given that the Council collects revenue

from them and they are expected to pay same. It also has to be recognised that this sector grew out of a need to engage in economic activities to sustain self and families, and providing a service to society whose population’s needs and wants are diverse, inclusive of the need for convenience and respect for economic ability at given times.

Stabroek Market was built in the 1880s. Even with whatever expansion was done in the post period, the population and needs of the communities being served have outlived the size of the market. There are more people traversing Georgetown, with multiple preferences, diverse income brackets, and desirous of the goods and services being offered. No member of the council can admit to not patronising this sector, neither can the council deny the fees paid by this sector do not play a vital role in its function. The vendors are responding to and satisfying the outlined conditions.

The vendors are not a nuisance to society. Their ingenuity to find economic opportunities for themselves and others when traditional avenues did not, and cannot accommodate them is to be applauded. The fact that the M&CC may not have handled this new sector from the standpoint of anticipating the varied population trends and needs and put systems in place to have trade

take place in a structured manner, in collaboration with the vendors through a consultative process, as against the occasional high-handed approaches, is not the fault of the vendors.

And whereas given what is taking place vendors may question the wisdom of their choice in casting a ballot for those who today treat them with contempt, it becomes over important to ensure this aspect of our economy is allowed to thrive, as any other. It is a non-excuse to hide behind claims that criminal activities are being conducted where persons are vending, hence the vendors have to be removed or their structures ruthlessly dismantled.

Where there is known presence of criminal activities or possibility of same occurring, it is the role of the M&CC to attend to this by improving their crime-fighting techniques, not dispossessing those engaged in legitimate trade and those who desire to patronise them. The nation must not countenance incompetence by persons placed in positions of authority, who, instead of delivering quality services within the confines of the laws and time-honoured principles, are coming up with spurious excuses for not performing and respecting people’s rights.

On the issue of the shop at the Stabroek Market square which was dismantled by the M&CC and now it is

being said by this body that it was unaware of a court case, hence justifying the act, is unacceptable. There is an existing dispute between the M&CC and the Ministry of Public Infrastructure as to ownership of the land which the M&CC would be aware of. As such, until there is a court determination of ownership, the M&CC is out of order to ascribe to itself the authority to demolish the property thereon, under any condition.

The continued contempt for the rule of law that we are witnessing by the M&CC, has been pervasive, and is largely responsible for the mess this country has found itself in. This lawlessness must be addressed. The M&CC must be held accountable for its actions. There is no excuse for ignorance of the law, or using ignorance as an opportunity to commit dastardly acts against citizens of this country.

The contempt for citizens, their welfare, including the laws established to protect them, will continue until the citizens stand up, take strident positions, and hold elected leaders accountable. In a representative democracy, those elected are there to serve the people, not treat them like serfs and preside over them like lords.

Lincoln Lewis

The average Guyanese does not honour contractual obligations easily Dear Editor, I HAVE discovered that the average person in Guyana does not honour his contractual obligations easily.

Guyanese breach contracts that are entered into on a regular basis, and this seems to be an accepted trend in the Guyanese society. Whether it is an agreement of sale or a simple landlord- and- tenant contract, fundamental terms or conditions are often breached, and there are many practising Lawyers in Guyana who do not seem to know too much about the basic laws governing contracts.

Many businessmen in Guyana with properties enter into Agreements of Sale for properties when they are in financial difficulties. They use the proceeds from the sale to sort their financial problems out, and once they are back on their feet, they give you hell to secure a transfer of

title or transport. They use their property as a means of getting some fast cash, then a year or two later after refusing to transfer ownership, they offer you a refund, or search for ways to wiggle out of the deal. No wonder there are so many matters in the courts. I am not a Lawyer, but I am the holder of a Diploma in Commercial Law from a reputable college in the United States. Under certain circumstances, a person can ask the court to render a contract null and void. If a contract is entered into by a minor, an insane person, under force or threat (duress and undue influences), if it is tainted with illegality, or if there is breach of one of the fundamental terms of the contract, commonly known as the Condition, the court can render the contract null and void.

I purchased a parcel of land about 18 months ago and the vendor has refused

to make any effort to transfer the title to me, so I retained the service of a Lawyer and took him to court for Specific Performance. The man has been the owner of the parcel of land by title for eight years and five months. His defence is that according to the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), he cannot transfer the title until 10 years has elapsed. I am of the opinion that that is not the reason why he does not want to go ahead with the deal. Probably, he has sold it a second time for more money, or he would like to resell. However, I enquired from the CH&PA and I was told that if you purchase a plot of land from the Government of Guyana, and you would like to resell it before the expiration of the 10-year restriction, period, all you need to do is to pay the penalty, and since the vendor has been the owner by title for over eight years as in my case,

the penalty would be negligible. Why are people so dishonest in this country? My family and I purchased a house in Canada, and in three months we were able to get all of our ownership documents delivered to us by a broker.

The Superior Court of Canada does not go easy on people who do not honour their contractual obligations. The damages that are usually awarded are a major deterrent, but in Guyana people struggle for years to get what they are entitled to. Most Lawyers in the US and Canada would not take your case if they look at it and realise that you are trying to cheat someone, but in Guyana there are many Lawyers who are more than willing to take the case and burden a system that is already choked.

Fazal Gafoor

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

The legacy of Critchlow, Jagan and Burnham in Guyana’s Independence

T

HIS nation will, on Thursday, mark its 50th anniversary of Independence. The 20th century struggles for independence cannot ignore the leading roles of persons like Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow (18841958), Dr Cheddi Jagan (1918-1997), and Forbes Burnham (1923-1985). Recognition of them is in no way meant to disavow the contributions made by others, but merely highlights the leading roles they played that brought us to this stage.

In that the planners of the Jubilee have not accorded these men their deserving place of prominence in the calendar of events, which was alluded to last week in my article, this country must do better going forward in acknowledging those who have paved the way for others. As expected, Bharrat Jagdeo, whose stewardship has to date been the most partisan, and who is always on the lookout to rebrand a disreputable legacy, seized the opportunity to highlight this historical slight.

Independence was not granted, it was fought for. Those who led the struggles shouldered the responsibility of keeping the masses mobilised, motivated, and accepting of the wisdom that the journey was worth it and there must be no retreat or surrender until victory is won. Critchlow, Jagan and Burnham distinguished themselves in this regard through their leadership.

In 1926, the 42-year-old Critchlow and other Caribbean labour leaders met in Georgetown, conceptualised, developed and put in place a Workers’ Agenda which included a strategy that put in motion the fight for independence. Jagan and Burnham were eight and three years old respectively when this meeting occurred and its blueprint was laid out. Thus when, in 1926, the trade union started the fight for internal self-government and one-man-one-vote (i.e. universal suffrage), it was

out of recognition that the two are interlinked, and one cannot be achieved without the other.

Political independence, in its truest sense, speaks to a people enjoying the fundamental right to self-determination on matters pertaining to their cultural, social, political and economic welfare. Under the colonial system, the masses were treated as sub-human and their primary function in the political order was to be obedient subjects of the Crown. It required a focused approach to dispel this notion and topple the system that nurtured it.

The political system at the time had a governor and legislature whose priorities were focused on satisfying the interest of the Crown and merchant class. Entering the legislature prior to 1953 was based on education and/or money. And where the masses had neither, their interests were not considered unless they engaged in protest actions, which either saw same being ignored or only the specific matter attended to. Laws were also established to keep the people in servitude. Rights taken for granted today -- such as religious freedom, marriage equality, freedom of association, ownership of property, women and child rights -- were not features of the colonial government.

In 1943, when Jagan returned to then British Guiana, he met a landscape where mass-based activism to change the prevailing order was being waged by the trade union movement. He joined the Man-Power Citizens' Association, the trade union that represented sugar workers, and embraced the Workers Agenda. Four years later, he was elected to the Legislative Council, in part due to Eusi Kwayana, who encouraged eligible voters within the contested constituency to throw their support behind him.

In 1946, Cheddi and Janet Jagan, together with trade unionists Jocelyn Hubbard and Ashton Chase, formed the Political Affairs Committee, which brought about a fusion of trade unionism and political activism to issues affecting the people.

When Burnham returned to Guyana in 1947, he became immersed in the movement and politics, embracing the agenda of both groups. He was a member of the then British Guiana Labour Union, which was founded by Critchlow.

With universal suffrage won in time for the 1953 elections, it put in place the foundational structure for internal self-government. This was a victory for workers and all Guyana.

Though self-government was limited, given it was set in the right direction, it lay the foundation and put the people on a trajectory for the ultimate prize.

It cannot be ignored that the presence of Burnham and Jagan brought racial pride and political utility in addressing issues of historical racial mistrust, conflicts, and the belief that all should be together to better represent the collective interest to the colonial authority and against its mistreatment. It is a fact that both men gave voice to the welfare of the working class who, by this period in the nation’s history, had established enclaves based on job, trade, and areas of residency.

Both men would have been mindful of these dynamics and the impact they had on groups, inclusive of race, class and population concentration.

Jagan and Burnham would also have been mindful of the macro-dynamics of oppression that birthed the society, and the divide-and-rule policy that held sway. Whether such was used to their advantage, or they were held captive to same, the fact remains that racial conflicts were always simmering; and at the external level, though the anti-colonial movement was gaining traction, such was present in a geopolitical environment of the Cold War. The dexterity of the people and their leaders in staying the course in what was considered a tumultuous environment, domestic and foreign, is testimony to our collective resilience and determination. Jagan and Burnham travelled abroad and formed alliances with external forces in furtherance of the cause. Together, they went to Britain and presented and defended the case for our independence.

Though Jagan and Burnham parted company in 1955, having co-founded the People’s Progressive Party in 1950, and Burnham became the Founder Leader of the People’s National Congress in 1957, it did not deter them or the people’s fight for independence.

What cannot be ignored, however, is that the separation did have some impact on race relations, including racial upheavals (1961 and 1964), and brought to the fore that independence would be won under the leadership of one or the other. And though there were reservations that such should not happen, one cannot ignore forces, domestic and foreign, along with ideological leanings that played a role in influencing what took place in colonised societies of that era.

Where there were doubts about commitment of both or either to independence, when they embraced each other on the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead in 1966, it was confirmation of their united commitment to struggle, a shared sense of victory in their efforts, and testimony that all Guyana have won.

Neil Marks, this paper’s Sunday Editor, posted a picture of Jagan and Burnham on his Facebook page which I shared to mine, but think it worthy enough to share with all. It is reproduced here, and shows Opposition Leader Jagan and Premier Burnham in engagement, reportedly on the eve of independence. What this picture shows is that these men were political rivals, not enemies; nor were they intolerant of the other's views or disrespectful of the other’s intellect.

It also brings home the fact that similar camaraderie is so missing from our politics today, yet we blame them for it. There is need to go back to the drawing broad, recognise and appreciate that rivalry does not necessitate taking on the clothing of enmity, being acrimonious and contemptuous of the other. Even though it is 50 years hence, the relationship Burnham and Jagan shared is still worthy of emulation.

Happy anniversary!

HINDS’SIGHT

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

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Avoiding the essence of shared nationhood and persistent poverty - after 50 years, what are poor people celebrating?

