Guyana chronicle 02 04 14

GUYANA No. 103786

WEDNESDAY APRIL 2, 2014

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

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Gov’t warns Opposition...

‘Cut the Budget at your own peril!’

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Nagamootoo blistered over Leguan ‘grass cutter’ comment

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Janet Jagan: Champion of women’s causes, pioneer of Guyana’s development Centre

Boy, 13, hangs himself

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15

President Donald Ramotar lays a wreath in remembrance of Mrs. Janet Jagan

Young Rishi Ramkisoon

NCDC Councillors hail National Page 12 Budget 2014 as a transformative one

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Gov’t warns Opposition...

‘Cut the Budget at your own peril!’

By Vanessa Narine THE combined opposition drew first blood Monday, the first day of the customary budgetary debates in the National Assembly when it boldly signalled it has every intention of cutting this year’s allocations.

And last evening, the Government sent them an equally strong message: Cut the budget at your own peril! “If you cut the budget, you will cut your votes and cut your seats,” Labour Minister Dr. Nanda Gopaul said, in obvious reference to the opposition’s express intent to hold the country to ramsom for a third year running.

Most of last evening’s debates were centred on allocations, advances and challenges in the social sectors; with calls being made for unemployment, youth, women and children and vulnerable groups to be given more attention.

A Partnership for National

Unity (APNU) back-bencher, Christopher Jones argued that the theme of the 2014 Budget, ‘A better Guyana for all Guyanese’, goes contrary to the actual contents of the document itself. He said, “The PPP/C has the course, but lacks the rudder. We have that on this side.”

FOR THE PEOPLE The Government, on the other hand, maintains that the Budget includes a menu of measures to benefit the average Guyanese man and woman. In addition to announcing that no new taxes will be introduced, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh disclosed that old age pension would be increased from $12,500 to $13,600 – up from $3,500 in 2006; old age pensioners would receive an annual electricity assistance of $30,000, an increase from $20,000; and there would be a $10,000

allowance for each child in the public education system.

Among other measures Singh announced were the following: (a)the allocation of $3.2B to meet the cost of maintaining the electricity subsidy in Linden and Kwakwani, Region 10;(b) the allocation of $100M to advance technical and other assessments for capital works to Port Georgetown; and (c) $1B for rehabilitation of critical interior roads, including the Linden to Lethem road.

Allocations to other major sectors that saw an increase in this year’s Budget include the following: (a) $3.7B to the Guyana Power and Light Company to support critical capital expenditure and avoid increased tariffs for consumers; (b) $1B for rural enterprise development; (C) $6B for the sugar sector to achieve a badly needed reversal of fortunes; (d) an injection of $500M into the rice sector to support efforts to increase com-

petitiveness and resilience; (e) $200M for advancement of efforts in other agricultural areas; and (f) an investment of $800M into the tourism industry for the establishment of a Hospitality Institute.

New this year was the announcement of a ‘Clean Up Guyana’ campaign, which attracted an allocation of some $1B, $500M of which will be dedicated to immediate efforts to clean up the capital city.

NO CONSULTATIONS Jones underscored what he termed disregard for the merits of consultation. He said the 2014 Estimates reflect disrespect for the Guyanese people, with a disregard of the merits of tripartite consultations and its benefits relative to crafting a budget that is truly for the benefit of the Guyanese people.

The contention of the Government is converse. The Finance Minister, as recent as last Tuesday, said, “It is a matter of public record (that) we invited the opposition parties on several occasions, and they failed to turn up.”

Dr Singh explained recently that his e-mail dated January 13, 2014 indicated Government’s invitation to meet on Budget 2014, and requested APNU Member Carl Greenidge to suggest a date. The e-mail, also copied to Granger, Lance Carberry, Khemraj Ramjattan, Dr. Roger

Luncheon, and Gail Teixeira, also contained copies of documents to be discussed.

However, the invitation was met with stony silence from Granger and Greenidge.

Further, in February 2014, there was still no response from the Parliamentary Opposition parties to government’s invitation to participate in pre-budget consultations.

The Alliance For Change’s (AFC) Trevor Williams, echoed Jones’s contentions and argued that eight years under the Finance Minister’s stewardship have evidenced no change.

“This entire Parliament, not just the Opposition majority, has a duty to ensure that this sort of continuity (poor management and poor accountability) is brought to an abrupt end,” he said.

STATE YOUR ALTERNATIVES Government Member of Parliament (MP) Joseph Hamilton accepted the criticisms levelled against the contents of the 2014 Estimates.

However, he chastised members of the combined Opposition, with the exception of the AFC’s Dr. Veersammy Ramayya, for not being constructive in their criticisms by not offering proposals of their alternatives.

Hamilton quipped that Monday’s debate can be likened to a cricket match, with Shadow

Finance Minister Carl Greenidge “opening the batting” for the other side, but after “50 minutes in wicket, only managed seven singles from 50 balls.”

Hamilton charged that Greenidge had failed miserably to present an alternative, as he is the Opposition’s finance point man.

On the criticism of the social sector, Hamilton underscored the fact that fingers are quickly pointed at the Government, particularly as it concerns children and the social ills they are exposed to – teenage pregnancy, alcohol abuse, drugs, etc. – but the real question not being asked is that of the parents, he said.

“Completely divorced from this discussion (are) the persons responsible. Where are the fathers and mothers?” he asked.

The allocations to the social sectors represent the largest block of spending in the national Budget.

The largest percentage of the 2014 Budget went to the Education sector, with an allocation of a whopping $32.3B, while Health received an allocation of $21.5B. Under vulnerable groups and other targeted interventions, $382.5M have been allocated to consolidate efforts made in the delivery of childcare and protection services.

Hamilton maintained that the Budget presented by the current administration, as has been the case for the last two years, will continue, and sustain essential programmes that have made the lives of the Guyanese better in a clearly evident way.

The debates on the record-breaking 2014 Budget of $220M, presented last week Monday, continues today.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Nagamootoo blistered over Leguan ‘grass cutter’ comment

By Vanessa Narine ALLIANCE For Change (AFC) Vice-Chairman and Member of Parliament (MP), Moses Nagamootoo, received severe flak last night from Region Three representative and Government MP, Bibi Shaddick, over his “grass cutter” reference relative to the people of Leguan.

A native of Leguan, Shaddick decried this reference, making it clear that the people of Leguan are hardworking people.

During Minister Irfaan Ali’s contribution to the debates in the National Assembly on Monday night, while he was addressing the investments that benefit the people of Leguan in the area of job creation, Nagamootoo heckled, “Leguan MOSES NAGAMOOTOO people cutting grass. Whea the jobs deh!”

Minister Ali, in turn, demanded an apology, saying, “How

dare you reduce the people of Leguan to people that cut cane?

I demand that you offer a public apology.”

Ali’s call for a public apology was supported by Shaddick.

House Speaker Raphael Trotman interjected and said Members of Parliament (MPs) need to have a ‘thick skin’ because heckling is allowed during the Budget debates.

Last night, after Shaddick had addressed the issue, Nagamootoo declined to apologise, explaining that he should be given an apology because his words were misinterpreted and skewed in a “mischievous” manner.

A back-and-forth between the AFC MP and Shaddick saw the Speaker suggesting that the Hansard be consulted for clarification on the truth.

However, Shaddick pointed out that Nagamootto’s BIBI SHADDICK comment was a ‘heckle’, an off-the-cuff remark that would not be included in the transcript of the

Labour Minister tells House...

‘We will fix sugar!’

THE SECOND day of debates on the 2014 Estimates kept the embattled sugar industry in focus, and Labour Minister Dr. Nanda Gopaul was firm in his defense of the industry, stressing that the current administration would fix sugar.

“We will fix it; sugar will be improved before the end of the year,” he declared.

The industry is working with

one long-term strategic plan.

Among the measures to be undertaken to ensure a turnaround of the industry, which the allocation addresses, are: increase production and lower cost of production; diversify target markets, and expand value-added production in order to survive.

Dr Gopaul explained that the problem of the much-maligned Skeldon factory did not begin

with the Chinese, in obvious reference to the group that was charged with effecting works on the facility. Rather, he said, those problems began with the management team brought in by the former People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR)administration.

“The matter is in court,” he said, declining to comment further on the subject, except to reiterate that the numerous

failings in the industry were as a result of the team at reference.

He however appealed to the Opposition to behave as is expected of them as a government-in-waiting, and act objectively and in the interest of the nation.

Despite its challenges, the sugar industry remains relevant to the health of the national economy, according to Government.

debates.

The Government MP pointed out that coverage of the debates, which was also carried live by some sections of the media, evoked the ire of the people of Leguan at the remark, who are understandably annoyed at its demeaning reference.

Shaddick added that residents wrote messages to register their annoyance that same Monday night, and a letter substantiating the sentiments was penned by one Acklima Akbar and published on Tuesday.

Ms Shaddick said that ‘grass cutting’ is honest work, and the descendants of ‘grass cutters’ have, through Government’s support, been able to advance their economic status and improve their economic standing – all part of the current administration’s efforts to deliver a better life for all Guyanese.

In the 2014 Budget, $1B have been allocated to support Rural Enterprise Development, and it is expected that thousands of persons would benefit, either through employment obtained or from other linkages from enterprise incubation grants made under this facility. This is part of Government’s focus to encourage and promote more aggressively the emergence of entrepreneurial ventures in rural communities, with an emphasis on small businesses and labour intensive activities, the principal aim being creation of jobs for young people.

In 2013, sugar exports valued at US$112.2M accounted for 8.3 percent of total exports, and the industry contributed 3.9 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The industry is projected to record an improvement of 15.6 percent in output over the 2013 output, recording 215,910 tonnes in 2014.

A whopping $6B has been allocated to the sector in the 2014 Budget, given the industry’s importance to national development.

Dr Nanda Kishore Gopaul is a former Chairman of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo).(Vanessa Narine)

Labour Minister, Dr N.K. Gopaul during his presentation yesterday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

World Autism Awareness Day...

First Lady hosts vigil at Children’s Monument ––to plug assistance for children with autism

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally WORLD Autism Awareness Day, which is being observed today, is a day set aside to increase knowledge about autism, and give a voice to the millions worldwide who are undiagnosed, misunderstood and looking for help.

In an effort to educate people here, First Lady, Mrs Deolatchmee Ramotar hosted a vigil at the Children’s Monument in the National Park yesterday to encourage persons to work together to eliminate discrimination and encourage volunteerism to help children with autism. She encouraged teachers from the various schools present to continue the good job they have been doing in the caring and education of the children as well as their parents.

