Chronicle 7 17 2016

SUNDAY JULY 17, 2016

No. 104615

Price: $140

(VAT INCLUSIVE)

Stepfather arrested for rape of Berbice sisters ‘GOLDEN FUTURE’

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- Aurora produces 75,000 ounces of gold; set to surpass 2016 target - PM pleased with safety, environmental safeguards Page 11

A section of the Aurora Gold Mines in Region Seven. (Adrian Persaud/Department of Public Information photo)

Young ‘entrepreneurs’ delighted at Page 10 ‘second chance’ - Graduates of skills training Prog. share their stories

‘Batty Shine’ 2 Gov’t still 14 gets 7 years for in the dark killing ‘Fry Fish’ - about PPP's multi-billion-dollar contracts Page

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

‘Batty Shine’ gets 7 years for killing ‘Fry Fish’ OMAR Bacchus, called ‘Batty Shine’, was on Friday sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment for the unlawful killing of Chandradat Hemraj, called ‘Fish Fry’ or ‘Sunny Boy’, committed at Bloomfield, Corentyne on August 20, 2011. Justice Brassington Reynolds, who imposed the sentence on Bacchus, told the prisoner that the offence attracts a sentence of between 15 and 25 years, but he has deducted five years for his guilty plea; eight years for time spent in prison, and a further year for his age, resulting in the seven-year jail term. Bacchus had, since September 5, 2008, been remanded for this offence; although he had been committed to stand jury trial on December 21, 2011, he had since remained a guest of the State. Defence Attorney Perry Gossai, in a plea of mitigation, had argued for his client’s constitutional right for a fair trial within a reasonable time. LACK OF GUIDANCE The lawyer painted a sad picture of Bacchus’s life, revealing that he had already spent twelve prison years in the State’s care, and was only 9 years old when he assumed responsibility of being breadwinner for his family. “After all these years, no member of the family is within the court due to transportation cost; they can’t afford it. Their living conditions (leave) much to be desired…they have a flooded yard with an outhouse in the yard. My client was nine years old when he took up the responsibility of being a bread winner. He suffered from a lack of guidance,” Attorney Gossai said.

He further noted that Bacchus cannot read or write, and blamed the system for failing him. “Others are writing exams, but there are no systems in place to teach him,” the lawyer said. And Senior Probation Officer Claudia Munroe told the court that the prisoner was raised in a nuclear family setting, and was forced to leave school at the age of 9, as both parents were alcoholics. The court heard that he did various jobs to maintain his home and the habits of his parents, which resulted in him becoming addictive to alcohol and prohibited substances. It was during this period that he met the now deceased, and their friendship blossomed. Chandradat Hemraj was reportedly a ‘junkie’, which resulted in a broken marriage. However, he shared a good relationship with his three children and siblings, one of whom is under psychiatric supervision since his demise. THE MURDER In narrating the facts, State Counsel Stacy Goodings said that Hemraj was mentally ill and lived with his sister at Bloomfield Village, Corentyne. On August 20, 2011, he left home for a Hindu religious function at Letter Kenny Village, but was later seen by Harenandan Samsarran at a birthday party in his home village of Bloomfield at approximately 22:00h. Samsarran told investigators that he had given Hemraj $1,000 to purchase two packs of cigarettes from a Chinese restaurant. Sattie Nathoo called Chiney, was at her Lot 65 Bloomfield Village home when she heard a ‘beating’ sound at about 23:00h. The court heard that she turned on her light and ventured on her verandah where she saw ‘Batty Shine’ beating ‘Fry Fish’ with a picket on his [Bacchus] bridge. “I asked him what he beating the man fah, and he responded ‘shut you mouth! Go in yuh house and turn off yuh light!’”

Omar Bacchus, called ‘Batty Shine’ The following day, Nathoo saw blood stains in front of Bacchus’s bridge. On September 3, 2011, Police Constable Andel Doris, acting on a missing person’s report, went at the back of Nankumar Singh’s yard, where he found the decomposed body of Hemraj. The body was clad in a long blue jeans and blue underwear, which were partially pulled down. A post-mortem conducted by Government Forensic Pathologist Dr Vivikanand Brijmohan revealed that Hemraj died as a result of asphyxia, drowning and multiple injuries. Hemraj was buried on September 6, 2011 at Letter Kenny Village cemetery.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Stepfather arrested for rape of Berbice sisters

By Nafeeza Yahya THE man who is accused of raping his three stepdaughters, ages four, seven and 10, was apprehended by police early Saturday morning at his home. Commander of the Police’s ‘B’ Division, Ian Amsterdam, told the Guyana Chronicle that they are awaiting the report from the Child Protection Agency in order to institute charges against the man. The mother remains in police custody and is expected to be charged with neglect. The man is said to be in his late 30s and is a known alcoholic and drug addict in his community. This newspaper reported on Saturday that the three sisters were raped last week on multiple occasions. The suspect resided on the East Bank of Berbice (EBB), with the mother and a few of her 14 children. The couple is said to have one child together. According to information reaching this newspaper, the girls were found sleeping in the vicinity of the Edingburgh seawall, EBB, around 08:45hrs on Thursday morning by School Welfare Officers. The girls claimed that they were beaten and thrown out of the house by the stepfather, thus they decided to sleep on the seawall. RESIDENTS OUTRAGED Residents of the closely knit village were in a state of shock and expressed outrage and disgust after learning of the

incident. Many blamed the mother for what had happened. The mother is said to also be in her 30s and has 14 children; however, 13 are from previous relationships. She has 11 girls and three boys, the youngest being four- months-old and only four of the children live with her. The other children reside with relatives. According to residents, the mother is a domestic worker and would leave home early in the morning and return late in

“He always beating them children. Sometimes he does pelt coconut on them head and suh; one a dem head did buss de other day. He does drink and smoke and behave bad.” the evening. The children would be left with their stepfather. “These are people to keep far from, sometimes you see these children they are hungry and you call them in for a snack the mother would curse you. You gotta hide and give them; she’s a disappointment, she would rather see those children starve. She’s a careless woman who should be charged and made an example so that others would think twice before leaving their children alone,” one upset resident told this

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newspaper. Another neighbour who was moved to tears, said she saw the children late on Wednesday evening and inquired why they were not at home, only to be told that they were put out of the house by the stepfather. According to the neighbour, the sisters claimed that they had no idea where their mother was. The neighbour also noted that the stepfather is very abusive towards the children. “He always beating them children. Sometimes he does pelt coconut on them head and suh; one a dem head did buss de other day. He does drink and smoke and behave bad,” the neighbour claimed. Another resident, who is a mother of three, expressed her disappointment with the situation. “This whole incident is so disappointing; this woman should have never leave her kids like that, she goes out from morning until late in the nights and those girls have to be home with their stepfather. She don’t be there to see what he doing.” The three girls attend school within close proximity to their home and would often be seen in the streets or playing on the seawall. They were described as being very mannerly by neighbours. A medical examination confirmed that the girls were sexually assaulted; they remain hospitalised and are receiving counselling.

City mechanic faces attempted murder, armed robbery charges A TWENTY-TWO-year-old East Ruimveldt mechanic was on Friday remanded to prison by city Magistrate Fabayo Azore for attempted murder and two counts of armed robbery. Shawn Bryden was not required to plead to the charge, which stated that on June 19, at Georgetown, with intent to commit murder, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Jamal Lewis. It’s also alleged that Bryden, while being with

others on the same day and armed with guns, robbed Ta b i t h a P e r s a u d o f a n $80,000 cellular phone. It was further alleged that he, along with others, robbed Persaud of $250,000 in cash, property of Vibert Durant. Bryden denied the two charges, while his lawyer Eusi Anderson, explained that his client not only has a two-year-old son, but that he lives with his grandmother and is the sole breadwinner for the family.

Police Prosecutor Corporal Deniro Jones strongly opposed Byden’s being released, since Lewis, the taxi driver, is in a critical condition at a city hospital. According to Jones, on the day in question, Persaud was in a taxi, which was being driven by Lewis. He said that while travelling along Laing Avenue, in the West Ruimveldt area, Lewis and Persaud were ambushed by the defendant along with a group

of men. It is alleged that Bryden pulled out a gun and shot Lewis in his head, while sticking up Persaud and demanding all her valuables before making good his escape.

The prosecution, based upon his facts presented in court, further objected to bail on grounds of the nature, penalty and gravity attached to the charges.

Magistrate Azore refused Bryden bail and remanded him until July 27, when he will appear before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Turkey rounds up suspects after thwarting coup [Reuters] - TURKISH authorities rounded up nearly 3,000 suspected military plotters on Saturday and ordered thousands of judges detained after thwarting a coup by rebels using tanks and attack helicopters to try to topple President Tayyip Erdogan. For several hours overnight on Friday violence shook Turkey’s two main cities, as the armed faction which tried to seize power blocked a bridge in Istanbul and strafed the headquarters of Turkish intelligence and parliament in Ankara. At least 265 people were killed. An official said 161 of them were mostly civilians and police officers, while the remaining 104 were coup

supporters. But the coup attempt crumbled as Erdogan rushed back to Istanbul from a Mediterranean holiday and urged people to take to the streets to support his government against plotters he accused of trying to kill him. “They will pay a heavy price for this,” said Erdogan, launching a purge of the armed forces, which last used force to stage a successful coup more than 30 years ago. “This uprising is a gift from God to us because this will be a reason to cleanse our army.” Among those detained were top military commanders, including the head of the Second Army which protects the country’s borders with Syria, Iraq and Iran, state-run

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Anadolu news agency said. Hundreds of soldiers were held in Ankara for alleged involvement in the coup, leaving police stations overflowing. Some had to be taken under armed police escort in buses to a sports stadium. Reuters footage showed some of the detainees, handcuffed and stripped from the waist up, sitting on the floor of one of the buses. The government declared the situation under control, saying 2,839 people had been rounded up, from foot soldiers to senior officers, including those who formed “the backbone” of the rebellion. Authorities also began a major crackdown in the judi-

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ciary over suspected links to U.S.-based cleric Fethullah Gulen, removing from their posts and ordering the detention of nearly 3,000 prosecutors and judges, including from top courts. Erdogan has blamed the coup on supporters of Gulen, who he has frequently accused of trying to foment uprising in the military, media and judiciary. Ten members of the High Council of Judges and Prosecutors and two members of the Constitutional Court have already been detained, officials said. OBAMA’S SUPPORT A successful overthrow of Erdogan, who has ruled the country of about 80 million people since 2003, would have marked another seismic shift in the Middle East, five years after the Arab uprisings

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erupted and plunged Turkey’s southern neighbor Syria into civil war. However, a failed coup attempt could still destabilize the NATO member and major U.S. ally that lies between the European Union and the chaos of Syria, with Islamic State bombers targeting Turkish cities and the government also at war with Kurdish separatists. U.S. President Barack Obama expressed support for Turkey’s government and called on all sides to avoid action that would lead to further violence or instability. French President Francois Hollande said he expected a period of repression in the aftermath of the failed coup. Erdogan, who had been holidaying on the southwest coast when the coup was launched, flew into Istanbul before dawn on Saturday and told thousands of flag-waving supporters at

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the airport that the government remained at the helm. A polarizing figure whose Islamist-rooted ideology lies at odds with supporters of modern Turkey’s secular principles, Erdogan said the plotters had tried to attack him in the resort town of Marmaris. “They bombed places I had departed from right after I was gone,” he said. “They probably thought we were still there.” Erdogan’s AK Party has long had strained relations with the military, which has a history of mounting coups to defend secularism although it has not seized power directly since 1980. His conservative religious vision for Turkey’s future has also alienated many ordinary citizens who accuse him of authoritarianism. Police used heavy force in 2013 to suppress mass protests demanding more freedom. He commands the admiration and loyalty of millions of Turks, however, particularly for raising living standards and restoring order to an economy once beset by regular crises, which grew 4.8 percent yearon-year in the first quarter. The violence is likely to hit a tourism industry already suffering from the bombings, and business confidence is also vulnerable.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

U.S. banks pulling out not - Finance Minister limited to Guyana FINANCE Minister Winston Jordan is clearing the air that although at least one U.S.-based bank has pulled its support from Guyana, this situation is not unique to this country. “The first country to complain about this de-risking, I think it was Belize, which, since last year had complained that their correspondent banks had started to leave because they didn’t want to be involved anymore with accounts in these countries,” the Minister Jordan told the Guyana Information Agency (GINA) recently. Since the implementation of the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), U.S.-based banks have been pressed to ensure greater scrutiny of accounts within the U.S. that are held by persons or entities outside of the U.S.jurisdiction. Much of trade within and outside the Region is done

using the U.S. dollar. As a means of cutting costs, Caribbean financial institutions have created partnerships with U.S.-based banks using “correspondent accounts” rather than setting up branches in that country. Those partnerships allow the U.S. dollar to be traded between regional financial institutions and the rest of the world. A cutting of those connections could affect the flow of U.S. dollars in the Region. Following the terrorist attacks in the U.S. in September 2001, the U.S. Congress implemented an aggressive regime of anti-terrorism and anti-money-laundering measures which affect the world’s financial system. Caribbean and Latin American Governments are still shuffling to follow through with compliance measures imposed by Congress since the U.S. could sanction banks based in that

Finance Minister Winston Jordan country which conduct business with the Caribbean and Latin America. Most of the capital flow within the Caribbean and Latin America uses the U.S. dollar as the common denominator. De-risking has been used as a mechanism by U.S. financial institutions to avoid threats to their financial systems from money-laundering and terrorist-financing. Those measures, however, have proven troublesome for

Six months for stabbing brother THIRTY-EIGHT-year-old Philbert Edwards was on Friday sentenced to six months jail by city Magistrate Fabayo Azore for stabbing his brother with a knife. The miner pleaded guilty to wounding his brother, Sutton Edwards, on July 9 at Princeville, Potaro, with intent to murder him. According to the prosecution, on the day in question around 02:00 hrs, the brothers were involved in a heated argument which quickly escalated into a scuffle, during which Pilbert pulled out a knife from his pants pocket and stabbed his brother. The assailant, however, begged the magistrate for leniency, since he was under the influence of alcohol when he stabbed his brother, and now regrets his actions. Magistrate Azore, after considering the miner’s plea, sentenced him to the minimum penalty of six months.

smaller states. Governor of the Bank of Guyana, Dr. Gobind Ganga, recently informed the nation that the Bank of America was severing relations with the local banking industry for which it has been a correspondent bank. The Finance Minister indicated that the Bank of America’s withdrawal is in keeping with the implementation of the Foreign Ac-

count Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) Meanwhile, the Finance Minister also identified countries of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), Jamaica and Central America as being affected by the withdrawal of the correspondent banks. “Even Panama which has one of the strongest anti-money laundering systems had complained about de-risking activities,” Minister Jordan said. The consensus of regional governments following the recently held 37th CARICOM heads of government meeting in Guyana was that the U.S. government would have to be lobbied into reducing the pressure currently faced by the Caribbean financial system. Although CARICOM is preparing to lobby the U.S.

on the measures imposed by that country, there is some skepticism on the lobby’s success, especially since regional Governments were never consulted on measures being implemented by the world power in the last 15 years. Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness called CARICOM’s lobby “proactive and instrumental” when he addressed the press corps in Guyana recently. “I think that reason will prevail and I think that our voices need to be a little louder so that the people who matter and who can change the decisions hear us.” Since much of U.S. investment is tied to the Caribbean, Holness said any threat to the Region’s banking system is also a threat to U.S. investments within the Caribbean.