Dr David Hinds AS HAPPENED when we became independent in 1966, the parties which control the reins of Government today are more invested in celebrating that independence. The PPP, which held government just a year ago, is very lukewarm towards the planned activities. It is not surprising, then, that the events would be attended mostly by that segment of the population which supports the parties in Government — African Guyanese.

For me, this scenario represents the greatest indictment of our independence. The fact that our politics, and by extension our society, remain as tribal as they were in 1966 must be seen as a colossal failure.

Achieving ethnic consensus in all societies is a most difficult undertaking, largely because ethnic identity is one of the most enduring forms of cultural, social and political solidarity. Most countries have struggled to find ethnic harmony, while others have opted for ethnic assimilation, which is a not-soveiled form of ethnic domination.

We in Guyana have never, at the official level, figured out what to do about the dilemma of our strong ethnic identities on the one hand, and our declared quest of a united nation on the other. Instead, our political leaders, parties and so-called civil society have adopted empty slogans which are grounded in our misplaced national motto of “One People, One Nation, One Destiny.” We all know that we are not “one people”, and the bitter fact is that the more mature our Guyanese nation has become, the less we have become “one people.”

So, after 50 years, is there a Guyanese nation? If by “nation” we mean a civic space where our differ-

ent ethnic groups generally agree to co-exist, then the answer is yes; but if by “nation” we mean a cultural space characterized by shared heritage and a shared set of values, then the answer is no.

Guyana is made up of several peoples who, because of the evolution of our history, are characterized by our cultural differences rather than by our cultural sameness. I am contending that perhaps our biggest independence failure has been our inability to acknowledge those differences, and to fashion out of that diversity a Guyanese plural cultural identity that is grounded in equal dignity and mutual respect.

It is not whether Africans observe Indian Arrival or Indians and Amerindians observe Emancipation; it is whether the groups respect the dignity and equal humanity of one another. I believe that because we have been fixated with the sloganeering aspects of ethnic solidarity and not with the essence of our collective experiences, we have done more ill than good to our quest for a shared nationhood.

If I had anything to do with these Jubilee celebrations, I would have used the occasion to launch a National Grounding, whereby our historians and cultural workers invade each community with “reasonings” about our various histories and cultures.

Such reasonings should target for surgical treatment the myths which the groups have developed about one another, for therein lie formidable barriers to shared nationhood. We are never going to become a viable nation until Indian and African, and Amerindian and Chinese, and Portuguese and other European Guyanese learn to respect each other as equal human beings with equal worth. That is the kind of work the

Ministry of Social Cohesion should be facilitating.

As I observe this Golden Jubilee, I weep for Guyana. I weep because of the poverty that still haunts most of our people 50 years after independence.

Despite noble attempts from time to time, we have not done much to arrest this scourge. It is these poor people whom we are encouraging to celebrate the “Fiftieth.” What are we encouraging them to celebrate? Our persistent crime comes from their ranks.

Our high school dropout rates reside in their ranks.

Their children continue to fail English and Math at CXC. Suicide and mental illness are tearing their communities apart. Drug abuse is rampant among their children and adults. They are ready targets for police brutality. The demolition crews in town and country break down their stalls in the name of beautification and cleanliness. They “voted like a boss”, and one year later they are still without jobs and the good life.

If I had anything to do with these Jubilee Celebrations, I would have used the occasion to launch a Public Works programme aimed at producing a minimum of 100 jobs each in 50 communities. I would have trained 500 literacy workers, and let them loose all over Guyana to begin the job of stamping out illiteracy. Yes, the Arches and the Durban Park Stadium and all the other niceties could have waited.

More of Dr. Hinds’ writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics, and on his website www.guyanacaribbeanpolitics.com. Send comments to dhinds6106@ aol.com

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

PM, wife join WCB Jubilee March PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife Sita made an unscheduled stop on the West Coast of Berbice on Saturday to join with patriotic Guyanese who were on a Golden Jubilee march.

The Nagamootoos were enthusiastically received, were embraced by the people, and everyone sang and danced together.

The Prime Minister was at the time returning to Georgetown from the Ithaca Village Day Golden Jubilee celebrations, to which he was invited as the special guest and delivered the feature address to villagers, guests and other invitees.

Police stunts ...

From page 12 rate at which criminals are being caught and crimes are being investigated and prosecuted.

The show began with a march-past by divisional representatives and youth groups followed by a medley of folk songs by the police string band.

As the action continued, the police mounted branch did a musical ride as 10 officers, including two fe-

males, commandeered their horses, and ended with a formation of the number “50” in recognition of Guyana’s Golden independence anniversary.

The mounted branch also clashed with the “Battle of the Mounties,” as ranks on six horses with a pair of balloons attached to the rider were required to burst their opponent’s balloon until a lone survivor won.

The event displayed the

rider’s skill and control.

The Mounted Branch ended their display with musical chairs, which required the rank to dismount and secure a chair by sitting in it when the music stopped.

For the canine section, dogs and their handlers who were trained in Texas did searches for marijuana, a grenade and a handgun concealed in a minibus.

The dogs appeared to be

A canine sniffs out an illegal firearm stashed into a minibus bonnet (Ivan Bentham Photo) excellently trained, except for that one occasion in the agility test when one of them chose not to jump through the hoop with flame. Even a retry proved unsuccessful as the dog applied brakes instead of pouncing through the flaming hoop.

The highlight of the activities was the simulation of a hostage rescue done by the S.W.A.T team, which had to apprehend criminals and save civilians on a large bus.

Screams were heard from the crowd as smoke bombs went off and filled the air, making it impossible to see the bus, as a minibus of S.W.A.T members pulled up at the rear of the larger bus and disembarked. All that was seen after the smoke faded into the background was the police escorting the handcuffed

criminals and civilians off the bus into their vehicle taking them off the scene.

Then there was the public order drill, which saw a team of masked persons with sticks and coconuts descending onto the scene in a riotous act, as police from the Tactical Service Unit (TSU) with their barricades and batons confronted the group. The riotous group was eventually dispersed after stoning the TSU ranks who overpowered the mob that ultimately disappeared.

The event wound down with the gymnastic and martial arts displays.

The police military band closed off the session as a jubilant crowd prepared for more activities for the 50th anniversary celebrations in the new week.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

MPI launches 50th PUBLIC Jubilee Float Parade Band NOTICE

THE Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MPI) will be fielding a “100 strong” contingent to participate in the Independence Day Costume and Float Parade on May 26.

Under the theme “Empathy”, those revellers will constitute a medium-sized band, and will be decked out in gold, green, and blue with the hope of winning the top prize in the full costume category.

The band was officially launched on Friday, and saw participation by Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson and Minister within the MPI, Annette Ferguson.

“We’re going to be 100 strong when we turn out to celebrate on Independence Day,” Minister Ferguson said during the launch.

“This Ministry will certainly have its full force

out, and is ready to capture that first place spot.

We’re confident that after we have given our performance, the judges will be very impressed.”

She said the band’s 100 revellers come from several agencies under the MPI, and she thinks that the experience will provide an avenue for closer relations.

“This is a really great opportunity for MPI workers to not only have fun, but to get to know each other during a celebration that is truly Guyanese,” she opined.

Minister Ferguson also praised the designer, 28-year-old Nelsion Nurse, for his “splendid work”, and thanked the Ministry’s Jubilee Committee for the long hours put into ensuring “that every stitch is in its right place”.

“Empathy” was cho-

sen by the MPI’s Jubilee Committee as the theme to demonstrate the Ministry’s consideration of, and service to, the Guyanese public over the past 50 years.

“The design is very strong, so we’re going to be serious contenders,” Nurse said. He explained

that the gold in the costume represents “jubilee”, while the green and blue represent “growth” and “communication” respectively. He hinted that the “King of the Band”, to be revealed on Independence Day, will showcase the services provided by MPI.

THE Ministry of Public Infrastructure is hereby informing the general public that from Saturday, May 21st 2016 to Thursday, 30th June 2016, there will be improvement works conducted on Carifesta Avenue between Camp St. and Vlissengen Road. These works will cause a reduction in the flow of traffic.

Road users are therefore asked to use alternative routes to enter and leave the city where possible, to avoid traffic congestion. Please take care to pay attention to all caution and directional signs in the area.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure regrets any inconvenience caused.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Rice Cereal Factory still on the cards - but Professor Narine laments pace of operationalisation

By Tajeram Mohabir THE Rice Cereal Factory on the Essequibo Coast for which $100M was allocated by the Government of Guyana is still on the cards, Director of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), Professor Suresh Narine, has disclosed.

But Professor Narine, an internationally acclaimed scientist in the field of biomaterials,who has oversight of the project, said he is unhappy at the pace at which the operationalization of the facility has progressed. Some of it is understandable, he said, given some of the administrative and bureaucratic delays that had occurred with the project, and the need to develop an initial stable market which can sustain the staffing of at least one shift of the facility while additional markets are developed.

The facility is built with an initial capacity to process 2,000 tonnes of rice per year, and if its target market grows, this figure could easily be expanded to 30,000 tonnes of rice annually.

Unemployment has been an issue on the Essequibo Coast, and when the factory becomes operational, it is expected to ease the region’s problem by creating some 200 jobs when operating three full shifts.

In a report headlined “An Apparent white elephant”, published in the Guyana Chronicle on Monday, several upset farmers who spoke with this publication on condition of anonymity had vented their disgust that the multi-million-dollar investment, which was designed to support value-added in the rice industry, has not been put into operation even though the building was completed about a year ago.

Since assuming office, President David Granger has been calling for greater attention to, and investment in, agro-processing.

Dr Narine, in giving a status update on the project, told the Guyana Chronicle that the IAST wholeheartedly welcomes the vision of the President.

NO FUNDING FOR OPERATIONALIZATION The cereal factory project had received $100M of capital funding from the Government in 2015. Professor Narine explained that while this funding was sufficient for the capital works – the construction of a building; purchase of the necessary equipment; and preparation of bridges, outbuildings and

fences -- no funding had been allocated for the operationalization of the facility.

“In other words, no funding was available to initially pay a staff complement, purchase raw materials, and packaging for the product, or to market and promote the product.

Therefore, the IAST embarked on a parallel development programme – production of the product at a pilot scale to allow branding and market development to occur whilst the capital works were being completed, supervised by the institute. The intent was to develop a demand which could materialise as a lead order for the facility, which would allow expenditure on staffing, raw materials, packaging, etcetera,” Professor Narine explained.

He noted that the product has been branded as the “Morning Glory” brand of cereal. The IAST has also developed a line of nutrition bars composed mainly of the cereal, which can also be manufactured with the equipment targeted for the commercial plant.

The institute has been promoting this product to various distributors in the Caribbean.

“In addition, the IAST solicited the assistance of His Excellency, President David Granger, and various members of Cabinet, to market the product to the national school feeding programme. As a result, both the cereal and the nutrition bar products are currently being piloted in a number of coastal schools in Buxton and Enmore. Should these trials meet with the approval of the students, the demand for this programme would easily allow the commercial plant to be operated with at least one shift of workers,” Narine, a distinguished Professor of Physics and Astronomy and Chemistry at Trent University, Canada, said.