“In Guyana organisations such as the Green Heart Autistic Society, Step by Step Guyana, Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre and Helping Hands Guyana must be saluted for the work they are doing for autistic children and the foundation is available to assist in whatever way it can. The First Lady’s Foundation wishes to endorse and call for actions to enable children and persons with autism to live a full and meaningful life,” the First Lady stated.

Teachers and parents from the various schools related how they deal with autistic children on a daily basis, and acknowledged that it is not an easy task.

“World Autism Awareness Day is about more than generating understanding; it is a call to action. I urge all concerned to take part in fostering progress by supporting education programmes, employment opportunities and other measures that help realise our shared vision of a more inclusive world,” said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon (United Nations Message for the World Autism Awareness Day 2014) Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that manifests itself during the first three years of life.

The rate of autism in all regions of the world is high and it has a tremendous impact on children and their families. This results from a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, mostly affecting children in many countries, irrespective of gender, race or socio-economic status.

World Autism Awareness Day has been held every year since 9th September 1989 and in December 2007, the United Nations passed a resolution declaring April 2, World Autism Awareness Day.

First Lady, Mrs Deolatchmee Ramotar addressing persons gathered at the vigil late yesterday in observance of World Autism Awareness Day

2013 was a good year for LCDS projects

By Clifford Stanley GUYANA has to date earned three consecutive payments from Norway totalling US$115 million within the framework of the Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

Received under the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF) for maintaining low levels of deforestation, the monies served four projects, with a combined approximate value of US$30 million last year.

Disclosing this in his 2014 National Budget presentation, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh said that this money was spent on a US$7 million Institutional Strengthening Project for the development of Guyana’s first national scale Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) System; on a US$6 million allocation to the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF), on a US$5 million Micro and Small Enterprise Development Project and on a US$10.7 million Amerindian Land Titling Project.

He said that 2013 was a good year for the GRIF. He disclosed that under the US$6 million allocation to the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF), milestone disbursements were made to all 26 of the initial beneficiary communities for the implementation of their development plans in promoting sustainable village economies.

Under the US$5 million Micro and Small Enterprise Development Project, applications for loans with reduced interest rates have already started to be processed for entrepreneurs with business ventures in low carbon sectors.

The US$10.7 million Amerindian Land Titling Project was approved in the last quarter of 2013 and commenced implementation.

He then disclosed that in 2014, sums totalling US$90.6 million have been allocated for continued implementation of the four GRIF projects previously identified, along with new LCDS projects in the priority areas of adaptation, high potential low carbon sectors, hinterland development and low-carbon infrastructure.

Specific new LCDS interventions are expected to include

ecotourism development, aquaculture development and rehabilitation works on the Cunha Canal.

He said that this second wave of projects will commence with a communication and outreach programme in the second quarter of this year, along with the development of a National Climate Resilience Strategy and Action Plan.

A sum of US$80 million has also once again been allocated to meet Guyana’s equity contribution to Amelia Falls Hydroelectric Project (AFHP).

He disclosed that the annual third-party audit of Guyana’s performance under the Guyana/Norway partnership was completed in the last quarter of 2013, thus clearing the way for a fourth payment.

The money received for the GRIF is received from the

‘Guyana is on track to have the world’s first fully operational REDD+ mechanism in place by 2015. This will enable Guyana to earn considerably more from the sale of REDD+ credits than we do today’ Government of Norway for Guyana’s climate services in maintaining extremely low levels of deforestation while advancing the nation’s landmark Low-Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS).

The GRIF is expected to receive up to US$250 million from Norway in performance-based payments up until 2015, based on an independent verification of Guyana’s deforestation and forest degradation rates and progress on REDD+ enabling activities.

Dr. Singh further revealed that on the domestic front, Guyana is on track to have the world’s first fully operational REDD+ mechanism in place by 2015.

“This will enable Guyana to earn considerably more from the sale of REDD+ credits than we do today. Once this

FINANCE MINISTER DR. ASHNI SINGH would have been achieved, Guyana would have successfully mobilised one of our most valuable, but thus far globally under-valued, resources (our forests) in the cause of sustainable development.

He said that on the international front, Guyana will continue to advocate more ambitious emission reduction targets by industrialised countries, scaled- up financing for climate change and push for a global agreement on climate change by 2015.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana

Sinister plan behind AFC, APNU attacks on sugar workers, rice farmers NO one should be surprised by the increase in attacks against two of the most important Agricultural sectors in Guyana by the leadership of both the Alliance for Change (AFC) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

What is interesting is the fact that no other than Moses Nagamootoo has joined the bandwagon and attacked the people of Leguan by trying to ridicule their livelihood of depending on the rice industry. Old Kai has observed that those from the island have already sought to condemn this form of ridicule, including an individual in the Chronicle letter column who has not taken kindly to the assumption by Moses that the people of Leguan “can only cut grass and therefore are undeserving of government funds that can be used to create job opportunities.”

Such behaviour from Moses is nothing new as he has become prone to similar ignorant outbursts, especially during the budget debates and how can we forget his infamous “shut yu suh and suh mouth” in reference to how he speaks to his grandchild.

The people of Leguan have historically contributed to Guyana’s overall output; they are hard working and focused on their continued development. Is that such a crime now in the mind of Moses Nagamootoo and the AFC? What is so wrong with them expecting assistance from their government just like any other community across our country?

This attack against farmers/those in the agriculture sector seems to be well coordinated from the combined Opposition as during Monday’s debate on the budget, APNU MP Keith Scott also likened the PPP/C government support to the rice sector as a ‘handout to rice farmers’. Old Kai is heartened by the strong rebuttal of Agriculture Minister Dr. Leslie Ramsammy that his government will continue to stand with rice farmers and build a stronger industry.

This is a sector which was in the doldrums when the people, Keith Scott is now associated with, were in Government, so maybe it’s a continuation of that policy to deprive and suffer the rice industry because of selfish political aims.

Clearly they are upset that rice production has been breaking historical records over the past few years and knowing their economics of destruction, the Opposition does not understand the need to support struggling industries but equally those that are doing well to maintain growth.

This is an industry which has contributed over 5% of our equally record breaking GDP growth rate for several years, which brought in over US $240M in much needed foreign revenue last year. We are told that more than 20,000 persons are employed in this industry, so what is the crime in assisting this sector?

Note how this attack ties in with that of Moses Nagamootoo on the rice farmers on the island of Leguan.

GNBS monitors 20 commodities for compliance THE monitoring of products and services in any country is essential to ensure that all consumers get the quality, satisfaction and maximum benefits they need. This can only be achieved if there are established national monitoring mechanisms and systems in place to ensure that goods and services offered to consumers are of a satisfactory level.

It is in this view that the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) conducts a National Standards Compliance Programme under which twenty categories of imported and locally manufactured products are monitored for compliance to national standards.

The objective of this programme is to ensure that consumers are protected from sub-standard commodities which are either produced right here in Guyana or are imported. Commodities currently monitored by the GNBS include: domestic electrical appliances, tyres (new and used), textiles, garments, footwear, PVC pipes, Scales, Weights & measures, Animal feed, Furniture, Garments, Gas stoves,

Cigarettes, Safety matches, Safety helmets, Fertilizers, Electricity and water meters, Cellular phones, Christmas Tree and decorative lighting outfits.

It is important to note that the Guyana National Bureau of Standards does not monitor commodities such as Foods, Drugs, Cosmetics, Medical Devices, Plants and Animals, Meats and Seafoods.

As part of the monitoring process, inspections of commodities are conducted at the ports of entry, point of sale, or at warehouses. In the case of goods which require storage, it is important that checks be made to ensure that storage surroundings and practices are maintained to avoid the deterioration of the quality of the products imported or manufactured (example, tyres and animal feeds, respectively).

Commodities, whether locally manufactured or imported, that are found to be in compliance with their relevant national standards, are released for sale to consumers.

This will ensure that quality products are available on the local market for consumers, giving them value for money.

In instances where commodities fail to comply with the requirements, the appropriate actions are taken by the GNBS. These actions could include the seizure of commodities, relabeling of commodities, and submission of the requisite information such as test certificates. Sometimes, the commodities are destroyed or importers are asked to reship non-complying items to the country of origin.

The GNBS will continue to monitor the quality of commodities that fall under its purview to ensure compliance to available National Standards and Guidelines, which will ultimately provide consumer satisfaction.

For further information, please contact the Guyana National Bureau of Standards on telephone numbers: 219-0065, 219-0066 or visit the GNBS website: www.gnbsgy.org.

But it does not end there; the Opposition had a field day attacking the PPP/C Government subvention for the sugar industry, which is intended to ensure it continues its modernisation programme this year.

These are the same people who have been advocating for the closure of the industry. In fact, the AFC has articulated a plan for the sugar cultivation to be converted into fish ponds. This is for an industry which despite its struggles, managed to still contribute close to 4% of our GDP and brought in over US $112M into our economy.

It employs over 18,000 and that is 18,000 families which directly depend on this industry, not to mention the many others who indirectly depend on sugar including suppliers and those communities which have traditionally sprung up around the Estates.

If they had their way, clearly the APNU and AFC would not hesitate to destroy the lives of these people as they would fall in line with being ‘collateral damage’.

Thankfully, the PPP/C and President Donald Ramotar stand in their way and Old Kai is confident that as long as they remain at the helm of our country, our entire economy, but more specifically our Agriculture sector, will remain safe from the devious plans of the Opposition.

Port Kaituma fiery deaths...

Relatives feel cheated of justice as suspect dies AFTER spending close to two weeks in the Burns Care Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital for burns about his body, 50-year-old Linus La Cruz died last Friday.

La Cruz had locked his wife and four children in their Port Kaituma home and set the building on fire, killing them all in the process.

Meanwhile, relatives of the man’s late wife are feeling cheated since they will no longer see him being brought to justice.

One told the Guyana Chronicle that they had expected the man to pull through and be made to face the courts for his actions.

The expectation was that he would be charged with five counts of murder and another charge of arson.

Last week, the police confirmed the man’s death, which reportedly occurred just after 03.00hrs Friday.

On March 14, the fire that the businessman set to his home caused the deaths of Lea La Cruz, 14; Lavette La Cruz, three; Labron La Cruz, eight; Levon La Cruz, one; and their mother, Lurlene La Cruz, 39.