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Sunday Editor

Neil Marks

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

Editorial

Taking note of Guyana’s aesthetics IMPRESSIONS or conclusions about a country are influenced not only by its leaders, people or politics, but also by the physical appearance presented to those who reside within and visit that country. For instance, national landmarks and infrastructure influence important perceptions of a country, its people, and the state of its governance. Driving through a country, people have their impressions of that country shaped by looking first-hand at its monuments, statues, government buildings, architecture and road infrastructure. In Guyana’s case, some buildings have secured international pride of place, as is evident in the UNESCO World Heritage record. This is so, given the stories behind the era of the buildings and the unique architecture that have made them national and world treasures. And one can read the story of a nation’s evolution and the primacy placed on aspects of its struggles and achievements by looking at its statues. Countries that engage in war and see war as an essential part in winning and maintaining freedom, their military will be given pride of place through statues and monuments’ representation. Again, in Guyana’s case, though military war was not part of the people’s struggle, the 1763 Berbice Slave Rebellion’s leader, Cuffy, is immortalised in a monument as a hero in the oppressed fight for freedom. How monuments and statues and their environs are maintained in domestic and foreign environments will tell of the value the people and responsible institutions have for them and their contributions to their society’s evolution. Outside of the foregoing, emphasis is also placed on buildings. In Britain, Number 10 Downing Street is the Prime Minister’s Office and residence. In the USA, the White House is the President’s Office and residence. Here in Guyana, State House, formerly the Governor’s residence, has been occupied by some presidents, and the Office of the President is where the business of the State is being managed. These landmarks have historical significance that exemplify the state of wellness of a country and leadership; and, properly packaged, have been tourist attractions. While in the USA and Britain, these places are a must-see on the tourism calendar, creating a thriving memorabilia industry and helping to maintain the

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Youths must demand their rightful place Dear Editor, EACH generation has had its own indigenous revolution, and this generation -- the youth of today -- must create theirs. Guyana today has nearly two-thirds of its population being 40 years and younger. This is an impressive number for a demographic that yearns for change. Theirs is the responsibility to translate this numerical strength to that of a mass movement that can demand their place at the table: at the regional, national and local government levels, and work with their seniors in influencing the development of programmes from which they can acquire the benefits they seek. Unemployment among the youth, as per the Caribbean Development Report, is averaged at about 40 percent. It means that a significant amount of this potential pool of workers’ skills and talents is lying idle. In the presence of no known national programme that would create productive endeavours for them, they have to get up and demand that programmes be put in place to materialise this. Voting like a boss, which was done in 2015 General and Regional Elections, must be transformed into real change to the benefit of this constituency. Optimism and aspiration that 2015 would have seen transformative leadership and a progressive direction should not wane, but be transformed into militant actions to bring about the change that was promised and fought for. Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow was 21 in 1905 when he led dockworkers to cause the merchant and colonial authorities to bring about improved working and living conditions for workers. From this action, the trade union movement was born in Guyana and the British

Commonwealth, which earned him the title ‘Father of Trade Unionism in the British Commonwealth’ and Guyana’s national hero. Critchlow did not stop in 1905; he continued the fight to advance the welfare of workers in and out of their workplace. In 1926, he organised and participated in the first Caribbean Labour Conference, which charted a course for the development of the Caribbean peoples. That programme included the fight for one man one vote (universal suffrage), internal self-government, West Indian Federation, prison reform, minimum wage, 8-hour work day, public education and health for all, among other things. In the 1940s, a new youth leadership brigade that included Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham (men in their 30s) hit the national landscape, bringing its brand of revolution. The brigade joined the trade union movement and embraced its agenda, advanced its programme and incorporated same into a national political movement. This militancy led to the intensification of the fight for internal self-government, which resulted in independence and republican status. As a trade unionist, I am proud that one of the first things independent Guyana did was to become a member of the world’s oldest body, the International Labour Organisation. From this association, two conventions were in 1966 ratified. They are Freedom of Association (Convention No. 87) and the Right to Collective Bargaining (Convention No.98). My generation has seen the revolution that demanded equity in the political system and the trade union movement. This resulted in greater involvement of young people in the decision-making processes, both in the union and poli-

country’s image on the map. Such are not without ensuring the architecture is preserved and the sites, in their appearance, are pleasing to the eye. Guyana’s State House in its present architecture has earned itself a place among the UNESCO treasures. It is to the country’s image and maintenance of this pride of place to have State House retain its architecture, which includes the windows, stairways, rooms, architectural designs, paint colour, and landscape in their original form. For some time now, the Office of the President has become less than pleasing in appearance. The landscape has been unkempt, and the various colours are inconsistent with the importance the office represents within the country. In its present physical appearance, it is not a landmark that would attract admiration from visitors and passers-by. In fairness to the current administration, this building has been inherited like this. Equally, in fairness to previous administrations, notably those of Forbes Burnham and Desmond Hoyte, this building and its landscape -- including the annex opposite -- were maintained and attracted some degree of admiration. Another landmark in the city is the Guyana Defence Force Headquarters, Camp Ayanganna. It would be remembered that even during Guyana’s economic downturn, that compound and its buildings, lawns and environs were in pristine shape. Passing by it today, it is in a far cry from its original state. Buildings that are not in disrepair beg for a

tics. The youth in the trade movement carried the national fight to improve workers’ conditions. At the political level, youth agitated for the age of voting to move from 21 years to 18 years. A batch of young people associated with the PNC marched from Linden to Georgetown and pressed the Forbes Burnham government to change the voting age, which he did, and we today retain. In 2012, another spark was seen in Linden/Region 10 when the youthful political leadership of Sharma Solomon and Vanessa Kissoon -- along with experienced trade unionists Leslie Gonsalves, Charles Sampson and Maurice Butters on the ground -- saw a struggle the likes that have not been seen for some time in this society. This has resulted in inking of an agreement with Central Government -- on 21st August 2012 -- that came with the blood, sweat and tears of members of the community. This agreement includes an Economic Committee to develop an Economic Plan for the Region’s development. The people of Linden/Region 10 must hold the APNU+AFC government and regional authority responsible for implementing the agreement. Dispensing handouts does not constitute upholding of an agreement for economic self-sufficiency. In life, you get what you struggle for. This generation must now stand up and struggle for what it wants. Its members must be their own revolutionaries. It is Labour’s view that national programmes must take on board the concerns of all groups; and particularly in this case, new jobs must be created to attract and employ the young. LINCOLN LEWIS

coat of paint, including the fence. The lawns and environs, too, need similar attention. From the standpoint of showcasing military prowess, the image of Camp Ayanganna is not reflective of the military confidence Guyana ought to be exuding, more particularly at a time of heightened territorial threat. That the appearance of this institution has been allowed to slide within recent years, such decline should be arrested as a matter of priority. And finally, our roadways cannot be ignored. In addition to roads that were poorly constructed, as evidenced in the undulation and water not being able to have natural run-off during and after rains, pedestrians using the roads do so at great risk. Roads that have been repaired, and new ones that have been constructed, have seen their shoulders left unattended. Pavements have been encumbered, and in some cases reconstructed by residents or businesses, thereby making it difficult for pedestrians to go about their business. In other instances, such as in the East Bank and East Coast Demerara, where new and four-lane roads have been constructed, walkways/pavements have not been put in place, presenting a hazard to pedestrians and motorists. Being mindful of the country’s aesthetics and the image we want Guyana to project, it becomes important to pay heed to these elements in the nation’s developmental programme.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

SEVENTEEN REASONS - why the PPP lost power

Dear Editor, EVER since the People’s Progressive Party lost the General and Regional Elections over a year ago, their leaders have engaged themselves in all sorts of divisive and potentially dangerous activities and in making statements. It is as if they can’t come to terms with the loss after 23 years in power. They continue to agitate that they were “cheated not defeated” in a manner that is counterproductive and harvesting disgust from their own followers, whom they wish to keep in a state of perpetual tension. Neither the APNU nor the GECOM, nor the media nor the ABC/EU countries bother with the PPP’s leadership tantrums, which they deem ludicrous and pathetic. Look PPP, you lost fair and square in a tight but just and unriggable race. Unlike what many people say, the Party might have lost much worse if Mr. Jagdeo did not enter the fray relatively late in 2015 Elections campaign with his bottom-house gutter messages (I was there and heard them) which appealed to the pathological ailment of ethnic insecurity from which Afro- and Indo-Guyanese suffer. Let me try to help the PPP regain some elements of hope for their next campaign: Firstly and foremost, the PPP must carry out genuine and in-depth analyses and candid and soul-searching introspections as to why that Party lost the 2015 elections. In so doing, they

must stop the blame game and cease portraying themselves as sore losers, which can only serve to expose them to ridicule and images of shallowness, even among their own supporters. A wag posited that every time Mr. Rohee opens his mouth he costs his party as least five percent of his Party’s affiliation. So here are 17 compiled considerations why the PPP really lost the 2015 General and Regional Elections. These should be placed in the recommended analytical exercise, and possibly be discussed at the party’s Congress later this year. 1: Neglect by, or failure of, the PPP to service its supporters. 2: Hubristic attitude exhibited by the PPP’s senior officers and ministers. Too many supporters complained about the behaviour of the PPP’s cadre in high office. 3: The PPP displayed an unfathomable head-in-the-sand overconfidence. 4: After 23 years in government, one begins to believe that one owns the country and its laws, principles and tested and proven official systems and methodologies could be dispensed with unceremoniously. 5: There was a pervasive (at least until shortly before the elections, when unabashed racial elements were introduced into the overt campaign rhetoric and at clandestine “bottom house” meetings) feeling all over Guyana that there was need for a change. 6: Uninspiring presidential and prime min-

isterial candidates! The choice of Ms. Harper (notwithstanding her absolutely charming nature and expertise in the Foreign Affairs Ministry) did in fact create discord within the PPP and its supporters, especially when Ms. Carolyn Rodrigues (who was identified as an Amerindian vote getter) was shunted aside and replaced by a weak non-Party candidate. 7: Mr. Ramotar’s Party received 32 seats in 2011. What massive inputs and activities since then could Mr. Ramotar pinpoint that would make his Party obtain more votes and therefore more seats than in 2011? 8: Corruption in Government was perceived to have reached unprecedented high levels of practice. 9: A perceived unwillingness to replace several extremely failing and non-functioning ministers and members of Parliament. 10: An obvious (as seen by many, including PPP supporters) unwillingness/failure to remove several odious, intemperate, and excessively indulgent high-ranking party officials. 11: Long-serving and genuinely loyal pro-Party cadre and Executive Committee/ Central Committee members were treated shabbily. This may be linked with the re-emergence of Bharrat Jagdeo just before May 2015 as a major voice in the PPP. Even though many Party supporters rallied behind Jagdeo’s gutter diatribes, many party supporters were uncomfortable with this development and were dissatisfied with this breach of faith/trust against tested and proven comrades. 12: An unwillingness and almost instinctive aversion to cultivate cordiality and fellowship with the media. In fact, the opposite seems to be the modus operandi; whereby antagonisms, disaffection and antipathy were

nurtured and openly expressed against media practitioners and media house proprietors. 13: An analysis of the results shows that there was an actual crossover vote in addition to the disinclination by many to vote at all (the ‘turn-out’ rate 71 percent was of the registered electorate/potential voters). 14: The Party’s historical vexation with the USA, Canada and the UK seemed (seems) to be ineradicable from the psyche of the Party leadership, so much so that no greatly visible effort at rapprochement with ABC countries was made. In fact, hostilities were palpable and objectively cultivated. 15: Migration of PPP (Indian?) supporters, perhaps facilitated (visa-wise and God knows what else?) by those countries which are favoured destinations for migrants. One non-partisan author actually documented that the attrition human (= voter) loss brought about by migration over a protracted period had/has transformed the PPP-endorsing majority into something closer to 40 per cent of the electorate. 16: The APNU was not baited to take protests to the streets to display dissatisfaction with what was considered to be the PPP Government’s callous and disrespectful activities vis-à-vis APNU 17: APNU was able to lure supporters of other political parties; eg: the AFC, the United Force, the Justice for All Party and a host of small parties, into their political ambit. The reader will notice that many of the possible cases have already been singularly documented by patriotic Guyanese. I have now tried to put all their opinions together with my own, simply because it hurts to see an erstwhile vanguard political party fall into such disrepute and be an object of such derision. ELECTORAL AND POLITICAL ANALYST

Region 5 Good Samaritan leads the way

Dear Editor, ON TUESDAY, June 4, pensioners living in Blairmont and neighbouring villages finally got some much-needed relief from the rain and blistering sun, and can now rest their weary legs while waiting at the Blairmont Post Office to cash their Old Age Pension vouchers. On June 10, I wrote a letter in the press in support of two previous letters denouncing the undignified manner in which our senior citizens are treated every month at many post offices nationwide, as they wait patiently for long, exhaustive hours to collect the $18,000

subsistence given by the Government. I then called upon the Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) to provide a more reliable, hassle-free service to our most vulnerable, our elderly. Today, I’m pleased that a Good Samaritan and native of Blairmont, Mr Nowrang Persaud, with the blessing and approval of the GPOC, undertook this noble initiative and erected a permanent shed with wooden benches adjoining the front of the Blairmont Post Office. At a small opening ceremony attended by GPOC Postmistress General Ms. Karen Brown; Area Manager Mr. Balkarran Kissoon; PRO Telesha Whyte

and Region 5 Vice-Chairman Mr. Rion Peters, an overview of the project was given by Mr. Persaud, who has so far spent $400,000 of his own savings and called for other civic-minded persons in the business community to replicate this initiative in other parts of the country. But while we appreciate this initiative, it is unfair and unrealistic to expect the business community, which is under undue pressure in a declining economy, to undertake the responsibilities of Government. Our private sector is already burdened with high taxes, a struggling economy, high interest rates, and lack of Government incentives

needed to promote growth and job creation. I was also pleased with the commitment given by GPOC Postmistress General Ms. Karen Brown to undertake additional improvements to the facility, to prevent flooding and to provide a wheelchair ramp at the entrance of the Blairmont Post Office, as is required by the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2010, Section 28 (1). Our senior citizens deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. HARRY GILL Member of Parliament (PPP/C)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Residents can renew passports in Linden within one month

RESIDENTS of Region 10, Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice, will, within the next month, be able to renew their passports without having to travel to Georgetown. This announcement was made on Friday by Minister of Citizenship Winston Felix during a ‘Meet the Public Day’ initiative held at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground in Linden. The Minister said the Department of Citizenship has been working over the past few months to decentralize the receipt of passport applications and the delivery of passports within the 10 administrative regions. When implemented, Linden will become the third

town to have the service available. Residents of East Berbice and the Essequibo Coast are already beneficiaries of this service.