He told the G uyana Chronicle that this would then give the facility the necessary opportunity to grow its

packaged cereal and bar, and market both locally and in the Caribbean so that the plant can begin to operate two or even three shifts.

Securing this initial market is crucially important, and for this reason the IAST has produced significant volumes of the product at its licensed pilot facility located at its Turkeyen headquarters on the University of Guyana Campus, which are currently utilised in the trial.

OTHER CHALLENGES Professor Narine explained that notwithstanding the marketing challenge, which he feels certain will be overcome, as the product is a superior one which will appeal to the students while providing a superior nutritional profile, there have also been other challenges.

“The first of these relates to the land on which

IAST Professor Suresh Narine the plant is built. After an initial location identified by former Regional Chairman of Region Two, Mr Parmanand Persaud, was rejected due to objections by residents in the area, the current location was identified with the assistance of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC), the Deeds Registry and the Office of the President. The land was identified in the GLSC’s records as vacant and within an area zoned as an industrial estate. The records in the Deeds Registry confirmed that of the GLSC,” Professor Narine related.

The GLSC began preparations to allocate the land

to the IAST, and permission was received from the Office of the President to proceed with construction; but shortly after construction began, the Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) approached the IAST, the GLSC and the Deeds Registry and produced a transport document which established that GPL was the rightful owner of the land.

Professor Narine pointed out that although the GLSC and the Deeds Registry had no record of this ownership, they verified that the transport held by the GPL was valid.

And given this situation, Professor Narine said, he immediately met with then Chief Executive Officer of the utility company (CEO), Mr Bharat Dindyal, who provided a verbal no-objection for the construction of the cereal plant to proceed.

“Mr Dindyal and President Ramotar then committed to meeting to discuss the transfer of the land to the IAST, or to the Office of the President, whichever was deemed to be more appropriate, and the construction of the cereal plant proceeded.

Unfortunately, the land was never transferred under the previous administration, and the matter is currently being examined by Minister Joseph Harmon, who has asked for various agencies involved to take lawful and appropriate actions so that the land can be transferred. Until the land is owned by the IAST, the facility cannot receive utilities such as power, and cannot acquire an Environmental Permit to begin production,” he said.

SQUATTER When the plant was being built, there was an existing squatter on the premises. The squatter was still there when this publication visited the factory last week.

According to Professor Narine, then President Ramotar and then Minister of Housing, Irfaan Ali, had committed to providing a house lot to the squatter so that she could move from the location at the launching of the con-

The Rice Cereal Factory at Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast

struction of the facility.

“Before this could happen, there was a change in Government, and the squatter and her family never received the house lot. The IAST wrote the then Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Keith Scott, regarding

the matter is now occupying the attention of Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, through whom the IAST has appealed to the NPTA for permission to solesource the equipment from its manufacturer in China.

the matter and seeking his intervention to procure a house lot for the squatter and her family. Minister Scott referred the matter to the CHPA for action,” he said.

Another issue that has affected the facility is the sourcing of the equipment, he said. The building and all civic works were completed on time and on budget, and the IAST has inspected the building and is satisfied with the quality of the construction. However, when bids were placed for the public tender of the equipment, the lowest bid was found to be at least 75 per cent higher than the cost of the equipment directly from the manufacturer.

The IAST, he said, wrote the Guyana National Procurement and Tender Administration (NPTA) Board and recommended that the tenders be nullified and the equipment be sole-sourced from the manufacturer in 2015.

Professor Narine said that, unfortunately, there was no follow-up before the elections, and significant delays occurred post national elections.

However, he noted that

The IAST Director explained that the transformative project, which was entirely developed in Guyana to add value to its rice commodity crop, is important not only through its immediate impact, but also through its enabling impact in changing culture and enabling entrepreneurship through the employment of appropriate sustainable technology.

“Projects of this nature which seek to be vertically integrated are challenging, as our bureaucratic and administrative structures are not ideally suited to ensuring that such projects are streamlined. However, it’s well worth the effort; and certainly, the current issues will be sorted out. This is an example of a project which can, and has, secured the support and efforts of both the two recent administrations across the political divide, simply because it makes sense for the country,” he said.

Professor Narine also committed to providing bi-monthly updates to the media, so that the people, especially those from Essequibo, can be apprised of the progress being made on the project.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Public Service CoI…

Commission proposes setting up committee of permanent secretaries --to advise on award of fellowships, scholarships

GOVERNMENT would do well to utilise whatever resources it already has to help whip the Public Service into shape.

That, in a nutshell, is the latest word from the three-member commission charged with assessing the state of readiness of the country’s Public Service.

“In our view, it would be prudent that collaborative arrangements be put in place to ensure that institutions are not operating at cross purposes,” the Commission, led by former University of Guyana (UG) Vice-Chancellor Professor Harold Lutchman, stated.

The APNU+AFC administration has, since taking office, committed to establishment of a college for the training of public servants.

President David Granger, upon assuming office last year, made it clear that the future of Guyana depends

on an efficient, reliable and dependable Public Service.

The college is expected to have four faculties, namely: International Relations (Foreign Service), Defence, Public Administration, and Information Technology.

Despite its inability to conclusively advise or comment on the initiative, the Commission, in its report, provides a number of principles of training that could be helpful in the development of a staff college.

It also acknowledges the need for staff development, stating that training is an essential requirement in public management and administration.

Such a move, the Commission further explained, would produce a competent cadre of public servants who will deliver timely, quality, efficient, and professional service to the public.

While many ministries execute their own training programmes, the Commission strongly believes that such programmes should be successfully planned and executed, and that the identification of training needs in public administration ought to be the prime responsibility of the Heads of Departments and Ministries.

As such, it has advised that a committee of permanent secretaries be established to identify candidates to be awarded fellowships and scholarships.

It has also been recommended that an audit of the training and development functions of the Public Service be conducted every five years.

“It would be important that monitoring be used for feedback on performance achieved,” the Commission said in its report. “Regular comparison has to be made

between expected and actual achievements of plans, objectives and targets. It would require preparing work programmes; setting performance targets; deciding what and how to measure; setting acceptable level for target variation; measuring performance and comparing target; and taking corrective actions for improvement,” it added.

The report on the state of the Public Service was last Wednesday handed over to House Speaker Dr Barton Scotland, one day after it was laid before the Cabinet, which is now in the process of considering the recommendations contained therein.

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Connecting digitally for the Good Life

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

- the ICT sector needs women

By Fauya Cromwell PREVIOUS articles in this series alluded to the meaning of “the Good Life”. This article highlights some of the challenges that women in Information and Com-

munication Technologies (ICTs) experience as they strive to attain “the Good Life”.

In my teens, I was awarded a Government scholarship to study Computer Engineering in Cuba.

Under this programme,

students seldom choose their preferred university; therefore, for nearly three years, I didn’t find it odd that I was the only Guyanese woman. I assumed there were others like me scattered around the country; as in the case of my

good friend studying Information Technology (IT) somewhere behind God’s back.

Nonetheless, I was well aware of the difficulties faced by some girls in convincing their well-meaning parents that it was perfectly acceptable to allow their unmarried, ‘curfewed’ daughters to study in a distant land, all in the hope of obtaining a better life -- “the Good Life”.

University life was the same as anywhere else; the good grades, the bad grades, the late nights studying, the not-so-late nights studying,

Towards a Good Life in a Green Economy and the awkward crushes that went unnoticed. In the midst of it all, there was never a sense of alarm or concern that I was the only Guyanese woman.

The guys did not make me feel like an outsider; with sheer exhilaration in their voices, they educated me

on all the boring hardware topics I wasn’t concerned about; they schooled me on all the lame IT jokes, and introduced me to video games (like Warcraft) and all the latest software (that they declared I couldn’t

Please see page 17

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Connecting digitally ...

From page 16 live without). I wasn’t one of the guys; I was simply another IT student trying to earn a degree.

By the grace of God, and with the support of my family, lecturers, and peers, I returned to Guyana with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering. Whilst working at home, I was tasked with researching global women in tech for International Girls in ICT Day. I was unaware that such a day existed, let alone was celebrated globally on the last Thursday in April every year. I thought the idea sounded nice, but questioned whether it was the intent of human beings to have a day for everything

under the sun.

Nevertheless, it was inspiring to read about women like Ursula Burns (CEO of Xerox) and Nelam Dhawan (Managing Director of HP, India), family–oriented women who also had time to run tech businesses. How did they manage to balance it all?

I realized the magnitude of their contributions when I was asked to attend a meeting for students who studied IT in Cuba. As expected, I ran into a few familiar faces. What I didn’t expect was that in a room of twenty-plus IT professionals (most of whom I didn’t know), I would be the only woman. This time around, a sense of uneasiness prevailed - I was the only woman in the room,

sporting a vibrant pink top, thus my presence could not go unnoticed.

The words “good evening gentlemen and one lady” echoed in my ears as the male facilitator addressed the gathering. I began adding up all the Guyanese women I knew who studied IT overseas.

The total didn’t account for all the fingers on my right hand.

We often say that the struggle is real; well, the need for more women in ICT is real. Guyanese women in ICT form a minority group in a field dominated by men. The Honourable Minister of Public Telecommunication, Mrs. Catherine Hughes, alluded to this issue on International Girls

in ICT Day 2016 when she stated that “the majority of girls who do IT at schools do not continue on to university institutions and other tertiary programmes.”

The Good Life entails providing equitable access to opportunities for all; therefore, how can we bridge the gender divide and ensure that women not only have equal access to career opportunities, but are empowered to achieve their goals? According to the McKinsey Global

Institute, which is dedicated to researching business economics, advancing women’s equality can add twelve trillion dollars to the global GDP by 2025.

Therefore, in Guyana, more professional women in ICTs would significantly contribute towards achieving the Good Life for all.

In fact, the CEO of the eGovernment Agency has stated that the Agency is committed to hiring and training competent women in the field of ICT. Notwithstanding, the realization that there is a “Girls in ICT Day” has caused some men to jokingly say “there should be a

‘Men in ICT Day’.” Hence the question remains: In our quest to attain the “Good Life”, how can we get more persons to encourage their daughters, sisters, female cousins, friends and neighbours to pursue careers in ICT? Please send questions, comments and suggestions to info@egovguyana.net.

(Fauya Cromwell is an ICT Engineer at the eGovernment Agency, where she focuses on matters relating to digital inclusion. She also serves as a Lay Preacher within the Methodist Church)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Consultations to amend aviation regulations begin

By Alva Solomon THE Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has commenced with stakeholders in

the aviation sector a series of consultations geared at amending the country’s aviation regulations to make them conformable with In-

ternational Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements and advancements in the sector.

The domestic aviation

sector plays a key role in the type of operations carried development of the country, out by the sector. and while those operators Walton-Desir explained are the primary target of the that the current regulations ongoing process, the inter- are based on model regunational airline operators are lations designed for interalso included in the process. national operations using A m a n z a Wa l t o n - D e- medium-to-long-range, large, sir, General Counsel of the multi-crew aircraft, and not GCAA, is coordinating the the predominantly small, ongoing consultation process, single-pilot types of aircraft which began last week at the serving the domestic market Pegasus Hotel. here.