Lawmen were made aware of the man’s intention by a twelve-year-old girl who managed to make her way to the police station and report that the man was planning to burn down their family home.

The police then travelled to the location, but as they approached the building, they saw that it was already on fire, and that persons were trapped inside the heavily grilled and locked house. (Leroy Smith)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Vyphuis says...

‘I had hoped to retire as a Deputy Commissioner’ ––ahead of farewell parade today in his honour

BY Leroy Smith

headed the Immigration Department and, more recently, when he had sat as the “A” MR GEORGE Alexander Vyphuis, Division Commander during the National Assistant Commissioner of Police, will Election of 2011. today officially proceed into retirement He recalled that during his stint at the after giving 35 years of service to the Central Immigration Office, there were Guyana Police Force (GPF). lots of things that needed to be fixed, and Vyphuis, who served in several cathose things were fixed whilst he had pacities during his tenure at the GPF, and been sitting as ‘A’ Division Commander. worked in several of its divisions, said it He said that during the National Election had been his hope to retire at the level of of 2011, all ballot boxes were accounted Deputy Commissioner of Police. for, and the police were still able to keep Among the areas in the cap on the crime and which Mr Vyphuis had traffic situation. served during his tenure Mr Vyphuis said that as a cop are: The Commisalthough he would be travsioner’s Office, Bartica, elling and going places after Essequibo, Kitty, East La his retirement, he would Penitence and Ruimveldt never forget his relationship stations; Berbice and the and involvement with the Welfare Department located Immigration Department of at Force headquarters. the Guyana Police Force. He Mr Vyphuis lost his first described the Immigration wife while serving in BarDepartment as a life story tica. for him.

Speaking with reportWith Vyphuis exiting the ers at his office yesterday, ‘A’ Division commander’s ahead of his farewell parade chair, that division would today, Mr Vyphuis said he temporarily be headed by had hoped to achieve many Senior Superintendent Eon things in the Force, and Amsterdam, who has been MR GEORGE had known where he had ALEXANDER VYPHUIS serving the force for the past wanted to be. He said that 31 years. while the power to appoint Widely regarded as an and disappoint lies with the Almighty, he institutional memory of the Guyana is happy to be leaving the GPF at the rank Police Force, Mr Amsterdam began at which he is retiring, and is confident lecturing at the Police Training College that he had been able to serve the Guyana while he was still a constable. He has Police Force with distinction. also worked at the TSU, Immigration, While he has been the sitting ‘A’ DiviCriminal Investigation Department and sion Commander, Vyphuis is leaving the other critical departments of the Force.

Force as the substantive Assistant Police Mr Vyphuis expressed his confidence Commissioner in charge of Operations. in Mr Amsterdam’s ability to hold the Recently retired Police Commissioner ‘A’ Division together until the Acting Leroy Brumell had asked Vyphuis to Police Commissioner is ready to appoint ‘hold the fort’ at ‘A’ Division when that a commander for that division. He said division’s substantive commander, ACP Mr Amsterdam has proven his worth Derrick Josiah, had become involved in on numerous occasions, and has a good an accident which later claimed his life. understanding of the job.

The outgoing ACP Vyphuis said his Having given his country 35 years of first real big opportunity to lead in the sterling service through the Guyana PoForce had been granted to him by then lice Force, Mr George Alexander Vyphuis ‘A’ Division Commander, the late Police now plans to give his family the time and Commissioner Henry Green, who had attention they deserve from him. He said placed him in charge of the number one his family would have sacrificed so many sub-division within the ‘A’ Division. things to allow him to serve the Guyanese Vyphuis, who spoke about the successpeople, and, “It’s only fitting that I give es he achieved in wooing public support back to my family now.” and working with children, said he enjoyed “I know I touched many lives as working with the youth of Guyana because a police officer,” he confidently stathe has a passion for young people, and that ed, while calling on present officers is what had earned him the respect he had to show respect for the job and the enjoyed while serving in the Essequibo. citizens of the country, who pay hardHe said his two most challenging but earned taxes to ensure that police accomplished periods working in the Guyofficers receive a salary at the end of ana Police Force occurred while he had the month.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Rohee discourages Government from channeling monies through City Council

-cites record of mismangement Ravin Singh GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Mr. Clement Rohee on Monday urged the government not to channel monies into the hands of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) as they possess a record of mismanagement.

Speaking at the party’s weekly press conference, he acknowledged the government’s efforts to put one billion dollars towards a countrywide cleanup and reiterated his party’s support for this budgetary allocation which is aimed at enhancing the surroundings, while at the same time, combating improper solid waste management throughout the country.

The initiative, which will be executed under the theme ‘Clean up my Country’ would be larger than two previously launched.

The $1B allocated towards the project will be divided proportionately, with George-

town receiving $500M in aid of restoring the Garden City.

Rohee, who is also Minister of Home Affairs, declared

GENERAL SECRETARY MR. CLEMENT ROHEE that Georgetown “has become a garbage city as the Mayor continues to mismanage the

Council and gobble up the city’s resources.”

He continued that the PPP wishes to discourage the Government from putting the $500M budgeted for the city in the hands of the Mayor and his Council, especially “in view of their sordid fraudulent record of mismanagement and unaccountability at City Hall.”

Instead, Rohee said: “We urge Government to engage civil society to find ways and means of addressing the solid waste crisis in Georgetown.”

INVALUABLE LESSONS He also admonished Mayor Hamilton Green and Deputy Mayor Patricia Chase-Green to learn invaluable lessons on how to manage and run an effective local democratic organ from other PPP/C administered municipalities as well as the wider Caribbean.

Rohee opined that with the absence of the M&CC, they (the Government) will seek

to source labour from public or even private institutions or even seek a collaborative effort with the two.

The minister charged that Mayor Hamilton Green is hungry for media attention in an effort to remain relevant and regain his rank within the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and continues to play dirty politics as opposed to serving the interests of the residents of Georgetown.

Green in an interview with INEWS recently, said that, while he welcomed the initiative, he saw no need for the money and that it is unnecessary.

He added that the figure seems more like an election campaign being launched by the government ahead of the local government elections, similar to a move made by the very Government in 1994.

According to the Mayor, had the government allowed the city to run its affairs, enforce and implement several taxation proposals, the city would have been in a better physical state.

CITY HALL

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

NCDC Councillors hail National Budget 2014 as a transformative one

THE Councillors of the National Community Development Council (NCDC) has hailed Budget 2014 as one of the most transformative budgets that will facilitate continued development at the community and national levels via physical, social and economic programmes and policies.

This position was adopted at a general meeting last Thursday to review and receive feedback on Budget 2014, as presented by Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Kumar Singh to the National Assembly on March 24, 2014.

The meeting sought to educate the leaders of the Com-

munity Development Councils (CDCs) on what the budget contains in all sectors that will impact the work of the various communities.

PHYSICAL PROGRAMMES The $6.9 billion allocated for drainage and Irrigation, will be used in part to complete structures for the Northern Relief Channel Project, the Hope/Douchfour public road bridge, the construction of nine new drainage pump stations at Windsor Forest, Canal Polder, Pine Ground, No. 66 Village, Paradise, Gangaram, Eversham, No. 43 VilNCDC Councillors at the meeting lage and Lima, and the rehabilitation of intake structures and sluices at Ann’s Grove, Hope, Annandale and Nancy will prevent flooding to homes and business, assist in agricultural programmes and create a healthier environment for all persons.

Councillors also expressed elation at the continuance of Government support to the energy sector. Rural communities, in particular, are pleased that Government plans to deliver on its promise to provide solar panels to specific communities currently without access to electricity and on Government’s plan to continue to pursue the Amaila Falls Hydro project.

Access to affordable electricity for rural communities creates opportunities for small business development, access to information through ICT and extends the reach of education

for members of the community.

The domino effect of such a basic utility has far reaching positive consequences, which will only contribute to the overall development of Guyana.

The allocation of $2.5B to the water sector was also widely praised for its plan to reach remote, and hinterland communities including Waikerabi, Santa Rosa, Arau, Taruka, Kanapang, Kathur, Aishalton and St. Ignatius, which is expected to benefit approximately 20,000 residents.

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT Councillors noted that Government increased the allocation to education by close to $4B and increases throughout other areas will help the elderly, single parents, youth and children. It was noted that Government programmes

targeted at these groups are essential to the overall empowerment of communities and the most vulnerable social groups.

ECONOMIC GROWTH As part of the CDC’s goal to create self-sufficient systems for communities to blossom and become less dependent on Government, councillors are pleased that the programmes outlined in the budget are conducive to helping their respective communities achieve this goal.

As a general reaction, the councillors are excited that the budget will provide the kind of support that is needed to strengthen the country through community development. However, there is strong concern and fear that the Opposition will See page 13

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Prudent macroeconomic policies responsible for Guyana’s economic growth - Ali

By Ravin Singh THE MINISTER of Housing and Water and Acting

Tourism Minister Mr. Irfaan Ali, has highlighted to the National Assembly that Guyana is growing rapidly, and

NCDC Councillors hail National Budget 2014 ...

From page 12 deliver on their promise to cut Budget 2014, and in so doing will set back the initiatives that would otherwise propel the work and achievements of the CDCs. Many councillors are worried that projects such as community centres, which begun construction last year, will become obsolete; that health centres will not be able to provide necessary and vital medications and trained staff, and that single parents will not have access to much needed public assistance. Those are just a few concerns, should funding be discontinued this year. Likewise, councillors noted that many of the rural communities are cash crop and livestock farmers who depend on manoeuvre roads and bridges in order to transport their products to make an income. Should funding to these infrastructural projects be cut, local communities and the families that comprise of these communities will feel the consequences.

The CDC in congratulating the Government on the 2014 Budget is also calling on the Opposition to consider the thousands of lives that will be affected should they deliver on their promise to slash Budget 2014. The CDCs and the communities they represent, remain hopeful that all members of the National Assembly will work in the interest of promoting the interest of all Guyanese, regardless of political, social, religious influences as the debates begin.

ACTING TOURISM MINISTER IRFAAN ALI that development is being manifested because of the Government’s implementation of prudent macroeconomic policies. These facts, he claims, are supported by all the key socio-economic indicators.

In his address to the National Assembly on Monday, day one of the 2014 Budget Debates, Ali lauded Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh for his stewardship in driving an economy through eight years

of consecutive growth.

Despite claims from APNU’s shadow Finance Minister, Mr Carl Greenidge, that the manner in which the estimates

have been formulated is inconsistent with constitutional requirements, Minister Ali declared he’d rather have an accountant spearheading eight

years of economic growth than an economist making the country the poorest in the See page 14

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Prudent macroeconomic policies ...