Minister Felix explained that first-time applicants would have to travel to Georgetown to complete the process, but those applying for the renewal of their passports would be able to access the service in Linden. The National Insurance Scheme (NIS) building located in Mackenzie has been identified as the location at which this service

would be provided. Immigration officers will visit the location twice weekly and receive applications for renewal from residents. The applications will be processed in Georgetown, and the residents will receive their renewed passports upon the officers’ return to the location during the following week. “This is for two purposes: we realise the need to bring

Government services in the region, and we need to reduce the unnecessary crowds that we have at the passport office at Georgetown,” Minister Felix said. Assistant National Director, Community Development Councils, Sandra Adams, who was responsible for coordinating the setup of the service, stated that it is a very important move that will alleviate the hassle of

having to go to Georgetown for many residents. “There are a lot of seniors in Linden who cannot make it to Georgetown, and I have received a lot of complaints recently that by time they get to Georgetown the numbers are finished and they have to return without getting their passport. So we are happy for this service to begin,” she said.

No ballistics report yet on KN grenade attack Winston Felix

AFTER almost a month of investigations, the police are yet to complete the file and the ballistics report in relation to the June grenade attack on the Kaieteur News. The three alleged masterminds, namely Alfie Garraway, 36, of Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown; Joneil Howard, 20, of Lot 322 Section ‘C’ Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown; and Leroy Williams, 25, of Lot 11 D’Urban Backlands, Georgetown are currently on remand for the indictable charge. On Tuesday, June 14, the trio was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for unlawfully and maliciously conspiring with other persons to cause explosion by way of a grenade likely to endanger lives, and cause damage to property on June 4, at Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. The matter was called before city Magistrate Fabayo Azore on Friday, when

The three alleged masterminds the matter was forced into an adjournment for tomorrow. The adjournment followed Police Prosecutor Stephen Telford’s indicating that he was not in possession of the file, since the ballistic report is still outstanding. Garraway’s attorney, Glen Hanoman, had vented his frustration at the prosecution’s slow pace in dealing with the matter and made application for his client to be released on bail. According to Hanoman, the prosecution is still uncer-

tain on the way forward with the matter, and is “prolonging the process.” Howard surrendered on June 13, shortly after a wanted bulletin was posted for his arrest. Police are, meanwhile, still looking for 20-year-old Shemar Wilson, called ‘Abdue’, in connection with the same incident. According to reports, three persons, including the driver, were in a silver-grey Toyota Spacio from which the grenade was thrown. Prior to the attack, the occupants were seen parked in James Street, Albouystown. When the device was tossed at the publisher’s vehicle, a security staffer had

heard an unusual sound near the Lexus SUV which was parked on the western side of Saffon Street. Upon checking, the staffer spotted the grenade lying near the right front wheel. Staffers were, at the time, participating in a wake for Assistant Editor Dale Andrews, who had passed away earlier the same day. Video footage from a Kaieteur News CCTV camera showed the grey Spacio heading north, but slowing as it approached Lall’s vehicle. The vehicle then accelerated after the device was thrown, but later crashed in the vicinity of Norton Street and Mandela Avenue.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Gov’t doesn’t rule - It should govern consistent with laws and people’s well-being

LAST week’s article “The 2012 Linden/Region 10 struggle must not be in vain,” there was a re-writing of a statement, though I’d like to think it was done with the best of intent, nonetheless represents a thinking I strongly reject. The offending statement was: “The squandering of the people’s goodwill always realises grave consequences for every ruling administration.” That statement contradicts with the submitted statement which says, “The squandering of the people’s goodwill always realise grave consequences for every sitting government.” This is what was expected to be communicated to the public as my expressed opinion, given that it has been my consistent position over the years. When some among us and our forebears fought for the right to self-determination at the political level, it meant being able to govern one’s affairs, independent from control of another. This means that we are no longer subjects to be ruled, but we are owners and framers of our own destiny, electing from among us persons to manage our affairs. It should be reminded that resistance against control was not only against foreign domination, but domination of every sort. When Guyana achieved republican status in February 1970, it was the ultimate accomplishment in the nation’s political struggle for self-determination. Republicanism brings with it protection of the interests and rights of minorities and major groups in society. In pursuing development, deepening and strengthening of the institu-

tions of State and Government would bode well for the people, should such be guided by the said principle. The view is strongly held that talks of constitutional change will not bring about good governance in the absence of understanding the current system of government as prescribed within the existing constitution and in the presence of disregard for articles therein. In our system, government functions as a representative of the people and protector of the institutions of State and Government, advancing, protecting and defending the welfare of all, guided by the laws which ought to inform its policies and programmes. When the people believe and accept that they are being ruled by their elected representatives, they create despotic leaders like Bharrat Jadgeo. His stewardship saw the nation’s resources plundered, laws violated with impunity, the people trampled on mercilessly, and fear stalking the land. During his leadership, Guyana saw its worst blood bath and criminality. Among those murdered were Agriculture Minister Satyade-

ow Sawh, Ronald Waddell, hundreds of young men and women. Also, the likes of Roger Khan walked hand in hand with those in the corridors of the government. A people with a legacy known to stand up and fight against injustice, were conditioned to think that they were powerless because some made them believe that a constitution has made them impotent to demand better from their government. I am talking about impotency here in the presence of a constitution that protects our fundamental rights and freedoms and outlines therein how the system of government ought to function in the administration of the people’s business. Let us compare this institutional empowerment and possibilities with the era of our forebears who did not have such a document, yet were possessing the presence of mind in the face of domination-structural and military- to stand up and fight for what was inherently theirs, i.e. equality, justice, the right to self-determine and be involved in matters affecting their well-being. And this brings me to the

point where in last week’s article the sub-headline, “government continues to squander goodwill,” was deleted. Again, I am inclined to think this was done with the best of intent. At the same time I am confronted with the reality that informs a perception that rulers have to be told what they want to hear, or should the truth be told persons fear they may fall out of favour with the rulers, or in the presence of debilitating fear,

going along with the charade is deemed the best option. I subscribe to none of these and want none to be imposed on me under my pen-ship. Tr a d e u n i o n i s m h a s taught me that rights and freedoms are non-negotiable, operate in the here and now, and when any is disrespected one is expected to stand up and fight for it to be upheld. As a citizen participating in the system of representative government, where the pa-

rameters of its operation are outlined in the constitution, the responsibility is mine and likewise others, to speak out and call it as it is in matters relating to governance, the nation, and one’s welfare. In the interest of ensuring positions that are in conflict with my views are not advanced under my pen-ship, it must be said there exists a difference between editing and re-writing.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Young ‘entrepreneurs’ delighted - Graduates of skills training Prog. at ‘second chance’ share their stories By Vishani Ragoobeer THE Youth Entrepreneurial Skills Training Programme (YEST) is a Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scheme managed by the Ministry of Education- Department of Culture, Youth and Sport. This programme shares partnerships with many governmental and non-governmental organisations to give selected students an opportunity to be edified. Students who benefited from this programme shared their stories. * Eon Gill (Kuru Kuru Training Centre) * Tamuel Pyle (Sophia Also not someone of Training Centre) * Delon Gladstone many words, Gil noted Pyle, top performer (Vryman’s Erven that this programme is for the Masonry Class, Training Centre) one which enables you noted that he took a liking Gladstone, 17, from to “develop yourself.” to masonry just because it New Amsterdam, Berbice, He said that he lives seemed interesting. He said became a part of this with his father, who that he became integrated programme because as he works diligently to into this programme after said, he had “nothing else maintain the household. being recommended to join to do after CXC.” He noted Gill said he didn’t do as by his brother. Pyle, not a well at his sitting of the that his elder brother also boy of many words, noted CSEC examinations, and attended this institution that he was at home and this was his second chance at success. As a result, he said not working and this aided and encouraged him to he put in a lot of hard work and a lot of studying, so that him in making his decision to join the programme. follow in his footsteps. he would be successful. Gill is the Top Performer for the He noted that since he was Business Studies Class. a young boy, he liked “loosing up computers” and he * Yonette Joseph (Kuru decided to give the programme a go. He opted to take Kuru Training Centre, * Shelly Henry (Kuru Kuru Training Centre) the entry exam and he proudly noted that he passed KKTC) This 17-year-old with “flying colours.” He is from a single-parent family Joseph, one of the few happened to be one of the and as such shares a close bond with his mother and females in the KKTC’s two females that underFurniture-Making Class, grandmother. He is grateful for what he has learnt and went training for Motor noted that people say that is the Top Performer for this year’s Information and Mechanics. Henry said this field is for boys, but she Communication Technology Class. that as a child, she found believes that women can mechanics very interestdo it as well. The 19-yearing and liked “fixing up * Alex Alexander (Kuru old noted that it was “fun” old things.” She said that working with the boys and Kuru Training Centre) she dropped out of the hopes that one day she can Top performer in the Port Kaituma Secondary open her own business in Furniture-Making Class, School and did not write this field. Joseph, who is from Kurukabaru Village, Alexander noted that the CSEC examinations. Region Eight, has an eye for business and noted that she he relished the idea of However, since she was unqualified, she took the opportudevoured the opportunity to learn a skill that would lead, nity to do a course and learn a meaningful trade. She said furniture-making. He said to what she feels, would be a lucrative business. She she plans to write the CSEC Mathematics and English, that it is an interesting comes from a family that lives mostly on farming. but has no plans for her future beyond that. She noted that field and one which isn’t working with the boys was a fun-filled experience. given too much attention. * Daniel Hinds (Kuru He noted that the YEST Kuru Training Centre) programme provided * Jerome Abrams Valedictorian of this him too with a “second (Sophia Training centre, Daniel Hinds, Centre): chance” as he was unable noted that the proThis valedictorian to write the CSEC examinations, because he was expelled gramme provided him of the Sophia Training from the Leonora Secondary School. He said that he with another opportunity Centre said that when took full responsibility for his expulsion as he knew that at elevating himself. he first heard about this he was engaged in fighting, but he noted that it was the The 16-year-old noted programme, he was bus conductor who had “violated” him. He began this that he had dropped out told that it was a good programme, hoping that he would be able to make his of school when he was opportunity as it gives a in third form, because family proud and to qualify himself. second chance to acquire was attending a private an academic certification. schooling institution This 21-year-old student and it was financially * Carlos Johnson (Kuru of the Information challenging to continue attending the school. He noted Technology and Office Kuru Training Centre): that he had to attend a private school because all other Administration Class Johnson, 19, a government schools were far from his Canefield resistated that his decision to be in this field was due to top performer for the dence. Hinds said that he was at home basically doing loving computers and technology from a young age. Refrigeration and Air nothing productive and he picked up the habit of smokAlthough he gained pretty decent results at his sitting Conditioning Class, sought ing. He however noted that since he joined the KKTC, of the CSEC examinations a few years ago, he stated to be integrated into this he cut the bad habit and dedicated himself to his pursuit that employment was a challenge and he opted for this programme after his of knowledge in the Plumbing and Sheet Metal fields. programme instead of “being home- idle and getting mother died on the 20th The young man said that he will either seek to join the into trouble”. Abrams said in fact that this was indeed police force or continue working at DDL- where he was May, 2015. He decided an “empowering course”. The young man said that he attached on a Work/Study programme. that if he wanted to help is employed as a Customer Service Representative improve the lives of his at Digicel and he is hoping to stay there for a bit and three sisters, he would first start studying either Computer Science or Business have to develop himself. Management at UG soon. He noted that he didn’t write the CSEC examinations because of peer pressure, financial difficulties and that he just never saw the importance of education- at least * Denzel David (Sophia Training Centre): not until now. He dropped out of school and began Runner-up for the catering category, this young man noted that he became interested in doing some work in the air-conditioning field. However, this field because “Guyana doesn’t have a lot of male chefs” and he likes the culinary field. he said that his mother’s passing made him realise the This 17-year- old noted that as a young boy, he was just “bad and troublesome” and as a importance of education. Carlos is currently seeking result, he dropped out of school in third form. Being the only boy in a class of 21 girls, was employment in the form of a part-time job, so that he a challenge. David is currently working at the Palm Court as a kitchen assistant, but he hopes would be able to attend the GTI to do a two-year course to study Child Care and Care for the Elderly at the University of Guyana. in this field.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

‘GOLDEN FUTURE’ - Aurora produces 75,000 ounces of gold; set to surpass 2016 target - PM pleased with safety, environmental safeguards

By Ariana Gordon AN ESTIMATED 75,000 ounces of gold were produced by the Aurora Gold project for the first half of this year, Minister of Natural Resources and the Environment, Raphael Trotman, revealed on Saturday after visiting the operations site in Region Seven. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo led a ministerial team to the area, managed by the Canada-based company Guyana Goldfields. Along with Trotman, others on the visit were Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge; Finance Minister Winston Jordan; Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder; Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix; and Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Dawn Hastings. Trotman said the Government is pleased with the operation and production of the mining company. “This is my third visit since becoming minister; so, on each occasion, the sense of pride and accomplishment increases”, he said. “…we are seeing greater manifestations of a company that has a standard of excellence that is growing, and Government is quite happy with the production and operation of Guyana Gold Fields and Aurora Gold Mines, its subsidiary,” Trotman revealed. He predicted that the company would surpass its target set for 2016, as it has currently produced 75,000 ounces of gold. He believes that, with the price of gold being where it is, the operation of the Aurora Gold Mines demonstrates a golden future. “It is surpassing even our target; because, at the beginning of the year, we anticipated just about 100,000 ounces. It would appear that we will go beyond that for this mine alone,” he declared. Minister Trotman described Guyana Gold Fields as an “exemplary organization,” a company that has high standards in health and safety and the environment. “Everything is complementary, and the synergies we see here are good; and we hope they can be replicated throughout other parts of Guyana,” said Trotman. The returns to Guyana, the Natural Resources and Environment Minister said, are good; and the company is being praised for its high gold production. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo said the level of production at Aurora Mines is “good news”, while noting that a report of 75,000 ounces of gold at half-year is “excellent for Guyana.” He said such news provides a ray of hope to accelerate the economy and bring the “good life” to all citizens. “I am very impressed…Aurora Gold is doing a good job for Guyana and for the company itself,” he declared. The Prime Minister said he was satisfied with all explanations provided by the company relative to safety and environmental precautions in regard to the extraction and production of gold. “…the explanations given convinced me that this is not only a safe operation, but this is also a worthwhile venture; and anywhere you go and you have over 500 persons being kept on site on jobs and they have performed one million man days without break in service, it shows it must have been very good methods of management relationship with the working force. “And therefore you have a company working together with Guyanese to bring a product that the economy depends on at this point in time,” the Prime Minister

An official of Aurora Gold explains the operations of the mines to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and the ministerial team on Saturday. (Adrian Persaud/Department of Public Information photo) said. Asked what he would say to encourage investors to come to Guyana, given what he observed on Saturday, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said Aurora Gold is a “good investment, a sound investment.” “The rewards are showing now, and they are very encouraging for new investors. There is a good prospect for gold mining and investment in Guyana,” he said. He said that, after three years, he believes the mining company is here to stay; and based on the plans outlined to the ministerial team on Saturday, the Prime Minister has been convinced that “not only do you have a viable product under mining and extraction, but it has some sustainability; because there are plans that are long-term in terms of expanding the production areas, producing alternative energy, (and) in terms of accommodating the work force. (There is) an environment that is more permanent than you’d fine in camps.” Additionally, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said there is a ripple effect that would be conducive to community development, as the company takes safety and the environment seriously. “Any company that wishes to come to Guyana with the same objective would be welcomed. Aurora Gold Mines is a model that one can look to for future this is a (massive) big time investment here of millions and millions of US dollars. It is a work in progress, and it is has shown, so far, very good results.” Like the Prime Minister and the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Finance Minister Winston Jordan was impressed with the operation of the company. Saturday was his first visit to the mining location, and he said he was overwhelmed. “I would say Guyana is on the verge of major transformation, and now is the time to get in, particularly when…

gold prices are at a level where you can make an investment and get a decent return,” he declared. Minister Jordan said that with the added incentive of oil, investors have every opportunity to come to Guyana. “Now is the opportunity to put a foothold and then ripple the rewards,” he said. Asked to speak to the returns to Guyana, given the production levels, the Finance Minister said, “The returns to Guyana are absolutely fantastic! As you know, sugar has not been doing well, and I don’t think it is going to be doing well in the foreseeable future. “Rice had some slippages, and bauxite is holding its own… So, to get gold to step up in the way it has stepped up has allowed the economy to continue to grow rather than regress.” He reminded that Guyana is one of the few countries in this part of the world that continues to grow despite many uncertainties. “What I have seen here together with their plans… I think the future is golden,” he declared. Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge said the opportunity to observe the workings of the country’s largest gold operation is important. He said Government ought to have an ability to assess first hand such operations not only in terms of production, but to assess the natural landscape and the effect the extraction and production has on the environment. “That is a dimension that is very important for the Government. International agencies’ bilateral representatives are interested to know what is going on, and the effects on landscape…and the people,” said Greenidge. He said it was interesting to observe the use of technology by the mining company, as opposed to how OMAI operated in the 1990s. The Aurora Gold Mines started production in August 2015.