“This is just the begin“So what we hope to ning; the first meeting was intended to set the context for the new regulations, and to establish the framework for continuous engagement with aviation stakeholders,” Walton-Desir told this newspaper.

The aviation sector in Guyana is governed by pieces of legislation that include the Civil Aviation Act of 2000 GCAA General Counsel, and the Investigations Amanza Walton-Desir of Accident Regulations, 1982. The latter has not been updated since achieve at the end of these promulgation. initial series of consultations Walton-Desir said the is a regulatory framework ICAO recommends that that is ICAO-compliant, but when new laws and regula- which at the same time contions are to be introduced, templates the Guyana operthere should first be a con- ating environment,” she said. sultation process with the players in the industry.

GOOD START “That is so that they are While noting that drafting aware of what the proposed suitable regulations can prove changes are, and how (they) time-consuming, Walton-Dewill affect their operations, sir said that the process is at and to obtain feedback on a stage where there is a set those changes,” she said. of drafted regulations; and, She noted that, in 2007, according to her, the GCAA the ICAO had undertaken is working to complete the an audit of the GCAA oper- consultation process with ations, and the assessment the industry stakeholders by had uncovered a number August. of deficiencies in the legal “We will be providing framework for oversight of the text of the regulations the aviation industry here. to stakeholders. We have The GCAA has therefore provided a mechanism for commenced a process of ex- receiving their feedback and amining the laws currently in comments,” she added. place with a view to addressOver the years, the ening the deficiencies identified forcement of regulations has by the ICAO. been problematic for both She said that, over the the GCAA and the aviation years, the local aviation in- industry stakeholders; howdustry had pointed out that ever, the ongoing process is Guyana’s aviation regula- deemed inclusionary. tions were not best suited for According to Walton-De-

sir, ICAO’s mandate includes procedures on the resolution of safety concerns. She noted that enforcement has now been substituted with the term “resolution of safety concerns,” an indication, she said, that a more collaborative approach to aviation safety is being adopted globally.

The ongoing process will add to the country’s aim of achieving Category One rating in accordance with the United States Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) International Aviation Safety Assessment’s Category One rating.

According to Walton-Desir, the move is part of an overall move to achieve ICAO compliance, since it relates to only three of the 19 annexes containing ICAO Standards and Recommended practices.

“So it is safe to conclude that Guyana has an acceptable level of compliance with all the ICAO annexes. We will more than likely be in good standing for a Category One FAA rating when that time comes,” she said.

She added: “Under the Bilateral Air Services Agreement between Guyana and ICAO contracting states, each party to the agreement is obligated to comply with safety and security requirements stipulated by ICAO.” Walton-Desir noted that, in the case of the USA, US law obligates the FAA to ensure compliance with ICAO requirements should a Guyanese operator indicate an interest in exploiting the commercial opportunities in the market.

The ongoing consultation process is set to be continuous, since it will enable the GCAA to better improve its regulatory systems; and according to Walton-Desir, the ongoing consultation process will ensure necessary legislative changes are communicated to the industry.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Secretary of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, Hilbert Foster, hands over the stickers to ‘B’ Division Commander Ian Amsterdam

Commander Ian Amsterdam places a sticker on the vehicle handed over to the Rose Hall Town Police Outpost. The stickers, with numbers of all the stations in Region 6, will be posted at various points in Region Six

RHTYSC helping GPF fight crime in Rose Hall Town THE Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) is delivering on its promise made to the top brass of the ‘B’ Division of the Guyana Police Force earlier this month; it is aiding in the fight against crime.

The ‘B’ Division Commander and a team had earlier met with residents of Rose Hall Town in a consultation to discuss ways to combat crime, especially in Rose Hall Town and its environs. At that meeting, Hilbert Foster of the RHTY&SC had pledged to collaborate with the GPF in the fight against crime, and provide the police with whatever help the club can.

The RHTY&SC has since handed over to the GPF Outpost three bicycles, a quantity of sports equipment, and lights; and there are plans to hand over a television set, one more bicycle and an electric fan next week.

The club has also printed and distributed 1000 stickers with the numbers of every police station/outpost in East Berbice. The stickers will be placed on

vehicles and public places.

At the handing over ceremony, held on Friday, Secretary of the RHTY&SC, Hilbert Foster, explained that because many persons do not known the telephone numbers of the various police stations, they cannot contact the police in a timely manner. He explained that the collaboration between the RHTY&SC and the Police Force goes beyond crime fighting. He said the Club was able to convince one of its sponsors, Guyoil, to finance production of 1000 copies of an educational booklet as part of the club’s traffic campaign. The full-coloured booklet will contain traffic rules and safety tips for drivers and pedestrians in an effort to educate road users on safety and best practices to avoid accidents, as well as what to do in the event of an accident.

As part of its traffic campaign, the club also plans to distribute to drivers across the region 2000 full-coloured brochures on the basics of driving and road safety.

1,000 stickers for the “no to drunk driving” campaign will be distributed across Berbice, to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving, Foster explained.

‘B’ Division Commander Ian Amsterdam expressed gratitude to the Club for delivering on its promise. He said the Force also had promised to deal with the crime situation, hence Rose Hall Town is again a quiet place. “ To g e t h e r w e w i l l reduce crime, so (as to make) Berbice a better place for all to live. I can assure you (that) crime is not out of control, and I have been reporting that the Division has been quiet for the last two weeks,” he said.

Commander Amsterdam disclosed that a vehicle will be stationed at Rose Hall Town, and will be used for patrols to ensure a better, safe and secure environment.

“We are going to ensure we work with the youths to ensure they remain focused and can channel their energies in the right direction,” he pledged.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Residents of Rose Hall Town benefit from RESIDENTS of Rose Hall Town on the Corentyne Coast in East Berbice (Region 6) have benefited from a medical outreach held in the town last Friday. The outreach was a collaborative effort between Food for the Poor Guyana and Health Services in Region Six. It was coordinated by, and held at the headquarters of, the St. Francis Community Developers at Rose Hall Town.

The outreach commenced at 10:00hrs, and hundreds of people from Rose Hall Town and contiguous villages were treated by a team of doctors and nurses doing general check-up and dental and eye care services for both adults and children. The residents who visited the facility for check-up were given overthe-counter medications and supplements that were provided by Food for the Poor.

Jimeel Davis of Food for the Poor, in an invited comment, said the activity was one of many planned, and

special focus is being placed on Berbice since the organization realized the residents of that county are in more need of medical supplies.

“We have been supporting the Regional Health Services for a number of years with pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. We are

zooming in on Berbice as we realize Berbice needs a lot of help with medical supplies,” he disclosed.

Davis also said Skeldon Hospital will soon benefit from a shipment of medical supplies. This is a project that Food For the Poor has been working on for some

time, and the organization is expected to deliver shortly.

Jevaughn Stephens, Director of the Regional Health Services, thanked Food For the Poor for the donation, and pledged to continue collaborating with that organisation to further boost health delivery in Region Six to benefit

more residents.

“We are committed to work along with Food For the Poor because they are very kind to health delivery in the region. We have 26 health centres in the region, and we all agreed that the centres need upgrading, and FFTP was pleased to

Senior Manager Jimeel Davis, GIK Department, Food For the Poor, hands over a quantity of medical supplies to Director of the Regional Health Services, Jevaughn Stephens

be on board to bring those health centres to minimum standard and to further build trust.

“Our office is committed to ensuring all activities in collaboration with FFTP are properly marketed, and that all supplies received reach the residents,” he declared.

Stephens urged resident

A resident of Rose Hall To screened before being se doctor, based on his health

GTT to set up cocktail bars, host arti - on Independence Day GUYANA Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) Company will not be putting out a float parade this year for Guyana’s 50th Independence celebrations, but instead they will be on the road at their Lot 55 Brickdam retail store with cocktail bars and both local and overseas artistes, to mingle with revellers on May 26.

GT&T Public Relations Officer, Allison Parker said that they have partnered with Banks DIH for the cocktail bars and the artistes, who are expected to perform on the evening of the May 26, GT&T Independence Night Concert at Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

According to Parker, tickets cost $2,000 but could be considered free, since when customers buy a ticket they get back $2,000 GT&T credit or a one-month data plan.

She explained that there is a code at the back of every ticket – so to access the free credit or data the customer can simply dial *100#, select concert promo (7), choose free credit or data plan and enter the code at the back of the ticket.

She also stated that all tickets must be purchased only from a GT&T Store and the customer can also get tickets with the purchase of any of these products: · Drone XT $8,997.00 + 1 FREE Mega Concert Ticket · PLUM Trigger Pro $8,997.00 + 1 FREE Mega Concert Ticket · Grand Neo $29,999.00 + 2 FREE Mega Concert Tickets · Samsung J5 $47,999.00 + 2 FREE Mega Concert Tickets · Samsung S5 $97,999.00 + 2 FREE Mega Concert Tickets · Samsung S6 $119,999.25 + 2 FREE Mega Concert Tickets The public will get a chance to meet the artistes on May 26, along the parade route at GT&T 55, Brickdam location, where in collaboration with Banks DIH, they will have a stage, live DJs, music and a cocktail bar, she explained.

The artistes to be present are Sean Kingston, Natural Black, Bunji, Fay-Ann and Asylum Viking Band, Vershon, Ravi B, Jackie Jaxx and Lisa Punch.

GT&T Concert flyer

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

m medical outreach to look out for more such outreaches, as it is the mandate of the Ministry and Government to take health care to the public.

“The Ministry of Health, now Public Health, simply means we need to go out to the public, we need to meet the public, we need to take our services to the people…

today is one of many to follow,” Stephens said.

An elderly couple of Rose Hall Town, who walked to the facility and had free check-up, said they were happy that they could be seen by doctors in the community, without having to travel.

“We happy to see the doctor here, because we

don’t have to spend money to go to the hospital, or fatigue ourselves to go out on the road. The doctors were very nice, and we have a good set of medication that we didn’t have to pay for.

Thanks to Alex and the organizers. I hope we can get this type of thing more regular.”

own being een by a h concern

istes on Brickdam

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Guyana ratifies Paris Agreement on Climate Change Ambassador George Talbot, left, presents the instrument of ratification of the Paris Climate Agreement to Mr. Santiago Villalpando, Chief of the Treaty Section of the Office of Legal Affairs of the UN GUYANA, on Friday, deposited its instrument of ratification of the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, becoming the 17th country to do so.

Ambassador George Talbot, Permanent Representative of Guyana to the United Nations, presented the instrument of ratification to Mr. Santiago Villalpando, Chief of the Treaty Section of the Office of Legal Affairs, in a simple ceremony at the United Nations.

The Paris Agreement, which was signed by a record 175 countries when it was opened for signature on 22 April 2016, will come into force thirty days after at least fifty-five parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change - accounting for at least fifty-five per cent of global emissions - deposit their instruments of ratification.

The Paris Agreement has been hailed as providing a historic opportunity for the global community to respond to the challenge of climate change in an appropriate manner. Efforts to combat climate change and its impacts are of particular importance for low-lying coastal developing states like Guyana.

The early ratification of the Paris Agreement is consistent with the stated commitment of the Government of Guyana to strong action towards the mitigation of, and adaptation to, climate change.