From page 13

hemisphere.

He was referring to the state of Guyana’s economy under Mr Greenidge’s stewardship as Finance Minister during the PNC administration. “In 1989, we couldn’t even find the statistics,” Ali said.

Some of the measures pro-

posed and implemented during the years of the PNC stewardship had led to a massive increase in the cost of living, and prices for imported commodities had skyrocketed at a time when Guyana was heavily reliant on those commodities, he said.

Greenidge’s 1987 budget

had visited untold suffering on an already suffering population. Even the cost of leaving the country had jumped significantly, Minister Ali said.

Guyana’s economy had recorded positive economic growth of 5.2 percent in 2013, illustrating eight years of uninterrupted positive growth,

which is an unprecedented achievement in Guyana’s post-Independence history, the minister declared.

The only period when comparable stellar economic performance (where Guyana experienced uninterrupted economic growth) was recorded was the period from 1992 to 1997 under the PPP’s administration.

Ali stressed the importance of noting that the economic expansion recorded over the last eight years eclipsed the growth episode during the 1990s for two important reasons: * Firstly, the Guyanese economy expanded amidst a contracting global economy, demonstrating the resilience of the domestic economy to external shocks and efficacy of our macroeconomic management. * And secondly, the variability of the growth rates during the last eight years was lower than the variability associated with the growth episode of the 1990s, pointing to higher quality economic growth.

Ali added that equally remarkable is the fact that the 5.2 percent economic growth posted by Guyana in 2013 is the highest in the Caribbean, according to a 2013 report by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) entitled “Economic and Social Panorama of the community of Latin American and Caribbean states.”

Based on this report, Caribbean economies recorded the following growth rates for 2013: Jamaica recorded 0.1 percent; Trinidad and Tobago, St. Kitts and Nevis, Bahamas and Belize recorded 1.6 percent; St. Lucia recorded 1.1 percent; Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda recorded 1.5 percent; Dominica recorded -0.5 percent; and Barbados recorded -0.7 percent.

Only recently, the Caribbean Development Bank’s (CDB) President commended Guyana when presenting the CDB’s Annual Report. The president remarked that Guyana is a good fiscal example for countries in the Caribbean to follow, and added that “Guyana is a good example of a country that has done some of the right things…

they have come a very, very long distance in their fiscal situation, and they have been responsible in terms of addressing it.”

He further stated that, generally, there is a lot of vibrancy in the Guyanese economy.

“Just by casual observation, one can see that there is a lot of construction that is taking place in the country. I like to say that, whenever I go to Guyana, you can almost see the country changing in front your eyes; and so that is just a casual indication of the extent to which economic activity is vibrant and buoyant in that country,” the CDB President concluded.

While Caribbean economies are struggling to preserve jobs, attract investments, build and maintain infrastructure, our economy has continued to perform admirably in these areas, Minister Ali declared.

He noted, however, that the main threat to our continued progress has been that the combined Opposition is working to achieve the reverse. He said, “The combined Opposition is making a concerted effort to create an environment of stagnation and suffering”, and added that one can only conclude that Mr. Greenidge and company feel at home in an unsuccessful economy.

Minister Ali said that in a comparative analysis of economic development prior to 1992, Michael Da Costa, in his study entitled “Colonial Origins, Institutions and Economic Performance in the Caribbean: Guyana and Barbados”, said the following: “…throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, Guyana’s political climate was marked by continued instability, the absence of dialogue and consensus-seeking, and a further weakening of key institutions, such as the rule of law. Production of all the major commodities declined sharply; public utilities and social services barely functioned; and real wages fell sharply (by 40 percent between 1976 and 1986).

“During the 1976-88 period, real GDP per head fell by 31 percent, inflation soared eightfold, foreign exchange

reserves dwindled, and Government debt rose from 31 percent of GDP to 475 percent.

In 1984, real GDP fell to its lowest level since 1955, and the size of the informal economy was estimated at 40 percent of the formal economy. Toward the end of the 1980s, the country’s physical infrastructure -including the critical drainage and sea defence infrastructure -- deteriorated considerably, and indicators of health and education and overall social conditions worsened.”

Minister Ali said that echoing the sentiments of DaCosta in his piece “The Political Economy of Growth: Why Guyana Fell Behind? A Growth Analysis of Post-Independence” was Dhanraj R. Singh, who also explained that between 1985 and 1992, investment also contracted. “Private investment shrunk further by 45.5 percent and public investment by 23.8 percent. Manufacturing output (was) slashed by 40 percent and sugar by 30 percent, which had widespread and devastating ripple effects across the economy, as both private and public consumption fell dramatically,” Minister Ali explained.

Minister Ali iterated that the PPP/C administration has, over the years, sought to restore the dignity of Guyanese.

Dignity, he added, which was lost during the period of PNC/ APNU leadership, a period when our economy and the spirit of our people were broken.

“The 2014 budget represents another prudent fiscal presentation aimed at sustaining and expanding the economic opportunities of our people. The 2014 budget represents another effort by the PPP/C administration to improve the social performance of our society, to continue the process of building a productive and prosperous nation for all Guyanese,” Minister Ali concluded.

The record-breaking 2014 Budget of $220B was presented to the National Assembly on March 24, under the theme “A better Guyana for all Guyanese”. It includes a menu of measures to benefit the average Guyanese man and woman.

Guyana to soon get National Youth Policy –Dr Frank Anthony

By Clifford Stanley THE FINAL draft of the National Youth Policy will soon be completed.

This is according to Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr Frank Anthony who made the disclosure during a presentation in the National Assembly on Monday.

The minister said that during 2013 and into 2014, extensive consultations were held to for-

mulate the National Youth Policy.

A policy steering committee was formed to guide the process, and a stakeholder group was formed from a representative sample of young people to bring the views of their peers.

In addition, about 1000 questionnaires were distributed across Guyana to solicit the views of young people about what they would like in a new National Youth Policy.

Dr Anthony said: ”We now envisage that, based on the policy, a number of new initiatives will

come on stream, including creating new structural mechanisms for coordination and implementation, and addressing concerns and priorities that have been outlined in the document.

“With the implementation of these programmes,” he added, “this year promises to be another good year for the young people in our country.”

Dr Anthony thanked the Commonwealth Youth Program (CYP), which he said did extensive work on making the new National Youth Policy a reality.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Boy, 13, hangs himself

THIRTEEN-YEAR-OLD Rishi Ramkisoon, called ‘Sanjay’, of Lot 162 Hope West Enmore, East Coast Demerara, committed suicide by hanging yesterday.

His father found his dangling body around 06:30hrs when he went to wake him up to prepare for school.

The lad had reportedly awakened earlier, but went back to sleep before his father found him in his room with a sheet tied around his neck.

Neighbours heard his parents scream and rushed to their assistance in the hope of reviving him but he was already dead.

The Golden Grove Secondary School second-former would have celebrated his 14th birthday on July 9.

People from the neighbourhood, including schoolmates and friends, were all pondering

Young Rishi Ramkisoon

the occurrence when the Guyana Chronicle arrived on the scene. Some family members were about to leave with police investigators.

Aunt of the deceased, Anita Ramkisoon admitted she was very shocked by what had happened, and could not believe her nephew is dead. “I’m like his mother,” she said, tearfully.

Relatives are saying they never saw Rishi with a girl; that he and his family are very close; and that he doesn’t want for anything, as everyone in the family works. So the one question on everyone’s lips is: Why did he do it?

Just Sunday, March 30, a 10-year-old boy of Downer Canal, North Sophia was found by his mother hanging from a rope at his home. He, however, managed to survive, and is being treated at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

North Ruimveldt murder probe…

Septuagenarian Joyce Lewis died from strangulation SEPTUAGENARIAN Joyce Lewis, of Lot 3630 Christiane Street, North Ruimveldt Housing Scheme, Georgetown, who was found dead in her bed with hands and feet tied, throat slit and underwear well below her legs, died from strangulation.

That was revealed from the post mortem examination performed by doctors at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH).

Police investigators lifted fingerprints from the woman’s following her murder but this newspaper was reliably informed that detectives have been unable to find a match with any in their database.

It was pointed out that there were more than three sets of prints in the house, although Lewis, 75, lived

The murdered pensioner, Ms Joyce Lewis alone. They included hers, and that of her niece and another relative who would usually visit her from time to time.

A Police source related that the impressions were taken from almost every single part of the residence, including her jewellery box, wardrobe and other places.

The source also disclosed that the woman was not sexually assaulted as was intimated.

Reports suggested that robbery was the motive and the perpetrators may have gained entry to the upper storey through a back window on the lower flat, since the grillwork there was removed and the house completely ransacked.

Neighbours speculated that someone from outside that community may have killed Lewis because she is well known and loved by members within.

However, the Police investigations are ongoing.

Alleged kidnap victim nabbed in sting operation NINETEEN-YEAR-OLD Ramraj Singh, of Foulis, East Coast Demerara, has been charged with attempt to commit a felony.

Before Magistrate Zamilla Alli at Vigilance Court, also on the East Coast, Monday, it was alleged that he attempted to obtain money by false pretence on March 25.

The charge followed investigations into a report that at about 19:15hrs on March 24, Singh’s relatives received a call saying he had been kidnapped, and

that a demand of $3.5M was being made for his safe return.

However, Police investigations, including tracking of phone calls, revealed that the kidnapping had been concocted, the Court was told.

As a result, a sting operation was set up and the supposed kidnap victim was arrested as he turned up to collect the ransom money at the agreed location.

Singh pleaded not guilty to the offence, and was put on $200,000 bail until April 14.

The house in which Rishi lived with his parents, where he ended it all

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Mon Repos businessman hit by fire a second time

The last stages of the fire (Photos by Leroy Smith) The gathering at the scene of the fire

By Leroy Smith A FIRE early Sunday morning in Mon Repos destroyed a flat wooden building where a couple operated a shopping mall.

The fire, which reportedly started just after 06.00 hours, was spotted by a resident who was passing by at the time.

After the alarm was raised, persons in the neighbourhood gathered at the scene of the fire, where they remained until the fire tender arrived. But with the gate to the property being well secured, persons could not access the building readily.

Proprietor, Raul Anthony Persaud told the Guyana Chronicle Sunday morning that the

lot 94 Melsha Road business, named Tony and Cavita’s Shopping Mall, has been in operation for some time now.