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The Architecture of the Good Life

By Kojo McPherson

I’M at ease in Guyana’s hinterland - the “bush” as we would say - so much so that some of my colleagues tease that “Kojo geh beena” and no protest, no matter

how fervent, can deter this accusation. I feel so strongly about the hinterland, South Rupununi in particular, that it proved to be a large part of the inspiration for my latest film project, Adero, which is in part set

in the South Rupununi village of Shea. So what is it about The Rupununi that appeals to me so? Standing on a hillside in Shea, I couldn’t help but notice how clean the breeze was, how absent it was of

the smells of urban existence that I had become too accustomed to: of slow to stagnant trench water, of the overripe garbage that ferments within congested markets, of vehicle exhaust and iron rotting in the heat and wet of a tropical climate; tired communities of neglected and neglectful people. And the sound too! No distressed neighbours, car stereos and push carts pelting out the manic rantings of DJs, car alarms pealing in protest from the near infrasonic rumblings of said car stereos, impatient horns, minibus drivers flooring it at a gear or two, too low. Just the tinkling of leaves and the scissoring of blades of grass in the breeze. Some people would call that serenity. In the evenings, you could see the arm of our Milky Way stretching across the sky, taking up one’s entire field of vision; and as you looked longer at the sky, countless stars became more and more innumerable as your eyes become attuned to the darkness. Sunrises and sunsets weren’t just an event on either compass point on the horizon, but a transformation of the dome of the sky, unencumbered in its viewing by concrete blocks, iron steeples, and glass and steel edifices. In ‘The Architecture of Happiness,’ author Alain de Botton puts forward the proposition that we are attracted to the architecture of buildings not just because of aesthetics - their attractiveness, or conformity to a style - but also because, or indeed instead, because they suggest a way of living that we are desirous of emulating, even if briefly. Though de Botton is writing on the impact of how the design of constructed buildings, homes in particular, impacts the way in which we think and live, it doesn’t take a great deal of imagination to apply or turn some of his generalisations to thinking on how the natural spaces in which we live impact how we think and live. Could I live in The Rupununi? Most definitely. But maybe only for a time. For me it is an idyllic location to live, except for the absence of an electricity grid. Five watts of light every 500 metres or so makes a stroll

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Towards a Good Life in a Green Economy

Kojo McPherson after dark on a cloudy night a bit too adventurous for my own taste. Other than that… perfection. Except for the lack of flushing toilets outside of the occasional guest- house. If I had the lungs of a pearl diver, this wouldn’t be an issue for me, but I don’t. Other than that…paradise. Except for the complete lack of asphalted roads outside of Lethem… and the fact that outside of Lethem and Aishalton you’re not guaranteed to be able to make a phone call…and the drought situation…well you get the point. The idea of all this is not to write a travelogue, but to help frame a question or two. Why do we live where we live? What sort of spaces do we ideally want to live in? What amenities are important to us? How is “development” defined? How can development be re-defined, if we even agree that this is necessary? How possible is it to merge the best aspects of living in isolated, environmentally intact communities with the convenience of living in urban centres? A short answer would be to create environmentally friendly, meaning low emissions urban development in our hinter-

land and introduce green spaces and reduce emissions in our current urban spaces. In discussing the Good Life, we must also entertain not just the mechanics of what the Good Life, as put forward by President Granger represents, but also what our values are, the utility of those values, and how the Good Life can fortify and promote the values that we hold to be true. de Botton continues: “We seem divided between an urge to override our senses, numb ourselves to our settings, and a contradictory impulse to acknowledge the extent to which our identities are indelibly connected to and will shift along with our locations…we are for better or for worse different people in different places… it is the architecture’s task to render vivid to us who we might ideally be.” How will we (particularly us “coastlanders”) re-identify ourselves in the greening of Guyana, on the path towards the Good Life? And for the record, no I did not get ‘beena.” (Comments can be sent to: towardsagoodlife@gmail. com)

Kojo McPherson is a writer, spoken word artist, photographer, an awardwinning filmmaker and father of two.

HINDS’SIGHT

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Dr David Hinds

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A government of national unity may not be possible

IN A comment to one of the daily newspapers this past week, I suggested that the government and the opposition PPP should together craft a national development plan to move our country forward. I took that position, knowing full well that it is an unpopular one among government supporters, particularly African Guyanese. As I expected, there was a flurry of responses on social media, some of which questioned my sanity. I also received many private messages which disapproved of such a course. Most of the opposition to my suggestion was premised on the alleged corruption during the PPP’s term in office. This is the very constituency that in 2011 and 2015 responded positively to a political platform that centered on the need for a Government of National Unity as a solution to our political deadlock. The question was raised by the rank and file supporters about how, in the face of suspicions of corruption perpetrated under PPP’s watch, that unity would be actualised. The APNU and Coalition leaders responded that they would be prepared to deal only with the untainted members of the PPP. The message then was clear: Unity with the PPP was conditional on the outcome of a corruption probe. Upon taking office, the Coalition threw out a line of possible reconciliation with the PPP, which was promptly rejected by the latter. The governing parties have not since pursued the matter with any urgency. Now, one year later, after the promised forensic audits of several government agencies were done, there is more than a hint of impropriety during the PPP’s stint. Some government supporters, including this writer, have been somewhat concerned that the government has not acted on the findings of the audits. The government has called for caution, while the PPP has anticipated government action by mounting an aggressive campaign of charges of racism and political witch-hunt against the government. I have given the above account in order to drive home the point that it may not be possible to have a Government of National Unity that includes the PPP, if drastic action is taken against that party’s supporters and members for alleged corruption. This is a serious dilemma which the political class faces, and which may turn out to be another barrier to realising the kind of political atmosphere that is needed for reconciliation, and a joint national community. It is hard to imagine the PPP wanting to join a government that facilitates the prosecution of its members and supporters. It is equally hard to envisage government supporters, in the absence of action against those exposed by the forensic audits, giving their blessings to a government that includes the PPP. This is where I think the flow of post-2015 has taken us. I am a firm believer in a Government of National Unity as a starting point for ethnic and political reconciliation; I don’t see how we can arrive at a sense of togetherness outside of a political solution. Social Cohesion is empty if it is not premised on a promise of political and economic security for all our groups. But I am equally firm on the position that we should not sacrifice this moment of anti-corruption ferment at the altar of political expediency. For me, this is not about simply punishing bad people; it is about confronting a scourge that has been with us since independence. As I have argued before, there is a relationship between official corruption and economic underdevelopment, and national pride. In the end, I think that, for now, we will have to live without a Government of National Unity. This then leaves us at the mercy of a one-sided government, which, over the last six decades, has not been good for Guyana. The present government has the benefit of being a multi-party coalition, even if it does not always appear that way. Hopefully, its plural nature would serve as a check on the inevitable temptation to over-reach. In the meantime, we continue the pretense of “one nation”, knowing fully well that, in actuality, we function as a fractured

- in the current political environment

nation. This condition stalls economic advance, as those who sit in government must endure economic sabotage, and those who sit outside must live with being left out of economic decision-making. And the masses of people must endure their hardships, yet mute their cries of frustration out of political considerations. AFTER ONE YEAR One year after, there is still serious work to be done to right the wrongs, and straighten some crooked ways. There is still discrimination in procurement; the same preferred boys who got the contracts back then are assured of the contracts today. Whether it’s in waste management, construction, provision of health care, or supplying drugs, small contractors are still left out in the cold. In some instances, the mechanisms for appeal seem to be out of reach. Contractors who messed up projects in the past are still being granted contracts. Even if we are now playing by the rules, they are unfair rules. There

is still not a representative national cricket board; elections have not been held since 2009. A small favoured clique seems untouchable and unstoppable. The cries of the discriminated get no official attention. If we champion the cause of local government elections, how can we live without free and fair elections in cricket? Poor people in some communities and in some government ministries and agencies are still being kicked around by PPP functionaries. One functionary in a high position in one ministry reportedly sent back funds earmarked for community development, rather than make them available to poor people who had applied. 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

14

Gov’t still in the dark

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

- about PPP's multi-billion-dollar contracts

AFTER more than a year in office, the David Granger Administration is still finding it difficult to secure the details of multi-billion-dol-

lar contracts signed under the former Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar administrations. Cabinet Secretary Joseph

Harmon said, a few days ago, that this Government is yet to jump the hurdles left by the former administration on the disclosure of details on

two controversial projects, namely the Amaila Falls Hydroelectricity Project, and the Specialty Hospital at Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown. “Certain contracts had such deep confidentiality about (them) that (are) so deeply buried that, until now, we cannot see (them),” Harmon told reporters on Thursday. He said he was informed by Finance Minister Winston Jordan that the Specialty Hospital contract is still being kept in the dark. The contract was drafted in partnership with the Government of India. Harmon is accusing Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo of conveniently having amnesia, saying, he is “behaving in a manner as if he (doesn’t) remember things.” Harmon posited another theory, in that Jagdeo must have been left out of the loop by former President Donald Ramotar, especially where these controversial contracts are concerned. Harmon expressed concern that the State has poured millions of dollars into the Specialty Hospital contract, but that contract is still out of Government’s view. Jagdeo, on the other hand, sought to dispel said claims while reiterating his call for the David Granger Administration to “release the eval-

Minister Joseph Harmon uation reports and contracts for several projects initiated by the PPP/C governments which they have labelled as corrupt.” “While Mr. Harmon has said he is still to set his eyes on the contracts for the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project and the Specialty Hospital, in both cases I can prove a different story,” Jagdeo said in a statement yesterday. Mr Jagdeo is adamant that the APNU and AFC, when in opposition, were provided with information from the Amaila Falls hydroelectricity project. Jagdeo said a compact disk (CD) containing those documents was even handed over to the Cabinet sub-committee following the change in government after May 2015.

For his part, Mr Harmon told the media on Thursday: “We were invited to these offices to meetings, and we were told by the [PPP/C] government that these are confidential arrangements,” Mr Harmon said a few days prior to Jagdeo’s statement. From 2011 to 2015, Mr Harmon served as a parliamentarian for A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). The APNU is now the major bloc of the David Granger-led coalition government with the Alliance For Change (AFC). Harmon told reporters on Thursday that the former President, Jagdeo, should allow the Government to do its work, rather than seek to dictate to the Government from the PPP Freedom House headquarters at Robb Street. Harmon recalled that after the Government changed, a number of state documents had to be retrieved from private homes of persons close to the former PPP/C government. That many state documents were not stored in Government offices meant that there were hurdles against the new administration, especially as it related to accessing state information. “We have to reconstruct in order to understand what the previous administration did,” Harmon said.

President not in favour of Agri Bank THE APNU+AFC Government is not contemplating the establishment of an Agriculture Bank, President David Granger said on Friday. He said that even at the micro level, Agricultural Banks are not necessarily profitable. “Agriculture in Guyana can be a little problematic, with the floods, droughts, sometimes insect infestation; and it is a different regime,” the President said while noting that commercial banks prefer to offer short-term high-interest loans, most of which are not agriculture related. However, while the Government is not contemplating the establishment of an Agriculture Credit Bank, it stands ready to support the “private banking which goes into agriculture and provides credit.” The Guyana Agricultural and Industrial Development Bank (GAIBANK) was established several years ago, but was closed down over a decade ago. One of the problems it had encountered was in collecting outstanding debts that were extended. For a number of years, the privately-owned Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) has been in the forefront of providing loans to rice farmers and other persons involved in agriculture. During the launch of the Agriculture Ministry’s 2014-2020 Strategic Plan for the agriculture sector, the then Agriculture Minister, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy, had called for an Agriculture Bank to be established. The call was made at a time when the then opposition APNU and AFC were pushing for a revolving fund to be created to assist rice farmers in particular.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Gov’t will not micromanage City Hall – President Granger

CENTRAL government will not micro-manage the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) or any other municipality, President David Granger has said as he addressed the controversial parking meter project. Late last month, Cabinet took a decision to review the ‘controversial’ contract which the city administration has kept under lock and key for fear of the idea being copied. The Government had warned that if there was any illegality surrounding the contract, the city’s administration would be sanctioned. However, from all indications, City Mayor Patricia Chase-Green has been given the green light to proceed with the project. “I have not been advised that it is being embarked on in any fraudulent or irregular manner,” President Granger said while speaking on the state-sponsored Public Interest Show. He said the investigation was launched to President determine whether there David Granger was any impropriety. “Once there is no impropriety, there is no reason for Central Government to obstruct the municipal administration from proceeding,” President Granger explained. He, however, made it clear that the APNU+AFC Administration is not in the business of micromanagement. “The municipality operates under its own regulations, it is not a department of Central Government, and it is not for Central Government to micro manage the municipality and decide on every container tax (and) every parking meter. So I don’t believe that any attempt is being made to prevent the parking meter programme from going ahead,” he stated. City Council officially announced in May that it was giving the ‘parking meter contract’ to a company called National Parking Systems, although it had given overseas-based Guyanese Saratu Phillips an exclusive contract back in 2007. Several councilors, including Deputy Mayor Sherod Duncan, have voiced concerns over the lack of consultation on the project. The council was split into factions when news emerged that Town Clerk Royston King had accompanied the Mayor and councillors Junior Garrett and Oscar Clarke to Mexico City, Mexico, and then to Panama, where they met with officials from those countries unbeknownst to the rest of Georgetown’s elected representatives. Following that trip, the city administration in June rolled out a model of the proposed parking meter for display in City Hall’s compound, with the aim of implementing the metering project by September 1, 2012.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