In keeping with its pursuit of a low carbon and green growth trajectory of sustainable development, Guyana’s contribution will be especially focused on the preservation and sustainable management of its forests, and increased reliance on renewable sources of energy. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Wales Estate imbroglio...

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GuySuCo willing to pay - but constrained by injunction

THE Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) says it is being restrained from paying severance to workers from Wales Estate in keeping with the orders of the High Court.

Of late, speculation has been rife about whether GuySuCo can still pay the embattled workers severance, even though an injunction was granted in the High Court by Justices William Ramlal and Diane Insanally in favour of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) and the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE).

Earlier this month, GuySuCo was ordered by the High Court to cease whatever plans it has about sending home employees attached to the Wales Sugar Estate, as by law, their union must

first be consulted before any such action can be taken.

The matter is due to come up in the High Court again this Tuesday at 09:00hrs.

In January this year, GuySuCo, citing economic reasons, made known its intention to close the Wales Sugar Estate. It had explained that the investment required to refurbish the sugar factory was significant, and that it simply does not have the finances to maintain it.

That announcement was met with various protestations from the sugar workers themselves and private cane farmers among other stakeholders in the sugar industry.

Both unions, GAWU and NAACIE, had pointed out that the sugar corporation, as promised, did not

inform them of its intention to replace sugar cultivation and production.

The government, nevertheless, is contending that diverting funds from the other estates to keep Wales afloat would seriously jeopardise the future of all estates, and that that cannot be allowed to happen.

“It is impossible to make sugar production at Wales viable,” it said, adding: “This is made worse by the gloomy outlook for sugar prices for the foreseeable future. Wales Estate is projected to make a loss of [between] G$1.6B and $1.9B in 2016.

“This, coupled with the extent of refurbishment needed, renders this estate prohibitively costly to maintain.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Mechanic wanted for attempted murder of South Ruimveldt waitress A 23-year-old mechanic who allegedly stabbed the mother of his child several times about the body a month ago is wanted for attempted murder, the police said on Saturday.

Keon Hyles, called Brains, is reported to have almost killed Michelle Drennon, of Lot 1607 Cadet Lane, South Ruimveldt on April 20, 2016.

The 25-year-old waitress and mother had to be hospitalised over a prolonged period at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

According to relatives, Drennon had made numerous reports at the West Ruimveldt Police Station about the abuse she suffers at the hands of Hyle.

“Last October, she moved in with her mother because of the violence and the fights they had. Imagine, when he attacked her at her home he walked with poison in a container and was slamming her head with the stuff!” one relative said.

The mother of the injured young lady, Adunni Drennon, told this publication that they will not be staying at the house until the perpetrator is caught, since they are fearful of attacks on the family.

“He brags about having police friends,” the mother noted.

She explained that after the stabbing incident, Kyle

has been calling the phone and pretending to be his mother, asking how Michelle is doing, “but we know his voice.

“He is molesting us, and the police needs to arrest him.”

Her sister, Tandicka Drennon, said she was relaxing on the day in question, watching television while her sister was resting in bed. She said the perpetrator visited the home and requested to speak to her sister.

“I told him she was sleeping and he went around to the window at her room and said something.”

She explained that the man then rushed his way into the house and started beating her sister, who had walked into the living room. The fight moved into the kitchen, where the perpetrator armed himself with a knife and stabbed the mother of his child several times about the body.

Tandicka said she tried to part the fight but was unsuccessful, so she ran over to neighbours for help.

“Then he ran behind us.

He was on the patio pushing the door, and the only reason he didn’t get in was because is four of us holding back the door… If he was given a proper chance he would have killed her.”

She said her sister and the suspect even had a matter

Sunday May 22nd, 2016 - 05:30 hrs Monday May 23rd, 2016 -

05:00 hrs

Tuesday May 24th, 2016 -

05:00 hrs

before the court because he had destroyed her personal property, among other things.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Keon Hyles called ‘Brains’ is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 225-6411, 2252227, 225-8196, 227-1149, 226-7065, 911 or the nearest police station. His last known address is Mocha, East Bank Demerara.

Keon Hyles and Michelle Drennon with their son in happier times

SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Almost half of GEA’S power needs being met through sustainable energy sources AT the cost of $4.7M, the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) has installed an additional grid-connected solar photovoltaic (PV) system at its headquarters.

The new system, installed at GEA’s Quamina Street, South Cummingsburg location, is estimated to produce 13,167 kWh of energy annually.

In 2012, with support from the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ), and funding from the Austrian Development Cooperation, GEA installed an 8.46kWp Grid Tie Solar Photovoltaic Demonstration Project at a cost of G$6.9 million which supplied about 20% of the agency’s electrical energy needs. The new 10KWp additional installation, when combined with the previously installed system, will produce approximately

50% of the annual energy needs of the agency.

Though Guyana has for many years been using solar PV panels for a number of applications, primarily in remote areas, the system installed by the GEA was Guyana’s first grid-connected solar photovoltaic net- metering demonstration. It allowed for the promotion of the use of renewable energy in Guyana, improved understanding of grid-connected technologies, and demonstrated the use and application of solar photovoltaic grid-connected technology.

“During a regular business day, the grid -connected inverter senses the amount of energy coming from the solar panels, measures the amount of energy being consumed by the building, then takes the difference from the grid,” said Energy Engineer Leon

DeSouza ,who explained how the system works; “On holidays and weekends, when the energy requirement of the building is less than that supplied from the solar panels, the excess energy is fed into the grid. It is also designed to quickly disconnect from the grid if the utility grid goes down.”

The new installation, when combined with the one previously installed, will result in annual savings of about G$1,599,641.

Since the installation of the first system in 2012 and the new system in 2016, the PV systems have resulted in savings of over G$3,100,000.

Additionally, it has contributed positively to the environment by preventing the release of more than 31,705 kg carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

GEA remains committed to its vision of ensuring

Guyana’s energy security through access to reliable energy that is economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable. Hence, the agency will continue to carry out research into all

sources of energy, including those presently used in Guyana. These efforts are aimed at securing and encouraging more efficient utilisation of energy and sources of energy in the

public’s interest. The agency also seeks to develop and encourage the development and usage of sources of energy other than those currently in use. (Guyana Energy Agency)

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‘Green Machine’ puts away Jamaica 23-5

By Ras Wadada GUYANA’s National Rugby team, the “Green Machine,” made light work of Jamaica when the two countries met yesterday at the National Park in a NACRA 15s World Cup qualifier group match.

In overcast and muddy conditions, the Guyanese Ruggers did not disappoint the several hundred fans as they dominated the Jamaicans in a flawless second-half display for a comprehensive 23-5 victory and second win in the four-team group.

The “Green Machine” took the lead 8-5 on the stroke of half-time, thanks to some excellent ball handling that started from a line-off on the attacking left about 10 yards

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from the touch line and stretched across to the extreme right.

Lancelot Adonis in taking the ball over the touchline also had to take a Jamaican for over a yard with him as held on, but could not stop the first of five touch downs for the afternoon.

Seven minutes earlier, Guyana reduced the lead after Ryan Gonsalves scored a field goal from about 22 yards out to make the score 5-3, after the visitors took an early 5-0 lead which was their only moment of joy In the 70-minute contest.

Immediately after the interval, the “Green Machine,” now going with the North Atlantic breeze, increased the lead as the dreadlocked Ronald “Dixie” Meyers exhibited a great presence of mind to skilfully boot the ball forward like a soccer player and leapt to catch it as it went over the touch line.

The ensuing goal kick by Gonsalves went off target, but Guyana now led 13-5.

Coach Laurie Adonis was forced to make two changes at the half as Dane Parks and Avery Corbin suffered minor injuries and were replaced; and it was one of the substitutes, Patrick King, who made the 4th touchdown in fantastic style as he leapt over the touchline to catch the ball in midair before touching down, much to the delight of fans who erupted again.

Gonsalves would again miss the goal-kick for the extra point, but the lead was now 18-5 .

The now seemingly well oiled “Green Machine” continued their relentless attacks and dominated the game as play was concentrated in the Jamaican half for most of the second half.

Just before the end, the Guyanese defence was

tested and they responded strongly and stubbornly to thwart the Jamaican attempt for a touchdown.

On the counter attack after winning the ball, the Guyanese went down the left side and in a flowing motion, King, from close to the sideline, received a pass and bisected two on-rushing Jamaicans to find Claudius Butts, who sped away for about 25 yards for the final touchdown of the encounter.

And for the third time Gonsalves failed to convert as the final whistle came minutes after, much to the relief of the Jamaicans who never looked comfortable in the muddy conditions.

Coach Adonis in a post-game comment expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, “It was a really tough game, but being patient and sticking to the game plan and patterns of play was our focus. It was a disciplined performance because after Jamaica went ahead early, we did not lose our cool but just continued with our game plan and it worked. I am very happy for the team.”

His opposite New Zealand-born Tony Greenaway was gracious in defeat, but pointed to the conditions. “I am proud of the team as in the past we played a lot individually, but this game we played as a team.

“The Guyanese obviously knew the conditions better. We are not used to playing in these kinds of conditions and it is difficult to handle the ball and we did not adapt. I thought the Guyanese were fantastic. They handled the ball well and played solid defence.”

Guyana will next play Trinidad and Tobago in the Twin-Island Republic next month.

34

sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Sublime Lingard volley seals Man United FA Cup win

By Steve Tongue LONDON, (Reuters)-Manchester United substitute Jesse Lingard’s superb volley in extra time secured a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium yesterday for their first major trophy in three years.

The game was locked at 1-1 after 90 minutes, Jason Puncheon coming off the bench to put London side Palace ahead 12 minutes from time before Juan Mata equalised three minutes later.

United central defender Chris Smalling was sent off in the extra period for a second yellow card but Lingard produced a moment of class to give under-pressure Dutch manager Louis van Gaal a first trophy in his two years at Old Trafford.

“It’s fantastic to win this title for the club, the fans and also for me,” Van Gaal said. “Now I have won a Cup in four countries. Not many managers can say that so I am very happy.”

Underdogs Palace took the lead when Puncheon, who had only come on six minutes earlier, deftly controlled a long ball into the area and fired past United goalkeeper David de Gea. But within three minutes Wayne Rooney went on a brilliant run across the edge of the Palace area and crossed for Marouane Fellaini to set up the equaliser for Spaniard Mata.

Despite playing the second period of extra time with 10 men after Smalling’s dismissal, United continued to pour forward and Lingard’s strike secured their 12th FA Cup triumph, putting them level with Arsenal at the top of the all-time winners’ list.

“I saw it come across and it landed nicely for me, all I had to do was hit it sweet and luckily I did that. As a sub you always have to be ready. Thankfully I was,” Lingard said, with Van gaal adding, “It was a super goal when we needed it.”

Smalling was the first Englishman and only the fourth player ever to be sent off in the FA Cup final.

Manchester United’s Marcos Rojo, Juan Mata and teammates celebrates winning the FA Cup with the trophy Action Images via Reuters / Jason Cairnduff.

Man. United to appoint Mourinho as manager Manchester United will appoint Jose Mourinho as their new manager, BBC Sport understands.

It is believed a deal with the 53-year-old Portuguese was agreed in principle before United’s FA Cup final win against Crystal Palace yesterday.