He said he and his wife have been slowly recovering from the destruction, by fire in March 2007, of a previous venture they ran from the very location.

That operation, called Brian’s Variety Store, was housed in a two-storeyed building.

Persaud said he was heading to the Mon Repos Market to set up his stall, which he does every Saturday and Sunday, when he noticed that his business place was on fire.

Except for a security light on the front of the building, he said they never leave on any electrical appliances in

the building after they close for the day.

Among items that went up in flames in the course of the fire were cell-phone accessories, televisions and other electrical appliances, and clothing.

Persaud could not give an immediate estimate for the damage and loss of his property. Asked about his next move, the businessman said all he can do is trust in the Lord, as it is He who brought him thus far.

As the fire raged Sunday, it took two fire tenders -- one from the city, and another from GuySuCo (the Guyana Sugar Corporation) to bring it under control and contain it to just the one building.

Raul Anthony Persaud and his wife (in plaid shirt) watch as firemen battle to contain the blaze

GDF confirms dead soldier drowned in New River GUYANA Defence Force (GDF) Chief of Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips met recently with the father, mother and surviving relatives of the late Private 21066 Dellon Nero.

According to a GDF release, the Army Chief conveyed to them the findings of the GDF’s investigative team that was dispatched to the New River area on Sunday, March 23, in an effort to bring closure with regard to the loss of their loved one.

A post mortem performed

The late Private Dellon Nero

last week on the remains of the father of one revealed that the cause of death was consistent with drowning.

At the time of his demise, the late Private Nero had been deployed to the GDF border Base at Camp Jaguar, in New River.

His remains were laid to rest on Friday, March 28 last.

Nero, who has been in the Army for the past seven years and couldn’t swim, drowned when a boat in which he was travelling toppled in the river.

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Outgoing GCCI president advocates for passage of AML/CFT Bill – Group also elects new Council

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) made $41.3M in the Financial Year 2013, outgoing President, Mr. Clinton Urling announced last Thursday.

He made the announcement at the 125th Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Duke Lodge, Duke Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

“The difference is almost a 100 per cent turn around from the revenues which we had last year,” he explained.

Urling said: “We have continued to offer services to our membership that allow them the opportunity to expand and develop their businesses. We have done this while preserving and increasing our financial capacity to ensure the organisation’s long-term success and sustainability.

“We want programmes and incentives that encourage Guyana’s best and brightest to stay and develop our Private Sector, thus creating more jobs in the country. We want a clear and concrete diversification and manufacturing strategy that removes our dependence on international commodity prices,” he added.

they have demonstrated the spirit of entrepreneurship and investment.

PRIVATE INVESTMENT “There is little that can match the power and scope of private investment when it comes to innovation, prosperity, and security of developing nations such as Guyana,” she remarked.

As she continued to underline the critical role being played by the Private Sector, the diplomat noted that, “without private investment, sustainable

Mr. Clinton Urling, outgoing President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) speaking at the meeting Proud of the accomplishments of the entity under his stewardship, Urling said: “It has been a tremendous honour to lead GCCI for the past two terms and I would like to express how grateful I am to have been given it.”

CRITICAL DECISIONS He urged policymakers at the level of the National Assembly to act in the best interest of the people of Guyana, by making critical decisions that

Mr Clinton Urling receiving his award for outstanding performance in the private sector from Ms Padma Prashad

would enhance transparency and economic growth.

“We want local government elections to be held this year,” Urling asserted.

He called on the Government to give the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) all the tools and resources it needs to get this done forthwith.

Urling also made a request for the passage of an effective Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill in Parliament.

The AML/CFT Bill is currently at the level of the Special Select Committee of the House and Guyana has missed not one but several critical deadlines imposed by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF).

The country’s non-compliance position is leading it down a road of “blacklisting” which can, consequentially, lead to economic turmoil, Urling warned.

He made calls, too, for the operationalisation of a National Competitiveness Council, the Public Procurement Commission (PPC), the implementation of modern intellectual property laws and a Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) that would accelerate the time taken to process imports and exports.

Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Nicole Giles applauded Urling and the GCCI executive for their unwavering support of the Private Sector, noting that

economic development is nothing but a dream. In Guyana, small and medium scale enterprises are playing a foundational role in transforming the country’s economic landscape.”

A 21-member Council was elected behind closed doors at the AGM where, among issues discussed and approved were the reconstruction of the office building and amendments to the existing rules of the organisation.

The new Executive Management Committee will be elected on Thursday, April 3, to

serve the 2014-2015 year.

The laws governing the Chamber do not allow for an individual to serve more than two terms as President and Urling departs with an unblemished record that shows the major steps the institution has made over the last two years, gaining added recognition for the stance taken on critical matters.

Simultaneously, GCCI continues to accelerate growth within its realm. Urling was previously awarded for his contribution to GCCI and his outstanding performance in the Private Sector.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Janet Jagan: Champion o causes, pioneer of Guyana’s

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally

FORMER President Janet Jagan was remembered as a champion for women’s causes and pioneer of the struggle for Guyana’s development at an annual wreath laying ceremony at the Babu John, Port Mourant last Saturday.

The ceremony was hosted by the Women Progressive Organisation (WPO)-the women’s arm of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) to commemorate the life of the first female President of Guyana.

The various speakers extolling her struggle for a just society, described her as the Mother of the Nation.

The fifth anniversary of Jagan’s death featured a reflection on the life and works of Mrs. Jagan, with tributes pouring in from leaders of the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), the Women’s Progressive Organisation (WPO), People’s Progressive Party (PPP) as well

as President Donald Ramotar.

The President in his address called on women to emulate the life of Mrs Jagan, and continue the struggle for a better Guyana.

He also explained that Mrs Jagan is a co-founder of the PPP and founded the WPO with the aim of mobilising women in the fight for a better Guyana.

President of the WPO, Mrs. Indranie Chandarpal reflected on the life of Mrs Jagan and the time she spent with this great woman. She also enlightened the gathering about the struggles Mrs. Jagan encountered, the organisations she fought to establish and how these assisted women and still are assisting them.

General Secretary of the PPP, Mr Clement Rohee, spoke about Mrs Jagan as a political leader who has many firsts in Guyana and how she contributed towards the development of women.

Rohee said: “She fought to give women the right to vote

without having to own a property, to have better working conditions, increased wages and the right to an education.”

He noted that in the interest of peace, she vacated office and gave up two years of her administration. He described her as a

fearless leader.

Janet Jagan was born on October 20, 1920 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. She was educat-

Guyanese came out to pay tribute to Mrs Jagan

ed at the University of Detroit, Wayne University, Michigan State College and Cook County School of Nursing. She married Cheddi Jagan on August 5, 1943 and in December that year came to British Guiana. During her first 10 years in Guyana, she worked as a Dental Nurse in her husband’s clinic. At the same time she became active in labour and political affairs.

In 1946, Janet Jagan founded the Women’s Political and Economic Organisation (later renamed the WPO). She co-founded the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) and edited the PAC Bulletin. Mrs. Jagan was the first editor of Thunder, the official organ of the PPP. In 1950 she co-founded the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), and was elected the party’s General-Secretary; she held that post during 1950-1970 Mrs. Jagan held numerous positions of note. She was also the first woman elected to the Georgetown City Council. Following

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of women’s s development the suspension of the British Guiana Constitution and the removal from office of the PPP Government, she was jailed for six months.

In 1957, she won a seat in the Legislature representing Essequibo, and was appointed Minister of Labour, Health and Housing. Later she served as Minister of Home Affairs and a member of the Senate. She served as a member of the Opposition from 1964 until 1992,

when the PPP won the elections and Dr. Cheddi Jagan became the President.

After the death of Dr. Jagan on March 6, 1997, she served as Prime Minister of Guyana.

In December 1997 Mrs. Jagan was sworn in as President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana after successfully leading the PPP/C to victory at the Polls.

Janet Jagan became the first female president of Guyana on December 19, 1997. She had

been sworn in as Guyana’s first female Prime Minister on March 17, 1997. She was awarded Guyana’s highest national award, the Order of Excellence (OE).

The event was also attended by officials from the WPO and the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), PPP Executive Secretary Mr Zulfikar Mustapha and Regional Chairman for Region # 6 Mr David Armogan.

First Lady’s Foundation Promoting Autism Awareness TODAY the world observes the Seventh Annual World Autism Awareness Day. The designation of this day resulted from a resolution that was introduced by the state of Qatar in December 2007. By designating this day, the UN has helped to promote an international effort in spreading awareness of this misunderstood disorder that was only named Autism in the 1940s, although the condition existed for centuries.

Autism is a spectrum of disorders that ranges from mild to severe. It is a mental condition that can be detected from early childhood, usually during the first three years of life. Signs of autism can be identified by children’s inability to communicate, poor social skills and repetitive behaviour. Autistic children tend to have difficulties in making eye contact and in engaging people.

Boys are more likely to suffer from autism than girls. According to ‘Autism Speaks’, an organisation dedicated to the promotion of awareness on this disorder, autism affects 1 in 183 girls and 1 in 42 boys. In recent years, the rate of diagnosis has been increasing rapidly. This is likely as a result of the spreading of awareness, which aids in detection.

Many parents, teachers and caregivers of young children are unaware of what autism truly is and how to care for an autistic child. There are signs that one should look for in young children.

Children without autism maintain social engagement with persons around them. They are able to coordinate their gaze, vocalization and gesture.

They incorporate others in their pretend play, such as a child offering you imaginary tea in their play teacup. They share their excitement. While children with autism do not follow gesture, avoid eye contact, do not engage with other people during play, often times will not respond to their names being called, do not share enjoyment with others and avoid making social connections with persons.

Early detection is very important in order for the needs of autistic children to be taken care of, including education, social and psychological needs. Autistic children have no physical inca-

pacitation, they look normal and so their challenges are often misunderstood. Placing autistic children in the regular school system, for example, can be very tortuous since their peers might misunderstand them and subject them to taunting and teasing.

Autism cannot be detected by methods such as blood or urine tests. It is detected by way of observation of children behaviour for effective communication and social skills.

Awareness should also entail teaching others to promote respect for autistic people.

We must not deny people with autism their fundamental human rights by discriminating against or excluding them. Education and training programmes to spread public awareness are very important. Let us intensify efforts to ensure that children with autism are not discriminated against or treated unfairly.

In Guyana, organisations such as Guyana Greenheart Autistic School, Step-byStep Guyana, Gifted Hands and the Ptolemy Reid Rehabilitation Centre must be saluted for their extreme patience and tolerance in dealing with our autistic and special needs children.