GAWU goes to Bath for delegates’ congress THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) will, in August, hold its 21st Delegates’ Congress under the theme “United Struggles for Workers’ Rights, Democracy and a Secure Future”. The Union’s highest decision-making forum will be held at Bath, West Coast Berbice (WCB) beginning on August 20, 2016 and concluding on August 23, 2016. It is expected to be well attended by hundreds of delegates from its membership and a number of fraternal organisations. The three-day Congress will have a packed agenda, and workers will be recognised for their dedicated service to the Union and for promoting the workers’ interests, a statement from GAWU on Friday detailed. “Another highlight of the Congress,” GAWU said in the statement, “is the presentation of the General Council’s Report, followed by its discussion. As a rule, the report will cover a wide range of issues, and will include a broad assessment of certain international events; the developments domestically since the last Congress; the present-day work of our Union, and the challenges before it; as well as the general state of Trade Unionism locally and beyond. “As should be expected, the sugar industry, the uncertainties that surround it and the threats to its employees, will engage Congress in a focused way,” the GAWU statement said. The Delegates’ Congress is being viewed by the union as “one of the most important in our Union’s history.” “Convened at this juncture of our country’s development, and at a time when a large swathe of the Guyanese productive working-class feels justly demoralised, the forthcoming Congress will surely be one of the most important in our Union’s history”, GAWU has said. The Union expects proposals that will serve to guide the Union’s work in the future would be put on the table so that there can be progression. A new General Council will be elected at the Congress, and will have the mandate of fulfilling Congress’s decisions and pursuing those resolutions to be debated and approved by the Congress. “As we prepare for our Congress, we feel constrained to observe that the time that has elapsed since our last Congress was eventful, filled with various activities and struggles,” GAWU said, adding: “Despite difficulties and several negative scenarios, our Union has vigorously represented its members and protected its organisation from divisive attempts which have surfaced particularly over the past months. “We approach Congress with optimism that our unity and militancy, combined with widespread goodwill and solidarity, will assure a productive Congress and successes in the challenging tasks ahead.” GAWU’s last Delegate’s Congress was held in 2012.

Craig man found not guilty of discharging firearm KNOWN scam artist, Gopaul Tiwari, was on Friday freed on two charges of discharging a loaded firearm at two policemen by City Magistrate Judy Latchman. Tiwari, 47, of Craig Village, East Bank Demerara, was found not guilty of unlawfully and maliciously discharging a loaded firearm at police ranks on May 9, at Diamond, East Bank Demerara. Police Prosecutor Corporal Kerry Bostwick, after calling his final witness, closed the case against Tiwari, after the magistrate ruled that a prima facie case had not been made out against him for the offences. Police officers, during trial in the matter, failed to tender the firearm Tiwari allegedly discharged on the day in question. They also failed to present an analyst’s report to the court to prove that Tiwari’s hands were dusted for gun powder residue. Prosecutor Bostwick asked the court to believe the evidence given by Detective Corporal Devon Lowe, Con-

stable Huranan Deonarine and Alex Anais, all attached to the Major Crimes Investigation Unit of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters at Eve Leary. Bostwick told the court that there was sufficient evidence against Tiwari for him to lead a defence to explain why he should not be found liable for the offences. Deonarine, Bostwick said, testified that Tiwari had pointed a firearm in his direction. Deonarine and Anais both testified that on the day in question, they received information that Tiwari, who was wanted for fraud, was in the vicinity of Grove/Diamond East Bank Demerara. The officers said that they proceeded to the location in a police vehicle. They testified that when Tiwari spotted the vehicle he began driving at a fast rate of speed, peeping through the rearview mirrors. Deonarine testified that he managed to intercept the vehicle Tiwari was driving and Anais exited the vehicle and shouted “police.” It was

at this point, Deonarine and Anais said, Tiwari pulled out a darkish object suspected to be a firearm and pointed it out the window of the vehicle. The witnesses testified that they heard a loud explosion a few seconds after. The policemen took cover at the side of their vehicle, and Deonarine returned fire. When asked by the magistrate what he had to say in relation to the evidence given by the prosecutor, Tiwari stressed that the police have a very weak case against him. He said that the offences for which he was charged are serious, and that the police had failed to produce the firearm he discharged at them to the court. He added that although detectives dusted his hands and vehicle for gun powder residue, they failed to tender an analyst’s report in court. But prosecutor Bostwick argued that although the firearm was not tendered in court, there was sufficient evidence for Tiwari to lead a defence. Tiwari is currently serving time on fraud-related offences.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Integrated approach needed to tackle inter-personal violence - President Granger PRESIDENT David Granger is of the opinion that an integrated approach just might be the answer we’re looking for where dealing with inter-personal violence is concerned. Coming in the wake of growing concerns over the high incidence of domestic violence here, the president made known his position on the issue on Friday evening on his weekly televised programme, the Public Interest. “I don’t think the Police Force on its own can solve the problem; the Government on its own cannot solve the problem,” President Granger said. According to the Guyana Police Force, the year to date President has seen a 20 per cent reducDavid Granger tion in serious crimes, but the fly in the ointment still remains interpersonal violence, which, in some cases, has led to murder. Indeed, just two weeks ago, 28-year-old Suresh Ganesh was taken into custody after murdering his reputed wife and their two-year-old son at their Lot 57 Best Village, West Coast Demerara (WCD) home. The woman, Vanessa Sukhram-Persaud, was found on a blood-soaked mattress with her neck almost severed, and chops to her jaw, arms and fingers. Her son, Joel Ganesh, was found lying next to her with his intestines protruding. The Venessa Sukhram-Persaud story is just one of many stories engaging the attention of the Guyana Police Force with respect to domestic violence. And as the president has said, the police cannot do it alone; a national approach is needed, whereby all stakeholders need to get involved to bring an end to this scourge. So, to get the proverbial ball rolling, he has advised the National Security Committee to solicit the support of sociologists and other experts in the field to determine the underlying causes and possible solutions. CRIME-WAVE FALLOUT He believes that the situation being experienced in today’s Guyana is a consequence of the crime wave visited on this nation from 2000 to 2010. He said while some children still see the bullet holes in their houses, the memory of dead bodies in the streets of their villages, and the sounds of gunshots fired still remain fresh in the minds of others. Noting that the violence perpetrated has left permanent scars, President Granger said, “What we are seeing now is the secondary impact; once you have endured such intense violence for so long, it is difficult to escape the psychological consequences.” He is of the opinion that there may be attempts to replicate the violence which was meted out the during the crime wave, under the misguided impression that crime is the best way to solve a problem. Guyana must now re-educate its young people, he said, to undo the sociological and psychological damage done. “So, we now have to re-educate many of the young people who would have witnessed those crimes, or who were affected by the headlines, or might have been victims or their relatives might have been victims,” President Granger said during the 30-minute programme. ALL HANDS ON DECK Noting that the religious community, the education sector, and even the family all have a critical role to play in this regard, the president said:

“We need to start teaching conflict-resolution skills, anger management skills within our schools. And I would ask that the main religious organisations, Christianity, Hinduism, Baha’i, Islam and even the Rastafarian faith to deal with anger management and help young people manage their relationships.” Attention, he said, must also be paid to the scourge of suicide. Some 75 per cent of suicides occur in low and middle-income countries, and more than 800,000 people around the world die from suicide every year. This works out to approx-

imately one person every 40 seconds, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Guyana has the highest estimated suicide rate in the world. Data from the Americas show that suicide rates first peak among young people, remain at the same level for other age groups, and rise again among older men. Pesticide poisoning is one of the most common methods of suicide, especially in low and middle-income countries, and accounts for one-third of cases globally. In the last 45 years, suicide rates have increased by 60 per cent worldwide.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

President shares birthday cheer with Hope Children’s Home P

President David Granger stuck his birthday cake with little Rebecca, one of the children at the Hope Children’s Home, as First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger (first left) looked on

RESIDENT David Granger and First Lady Sandra Granger sang national songs and made merry with the children of the Hope Children’s Home at Enmore, East Coast Demerara yesterday, as part of continuing celebrations for the President’s 71st birthday, which was observed on Friday. Organised by the Ministry of the Presidency’s Press and Publicity Unit, the event was the culmination of a ministry-wide book drive for the children of the orphanage. Almost 400 books, stationery and toys were handed over to the Home in support of the President’s focus on ‘an education nation’. While presenting the items, President Granger said the Home would continue to receive support from the Government, as he remains focused on ensuring that every child has the opportunity to reach his or her fullest potential through education. “Let me congratulate you for the work you are doing here, and assure you that the Ministry of the Presidency will continue to support your work,” the President said, adding: “We have an opportunity in Guyana now to continue to remove inequalities, so that persons who have challenges can have the same opportunities or equal opportunities to be the best that they can be. “The Ministry and Government will do everything possible to ensure that they can enjoy the benefits of this land.” Director of the Home, Mr. Kenneth Finlayson, expressed gratitude to the President for the gesture, saying it would significantly help the centre to realise its goals. “We are glad that you have taken the time to come and be with us, and to share your birthday with us here today; we are excited to have you,” Finlayson said. “I want to say that we are grateful that you and

the members of staff have taken the time to make such a great presentation; because we believe in reading and education, and I know that our President and First Lady do believe in that as well. “We pray that God will continue to bless your work as you lead our nation,” he added. Director of Communication and Head of the Press and Publicity Unit, Mr. Mark Archer, noted that the President has been a persistent advocate for an educated nation. He said the donation, which included books by local, regional and international authors as well as text books, writing, drawing and colouring books and word games and puzzles, will help the children to increase their literacy and numeracy skills and fuel their imaginations. After a warm welcome and lots of cheer, the President and First Lady, accompanied by well-known musicians Mr. David Dewar and Mrs. Marilyn Dewar, led the group in singing some of the President’s favourite national songs, including “My Guyana El Dorado”, which delighted the children. They also performed a lusty rendition of “Happy Birthday” for the President, and when asked to choose a favourite national song of theirs, the children rose to their feet and loudly sang Dave Martin’s “Not a blade o’ grass”. Rawle Narine, one of the children at the Home, said he was happy that the President was able to visit. “I am going to enjoy the books; I like reading,” he said. Staff of the Ministry of the Presidency donated books for the 40 children, who are between the ages of three and 18, many of whom are differently-abled. A total of 876 books were received following the book drive. The remaining books will be donated to other institutions in need. (Ministry of the Presidency).

President David Granger and First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger pose with the children, director and care-givers in the library of the Hope Children’s Home

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Participants of Hague conference treated to cultural evening LEGAL luminaries from the Caribbean and farther afield participated in the Hague Convention Conference on International Family Law, Legal Cooperation and Commerce held in Guyana from July 13 through 16. The conference which was hosted by Guyana in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Hague Conference on Private International Law (HCCH) culminated with a cultural reception for participants at the Umana Yana.

All the performances by the artistes depicted Guyanese culture – a diverse culture of a country with many ethnicities and religions. Some of the Attorneys General that participated in the conference are: Hon Adriel Brathwaite of Barbados; Hon Vanessa Retreage of Belize; Hon Fernilia Felix of Dominica; Hon Anthony Hood of Grenada; H.E. Dr. Jennifer Van Dijk Silos of Suriname; Hon Marlene Malahoo Forte Q.C. of Jamaica; and Hon Judith Morgan of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Indigenous Wedding Dance

Jewan Ka Nitra Dance Troupe

Chief Justices and other judges who participated include: Hon Sir Charles Dennis Byron, President of the Caribbean Court of Justice; Justice Lorraine Williams and Justice Gertel Thom, Representatives of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court; Hon Justice Carolyn Tie, Puisne Judge of Jamaica; Hon Winston Anderson of the Caribbean Court of Justice; Justice Allyson Ramkerrysingh of Trinidad and Tobago and Justice Dinesh Sewratan of Suriname. Other participants included Hon Naf-

tali Engelbrecht Judge of Aruba; Hon Margaret Ramsay-Hale, Chief Justice of Turks and Caicos Islands; Hon Ursula Luydens Judge of Curacao; and Justice Richard Williams of The Cayman Islands. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams at the ceremony said, “I know this is the fitting finale for that successful conference… we will welcome you with the way and the hospitality that we’re famous for…I trust you enjoyed your visit to Guyana.” [GINA]

Jewan Ka Nitra Dance Troupe

Dubraj Tassa Drummers & Otishka Drummers

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Vigilance fire leaves three homeless

The destroyed house located at Vigilance, East Coast Demerara (Adrian Narine photos)

A MID-Morning fire at Vigilance, East Coast Demerara (ECD) left three persons homeless and damage to a neighbouring property on Saturday. The fire, which started at approximately 11:10hs, ripped through a small twostory house located at lot 56 Vigilance, ECD. According to Adela Duncan, the only person home at the time of the fire, she was cooking when she heard a loud noise. “This morning I was cooking and in front and I hear something make BOW.

Adela Duncan explains what transpired on Saturday morning

When I watch, I see smoke already up high, so I holler and I run downstairs and my neighbour holler said ‘oh god watch fire’.” Duncan said she is not sure how the fire started but because she heard a loud noise she believes the cause could have been electrical in nature. “This fire come so quick, when I reach out there is like me’en know what happen,” she told Guyana Chronicle. “Is just this meh have on. Everything, everything bun up. Me had $200,000, me passport, ID card, everything burn up. Me lef with nothing, nothing,” exclaimed the 57 - year - old woman. Duncan, who lives in one of two apartments at the house with her reputed husband Dennis Baggot,

“I ain’t went home, I went four corner from here and two lil boys come and tell me the house on fire; when I come everything done with… me ain’t know nun,” said the 46 - year -old man. He could not estimate the losses but said, “We had nuff, nuff thing…me can’t give the average man.” “We ain’t got nothing and nobody…is me alone and me mistress,” he lamented while riding away on a bicycle. Meanwhile, one neighbour Gail Williamson said she called the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) at approximately 11:15hs after she heard screams of “fire, fire!” She said they waited approximately 45 minutes to an hour before the fire tenders

A distressed Dennis Baggot speaks to the Guyana Chronicle

told this newspaper that she smelled nothing burning. She explained that it was a strange occurrence as she never experienced electrical problems before. The frustrated woman said, “me’en got nothing and nobody fuh help me…all we bed burn up…meh big TV… fridge wha me nah use yet… everything gone.” The housewife said she will reach out to the Guyana Relief Council as she and her husband have nowhere to stay. Meanwhile, a devastated Dennis Baggot was observed looking at the destroyed house and shaking his head. He told Guyana Chronicle that he was not at home at the time the fire started.

arrived. According to Williamson, neighbours decided to form a bucket brigade as the fire quickly spread to a nearby house. “When they come everything done, when I called them at 11:15hs the house was smoking and the fire had to ketch up and blaze and then bun down…they took long to come,” she said. Another neighbour,Nikisha London told Guyana Chronicle that her house was damaged by the fire. “All the windows are broken, chairs soaked, fence burned, the blinds burned…” the woman said. She could not estimate her loss.