With United failing to qualify for the Champions League under Louis van Gaal, the Old Trafford hierarchy is thought to have decided a change is required.

Mourinho has been out of work since he was sacked by Chelsea in December.(BBC Sport)

Jose Mourinho

RHTYSC, MS donates scorebooks to UCCA THE Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS, recently donated a number of scorebooks worth $75,000 to the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association (UCCA).

Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster and executive member Mark Papannah made the presentation to UCCA President Dennis De’ Andrade and Vice-President Sydney Jackman.

Foster in brief remarks stated that the club was pleased to assist the UCCA. He urged the UCCA executives to uphold its high tradition of hard work and expressed confidence that the scorebooks will assist clubs in the Upper Corentyne area.

Mark Papannah (right), hands over the scorebooks to the UCCA Dennis De’ Andrade, while Sydney Jackman looks on.

De’ Andrade praised the RHTYSC, MS for its continued assistance to cricket in the Upper Corentyne area.

The donation of the

scorebooks, he said, was important, since several clubs were recently observed scoring in exercise books.

35

sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

GUYANA’S FIRST POST-INDEPENDENCE INTERNATIONAL CRICKETER

Inside

SHORTLY after British Guiana gained political independence from the English on May 26, 1966, Clive Hubert Lloyd made his international debut for the West Indies against India in Bombay (now Mumbai) in the first Test of a three-match series to become the first Guyanese to debut at the highest level in post-independent Guyana.

He was a tall, powerfully structured left-handed middle-order batsman, fielder supreme and the most successful West Indies captain who represented the region in a distinguished career involving 110 Test matches and 87 One Day Internationals between 1966 and 1985.

His early days were spent at the Chatham High School and the Demerara Cricket Club, from where he graduated to the national senior team for his debut game against Jamaica at Bourda in 1964.

The bespectacled giant made only 11 in a resounding Guyanese victory by an innings and 61 runs and when he faltered a year later against the visiting Australians in his second big game, he had to wait a further 12 months for a third chance.

It came in the inaugural Shell Shield tournament against Barbados at the Kensington Oval in 1966 when he followed a first-innings duck with a second-innings century. In the very next game he made a pugnacious 194 at Sabina Park and was duly selected to tour India with the senior regional team later that year.

Lloyd played in all three Test matches but was most impressive in his debut game in Bombay with scores of 82 and an unbeaten 78, which carried West Indies to an emphatic six-wicket victory.

When the Englishmen toured the Caribbean in 1968, he struck his maiden Test century (118) in Trinidad and followed up with another hundred (113 not out) in Barbados. On the subsequent tour to Australia and New Zealand in 1968-69, he laced a commanding 129 in the first encounter in Brisbane, but other useful scores could not prevent the tourists from going down 3-1.

He struggled on the New Zealand leg and in the five-Test home series against the Indians in 1971 and when he was stretchered off the field while effecting one of his spectacular interceptions (which earned him the sobriquet ‘Supercat’) for the Rest of the World against Australia “Down Under” in 1971-72, his career was at the crossroads.

In fact, Lloyd was not even invited to be a part of the squad to contest the five Tests against New Zealand on their first visit to these parts in early 1972. It was an initiative taken by the then Prime Minister, Forbes Burnham, to bring him home (Guyanese dubbed Lloyd “Burnham Magic”) and an exhilarating century for Guyana against the touring team that caused the selectors to include him for the final games in Georgetown and Trinidad.

He did little of note and when he was included in the squad in preparation for the

Aussies visit to the Caribbean in 1973, there was a hue and cry from certain quarters for his replacement.

In the meantime, he was signed by Lancashire where he dominated with his powerful batting assaults, magnificent fielding, subtle medium pace and later his inspiring leadership.

He sat out the first two Tests of the Australian series, but was brought in for the third match in Port-of-Spain not only to bat in the middle, but also to share the new ball as well.

Clive Lloyd

His performance was below par -- no wicket for 24 off 10 overs and scores of 20 and 15 -but it all happened for him in the next game in front of his home fans in Georgetown.

Coming to the wicket on the first day with the score 56 for two, the powerhouse proceeded to crack a shot-filled 178 out of a total of 366. With another half-century in the final Test and an excellent tour to England mid-year he was firmly establishing himself as a high-calibre player.

After the drawn home encounter against the English in 1974 under Rohan Kanhai, the now experienced Lloyd, aged 30, was appointed captain and undertook his first assignment to India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in 1974-75 with a young team including Viv Richards, Andy Roberts, Gordon Greenidge and Leonard Baichan.

He aggregated a grand 636 runs at 79.50 per innings including scintillating knocks of 163 in the first Test at Bangalore and a series-winning, undefeated 242 (his highest Test score) in the final game in Bombay.

In 1975 he led the side to victory in the first-ever World Cup competition with

Edge

With Edwin Seeraj a high-octane century against Australia at Lord’s. Four years later he was at the helm again as England were defeated, but he was bitterly disappointed when the Indians turned the tables and snatched the title from a reckless Windies in 1983.

He also suffered the indignity of leading the team to a 5-1 drubbing against Australia in 1975-76, although he was consoled by the fact that he accumulated 469 runs at 46.90 per innings and his younger charges were gaining much-needed experience.

Witnessing first-hand how the Aussies employed their four-pronged pace attack to great effect, the skipper dedicated himself to follow suit, especially when the young spinners were not good enough to stop the Indians romping to a famous victory at the Queen’s Park Oval in 1976.

With a string of high-profile fast bowlers at his disposal, a formidable batting line-up and a bunch of skilled, athletic fielders, the West Indies under Lloyd consistently dominated every major cricketing nation for several years at both the Test and One Day levels, notwithstanding a few hiccups in between.

On the eve of the Georgetown Test in 1978 against the Australians, Lloyd and his team opted out of the remainder of the series in disagreement with the West Indies Cricket Board over the Kerry Packer World Series cricket issue and the second-string side was led by Alvin Kallicharran.

The original party returned for the successful defence of the World Cup title in mid1979 and won a Test series “Down Under” for the first time in 1979-80. However, the short visit to New Zealand which followed was shrouded in controversy over alleged biased umpiring and unsportsmanlike behaviour by a few West Indian players.

This was the last time the Caribbean boys lost a series for the next 15 years and Lloyd was at the helm for the first five.

England and Pakistan were both defeated at home 1-0 in 1980 and in 1980-81 respectively; England were once again on the losing end at 2-0 in the Caribbean in 1981; the Aussies played to a 1-1 draw at home in 1981-82; the visiting Indians were steamrolled 2-0 and then 3-0 at home in 1983; the touring Australians were destroyed 3-0 in early 1984; the English were “blackwashed” 5-0 on their home soil in mid-1984; and the “Kangaroos” were demolished 3-1 in 1984-85 before Lloyd called it a day.

During his tenure as captain, the stalwart grew in confidence as a batsman, registering 5,233 runs at 51.30 runs per innings and compiling 14 of his eventual 19 Test centuries.

He often pulled his side out of difficult situations with his forthright batting and wealth of experience as he did against India in 1983 in Trinidad, when he arrived at the wicket with the team one run for three wickets.

In tandem with Larry Gomes (123), he added 237 runs for the fourth wicket eventually falling for a superbly fashioned 143 which earned his team a draw.

He was the first West Indian to play 100 Tests and led the side in 74 matches, which included 36 victories. In the One Day arena, he skippered 84 games and was victorious on no less than 64 occasions. All told, he scored 7,515 runs in Tests at an average of 46.67 and 1977 runs in ODIs at 39.54 runs per innings.

At the end of his playing days, the highly respected icon managed the West Indies team from 1996 to 1999 and then officiated as an ICC match referee for several years.

He is currently the chairman of the West Indies panel of selectors.

36

sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Anderson bowls England to crushing win over Sri Lanka (REUTERS)-England fast bowler James Anderson took five wickets to inspire the hosts to a crushing victory over Sri Lanka by an innings and 88 runs in the first Test in Leeds yesterday.

Anderson claimed 10 victims in the match as Sri Lanka crumbled to 119 all out in their second innings on the third day after being asked

James Anderson finished with a match haul of 10 for 45 to rip out Sri Lanka at Headingley, Leeds.

to follow-on at Headingley.

“Sometimes you take it for granted, but watching Stuart (Broad) and Jimmy go about their business was a pleasure to captain,” England skipper Alastair Cook told reporters.

Anderson had Dimuth Karunaratne (seven) and Kaushal Silva (14) caught by wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow in another probing spell in the morning before rain forced the players off for an early lunch with Sri Lanka on 77 for two.

Spinner Moeen Ali forced Dinesh Chandimal, on eight, to chop the ball on to his stumps before Kusal Mendis, dropped twice, became the first Sri Lankan batsman to pass fifty in the match.

Broad forced Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews to nick another catch through to Bairstow and Mendis, on 53, was bowled by Anderson off the inside edge.

Dasun Shanaka’s unhappy stay at the crease ended when he edged Anderson to Bairstow, the ninth catch of the match for the flamehaired keeper who scored a brilliant 140 in England’s innings to lead them to a total of 298 after an early collapse.

“Jonny Bairstow was

batting on a different wicket to the other 21 players in this match,” Cook said.

“The first time I saw him I thought he would play for England and he’ll go from strength to strength.”

Rangana Herath chipped Steven Finn to Broad at short extra cover and the touring side limped to tea on 116 for seven.

England wrapped up the last three wickets in 10 minutes.

Dushmantha Chameera

was caught by Nick Compton at short leg off Finn for a duck, Lahiru Thiramanne edged Finn to Joe Root at second slip for 16 and Anderson bowled Nuwan Pradeep to complete figures of 5-29.

The 33-year-old right-armer, who overtook India’s Kapil Dev during the first innings to become the sixth-highest wicket-taker in Tests, claimed 10 victims in a five-day match for the third time in his career.

scoreboard ENGLAND 1st innings 298 (J. Bairstow 140, A. Hales 86) Sri Lanka 1st innings 91 (J. Anderson 5-16, S. Broad 4-21) Sri Lanka 2nd innings (Overnight: 1-0) D. Karunaratne c Bairstow b Anderson 7 K. Silva c Bairstow b Anderson 14 K. Mendis b Anderson 53 D. Chandimal b Ali 8 A. Mathews c Bairstow b Broad 5 L. Thirimanne c Root b Finn 16 D. Shanaka c Bairstow b Anderson 4 R. Herath c Broad b Finn 4 D. Chameera c Compton b Finn 0 S. Eranga not out 2 N. Pradeep b Anderson 0 Extras (lb-5 nb-1) 6 Total (all out, 35.3 overs) 119 Fall of wickets: 1-10 D. Karunaratne,2-35 K. Silva,3-79 D. Chandimal,4-93 A. Mathews,5-93 K. Mendis,6-101 D. Shanaka,7-111 R. Herath,8-117 D. Chameera,9-118 L. Thirimanne,10-119 N. Pradeep Bowling: J. Anderson 13.3 - 5 - 29 – 5,S. Broad 13 - 0 - 57 – 1, S. Finn 8 - 0 - 26 - 3(nb-1),M. Ali 1 - 0 - 2 – 1.