The First Lady’s Foundation wishes to endorse the call for action to enable children and persons with autism to lead full and meaningful lives. To this effect, the Foundation is partnering with local organisations to promote awareness activities. A blue light vigil was held at the children’s monument in the National Park, yesterday, in order to bring awareness to the issue that will be observed by people around the world on April 2, 2014. Additionally, a fitness walk from the Bank of Guyana to the National Park will take place on April 6, 2014.

We wish to encourage all to come out and join in sharing information, promoting awareness and a positive perception in addressing this growing global challenge.

Turn on a blue light on April 2, 2014 in honour of autistic persons.

President Donald Ramotar lays a wreath in remembrance of Mrs. Janet Jagan

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Specially-funded CARICOM school built in Haiti A NEW school, built under the Medianet Haiti Relief Fund (TMHRF), is to be called the CARICOM Community School of Digue Matheux, Haiti, in honour of CARICOM’s solidarity with the project.

Assistant Secretary-General in charge of Foreign and Community Relations, Ambassador Colin Granderson represented the CARICOM Secretary-General at the ceremony in a small farming community, some 40 miles from the Haitian capital, Portau-Prince.

In his remarks on the occasion, Mr. Granderson underlined three reasons that marked its importance: * It was the culmination of the fulfillment of a promise made by Ambassador Reginald Dumas, Chairman of the TMHRF following his service in 2004 as Special Adviser on Haiti to the United Nations Secretary-General to continue working with Haitians “to make a difference in Haiti’; * the model nature of the Village Aid Project with regard to town planning strategies that would help to create viable sustainable communities and * that the houses were storm and earthquake resistant, use solar energy and included

running water and flush toilets.

The TMHRF is a partnership between Ambassador Dumas and One Caribbean Media. Resources under the fund were acquired through contributions from citizens and private companies of the Caribbean Community.

Its priority areas of intervention include affordable housing, public health and education.

Meanwhile, the Village Project at Digue Matheux was adopted as the principal aid scheme of the TMHRF, and is the most recent of a number of such assistance programmes in the priority areas identified.

The function brought together Ambassador Reginald Dumas, Chairman of the TMHRF; Kelvin Scoon, the Fund’s Secretary; Danny Duvert, Parliamentary Representative for Digue Matheux; Ambassador Sandra Honore, Special Representative in Haiti of the United Nations Secretary-General; Jean-Lesley Duret, Head of the enterprise that built the homes; village leaders and other members of the Digue Matheux community.

Under the fund, 15 houses were also handed over to beneficiaries.

One of the 15 houses built via TMHRF

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Tiger Woods pulls out of Masters

Tiger Woods TIGER WOODS has been ruled out of the Masters after undergoing a back operation.

Woods, 38, underwent a successful microdiscectomy in Utah to correct a pinched nerve in his back.

The world number one has been struggling with his fitness for several months - pulling out of Bay Hill recently, and falling away when in contention at Doral - and had already indicated that he was not sure whether or not he would be able to play.

But the 14-time Major champion confirmed yesterday that he will miss the event at Augusta for the first time since 1994.

Woods said he would begin intensive rehabilitation and softtissue treatment within the next week and expected to start chipping and putting in about three weeks, as long as his recovery went according to plan.

He said he risked further injury had he kept playing because of the repetitive motion from golf but there should be no longlasting effects from the surgery and he hoped to resume playing by the middle of the year - suggesting that he might be fit in time for the US Open at Pinehurst in June and the Open Championship at Hoylake in July.

“After attempting to get ready for the Masters, and failing to make the necessary progress, I decided, in consultation with my doctors, to have this procedure done,” Woods said on his official website.

“I’d like to express my disappointment to the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I will not be at the Masters. It’s a week that’s very special to me. It also looks like I’ll be forced to miss several upcoming tournaments to focus on my rehabilitation and getting healthy.

“I’d also like to thank the fans for their support and concern. It’s very kind and greatly appreciated. This is frustrating, but it’s something my doctors advised me to do for my immediate and long-term health.”

Woods has been plagued by back problems since last year - and indeed for much of his career - but his condition worsened last month, as he failed to finish the Honda Classic at Palm Beach Gardens in early March,

quitting after 13 holes in his final round.

Then he tweaked his back again on the last day at the WGC-Cadillac Championship at Doral in Miami a week later, tumbling out of contention with a final-round 78 to finish tied for 25th.

He then pulled out of the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill - a tournament he has won eight times, including 2012 and 2013 - in the hope that he could play at the Masters before opting to undergo surgery instead.

Woods has missed just a handful of Major championships in his career, the most famous example coming when he missed the 2008 Open Championship and US PGA Championship after knee surgery.

He also missed the 2011 US Open and Open Championship due to more knee problems and the Masters, which he has won four times, is the only one of golf’s Majors which he had yet to miss since turning professional in late 1996.

He played the event twice as an amateur back in 1995 and 1996, earning entry as the previous year’s US Amateur champion, but it was his 1997 victory at Augusta which announced him to the world as a legend in the making, winning by a record 12-shot margin.

Woods won the event three more times, in 2001, 2002 and 2005 - and though he has not won it again, he has since finished outside the top six only once.

The superstar’s tally of 14 Majors is four short of the alltime record of 18 held by Jack Nicklaus. He has also won 79 PGA Tour events, three behind Sam Snead’s record of 82.

His latest injury is sure to raise fresh doubt about whether he will ever break those records but Woods remains adamant that time is still on his side.

“It’s tough right now, but I’m absolutely optimistic about the future,” Woods said.

“There are a couple records by two outstanding individuals and players that I hope one day to break. As I’ve said many times, Sam and Jack reached their milestones over an entire career. I plan to have a lot of years left in mine.”

32

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Cook backed Pietersen axe ALASTAIR COOK has given his captain’s seal of approval for England’s “brave call” to axe record runscorer Kevin Pietersen.

Cook, speaking for the first time since the England and Wales Cricket Board called time on Pietersen’s international career, left little room for any residual doubt about his own role in the process.

The Test and one-day international captain confesses his frustration at not being able to speak freely about the reasons for the parting of ways after last winter’s Ashes whitewash, advising patience before the full story is told “soon”.

The ECB made it clear, in a statement shortly after Pietersen’s enforced international retirement in February, that the defence of issues such as “trust” and “team ethics” underpinned their decision.

England have gone on in

Pietersen’s absence to conclude their winter of discontent with a lacklustre ICC World Twenty20 campaign, ending in an embarrassing dead-rubber defeat against minnows Holland on Monday.

Cook played no part in that either, because he is not currently in England’s team in the shortest format.

The opener is due to return in next month’s ODI against Scotland in Aberdeen, by which time England will have a new head coach in place following Andy Flower’s resignation as team director in January.

Cook does not yet know therefore whether he will be working alongside limitedovers coach Ashley Giles - in an enhanced role - or a clutch of other contenders, all of whom will be interviewed for the job this month.

He has no qualms at all, however, about the decision to

omit Pietersen from England’s new era.

“It was a brave call which took guts and consideration,” said Cook. “You do have to say at some point, ‘This is the way we’re going to do it moving forward.’”

Va r i o u s v e r s i o n s o f events have been put forward about the apparent breakdown of Pietersen’s working relationship with management at the start of this year, a repeat of history twice over following the South Africa-born batsman’s power struggle with former coach Peter Moores in 2008 and his well-documented disagreements with Flower and then captain Andrew Strauss in 2012.

It was Strauss’ successor Cook who reportedly helped to facilitate Pietersen’s reintegration two years ago.

But this time, he said: “We all know how important team

culture and team unity is. It was obviously a very big and important decision. I know things will become clearer in a little bit of time. I know it is frustrating. It is frustrating for me, because I have not totally been able to tell my side of the story. People just have to be a little bit patient.”

The perception is that ECB are prevented, legally, from divulging further details yet.

“Everyone will say I’m sitting on the fence, but there are a number of reasons which will become clearer soon,” Cook added. “Everyone is going to keep asking that question until we give the answers - but at the moment we just can’t.”

Giles remains favourite,

meanwhile, to become head coach - despite the Dutch debacle on his watch - and Cook is clearly an influential fan.

“Gilo has had a tough winter - we’ve all had a tough winter. He’s a very, very good coach. He’s a fantastic coach and a very good man as well.

There are a lot of decisions to be made over the next couple of weeks by the hierarchy of the ECB - and important decisions as well.”

Moores, currently in charge of Lancashire, and Nottinghamshire’s Mick Newell are among other feasible candidates.

“It is an important relationship, and you do have an input,” said Cook. “The final decision is with the board; that is their job.”

Australia ease to consolation win over sorry Bangladesh

(REUTERS) - Australia signed off their disappointing World Twenty20 campaign with a consolation victory over Bangladesh as opener Aaron Finch’s brisk 71 secured a seven-wicket win over the hosts yesterday.

Opting to bat first, Shakib Al Hasan (66) and captain Mushfiqur Rahim (47) shared a 112-run third-wicket stand to help Bangladesh to a competitive total of 153 for five wickets at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.

Smarting from a hat-trick of defeats in a tournament they began as one of the favourites, Australia’s only interest in their final Group Two game was to finish with a victory which they achieved with 15 balls to spare.

Openers Finch and David Warner (48) added 98 runs in just over 11 overs to ensure they got the perfect start to chase down a moderate target against a side who finished their Super 10 campaign without a victory.

Paceman Al-Amin Hossain bowled Warner in the 12th over but not before the left-hander had struck three sixes and five fours in his 35-ball knock.

Finch took 35 balls to reach his half-century and hit four sixes and seven fours before becoming Al-Amin’s second victim.

Seeking that elusive Super 10 victory against a winless Australia, Mushfiqur’s decision to bat first appeared to be back-firing as the hosts lost both the openers for 12 in the fourth over.

Shakib and Mushfiqur steadied the innings, however, before negating Australia’s short-ball ploy with some crisp hitting in their century stand from 13 overs.

Shakib was harsh on anything short, hitting three sixes and five fours in his 52-ball innings and his aggression rubbed off on Rahim who helped himself to five boundaries and a six.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

Compliments of THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230)& CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL CO. LTD-83 Garnette Street, Campbellville (Tel: 225-6158; 223-6055) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: Mahendra Singh Dhoni and David Hussey Zimbabwe and Ireland Today’s Quiz: Name the WI captains that have lead in Int’l T/20 matches but never in a World Cup game.