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Police Force announces promotions Several ranks from the Regular Force, Special Constabulary, Guystac and Rural Constabulary of the Guyana Police Force have been promoted as a result of their “hard work and dedication to the job”, a statement from the Force said on Saturday. The promotions occur on the Force’s 177th Anniversary and are effective from July 16, 2016. The following are the ranks who have been promoted: TO SERGEANT Ser. Reg. No. No.

Rank

Name

1. 12942 Corporal Sampson 2. 13886 Corporal Semple 3. 14229 Corporal Rollox 4. 14735 Corporal Premanand 5. W. 14891 Corporal Ross-Hinds 6. 15172 Corporal Johnson 7. W.15491 Corporal Sandiford 8. W. 16183 Corporal Jack 9. W.16282 Corporal Arthur 10. W. 16309 Corporal Halley 11. 16445 Corporal Crawford 12. W. 16768 Corporal Tucker 13. 16999 Corporal Ibaran 14. 17045 Corporal Peters 15. W. 17171 Corporal Aaron 16. W. 17200 Corporal Blair 17. W. 17707 Corporal Pitman 18. 18013 Corporal Fordyce 19. 18028 Corporal Mohamed 20. W. 18197 Corporal Williams-Liverpool 21. W. 18246 Corporal Adams 22. 18262 Corporal Morris 23. 18348 Corporal Parris 24. 18662 Corporal Lawrence 25. 18724 Corporal Grannum 26. 18738 Corporal Stephen 27. 18871 Corporal Clarke 28. 18977 Corporal Kellman 29. 19045 Corporal Chand 30. 19109 Corporal Chunia 31. 19309 Corporal Lowe 32. 19321 Corporal Cummings 33. 19429 Corporal Correia 34. 19601 Corporal Seetaram 35. 19628 Corporal Rikiram 36. 19863 Corporal Koulen 37. W. 19981 Corporal Castello 38. W. 19986 Corporal Headley 39. W. 20136 Corporal Roach 40. W. 20216 Corporal Benjamin 41. 20289 Corporal Mingo 42. 20310 Corporal George 43. 20393 Corporal Lynch 44. 20464 Corporal Leocock 45. 20532 Corporal Bhowan 46. W. 20642 Corporal Bobb TO CORPORAL Ser. Reg. No. No. 1. 14174 2. 16276 3. 16902 4. 17955 5. 18403 6. 18978 7. 19950 8. 19962 9. 20897 10. 21303 11. 21512 12. 21917 13. W. 15057 14. W. 17698 15. W. 20597 16. W. 16533 17. W. 16699 18. 18163 19. 18172 20. W. 18188 21. 18320 22. 18561

Rank Constable L/Corporal Constable Constable Constable L/Corporal L/Corporal Constable Constable Constable L/Corporal Constable L/Corporal L/Corporal Constable L/Corporal L/Corporal Constable L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal

Name Lambert Wilburgh Johnson Singh Fraser Mc Kenzie Longhorn Etwaroo Tinnie Murray Whyte Hoosein Richmond Garraway Adams Williams Miller Roberts Barker Griffith Fernandes Chattergoon

23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 28. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34.

18624 19475 W. 20240 W. 20315 W. 20317 20351 20354 W. 20373 W. 20422 W. 20907 W. 22131 W. 17191

L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal

Rose Mentis Marshall Barlow Collins Creame Alicock Thompson Joseph Wilson Joyce Allicock

35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44.

17844 18659 18751 19297 19565 19655 19656 19811 19876 20221

Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable

Thomas Garnette Rockcliffe Singh O’ Brian Haniff Cole Griffith Phillips Forde

Continued on page 22

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Police Force announces promotions

TO CORPORAL Ser. Reg. No. No.

Rank

Name

45. 46.

Constable Constable

Austin Bourne

W. 20417 W. 20418

47. 48. 49. 50. 51.

From page 21

20528 20615 W. 20616 W. 20708 20723

Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable

Roberts Williams Junor Rodney Cyril

52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60.

20883 W. 20903 21140 21170 21515 21557 21852 21862 W. 21382

Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable

Scott Smith Austin Deane Nicholas Hope Jordan Archer James

TO LANCE CORPORAL Ser. Reg. No. No.

Rank

Name

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33.

Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable

Mc Koy Narine Sukhna Persaud Moore Porter Dowlin Lawrence Browne Fraser Goddette Williams Alexander Griffith Craigen Balliram Persaud Da Silva Christy Patterson Cornelius Kellman Hilliman Cunje Bissessar Monasingh Boson Nunes Langevine Yearwood Hartman Cummings Henry

W/16186 18696 18993 19001 19212 19599 19758 19952 W. 20307 20350 20408 W. 20593 20596 20620 20640 20717 20765 20892 20997 21035 21069 21070 21381 21198 21584 W. 21701 W. 21745 22104 22447 W. 22466 22638 23284 23294

SPECIAL CONSTABULARY TO SERGEANT Ser. Reg. No. No.

Rank

Name

1. 7842 Corporal King 2. W. 9071 Corporal La Rose 3. W. 9091 Corporal Roach 4. W.11067 Corporal Josiah 5. W.12387 Corporal Adams 6. 13349 Corporal Kilkenny TO CORPORAL Ser. No.

Reg. No.

Rank

Name

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

12164 8743 9508 W. 7661 W. 7757 W. 7906 W. 8444 W. 9032

L/Corporal L/Corporal Constable Constable L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal L/Corporal

Hamilton Benjamin Ridley Vancooten Wade Sulker Wright Greaves

Continued on page 22

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

From page 22 TO LANCE CORPORAL Ser. No.

Reg. No.

Rank

Name

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.

7193 8376 8411 9512 W. 9869 W. 10906 11813 11871 12549 14046 14109 14627

Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable

Goodridge Mentis Rollins Fraser Hamilton Alves Joseph Moideen Phagwa Anderson Dey Jacobs

Rank

Name

GUYSTAC RANKS TO SERGEANT Ser. No.

Reg. No.

1. W. 7625 Corporal Cummings 2. W. 8838 Corporal Williams TO CORPORAL Ser. No.

Reg. No.

Rank

Name

1. 2.

W. 8557 W. 12555

L/Corporal Constable

Jessemy Lewis

TO LANCE CORPORAL Ser. No.

Reg. No.

Rank

Name

1. 2.

11374 12951

Constable Constable

Stephen Cumberbatch

RURAL CONSTABULARY TO SERGEANT Ser. No.

Rank

Name

1. 2. 3. 4.

Corporal Corporal Corporal Corporal

Tyrell Thompson Malcolm Bristol Campton Veerasammy Avery Trim

TO CORPORAL Ser. No.

Rank

Name

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10 11. 12.

Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable Constable

Persaud Cyrus Reynolds Rajpaul Singh Davenand Ramkaran Rakeshwar Sherry Cully Abdul Ahmad Lyn Sauers Adrian Azeez Royston Albert Lindon Barhoye Clyde James

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Sunday July 17th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Monday July 18th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs Tuesday July 19th, 2016 - 14:30 hrs

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

CFU Ordinary Congress set for July 23 DELEGATES attending the XXXIX Caribbean Football Union Ordinary Congress on July 23, 2016 in Miami, Florida will vote for an Executive Committee to lead the organisation for the next four years. The XXXIX Ordinary Congress will be held at Sheraton Miami Airport Hotel, Pan Am Ball Room. CFU president Gordon Derrick, who will seek another four-year mandate, is being challenged by David John-Williams, president of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association. Also running for the post of president is Hillaren Frederick, president of the

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Turffontein 08:40 hrs Sister Mary 09:15 hrs Cumberland 09:50 hrs Off The Mark 10:25 hrs Cambridge Choir 11:00 hrs Amber Flash IRISH RACING TIPS Curragh 09:00 hrs Hydrangea 09:35 hrs Pronounced 10:05 hrs Cheikeljack 10:40 hrs Rose De Pierre 11:15 hrs Epsom Icon 11:50 hrs Hidden Universe 12:25 hrs Surprisingly 12:55 hrs Rock Your World TIPPERARY 09:20 hrs Hallmark 09:55 hrs Marinero 10:25 hrs Shutter Island 11:00 hrs Rich Coast 11:35 hrs Just Likeold Times 12:10 hrs Supreme Vic 12:45 hrs Black Ace ENGLISH RACING TIPS Newton Abbot 09:05 hrs Invocation 09:40 hrs As You Like 10:10 hrs Keltus 10:45 hrs Professeur Emery 11:20 hrs Velator 11:55 hrs Horsted Valley 12:30 hrs Light Breaks REDCAR 08:55 hrs Sofia’s Rock 09:30 hrs Le Deluge 10:00 hrs Grandest 10:35 hrs Rio Deva 11:10 hrs Kiwi Bay 11:45 hrs One Boy 12:20 hrs Cheeky Angel 12:50 hrs Kiwayu STRATFORD 09:15 hrs Kudu Country 09:50 hrs Moonday Sun 10:20 hrs Ballycan 10:55 hrs Policy Breach 11:30 hrs Nefyn Bay 12:05 hrs Grand Enterprise 12:40 hrs Dynamo

United States Virgin Islands Football Association. There are two candidates running for the post of first vice-president – incumbent Cheney Joseph of Grenada and challenger Osiris Guzman of the Dominican Republic. Curacao’s Rignaal Francisca will be hoping to retain his position as second vice-president and is being challenged by Anton Sealy of the Bahamas. Meanwhile, incumbent third vice-president, St Lucia’s Lyndon Cooper, is being challenged by Fabrice Baly of St Martin. In the race for fourth

CFU president Gordon Derrick will be seeking another four-year mandate. vice-president are Jamaica’s

Raymond Anderson, Aruba’s Richard Dijkhoff and Hillaren Frederick of the US Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, nine individuals are in the race for the four spots as Executive Committee Member. They are Bruce Blake (Cayman Islands), Vernold Coombs (St Vincent and the Grenadines), Hillaren Frederick (USVI), Randolph Harris (Barbados), Eric Labrador (Puerto Rico), lain Mijdt (French Guiana), Maurice Victoire (Martinique), Jeaninne Wong Loi Sing (Bonaire), and Wayne Forde (Guyana). (Sportsmax.com)

Barbados, T&T to clash in Women’s Super50 final today AFTER the rain-marred p re l i m i n a r y ro u n d o f the Regional Women’s Championship, title-holders Barbados will contest the Super50 final against Trinidad and Tobago today at the Everest Cricket Club ground, weather permitting. T&T topped the standings with 12 points after their final preliminary game at Enmore on Friday against the Windward Islands was also abandoned due to rain. The Trinidadians suffered four no-results, but

came away with a win in the only game the weather allowed them to complete against Barbados in the first round. The Trinidad and Tobago team will be captained by Merissa Aguilleira and Barbados by Shaquana Quintyne. However, not a ball was possible at Enterprise in the other preliminary round, where the Barbadians were scheduled to clash with the Leeward Islands, leaving them with two points from the no-result.

Those points helped Barbados to finish second in the standings with 11 points, but after securing a better net run rate, the Bajans qualified for today’s final ahead of Guyana and Jamaica after both teams also finished on 11 points. Following today’s final which starts at 9.30hrs, teams will turn their attention to the Twenty20 phase, starting next Thursday and conclude with the grand final on July 25 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

Garner appointed West Indies team manager for three years ST. JOHN’s, ANTIGUA – The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) yesterday announced the appointment of Joel Garner as Team Manager for the West Indies senior men’s team. He joins the team for the upcoming four-Test Series against India, which starts this coming Thursday in Antigua. The contract will be for a period of three years. Garner brings a wealth of management and cricketing experience to the job. He served as interim manager for the 2009 to 2010 period, which included West Indies tours to Australia and Sri Lanka; South Africa and Zimbabwe tours to the West Indies, and the ICC World Twenty20,which was held in the Caribbean in 2010. He also served as West Indies

‘A’ Team manager. Garner worked for Cable & Wireless in the telecommunications industry in Barbados, as well as a senior officer at the island’s National Sports Council. He has served in several roles to promote cricket in the Caribbean, at events such as the World Travel Market. He has been President of the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) for the last three terms and contested the post of the WICB presidency in 2013. Garner has been a director on the board for the WICB,and during that period has sat on venue development and cricket committees. Hailed as one of the greatest fast bowlers of

all time, Garner played 58 Test matches and 98 One-Day Internationals between 1977 and 1987. He took 259 Test wickets at an average of 20.97 each and 146 wickets in ODIs at an average of 18.84, and economy rate of 3.09 per over. He was a World Cup hero in 1979 as West Indies beat England at Lords to win the prestigious title for the second time. “I always answer the call in West Indies cricket. It is always an honour to serve in any capacity in West Indies cricket and I’m pleased to be back with the team as manager to share my knowledge and experience with the team and be an ambassador for West Indies cricket and the region,” Garner said.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Warriors call up Maddinson to replace Guptill G U YA N A A m a z o n Warriors have added Australian international Nic Maddinson to their squad for the remainder of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) campaign as Martin Guptill has been called up to the New Zealand squad for the forthcoming tour of Zimbabwe. Guptill played his final game of the Hero

CPL Friday evening against Jamaica Tallawahs in Sabina Park. Maddinson, 24, made his international debut against India in 2013, scoring 34 off 16 balls, and has represented Australia on two occasions in T20 Internationals.

Nic Maddinson

The attacking left-handed opening batsman captained the Sydney Sixers in the 2015/16 Big Bash and in 50 T20 career innings he averages 23.93. In 56 First-Class matches to date, Maddinson has scored 3,417

runs at an average of 37.14, including seven centuries and he will link up with the Amazon Warriors squad for the match away to St. Lucia Zouks on July 24 at the Darren Sammy National Cricket Stadium.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Woakes excels again but Pakistan on top at Lord’s PAKISTAN hold a lead of 281 runs with two days of the first Test versus England remaining after 11 wickets tumbled at Lord’s yesterday. Chris Woakes claimed his first 10-wicket Test haul but Pakistan leg-spinner Yasir Shah made another key contribution to leave England facing a big run chase at Lord’s. Yasir (6-72) recorded the second-best figures by a Pakistan bowler at the home of cricket as England were bowled out for 272 in reply to 339 in the morning session on day three of the first Test,

with Woakes unbeaten on 35. Woakes got on the honours board with his maiden five-wicket Test haul on day one and the England all-rounder took 5-31 yesterday as the tourists closed on 214-8, leading by 281 runs. Yasir now has a record 82 wickets after only 13 matches in the longest format and added 30 not out to frustrate England after Asad Shafiq (49) and Sarfraz Ahmed (45) got starts, but failed to go on. Pakistan will look to the wily Yasir to torment England in their second innings and give his side a lead in the four-match series.