Berbice beat Essequibo by 79 runs … to face Demerara in today’s Hand-in-Hand final

BERBICE beat Essequibo by 79 runs under the Duckworth-Lewis method in the final round of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) sponsored Hand-inHand Insurance Company Under-19 one-day tournament yesterday at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

By virtue of the win, Berbice will face Demerara in the final today at the same venue.

Set a revised target of 147 in 40 overs, Essequibo folded for 67 in 19 overs.

Earlier, the Essequibo bowlers produced a disciplined bowling and fielding effort to restrict an ordinary Berbice line-up to a modest 146-9 in 46 overs after they had decided to bat first.

Rain intervened twice, reducing the innings to 46 overs, but it was a struggle for the Berbicians from the word go as they lost wickets at regular intervals.

Matthew Hardial top-scored for Ber-

bice with a patient knock of 56, inclusive of four boundaries, while Brandon Prasad and Alex Algoo contributed 20 and 17 respectively, and were the only two other batsmen to manage double figures.

For Essequibo, Siddiq Mohamed was the chief destroyer with figures of 4-34.He received support from Keemo Paul (3-28), while Akinie Adams and Reyaz Khan, both chipped in with a wicket apiece.

Set a revised target of 156 in 46 overs, Essequibo’s inning was further reduced to 40 overs. They were eventually set a target of 147, due to rain.

However, the Berbice bowlers maintained a disciplined line and length to eventually bowl out their opponents in 19 overs.

Joel Seitaram (4-24), Sylus Tyndall (3-10) and Asif Ali (3-13), were the wicket takers.

For Essequibo, Mark Williams (24) and Mohamed (12) were the only major contributors with the bat.

37

sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Raina half-century helps Lions clinch IPL play-off spot Gujarat Lions will contest the Indian Premier League play-offs after Suresh Raina’s 50 enabled them to chase down Mumbai Indians.

Raina’s half-century helped Gujarat Lions clinch a spot in the Indian Premier League play-offs with a six-wicket win over Mumbai Indians in Kanpur.

Raina plundered 10 boundaries on his way to 58 off 36 balls, spearheading Gujarat’s successful chase of 173 to move to the top of the table and secure a toptwo finish.

Mumbai’s total of 1728 was largely thanks to the work of Nitish Rana, but his 70 off 36 deliveries proved in vain as the low order struggled to add runs.

Rohit Sharma started positively for the Indians, but he was removed for 30 by Dhawal Kulkarni (2-41) in the fourth over, and Martin Guptill (7) and Krunal Pandya (4) quickly followed.

Raina got Mumbai back

on track, smashing four maximums before he was caught at deep square leg off Dwayne Bravo (2-22)

while a pair of wickets for Praveen Kumar (2-24) in the final over kept the Indians below 180.

Player of the match Suresh Raina eyes the leg side during his half-century in the 17th over.

Jos Buttler (33) had provided capable support until he was caught and bowled by Bravo,

The Lions suffered an early blow with Aaron Finch trapped leg before by Vinay Kumar (2-17) second ball, the seamer claim-

ing his 100th IPL wicket with a wicket maiden.

Finch’s exit paved the way for Raina to enter, and he provided a signal of intent by hitting Mitchell McClenaghan (0-38) for 18 runs - three boundaries and a maximum - in the third over.

Raina and Brendon McCullum (48) took the match by the scruff of the neck and mounted a partnership worth 95 runs before the former New Zealand captain was bowled by Harbhajan Singh (1-36).

The Gujarat captain went to Jasprit Bumrah (1-42), but Dwayne Smith (37) ensured the momentum was not lost with Ravindra Jadeja (21) completing the victory with a single with 13 balls remaining.

Mumbai require Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Daredevils to lose by margins that send their net run-rates below that of the 2015 champions today (Sportsmax. com).

Juventus make history with double double

Juventus became the first Italian side in history to complete back-toback doubles as substitute Alvaro Morata scored an extra-time winner against AC Milan in the Coppa Italia final.

The 23-year-old swept home a half-volley from Juan Cuadrado’s cross to settle a game high on effort, but short on quality in the final third.

Juventus claimed the Italian title for the fifth successive season in April.

Milan miss out on Europe next season after finishing seventh in Serie A. The final Europa League spot goes to minnows Sassuolo, who finished sixth in the league and had never qualified for Europe before.

The Italian Cup final is likely to mark the end of

Mario Balotelli’s second stint with the Rossoneri.

scored only three goals in 23 appearances since his return

Striker Paulo Dybala was signed from Palermo for £23.5m at the end of last season The 25-year-old striker at the end of a season-long loan from Liverpool - has

to Italy and was a late substitute in Rome.

Milan went close to dra-

matically sending the game to penalties, but substitute Jose Mauri’s fierce low strike flew just wide after 17-year-old goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma had come up for a set-piece.

The defeat marks the end of a miserable campaign for Milan and club president Silvio Berlusconi - who earlier this week had threatened to stop paying his players unless they improve - was in attendance at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico.

Milan last lifted a trophy in 2011 when they were led to a Super Cup win over city rivals Inter Milan by Massimiliano Allegri, who is now the Juventus boss.

Allegri was sacked at the San Siro in January 2014, six months before taking up his current post with Juve.(BBC Sport)

Dhoni’s last ball six seals win for Pune Supergiants THREE maximums from MS Dhoni in the final over saw Rising Pune Supergiants beat Kings XI Punjab by four wickets.

Dhoni produced a sensational final over to ensure Rising Pune Supergiants finished their maiden Indian Premier League campaign on a high with a four-wicket win over Kings XI Punjab.

With neither side able to qualify for the top four, pride was all that was at stake on Saturday and it was Dhoni’s side who came out on top to lift them off the bottom of the table.

The 34-year-old hit an unbeaten 64 – including 22 off the final six balls – to grab a fifth win of the competition, Dhoni hitting successive maximums off the last two deliveries in an amazing finish.

Kings XI looked to have set a competitive MS Dhoni total after winning the toss and electing to bat, Hashim Amla (30) and Murali Vijay (59) giving them a strong start with an opening stand of 60.

The duo should have gone on from there, but wickets fell too regularly as Ravichandran Ashwin (4-34) and Adam Zampa (1-32) impressed with the ball, only Gurkeerat Singh (51) offered real resistance with a 30-ball half century.

Gurkeerat’s best score of the season helped them to 1727, but Pune’s batting line-up was eventually able to handle the pressure of their run chase.

Ajinkya Rahane (19) and Usman Khawaja (30) set them on their way, but somehow with an over remaining they still needed 23 runs to win.

A wide got them under way before Dhoni took centre stage with an audacious piece of batting.

His first maximum saw Axar Patel (1-43) launched over long-on, and two balls later the ball was thudding into the cover boundary as Dhoni took control.

Dhoni still needed 12 off the final two balls, but it proved no problem as both deliveries went sailing over the fence at midwicket to secure a dramatic late victory.

(Sportsmax.com)

Oldest Olympic champion Sandor Tarics dies at 102 (REUTERS)-The world’s oldest Olympic champion, Sandor Tarics, has died at the age of 102 in San Francisco, the Hungarian Olympic Committee MOB said on its website yetserday, citing information from the family.

Tarics was member of the Hungarian waterpolo team which won in the Berlin Olympics staged by the Nazi government in 1936, pushing Germany into second place.

He left Soviet-occupied Hungary to settle in the United States in 1949 and earned fame in his new home country as a designer of earthquake-proof building technologies.

At the age of over 100, Tarics still drove his car with California license plate “Gold36”’ He swam, worked on solving mathematical problems and monitored sports news in Hungary, he said in a interview to MOB late last year.

He attended the 2012 London Olympics as the oldest living champion. When asked in the interview if he would also attend the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, he said: “We will see, it is hard to plan things so much forward.”

38

sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Ramdin - Women’s World T20 win added pressure DENESH Ramdin, West Indies wicketkeeper and double World T20 champion player, paid homage to the triumphant West Indies Women team who won their first ICC World T20 title earlier on the same day that the men’s team recaptured the prized World T20 crown and made it an historic double at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata, India on April 3.

He also praised the WI Under-19. team which won the World Under-. 19 World Cup six weeks earlier. in Bangladesh where they defeated.

India in the final and started

the. history-making ride for West Indies. Women and Men’s team in the. World T20 tournaments.

Significantly, it was the WI Under-. 19s and West Indies Women. first taste of global cricket success. and both teams defied tremendous. odds to reach the pinnacle of their. respective tournaments.

The WI Women registered. an emphatic and sensational. eight-wicket victory over the. mighty Australia who were defending. threetime champions and redhot. favourites to make it four in

Big money at stake in today’s Independence horse-race meet

WITH entries topping the 70-horse mark, today’s Independence horse- race meet is expected to see all the top horses in action.

Dubbed the biggest horse- race meet for the calendar year, the event is billed for the Port Mourant Turf Club, Corentyne, and is being held as part of the country’s Independence Jubilee celebrations.

Organised by the “four horsemen promotion group,” the event will see horses compete in eight races with over $8M in cash, trophies and other incentives up for grabs.

The ‘A’ and Lower Class has been the marquee event over a distance of 1900 metres, with the likes of C. P Got Even, Just call me Boss, Plum Plum,, Princess She’s Not, Kings Knight, Golden Blue Echo, Jack In My Style, American Boss, Lady Budapest and Carrie Azarie, set to blaze the track for the top prize is $1.5 million.

Information reaching Chronicle Sport has revealed that the organisers have added an event for horses classified G and Lower and West Indies-bred. The race will be run over 1200 metres, and see the winning stable take home $350 000.

It was also revealed that the H Class race is now for H2 horses over 1000 metres for an increased package of $300 000.

And the other change to the programme will see the three-year-old event is now for Threey e a r- o l d G u y a n a - b r e d h o r s e s a n d We s t I n dies-bred non-winners. An increased package of $250 000 will be up for grabs over 1000 metres.

The other events listed are the D3 and Lower, E and F class and Lower, I3 and Lower, J3 and K and Lower and K and L and Lower.

The event will be held under the rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority. (Rajiv Bisnauth)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday May 22, 2016)

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

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) 74 matches (2) CSK & KKR

Today’s Quiz:

(1) In which IPL season semi-finals were replaced with qualifiers and eliminators for the first time?

(2) Which franchise has played to two ties in IPL cricket to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

a row.

The Women team celebrated. with much gusto and verve and at. the end of the ICC World T20 double-.

Stokes for four consecutive sixes when 19 runs were required for victory in the final over.

Speaking on behalf of

Ramdin said: “We were so happy for the women and all of us wanted to celebrate with them but we had to warm-up for our match

The West Indies Women team who won their first ICC World T20 title. header final, it was the West.

Indies men who exploded into wild. celebrations with a sensational. six-wicket victory over the Englishmen. with two balls remaining.

Samuel Badree, Marlon Samuels, and Carlos Brathwaite emerged as the heroes for the WI Men team which went through a roller-coaster experience before Brathwaite smashed Ben

the male West Indies players who were honoured at the presentation dinner function hosted jointly by the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) and Trinidad and Tobago Women Cricket Association (TTWCA), Ramdin disclosed that the “WI women victory was spectacular but it also put us (the men’s team) under a lot of pressure to come out on top.”