How many sixes and fours were struck in the last T/20 World Cup final?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Whoever is chosen, Cook is still optimistic about the challenges ahead for England after their 18 defeats from 23 matches in 2013/14.

“It’s been an incredibly tough winter; we can’t hide away from that. But there are a huge number of reasons to be optimistic. It will take time and hard work to turn it around. It took us three or four years to become the topranked Test side in the world under Flower and Strauss after we were bowled out for 51 in Jamaica.

It is going to take time. It’s going to take a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get there.

I’m very privileged to be a part of that and hope we can make the difference.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

33

Young Warriors congratulate Hetmyer on selection to Guyana team THE PRESIDENT and members of the Young Warriors Cricket Club (YWCC) of Cumberland Village, East Canje Berbice take this opportunity to congratulate 17-year-old Shimron Hetmyer on his selection to the National Senior Cricket team.

He is the fourth player from this relatively new cricket club to make that achievement following Damodar Dasrath (former Guyana captain), Gajanand Singh and Richard Ramdeen.

Shimron only recently represented the West Indies Under-19

Team in the Youth World Cup in Dubai and performed creditably, while his brother Seon is a former Guyana youth batsman and scored a century at that level.

Speaking on behalf of the club, Anil Beharry, Secretary/Treasurer said it is another proud moment for the club, adding that from the tender age of seven, Shimron was earmarked for greatness.

Although the three previous cricketers didn’t make it to the West Indies senior team, the club is confident that Shimron will, Beharry expressed confidently, as the club continues to produce young

cricketers and is calling on youths from the area to join the club.

Beharry expressed the hope that Shimron’s achievement will inspire others to take up the game of cricket seriously.

He thanked the Berbice Cricket Board for its emphasis on youth cricket and was grateful to all the sponsors for making many more like Shimron possible.

Once again, the executives and members of the Young Warriors Cricket Club expressed best wishes to Shimron and advised him to keep his feet grounded.

George and Yaw lead Guyana team to CARIFTA Games RUNNER-UP junior sportswoman-of-the-year Casey George and junior sportsmanof-the-year Jason Yaw are expected to head the team of nine participants that will be representing Guyana at this year’s CARIFTA Games from April 18 to 21 in Martinique.

The team, which was selected by the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), includes Jevina Sampson, Natricia Hooper, Avon Samuels, Brenessa Thompson and Kadecia Baird, on the female side, along with George, and Kevin Abbensetts and Kade Pearce, on the male side with Yaw. George, who won gold and silver medals last year in the Under-17 1500m and 800m respectively, will be back in a 1500m but this time in the Under-18 category, as it was last year agreed by the competition’s council to raise the age category in keeping with protocol of the International Association of

Jason Yaw Athletics Federations (IAAF).

George will also be in the open 3000m, and on the 4x400m team, which will include Sampson, Hooper, and Samuels.

Sampson will debut in the girls’ Under-18 200m and 400m.

In both events she will also be competing alongside Samuels.

Thompson and Baird will compete in the Under-20 category, with Thompson in the 100m and 200m, and Baird will be in the 200m and 400m events.

In addition to the relay Hooper will also compete in

Jevina Sampson the girls’ Under-18 triple jump.

Bronze medallist Yaw will compete in the boys’ Under-18 200m and 400m. Abbensetts and Pearce are in the boys’ Under 20 category; Abbensetts will be in the 100m and 200m, Pearce in the high jump and triple jump.

The team’s head coach will be Sham Johnny, while assistant coaches are Shawn Dietz, Glenton Pantlitz and Matthew Martin, with Mayfield Taylor-Trim executing the duties of team manager and Emmerson Campbell as media personnel.

Curtain comes down on istoric karate C’ships LAST SUNDAY at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, the curtain came down on the first-ever South American Karate Championships, held under the auspices of world karate organisation, the International Karate Daigaku (IKD), through the Guyana Karate College.

The tournament got under way the previous day at the same venue, where His Excellency President Donald Ramotar, who was earlier in

the week presented with a 7th Degree Black Belt, graced the event with his presence.

In his remarks, President Ramotar pledged his government’s continued support to the development of Karate-do and to sport in general and to the development of the youths of Guyana.

Attending and officiating at the championships were top brass of the IKD including the Chairman and Chief Instructor Frank Woon-a-Tai, Vice

Chairman and Deputy Chief Instructor Maureen Woon-a-Tai, Shihan Keith Da Costa and IKD Executive Treasurer Bernice Hughes a 6th Dan The tournament, which saw the participation of Venezuela, Suriname and Guyana, was of a very high standard with competitors participating in individual kumite (fighting), kata (form), and the application of karate through team kata team bunkai, and team enbu.

Shimron Hetmyer

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

Petra Directors satisfied with level of competition in U-20 tournament

By Calvin Roberts DIRECTORS of the Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca and Marlon Cole yesterday expressed their satisfaction at the level of football being showcased by the various teams who competed in the soon-to-be-completed second annual Milo-sponsored Under-20 Football Championships.

This was disclosed by Mendonca who told a media briefing held at the Brandsville Apartments Restaurant, the display of some teams was surprising and beyond expectations.

“We have reached the end of another exciting tournament, which is our Milo/Petra second Under-20 Championships and I think we can safely say that from last year to this year, we have seen improvements from certain teams who have participated in this tournament.

“Teams such as Bishops’ High and Queen’s College, who have this perception that has to do with the calibre of persons who play the game in comparison to some of the other schools, but what they put out this year, I think in the coming years they will be a force to be reckoned with,” said Mendonca.

He adding, “Barring the fact that the country on a whole is lacking and there is a lot to be done in terms of football, I think that we have seen some improvement in terms of the teams participating and I anticipate that within the next two years, this tournament will be the school tournament and that is our aim basically.”

Mendonca said he felt satisfied while observing last Saturday’s semifinals, where he had another firsthand view of the joy and camaraderie being shared amongst the players off the field and even supporters of teams who were battling for supremacy on the field.

“I asked myself a question, which is: ‘If we had not done this for the schools, what would have been there for them to do what they like, and also to create an environment for persons who are not interested in the sport, because we have situations like that,” said Mendonca.

He reiterated what many pundits have already confirmed during the tournament, that the best two teams in defending champions St George’s and the Meadow Brook Gardens-based Lodge Secondary, are the best two teams who have made it to

the final, while many anticipate an exciting clash this Saturday from 18:00hrs at the Ministry of Education ground.

Not one to hug the spotlight for too long, Mendonca took the opportunity to express gratitude to the major sponsor of the tournament Nestle, through their local agent M. Beepat and Sons, along with the Ministry of Health, who organised a twoday Gender Base Violence (GBV) seminar for the coaches of the schools.

“I think we had a good workshop. From a personal standpoint, it has motivated me and I told my partner, that our contribution to that fight is a great one. For example and personally, coming out of that workshop, every woman that I have looked at after that workshop, I looked at her face.

“We as a group will continue in that direction in terms of the fight against GBV and to eradicate it, not just with this tournament. We wish to applaud the Ministry of Health for partnering with us on this subject, while we wish to thank the Ministry of Education and Allied Arts Department, who worked with us to make the tournament a success,” said Mendonca.

He continued by thanking

… 3 scholarships up for grabs

The dynamic duo who organise several football tournaments around Georgetown and Guyana, the Petra Organisation directors Marlon Cole (left) and Troy Mendonca. while everyone looks forward to nal fixtures will do battle from the administrative personnel Saturday’s contest.

16:00hrs on Saturday, before especially, who worked along In the third place playLodge and St George’s take with them tirelessly, the referoff, Christ Church who went the field, bringing the curtain ees for their part, along with under to St George’s 3-0 and down on another successful the media who helped make it Dolphin who lost to Lodge tournament organised by the happen and happen successfully, Secondary 3-1 in their semifiPetra Organisation.

GFF NATIONAL PREMIER LEAGUE

Wins for Riddim Squad, Winners Connection, Alpha and Den Amstel FOUR TEAMS namely Riddim Squad, Winners Connection of Linden, defending champions Alpha ‘The Hammer’ United and Den Amstel Porknockers recorded victories in the latest round of matches in the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) National Premier League which was contested last Sunday at two venues.

Riddim Squad defeated Santos 3-1, Winners Connection came away with a victory via the same scoreline over heavy-

weights Western Tigers, Alpha edged Guyana Defence Force 2-1 while Den Amstel hosted and defeated Buxton United 3-0 at the Den Amstel ground.

Riddim Squad took the lead in the 27th minute of their contest against Santos, when Sheldon Hope chipped his shot over the onrushing Santos custodian, but his side were dealt a severe blow, when he was given marching orders for striking out at an opponent in the first minute of added time in the

first half.

With the numbers in their favour, Santos used same to their advantage and snared the equaliser two minutes after Hope had left, when Linden Pickets rocked Riddim Squad’s goal with a well-placed header.

Riddim Squad jumped back into the lead in the 63rd minute as Amos Ramsay netted albeit a hard-fought 18 minutes later, courtesy of a Jermain Liverpool goal.

In the opening fixture at

Kithson Bain the venue which hosted a triple-header, Winners Connection led by a Rawle Gittens double in the 6th and 44th

Grassroots Foundation Inter-Ward Knockout Tournament

Millington nails home five for West Ruimveldt ... Agricola sent packing by Laing Avenue

THANKS to five goals off the boot of diminutive striker Devon Millington, West Ruimveldt mauled Leopold Street/Lacytown 10-1 when the first annual Grassroots F o u n d a t i o n I n t e r- w a r d knockout football tournament commenced last Mon-

day at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground.

Millington opened his account in the 29th minute with a right-footed strike into the left-hand side and sealed his double four minutes later with another thunderous strike into the left-hand corner of his op-

ponents’ goal.

The hat-trick was completed in the 35th minute compliments of a strike to the bottom right-hand side and then he got the helmet-trick seven minutes later, with a simple finish to the bottom of the net.

Devon Millington

minutes of play, coupled with a Keon Sears strike in the 74th minute, guided Winners Connection to a shocking upset 3-1 victory over Western Tigers, whose consolation goal was scored by Jerome Richardson in the 33rd minute.

In the final match, Alpha United, through goals from Kithson Bain and Manasseh Primo in the 4th and 78th minutes respectively, underlined their supremacy in local football with the 2-1 over the GDF, for

whom Desford Williams found the back of the net in the 13th minute, nullifying Bain’s strike, until Primo separated the two sides.