Chris Woakes claimed his tenth wicket of the match when he removed Sarfraz Ahmed on the third , day of the first at Lord’s.

looked set for a deserved second half-century of the match until the superb Woakes bowled him with a brilliant delivery which nipped back. England sensed an opportunity to dismiss the tourists cheaply at 168-6, but Sarfraz and Yasir combined for a valuable stand of 40 in the evening session - the forYasir Shah now holds the record for the most wickets taken after 13 Tests (82) England resumed on 253-7 in need of some valuable runs down the order, but Pakistan needed just over half an hour to end the innings. Stuart Broad (17) was undone by a sharp Wahab Riaz (1-67) yorker and the magnificent Yasir trapped Steven Finn in front before Jake Ball was run out going for a second. England were desperate for early wickets as Pakistan started their second innings with a lead of 67 and a fired up Broad delivered when Mohammad Hafeez edged tentatively to Joe Root at second slip without scoring. Shan Masood (24) edged the impressive Woakes to Alastair Cook at first slip in the first over after lunch and Pakistan were 59-3 when Azhar Ali (23) was adjudged leg before after missing a

delivery from Moeen Ali (2-49). First-innings centurion Misbah-ul-Haq had a rush of blood to the head when he picked out Alex Hales on the midwicket boundary with an ugly hoick off Moeen to fall without scoring. That rash stroke from the captain left his side leading by 127 on 60-4 and England thought they had Younis Khan cheaply soon after, but a review went in favour of the veteran batsman after he was initially given out leg before to Finn. Shafiq continued to play positively, but Younis (25) was unable to get going and it came as no surprise when he dragged on to Moeen, ending a frustrating fifth-wicket stand of 69. The energetic Shafiq drove Finn down the ground for an exquisite boundary and

mer having a stroke of luck when Jonny Bairstow put him down off an unfortunate Finn. Bairstow made amends by taking simple chances to dismiss Sarfraz and Wahab late in the day, ensuring Woakes had 11 to set up an intriguing fourth day. (Omnisport)

SCOREBOARD PAKISTAN 1st innings 339 (Misbah-ul-Haq 114, A. Shafiq 73; C. Woakes 6-70) England 1st innings (Overnight: 235-7) A. Cook b Amir 81 A. Hales c Az. Ali b R. Ali 6 J. Root c Hafeez b Shah 48 J. Vince lbw b Shah 16 G. Ballance lbw b Shah 6 J. Bairstow b Shah 29 M. Ali lbw b Shah 23 C. Woakes not out 35 S. Broad b Riaz 17 S. Finn lbw b Shah 5 J. Ball run out (Masood, Riaz) 4 Extras (nb-2) 2 Total (all out, 79.1 overs) 272 Fall of wickets: 1-8 A. Hales,2-118 J. Root,3-139 J. Vince,4-147 G. Ballance,5-173 A. Cook,6-193 J. Bairstow,7-232 M. Ali,8-260 S. Broad,9-267 S. Finn,10-272 J. Ball Bowling: M. Amir 18 - 2 - 65 – 1, R. Ali 14 - 1 - 68 – 1, W. Riaz 18.1 - 0 - 67 - 1(nb-2), Y. Shah 29 - 6 - 72 – 6. PAKISTAN 2nd innings M. Hafeez c Root b Broad 0 S. Masood c Cook b Woakes 24 Az. Ali lbw b Woakes 23 Y. Khan b Ali 25 Misbah-ul-Haq c Hales b Ali 0 A. Shafiq b Woakes 49 S. Ahmed c Bairstow b Woakes 45 Y. Shah not out 30 W. Riaz c Bairstow b Woakes 0 M. Amir not out 0 Extras (b-6 lb-11 nb-1) 18 Total (for 8 wickets, 77 overs) 214 Fall of wickets: 1-2 M. Hafeez,2-44 S. Masood,3-59 Az. Ali,4-60 Misbah-ul-Haq,5-129 Y. Khan,6-168 A. Shafiq,7-208 S. Ahmed,8-214 W. Riaz To bat: R. Ali Bowling: S. Broad 18 - 6 - 38 – 1, J. Ball 16 - 7 - 37 – 0, S. Finn 13 - 4 - 42 - 0 , C. Woakes 17 - 6 - 31 - 5 M. Ali 13 - 3 - 49 - 2(nb-1) .

Cavendish storms to 30th Tour win to leave sprint rival Kittel trailing By Julien Pretot VILLARS-LES-DOMBES, France (Reuters)-Manx Missile Mark Cavendish claimed his 30th Tour de France victory and fourth in this year’s race when he left sprint rival Marcel Kittel trailing at the end of the 14th stage yesterday.. The Dimension Data rider, back in the limelight after three below-par Tours, is now four shy of the all-time stage win record of Belgian great Eddy Merckx. Cavendish, who had not won more than three stages on the Tour since 2011, was just too fast for the rest of the bunch, comfortably beating Norway’s Alexander Kristoff (Katusha) in a bunch sprint after 208.5-km of riding from Montelimar. World champion and green jersey holder Peter

Sagan (Tinkoff) finished strongly to take third place while German Kittel finished fifth, protesting as he felt Cavendish had veered towards him during the sprint for the line. “The difference this year (with 2015) is the track (preparation for the Olympics) but not just that. To be fair I feel exactly the same, it’s just that you need to be patient,” said Cavendish who followed Kittel’s wheel before making his move, powering away to victory. “I think I’m being more patient than I was last year.” Cavendish insisted his sprint was clean, even if Kittel had a slightly different point of view. The German was gesticulating angrily before he even crossed the line. “I started my sprint super fast with 220 metres to go, the train worked well. I was in the

inside, I was well positioned,” he said. “I saw Cavendish passing me and he swerved to the right and I needed to brake to avoid a collision. It’s not up to me to decide if he made a mistake.” Frenchman Jeremy Roy (FDJ), Cesare Benedetti (Bora Argon 18), Swiss Martin Elmiger (IAM) and American Alex Howes (Cannondale-Drapac) broke away early on and built a maximum advantage of 4:45. Howes was dropped by his breakaway companions with 14km left and Benedetti fell off the pace 9.5km from the line. Roy and Elmiger were caught with 3.4km left, shaking hands as the peloton reeled them in. Yellow jersey holder Chris Froome (Team Sky) finished safely to consolidate his advantage after gaining time

Team Dimension Data rider Mark Cavendish of Britain (C) wins on finish line of stage 6. Reuters/Jean-Paul Pelissier on his main rivals in Friday’s individual time trial. “I was tired this morning but fortunately this day was a gift for the GC riders, it was a quiet day,” he said. The riders observed a min-

ute’s silence at the start with Sagan, Froome and French champion Arthur Vichot in the front of the peloton in memory of the 84 victims of the Nice attack just eight months after gunmen killed 130 people in

Paris. Today’s 15th stage is a gruelling 160-km trek in the Alps between Bourg-en-Bresse and Culoz. “ I t ’s a k e y s t a g e , ” Froome warned.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Digicel helps upgrade National Gymnasium dormitories TELECOMMUNICATIONS gaint Digicel yesterday morning handed over some 40 mattresses at the National Gymnasium after collaborating with the National Sports Commission (NSC) to upgrade the dormitories at the Mandela Avenue sports facility. In addition to equipping each bed with a brand new mattress, Digicel also footed the bill to have the dormitories re-painted. Handing over the items on behalf of Digicel was the company’s head of Customer Care Representatives, Sherwin Osbourne. Osbourne noted that

the idea to refurbish the Gymnasium came about as the company was looking for places to house out-of-town players of the ongoing Digicel National Schools Football Championships. After checking out the National Gymnasium, it was observed that the facility was ideal for the purpose, but some works were needed to better enhance the comfortableness of the facility. “What happened is that as our footballers continue to move across the country, we were looking at places for them to stay at in a big area that is spacious and that is close

to the city and close to practice facilities, and we came to the Gymnasium

and we saw the dormitories which had enough space… and we decided

Digicel’s Head of Customer Care, Sherwin Osbourne (left), and Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, near some of the beds equipped with new mattresses

Shakib, Gayle take Tallawahs to victory JAMAICA Tallawahs overcame a dramatic top-order collapse, that saw them slump to 2 for 4 in the first seven balls, to chase down 129 against Guyana Amazon Warriors at Sabina Park. Shakib Al Hasan and Chris Gayle, who batted at No. 7, put on an unbeaten 87-run stand to take Tallawahs home. Gayle had injured his back while fielding in the first innings and left the field in the 17th over, which meant he could not bat for the first 18 minutes of the chase. The win pushed Tallawahs to second on the points table, behind Amazon Warriors who have played seven games. Two wickets from Sohail Tanvir within the first five balls and the run-out of Andre McCarthy, who failed to slide his bat in despite making his ground, in the first over left Tallawahs tottering. Their situation got

worse when Kumar Sangakkara was adjudged caught behind off debutant Ali Khan’s first ball, in the second over. The Kingston crowd was stunned and a padded-up Gayle was watching from the dressing room, counting

he faced. He clubbed a 15-ball 24 but was dismissed when Adam Zampa took a one-handed diving catch at backward square leg off Veerasammy Permaul at the end of the fifth over. To the crowd’s respite, Gayle finally walked out with

Chris Gayle hammered a 29-ball 45 at No. 7 © CPL/ Sportsfile down his minutes. Andre Russell, batting at No. 6, put the chase on track by hitting a six and a four in the first four balls

the score 45 for 5. Shakib and Gayle, who has not opened the batting on just three other occasions in his T20 career,

provided impetus from the outset - six boundaries were struck in the first 12 balls of their partnership. Tallawahs needed 50 runs from 13 overs at that stage with a required rate of under four. One boundary was hit in the next six overs but Tallawahs cantered to the target with 25 balls to spare. After being inserted to bat, Amazon Warriors lost captain Martin Guptill, playing his last game of the season, for a duck. Chris Lynn struck an 18ball 33 and Jason Mohammed anchored the innings with a 51-ball 46 but a failure to put together substantial partnerships meant Amazon Warriors could only post 128. Dale Steyn finished with 2 for 31 and best bowler was Pakistan left-arm spinner Imad Wasim who bowled an economical spell of 4-0-12-2. (ESPNCricinfo)

North-East La Penitence to play Tucville in final tonight TUCVILLE and North-East La Penitence will clash tonight in the finals of the Petra-organised Ministry of Public Health-sponsored Stop Gender-based Violence football competition at the Ministry of Education ground The duo were successful after semi-final action on Thursday at the Parade ground. In the first game, Tucville and Broad Street played to a 0-0 stalemate and had to resort to penalty kicks to

that we wanted them to stay here, but it needed some work, so we decided

decide a winner. In the end it was Tucville who won 3-2 and sealed the first spot in the finals The second game of the night would take the same route as Sparta Boss who took the lead in the 10th minute thanks to Gregory “Jackie Chan” Richardson’s strike held that for most of the game. However, the North-East side would retain the lead through the old ‘one two’, putting Sparta on the

back foot. La Penitence’s Devon Charles in the 29th minute levelled it up before Alwin Moore three minutes later gave the side the lead in the 32nd. The lead however was shortlived, as Richardson returned in the 35th to level things up and send the game to penalties with North-East prevailing. Sparta will now meet Broad Street in the third-place play off. (Stephan Sookram)

that we’re going to get fresh mattresses for all the bunks that we have here and as well paint it,” Osbourne explained. Though reluctant to release the cost of

the initiative, Osbourne pointed out that the company was just happy to do it, knowing that not only the encamping footballers would benefit from the venture. “We never really say any cost that is attached to it, but we like to look at it as a significant investment in our youths. This is not only for football,[it is also] for basketball, netball any sport in Guyana, where anybody wants to come and stay here, then we have something that they can come and use without having to look at an additional cost factor and as well the location is ideal.” Osbourne said Making remarks on behalf of the NSC was Director of Sport Christopher Jones. Jones expressed how pleased the commission is that Digicel came on board to help bring the standard of the facility closer to where it needs to be.

Five races carded for today’s Rising Sun Turf Club/GAWP horse-race meet OVER $1.5M along with trophies and other incentives will be on offer today, when the Rising Sun Turf Club in collaboration with the Guyana Association of Women Police (GAWP) stages a one-day, five-race horse-race meet at the Rising Sun facility, West Coast Berbice, beginning at noon. The feature event will be a one-mile race for horses classified `G3 and lower’ with the winner pocketing $300,000, while the other top three finishers will earn $150,000, $75,000 and $38,000, respectively. The co-feature event is a six-furlong race for horses classified `J and Lower’ and the winner will receive $16,000, while the other top three finishers will take home $80,000, $40,000 and $20,000, respectively. Two five-furlong races are on the cards with one open for horses classified `K and Lower’ and the other for horses classified `l and Lower.’ The `K and Lower event will see the winner carting off $140,000, while the second, third and fourthplace finishers will take home $70,000, $35,000 and $18,000 respectively. The winner of the `L and Lower’ event will receive &120,000, while the other top three finishers will take home $60,000, $30,000 and $15,000 respectively. The other race which is the second one on the day’s programme is a two-furlong event for two-year-old horses and the winner will receive $100,000, while the second, third and fourth-place finishers will be rewarded with $50,000, $25,000 and $13,000 respectively. The idea of the day’s activity was the initiative of Chairperson of the Guyana Association of Women Police, West Coast Berbice Chapter, Inspector Cynthia Kelly, who got the approval of Senior Superintendent of Police Maxine Graham. Just recently, the promoters got sponsorship from Trophy Stall of Bourda Market and Banks DIH Limited.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Munro blasts Trinbago Knight Riders to victory THE Trinbago Knight Riders have found some of the form that saw them conquer the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) last season as they brushed aside the Barbados Tridents at the Kensington Oval yesterday. A blistering fifty from New Zealander Colin Munro saw them chase down a stiff target of 173 with 16 balls to spare. The Knight Riders reached 52-1 off their six over PowerPlay as they flew out of the blocks in pursuit of the sizable Tridents total. The one man to go inside the first six overs was William Perkins who made 23 when he pulled a ball from Wayne Parnell into the ever dependable hands of Pollard at mid-wicket. He was replaced by Munro who was in a serious hurry from the start of his innings. Munro got off the mark with a four and had struck his first Hero Maximum two balls later. While Munro was all brute strength and aggression at the other end Hashim Amla was playing a cultured

knock as he made 31 from 34 balls, happy to turn the strike over to the big hitting Kiwi. The partnership between

Colin Munro hits out during his 68 off 39 balls against Barbados Tridents Munro and Amla was worth 107 and Amla only contributed 25 runs to it as Munro dominated proceedings. The Tridents found no way to exert control and at one point took the drastic measure of replacing Nicolas Pooran as wicket keeper, Steven Taylor taking

over the duties after Pooran conceded his second lot of four byes. Having made the first Hero CPL hundred by an overseas player against the Amazon Warriors earlier in the tournament Munro scored 68 from just 39 balls before he holed out off the bowling of Ravi Rampaul. Although Munro was gone the Knight Riders still reached their target with ease thanks to Bravo and Denesh Ramdin. The Tridents made a patient start to their innings as they attempted to set a defendable total. The Knight Riders bowlers kept it tight in the opening overs as the Tridents managed just 32 runs from their six over PowerPlay. The USA’s Steven Taylor had struggled to get going and he tried to inject some pace into his innings with a big shot over long off from a ball from Sulieman Benn. He didn’t get all of it and Umar Akmal took a simple catch. That brought together AB de Villiers and Shoaib Malik and the run rate immediately

increased with the two experienced internationals at the crease. They put together a partnership of 60 in 44 balls that took the Tridents to 98-1 in the 15th over. This came to an end when a brilliant slower ball yorker from Dwayne Bravo bowled Shoaib for 47 (44). De Villiers narrowly missed out on registering his third fifty in four Hero CPL innings, but he cemented his place at the top of the Tridents run scorers list. He now has 202 runs at an average of 67 and at a strike rate of 151 at this year’s tournament. He fell attempting to smash a Hero Maximum off Benn when he was on 45. Kieron Pollard played a brutal knock at the back end of the Tridents innings as he made 41 runs from just 20 balls including three massive Hero Maximums as the Tridents made it to 172-4 off their 20 overs. But for Munro and his blistering innings it may well have been enough, but his runs made the chase a simple prospect for the Knight Riders.