(against England).

While we were excited for them, everyone in the team (male) knew that we under greater pressure to win back the trophy because of the women’s success against such a. strong Australian team.”.

“We kept our focus and did the. basics right.

“In the end, Marlon (Samuels). and Carlos (Brathwaite) pulled us. through and we

won our second. World T20 trophy. The feeling was. great and we were so happy to celebrate. with the women team as well.

We are champs again.”.

Ramdin also lavished special. praise on the West Indies Under-19. team for their historic achievement.

He stressed that: “First it was. the Under-19 team which started it. all. They played so well and won the. World Cup in Bangladesh where. we (Ramdin-led Under 19 team). also reached the final and lost to. Pakistan in 2004.

But we are really. proud of the Under-19s and their. victory was a very big achievement. by them.

“It is the one trophy and medal. missing from my cabinet. Congrats. to the Under-19s for playing so well. and creating the positive energies. and inspiration for us the men’s. team and also the women’s team.

They provided the motivation and. knowing that they did it, meant. that we had to pull out all stops to. be champion again.”. (First Published In The Trinidad & Tobago Newsday).

Rock-bottom prices for tri-series tickets in Guyana

By Rajiv Bisnauth

TICKET sales for the Guyana leg of the tri-series featuring Australia, South Africa and the West Indies will be sold at rock-bottom prices and will be available to the Guyanese public from tomorrow at the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) office on Regent Road.

Chronicle Sport confirmed yesterday that tickets are expected to cost $4,000 for the Red and Green Stands; $3,000 for the Orange Stand and $2,000 for Grass Mound.

It was also confirmed that in addition to the GCB office as a ticketing location, patrons can purchase online by visiting www.kyazoonga.com for more information.

The 10-match event will be played under lights, and take place over a three-week period from June 3 to June 26, with Guyana scheduled to host the first three One Day Internationals (ODIs), at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

There South Africa will take on the West Indies on June 3. Australia will battle West Indies on June 5 and South Africa will go up against Australia on June 7.

T h e l a s t i n t e r n a t i o nal match in the country was played on July 16, 2013, when West Indies defeated Pakistan by 37 runs in an ODI.

–Tickets go on sale from tomorrow

The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) office on Regent Road will be the venue for ticket sales from Monday.

Prior to that, there were 12 ODIs at the venue, which was built to host matches in the Cricket World Cup in 2007.

The national stadium has also hosted two Test matches (March 2008 and May 2011) and seven T20 Internationals, the last of which was in May 2010.

Guyana has not hosted more than two international teams at the same time since the ICC World Cup in 2007.

Meanwhile, the second leg of the tri-series will be held in St Kitts, while the final four

ODIs, including the final, will be held in Barbados.

Australia most recently toured the West Indies in June last year, sweeping a two-match Test series to retain the Frank Worrell Trophy.

But their last limited overs matches in the Caribbean came in March 2012, when they played five ODIs and two T20Is, along with three Tests.

The two sides split the ODI series – with two wins each and a tie in the third ODI at St Vincent and the T20 series as well.

South Africa demolished the hosts on their last tour of the West Indies in 2010, sweeping two T20Is and five ODIs before claiming the three-Test series with a 2-0 scoreline.

Their last encounter with South Africa came in Australia at the World Cup in February last year.

The Australians are currently ranked number one on the International Cricket Council (ICC) ODI rankings; the South Africans are in third place, while the West Indies are in eighth place.

39

sunday CHRONICLE May 22, 2016

Guyana storm back to retain WIFBSC title … Rifle shooters dedicate victory to Golden Jubilee 50th anniversary

FOLLOWING a not-so-hot start to the West Indies Fullbore Short Range Championships hosted by Antigua and Barbuda under the auspices of the West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council (WIFBSC) at the Crabb Rifle Range yesterday, defending champions Guyana stormed back to retain the title in grand style, a victory which the shooters have dedicated to Guyana for its 50th Independence Anniversary/Golden Jubilee.

It was described as the great escape by the shooters from the Land of Many Waters. They had given up the early advantage to Jamaica which tallied 372.24 and Barbados (371.12) to their 368.22 after the 300 yards was contested but the hungry Guyanese regrouped after the 300 range to fire back in style.

Head Wind Coach ACP Paul Slowe and Fullbore Captain Mahendra Persaud gave a motivational talk to the team which resulted in all the shooters stepping up at the 500 range which the Guyanese won to edge ahead at the point.

At 500, Guyana tallied 378.21 well ahead of Jamaica (367.17) and Barbados (365.23) and further consolidated this position by scoring 374.27 at the final range (600) to wrap up victory with an overall total of 1120.70 to second-placed Jamaica which had a 600 range total of 357.9 for an overall

Lennox Braithwaite wins the Wogart Trophy as the Top Individual

Media giant Tony Cozier laid to rest BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – Cricket media titan Tony Cozier was laid to rest here Friday, following a service at the Coral Ridge Memorial Gardens which was attended by several dignitaries and influential members of the regional cricket community.

Barbados’ only living National Hero, Sir Garry Sobers, topped the list of mourners along with former Chief Justice Sir David Simmons, noted Caribbean jurist Sir Richard Cheltenham, West Indies batting great Sir Everton Weekes and outstanding former West

in an illustrious career which saw him rise to the summit of the industry.

Cozier was eulogised by son Craig who described him as an outstanding family man, a true professional and a pioneer in the field of cricket journalism.

“I was lucky to have him as my mentor and teacher as I too charted a path in journalism and cricket, learning as much from his vast professional know-how as his human qualities,” said Craig, an international television cricket producer.

“For a long time the sole Caribbean presence on overseas campaigns, Dad paved the way for others to follow and he was delighted to be joined by likeminded Caribbean men such as fellow commentator Reds Pereira, Jamaican journalist Tony Becca and photographer Gordon Brooks, to share his experiences with, as well as Michael Holding, Fazeer Mohammed and Ian Bishop in more recent times.”

He added: “Dad always had time for people and especially loved his family time.”Cozier’s skills spanned radio, television and print, and he worked for nearly every major inTony Cozier’s son Craig (second left), close friend ternational media entity and former West Indies fast bowler Richard “Prof” including the BBC, Channel Edwards (left) and nephew Robert Peirce taking the Nine and Sky. casket into the chapel. (Nationnews photo) Despite his health challenges, he remained a major media presence and was in the Indies fast bowler ex-government minister, commentary box when West Indies secured Sir Wes Hall, who conducted the ceremony. a shock 1-1 draw when England toured the Several former West Indies players Caribbean last year for a three-Test series. were also in attendance including legendCozier was the editor of the West Indies ary captain and current chairman of se- Cricket Annual and was also a senior editor lectors, Clive Lloyd; legendary fast bowler of leading local newspaper, the Nation, with and current Barbados Cricket Association whom he remained closely affiliated at the president, Joel Garner; current West In- time of his death. dies head coach Phil Simmons and former In 2007, cricket authorities here reWest Indies vice-captain, Trinidadian named the upgraded media centre at the Deryck Murray. redeveloped Kensington Oval the Coppin, Barbados Sports Minister Stephen Lash- Cozier and Short Media Centre, in honour ley and Opposition Leader Mia Mottley were of his contribution to the sport. among the mourners.

Cozier died last week Wednesday at age Known as the ‘voice of West Indies 75 following a brief hospitalisation. cricket’, Cozier chronicled the fortunes of He is survived by his wife, Jill, and the West Indies team for nearly six decades, children Craig and Natalie.

score of 1096.50.

The Guyanese got the perfect start to the final range when Captain Mahendra Persaud and winner of the Wogart trophy as the best Individual Shot in this Team Match Lennox Braithwaite both gave their country scores of 49.6 and 49.5 respectively.

Braithwaite also captured the Bermuda Shield, which is for the shooter with the highest score in the Team Match and Individual combined.

The hold on the top spot was further cemented when two more shooters, Peter Persaud and Ransford Goodluck also delivered scores of 49.1 and 49.5, the other team members also hitting the target for scores of over 40, which saw the marksmen from Guyana holding on to the Short Range Championship for yet another year.

This trophy is the most coveted in the Caribbean and Guyana has been showing that it is the best at both the Short and Long Range in the Caribbean.

Antigua bounced back to overtake Barbados for the third place with a Grand Aggregate of 1086.62 to Barbados’s 1085.52.

Captain Mahendra Persaud and Head Wind coach ACP Slowe were high in praise for the fight, resilience and determination shown by their charges under pressure.

CMRC Round 1 JamwestTiming system woes leave competitors sweating (By Stephan Sookram in Jamaica, compliments of Buy Me Auto Sales, B.M. Soat Auto sales, Rent-a-tent and Fly Jamaica).

LOGISTICAL problems continued to plague this weekend’s first round of the Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) at the Jamwest Raceway in Jamaica.

Kristian Jeffrey during testing (Stephan Sookram Photo) Yesterday’s qualification session was plagued with its own problems, not only for the Guyanese, but for all competitors as a timing-system failure caused a fair bit of discomfort.

Firstly, off to a late start, the qualification session commenced with the CMRC bikes.

Two laps into the bike qualification, the clouds opened up and emptied its contents onto the Jamwest surface, meaning that the bikes had to return to the pit area to re-run their qualification at a later time.

Up next came the CMRC group two cars which went onto the track for their 20-minute session, none of which was recorded on the local timing system which seemed to be functioning but not responding.

After a 20-minute break to assess the next step, the local organising committee decided that the best route to fix the problem was to have the manual timing system re-employed (where each time-keeper uses a stopwatch to time a particular car).

This meant that only two cars at a time could qualify, leading to a longer than expected afternoon for competitors as their hand-qualified times then had to be transferred to the organising committee to be sorted and matched.

As such, a handful of group three and four competitors were able to qualify as some opted out of having their cars manually timed.

Up to 18:00hrs last evening, the results of the various classes and their starting positions for today’s event could not be confirmed.

It is unclear what the JRDC will do for the requalification of the CMRC 2 cars and the superbikes, though according to CMRC rules, qualification sessions can be held on race-day if necessary.

The other option and the one most likely to be employed is the hand-in-bag method which means that competitors will have to randomly pull their grid positions from a bag, though no official comment was made on the matter.

Earlier, The Jamaica Race Drivers Club (JRDC) decided by majority participant votes that a contentious new section of the track would not be used.

According to the drivers and riders, the new section is very slippery as the asphalt used to repave the spot was beginning to release oil, making it very difficult to control vehicles in that sector.

Today’s session begins at 09:00hrs.

Media giant Tony Cozier laid to rest see story on page 39

‘Green Machine’ puts away Jamaica 23-5 see story on page 33

“ G r e e n M a c h i n e ’s ” L a n c e Adonis is captured making the first touchdown for Guyana.

Patrick King acrobatically makes it 18-5 as he touches down in spectacular fashion(Adrian Narine photos)

Guyana storm back to retain WIFBSC title … Rifle shooters dedicate victory to Golden Jubilee 50th anniversary

see story on page 39

Kings of Fullbore Short Range Shooting in the Caribbean. The triumphant Guyana team pose with a few Guyanese supporters with the Golden Arrowhead.

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SUNday, may 22, 2016