At the Den Amstel ground on the West Coast of Demerara, Jeffrey Perreira scored a brace in the 66th and 75th minutes, which backed Orette Stephenson’s opening strike in the 24th minute that guided Den Amstel Porknockers to their 3-0 win over Buxton United.

Millington’s Slingerz Football Club teammate Colin Nelson, who scored a hat-trick, added his name to the scoreline in the 62nd minute with his first, when he powered home his strike to the left-hand side, while Millington got goal number five, three minutes after Nelson’s goal making it 6-0 in favour of West Ruimveldt.

Further goals by Nelson in the 70th and 84th minute, Deron Benjamin in the 76th minute and Joshua Britton in the 80th minute sealed the win

for the eventual victors, even as Marco Lawrence was on target for the losers, scoring their consolation goal in the 66th minute.

In the earlier match, Laing Avenue defeated Agricola 3-1, with Delroy Fraser leading the way with a double in the 19th and 66th minutes while an own goal in the 89th minute sealed the game for Laing Avenue, who came back after Winston Rawlins scored the opening goal of the contest in the 4th minute.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday April 2, 2014

35

Windies flatten Pakistan to reach semis DHAKA, Bangladesh (CMC) – West Indies marched into the semi-finals of the World Twenty20 Championship with the swagger of defending champions, by ruthlessly disposing of Pakistan by 84 runs here yesterday.

Opting to bat first in the must-win contest at the Sher-e-Bangla Stadium, West Indies produced a late blitz to reach 166 for six, with Dwayne Bravo smashing a top score of 46 from 26 deliveries with two fours and four sixes and captain Darren Sammy, cracking an unbeaten 42 from just 20 balls, featuring four fours and two sixes.

West Indies then wrecked the Pakistan with potent mix of seam and spin, to bundle them out for 82 off 17.5 overs, with Pakistan skipper Mohammed Hafeez topscoring with 19.

Leg-spinner Samuel Badree was magical with the new ball, claiming 3 for 10 from his four overs while off-spinner Sunil Narine, picked up 3 for 16 from his quota.

Left-arm seamer Krishmar Santokie who started the rout by removing Ahmed Shehzad lbw first ball with a full-length delivery, finished with 2 for 9 and fellow seamer Andre Russell, 2 for 15.

The margin of victory was the biggest for West Indies in T20 Internationals, and set the tone for a compelling semi-final against Sri Lanka tomorrow – a rematch of the 2012 final.

“We’re improving with every game. There is still room for improvement but we’re playing good cricket and quite happy to

Dwayne Bravo does a jig after catching Pakistan’s Kamran Akmal during the West Indies must-win game. be in the semi-finals,” Sammy said afterwards.

A semi-final spot looked unlikely when Pakistan used a telling bowling performance to restrict the Caribbean side to 84 for five at the end of the 15th over. However, man-of-

the-match Bravo and Sammy launched a ferocious assault, as the Windies plundered 82 from the last five overs.

Their frenetic sixth-wicket stand of 71 required just 34 deliveries, and proved to be the catalyst of the West Indies

Windies Women to play Aussies in semi-final after first defeat SYLHET, Bangladesh, (CMC) - West Indies Women forfeited the top position in Group B after suffering a crushing nine-wicket defeat at the hands of India in the Women’s World T20 Tournament at Sylhet Stadium here yesterday.

A powerful half-century from Deandra Dottin attempted to salvage a crumbling innings as West Indies plunged to their first defeat in the tournament following a hat-trick of victories.

Stafanie Taylor tried to steady the innings as well with a knock of 17 and a half-century stand with Dottin but the Caribbean girls stumbled to 117 for 7 before the Indians cruised to the target on half-centuries from Mithali Raj and Poonam Raut.

The other double digit contributors for Windies were Stacy-Ann King’s 17 and Shemaine Campbelle’ 10 as seamer Harmanpreet Kaur with 2 for 12 was the pick of the bowlers.

A win meant West Indies would have finished top of the Group B table. However, they finished behind England on net run-rate, and will therefore face Group A finishers Australia in

Deandra Dottin scores a 51-ball 57 for the West Indies girls yesterday. leaving her side in shambles the first semifinal tomorrow.

West Indies were off to a scary start after losing opener Kycia Knight to the first ball of the match.

However, Taylor steadied the innings in a 61-run second-wicket partnership with Dottin who went on to score a 51-ball 57 as West Indies tried to recover from a wobbly 87 for three in the 15th over.

Dottin, who scored seven fours and two sixes, departed,

as the innings failed to pick up steam and four more wickets fell as Windies Women reached 117 for 7.

India coasted to the target easily almost without losing a wicket, spurred on by Raut’s 52-ball 56 while captain Mithali was unbeaten on 55 from 52 balls, as Shakera Selman picked up the lone Indian wicket to have fallen, that of Raut who was caught by Kyshona Knight.

innings after another sluggish performance from the top order batsmen.

Lendl Simmons chipped in with 31 from 29 balls while Marlon Samuels struggled with 20 from 18 balls, but big-hitting opener Chris Gayle (5) and his partner Dwayne Smith (8) were both dismissed cheaply.

Gayle was lured from his crease by off-spinner Mohammed Hafeez and stumped and Smith nicked probing left-arm seamer Sohail Tanvir behind, as the Windies slumped to 22 for two in the fourth over.

Simmons and Samuels spent 38 balls adding 39 for the third wicket, leaving the Windies in a bit of a muddle at the half-way point, at 61 for two. Simmons, however, was run-out at the start of the 10th over trying to steal a single and three balls later, Samuels’ toil ended when he dragged on to leg-spinner Shahid Afridi.

Denesh Ramdin (5) lasted ten balls before holing out in the deep as West Indies stumbled to 81 for five at the end of the 14th.

Bravo then took matters into his own hands, twice clearing the ropes with seamer Umar Gul in the 18th over that gushed 21 runs, and then combined with Sammy to take another 24 runs from the penultimate over sent down by

the usually economical Saeed Ajmal.

Bravo was run-out off the first ball of the final over but Sammy kept up the assault on Sohail Tanvir to get 14 runs, as the Windies finished strongly.

Santokie then gave West Indies the perfect start and Badree continued the demolition job in the next over when new batsman Kamran Akmal drove to Bravo at mid-off, to also depart without scoring.

When Umar Akmal (1) and Shoaib Malik (2) were deceived

by Badree in successive overs to give Ramdin the first two of his four superb stumpings, Pakistan

WEST INDIES innings D. Smith c Akmal b Tanvir 8 C. Gayle stp. Akmal b Hafeez 5 L. Simmons run-out 31 M. Samuels b Afridi 20 Dwayne Bravo run-out 46 D. Ramdin c Akmal b Babar 5 D. Sammy not out 42 A. Russell not out 0 Total: (for 6 wickets) 166 Extras: (lb-4, w-5) 9 Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-22, 3-61, 4-67, 5-81, 6-152.

Bowling: M Hafeez 2-0-15-1, S Tanvir 4-0-27-1 (w-1), Z Babar 4-0-27-1 (w2), S Afridi 4-0-23-1, U Gul 2-0-29-0 (w-1), S Ajmal 4-0-41-0 (w-1).

PAKISTAN innings A. Shehzad lbw Santokie 0

were tottering at 13 for four in the sixth over.

There would be no recovery after, as Hafeez skied Russell to Gayle at cover for 19 off 32 balls and Sohaib Maqsood struck a four and a six in 18 off 22 balls before missing a lunge at Narine and being gobbled up

by Ramdin, at 42 for six in the 12th over.

With the required run rate rising to 15, Shahid Afridi was Pakistan’s last hope but all he could manage was a pair of sixes in a 12-ball 18 before becoming Ramdin’s fourth stumping victim, as Narine squirted one wide.

K. Akmal c Bravo b Badree 0 M. Hafeez c Gayle b Russell 19 U. Akmal stp. Ramdin b Badree 1 S. Malik stp. Ramdin b Badree 2 S. Maqsood stp. Ramdin b Narine 18 S. Afridi stp. Ramdin b Narine 18 S. Tanvir c Sammy b Narine 14 U. Gul c Simmons b Santokie 4 S. Ajmal b Russell 1 Z. Babar not out 3 Total: (all out, off 17.5 overs) 92 Extras: (w-2) 2 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-1, 3-9, 4-13, 5-37, 6-42, 7-74, 8-75, 9-78.

Bowling: K. Santokie 2.5-0-9-2 (w2), S. Badree 4-0-10-3, M. Samuels 3-0-21-0, A. Russell 3-0-15-2, S. Narine 4-0-16-3, D. Smith 1-0-11-0.

GCB/IGLOO U-15

Defending champs face Essequibo from today … Berbice play President’s XI

WITH one eye on the weather, defending champions Demerara will be journeying to the Enmore Community Centre ground, where they will face perennial whipping boys Essequibo, in the second round of the Guyana Cricket Board-organised Igloo Icecream-sponsored Under-15 Inter-county tournament over the next two days.

Across at the Wales Community Centre ground, Berbice will clash with the President’s XI in what should be an interesting encounter.

Skipper Bhaskar Yadram, first-round centurion Joshua Persaud, Alphius Bookie, Ashmead Nedd, Sagar Hetheramani and Colin Barlow will lead the defending champions who accumulated 10 points from their abandoned first-round encounter against the President’s XI. The hard-hitting Joshua Jones, Darshan Indar, Shane Wong, Orlando Jailall, Arnold Adams, Vishal Singh and

Sagar Hetheramani Shamar Dasrath will guide the Cinderella County lineup, who will definitely be looking for an improved performance this time around.

At Wales, Berbice, who are always a force to be reckoned with on the local scene, will look to Kevin and Junior Sinclair (unrelated), Steven Kalamudin, Junior Williams, Kris Ramnarine and Steven Deonarine to pilot them to victory.

However, the President’s XI is a team that comprises players who were unable to make their

Alphius Bookie individual County lineup, hence they are hungry to showcase their talent and at the same time, impress the selectors.

Players such as Christopher Campbelle, Junior Phillips, Danesh Kowlessar, Stephon Williams, Shivnarine Chattergoon and Chandrat Veerasammy, are all part of the President’s XI, who can very well rebound from the poor showing against Demerara and upset the Berbicians.

The action gets under way at 10:00hrs each day at both venues.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Cook backed Pietersen axe (See Story on page 32)

Alastair Cook

Windies flatten Pakistan to reach semis

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Page 35

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014