Guyana, T&T and Windwards in 3-way battle for WICB U17 crown

By Brij Parasnath

THE fourth round match between undefeated Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana at the National Cricket Centre, Balmain, Couva,was yesterday abandoned without a ball being bowled because of water-logged conditions on the outfield. It was a major setback for both T&T and Guyana,as they received only one point each from the abandoned fixture, but it allowed them to retain their first and second positions respectively on the overall points table with 14.3 and 14.1 points each. But Windward Islands bounced back strongly and are still in contention for overall top honours when they whipped Jamaica by eight wickets at the Queen’s Park Oval yesterday. The race for the overall title has now become an intense three-way battle among front-runners Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana and Windwards,who are the defending champions. With their impressive win over Jamaica, Windwards moved to 13.8 points and they will clash with Guyana in the crucial fifth and final round match at the National Cricket Centre from 9.30 hrs today. Whichever team emerges the winner between Guyana and Windwards could still be crowned champions should Barbados create a major upset

against Trinidad and Tobago in their clash at the Queen’s Park Oval. However, T&T players know that they are at home and must put ontheir best performances to secure victory over Barbados. Only an outright win for the homesters will do the trick and allow the Trinis to lock down the number one spot and give them the oppor-

tunity to celebrate another regional under 17 title that they last won in 2013. Before yesterday’s penultimate round, Trinidad and Tobago held the advantage with 13.3 points compared to Guyana’s 13.1 ,with both teams having registered two wins each and one abandoned fixture. T&T had a bonus of 0.3 with an overall net run rate of 1.178, having scored 325 runs in 89.2 overs and conceded 246 off 100 overs. On the other hand, Guyana had collected a 0.1 bonus

point plus a net run rate of 1.810 having scored 155 runs in 48.1 overs and conceded 107 off 76 overs. After their washed-out match at the NCC yesterday, both teams were allotted one point each which pushed their overall tally to 14.3 and 14.1 points respectively. T&T remains the leader going into the fifth and final round of the sixteam round robin competition. Jamaica were bowled out for 146 with Johnnel Eugene (4 for 29) and Johann Jerimah (3 for 19) the main destroyers for Windwards who romped to an emphatic eight-wicket victory and kept alive their chances of successfully defending their title. Tijourne Pope (53) and skipper Johnnel Eugene (51 no), shared a match-winning 106-run second wicket partnership that pushed Windwards to 147 for 2. Eugene, with his 4 for 29 and unbeaten 51, was voted “Player of the Match”. Barbados secured full points when they whipped Leeward Islands by seven wickets in their low-scoring encounter at Gilbert Park, California. Leewards were bowled out for 75 in 27.3 overs (Elroy Francis jnr 18, Jerrelious Louis 16), while Barbados replied with 76 for 3 off 21 overs (Shian Brathwaite 31 not out). Shakkae Leroy Marshall was Barbados’ chief wicket-taker with five for 17 from six overs and collected the “Player of the Match” award.

In all likelihood, and based on weather pattern and ground drainage facilities, Trinidad and Tobago will fancy their chances of playing a match, even a reduced-overs version, should there be any stoppage at the Oval. On the other hand, Guyana will be at a disadvantage should the NCC ground experience any downpour that will leave the outfield in an unplayable state. That will result in an abandoned match and will adversely affect both the Guyanese and Windwards overall points tally. Should such a scenario evolve, T&T will still maintain the overall lead even if their match at the Oval is also abandoned. Both matches will be closely monitored, and much thrills are expected as three teams hunt regional supremacy. Leeward Islands and Jamaica will battle it out for minor placings at Gilbert Park, California, Couva. Today will be the last chance for all players to demonstrate their cricketing prowess and impress the West Indies selectors, who are on the lookout for outstanding performers in this particular age group as they seek to put together a strong West Indies squad to defend the ICC World Under- 19 title they won and celebrated earlier this year. The next ICC World Under 19 tournament is scheduled for 2018.

Ramdhani siblings for Pan-American championships GUYANA’S top male and female badminton players SUNBURST Narayan Ramdhani and Priyanna Ramdhani will be attending the Pan-American Junior Badminton Championships slated for July 19 to 23 at the Centro de Alto Rendimiento, Lima, Peru. Narayan will be playing in the Under-19 Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles,

Narayan Ramdhani and Priyanna Ramdhani will represent Guyana at the Pan -American Junior Badminton Championships. while four-time medallist at Panam juniors will be playing in the Under-15 Singles & Doubles and Under-19 Mixed Doubles. The updated performances for these two players for 2016 are: These two players were also selected by the Development Director to attend the Pan-Am High Tech Junior Academy billed for July 23-30. Meanwhile, the Guyana Badminton Association has expressed gratitude to the Guyana Olympic Association and National Sports Commission for acquiring airline tickets for the players. They also expressed gratitude to Mr. Yesu Persaud of Demerara Bank, Mr. Philip DaSilva, Mr. Neville Osman and the Continental Group of Companies (SUNBURST) for their contribution to help make the tour possible.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday July 17, 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) Dwayne Smith-62 (2) Kieron Pollard

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who is the first player to be dismissed ‘run out’ in Hero CPL 2016? (2) Who is the first bowler to take a five-wicket haul in Hero CPL 2016?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE July 17, 2016

Challenges in the governance of football … finance is the biggest burden By Ras Wadada “IT is one thing to have an opinion as to what a job entails when you are on the outside, but it is a completely different thing to understand what is required to get the job done, when you are on the inside; and I would be the first to admit that I was not prepared for the level of demands that being President of the GFF would impose on my entire life. “ I literally put in 14 to 15 hours daily on this job and that in itself is a challenge,” President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Wayne Forde, revealed in an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport last Friday. As chief of the “Beautiful Game” here in Guyana, Forde has been featured regularly in the media since being elected to the top position last November and over the last week, his executive was taken to task for the non-payment of prize monies for the Elite League that concluded last month. The president informed the media that the G$7.5M prize monies for the top

four finishers were handed out to the respective clubs last Friday and payments to the players will be made shortly. “The delay in payments to the clubs and players of the Elite League is regrettable, but unavoidable, since the GFF has to take it out of our Development Funds and we did not have the money. In my estimation, most of [the] Guyana the Elite League has been a success and I want to give credit to Ansa McAl for coming on board and sponsoring the league. “ The major part of the funding to sustain the league is done by the GFF, including operational costs and prize monies and payments to players which we increased from $2,000 to $3,500 per game for each player. I honestly feel the players are the reason why fans come to the venue and they deserve the increase despite it being a challenge for the GFF. From the very beginning, we as a new executive found it very challenging. When we took over the GFF it was just two weeks before the conclu-

sion of the first phase of the Elite League and we did not inherit an impressive financial position, so this imposed on us an immediate burden to find G$7.5M. Thankfully, we were able to do it,” the football boss declared. “The Elite League is not our only product, but surely takes a lot of financing. We have courses for referees and youth development and others all year round. Also, since we took up office of the GFF we have had a very active International schedule and that takes a huge chunk out of our finances. “ The Lady JAGS’ Olympic qualification rounds cost us around G$13.5M. Our Men’s Senior Team is now in the third round of the CFU Caribbean Cup, which involves two games in October and the U-17 Boys are now playing in the CFU preliminary competition at a cost of $68,000.USD. Every International engagement sets the GFF G$5.5M back. “These are the deep-rooted financial challenges and it is unfortunate that corporate Guyana have[sic] not embraced us. The Gov-

WAYNE FORDE ernments of Guyana and Canada came on board and supported the international friendly against Canada and that was timely. Next month our Girls U-15 are down to participate in a regional competition that will cost between $62,000. And $68,000.USD. With such a huge financial burden, we found it difficult to pay out the G$7.5M prize monies on time,” Forde disclosed. When quizzed on the details of the contractual arrangements the GFF made with the sponsor of the inaugural Elite League, the president stated that because of certain confidentiality clauses

Guyana Amazon Warriors thank their fans for support THE Management, staff, coaches and players of the Guyana Amazon Warriors would like to thank their fans,both local and international,for their massive demonstration of support during the four games played at Providence Cricket Stadium,over the past two weeks. Some say that the fan support during ‘home games’ act like a 12th player for the local cricket team. The fans that filled the stands to capacity during each of the games were more than that and played a key role in the Guyana Amazon Warriors winning three of the four games - and barely losing the fourth game by a whisker. As we have said before, we consider Guyana Amazon Warrior T-20 Cricket to be a binding force in bringing all Guyanese together as a family. This was demonstrated vividly in the mosaic of our Guyanese family cheering on their team during the home games. Once again, we thank the extraordinary fans of the Guyana Amazon Warriors and hope your fervent support gives us the momentum that will take us all the way this year. We would also like to thank the Police, Fire Service,and Stadium Staff for the yeoman efforts they extended to ensure the logistical challenges to the fans’ safety and movement were addressed in such a satisfactory manner. The Government of Guyana in general, and the Ministries of Tourism, Culture and Sports in particular, also must be thanked for being so supportive of this venture to showcase Guyana and one of its unique cultural products - AMAZON Warriors Cricket. Finally,we would like to thank the International corps of media workers who allowed the world to see our great country, its wonderfully hospitable people and of course, the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

in the agreement he could not divulge the details. He however indicated that the agreement with the sponsor ended at the end of the second phase of the Elite League, though he is hopeful of having them on board again, but with a different business module. “Again, we must be thankful for Ansa McAl coming on board at a time when all sponsors seemed unwilling to come on board. I think it was a brave investment on their part,” commended Forde. Looking ahead, the former Fruta Conquerors president cited that there will be a different approach to securing sponsorship for an improved Elite League. “I have been at the helm in running several tournaments for several years and in my negotiations with the various sponsors, the first thing I took care of was the prize monies. So I am a bit concerned about the business aspect of the way things were done. We will negotiate in the principle and spirit of sponsorship for football which covers several key aspects, chief among them prize monies. “ If there is anything I have learnt from the club level, it is that at a mini-

mum you need to protect the prize monies because the clubs and by extension the players are the key stakeholders, so we will be approaching all negotiations in the spirit of protecting all prize monies. “I think it is essential to have more than one sponsor on board, but what we have got to work out are all logistic arrangements. There will be a different way of securing sponsorship in moving forward,” an optimistic Forde affirmed. On the question of the appointment of a new Technical Director (TD), the president advised that within a few days the announcement will be made. The GFF has been without a TD since March of this year after Claude Bolton tendered his resignation. “In the last few weeks, we have interviewed a number of high-quality coaches from around the world who have indicated their willingness to come and help develop our football. We want to be absolutely certain we have a quality TD who is prepared to be here in Guyana for a minimum of four years, so in a few days we will be making that announcement who is the TD for the GFF,” Forde said.

India, WICB President’s XI 3-day match ends in a draw

Jermaine Blackwood

THE final warm-up match between India and WICB President’s XI at St Kitts ended in a draw, yesterday. WICB President’s XI finished at 223 for 6 and had secured a slender lead before both captains shook hands and called it a day. Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin finished was India’s best bowler with six wickets to his name in the match, while Jermaine Blackwood with 51topscored for the hosts in the second innings The other bowlers too had a good outing but India could not force a result despite being in a good position. The action now shifts to Antigua, where India will take on West Indies in the first of four Tests on July 21. Brief Scores: WICB President XI 180 (John Campbell 34, Jermaine Blackwood 36, Rahkeem Cornwall 41; Ravichandran Ashwin 3 for 62, Ravindra Jadeja 3 for 16) & 223 for 6 (John Campbell 31, Vishaul Singh 39, Jermaine Blackwood 51; Ravichandran Ashwin 3 for 59) drew with India 364 (KL Rahul 64, Virat Kohli 51, Ravindra Jadeja 56; Rahkeen Cornwall 5 for 118)

Challenges in the governance of football See story on page 35

Hero CPL honours Sir Garry Sobers ahead of 80th birthday

THE great Sir Garfield Sobers received a special presentation ahead of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) match between the Barbados Tridents and the Trinbago Knight Riders which was played at the Kensington Oval yesterday. One of the game’s greatest players whose influence and legacy extends across the Caribbean and beyond, Sir Garry will celebrate his 80th birthday on July 28 and to mark this milestone, Hero CPL CEO Damien O’Donohoe was joined by dignitaries from the Barbados Tridents – including Sid Mallya and T. Venkat Vardhan – as well as Tridents’ captain Kieron Pollard and William Griffith (CEO, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.). Mr. Mallya also presented Sir Garry with a signed Tridents jersey and speaking at the event, CPL CEO Damien O’Donohoe said: “Sir Garry is an icon of Barbados, the West Indies and the game of cricket and we are delighted to pay tribute to him and his enormous contribution across the sport ahead of his 80th birthday celebrations on 28th July. “Unfortunately, the

birthday events clash with our games in Lauderhill, Florida, so we thought it important to acknowledge his fantastic contribution to the game here in the Kensington Oval. “One of Barbados’ favourite sons, Sir Garry has been a wonderful ambassador for the game for many years and as well as a close personal friend, he has been a great supporter of the Hero CPL since day one. “ We are honoured to host him, his partner Jackie, son Daniel and extended family and friends to mark his birthday. I know that I speak on behalf of all fans of the CPL in extending our very best wishes at this time of celebration.” In a Test career spanning 20 years between 1954-74, Sir Garry was arguably the greatest player of his generation and scored 8,032 runs (including a then record Test score of 365 not out) in 93 Tests and taking 235 wickets. In addition to the West Indies, he also represented Barbados, Nottinghamshire and South Australia and scored 28,314 first-class runs and took 1,043 first-class wickets overall.

Sid Mallya presents Sir Garry with a signed Tridents jersey. Looking on are CPL CEO Damien O’Donohoe and Tridents skipper Kieron Pollard.

Trinidad and Tobago captain Merissa Aguilleira

Barbados, T&T to clash in Women’s Super50 final today See story on page 30

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Barbados captain Shaquana Quintyne

Garner appointed West Indies team manager for three years

JOEL GARNER

See story on page 30 SUNDAY, JULY 17, 2016