Guyana chronicle 04 10 14

GUYANA No. 103970 SATURDAY OCTOBER 4, 2014

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

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An opportune time for foreign investors entry into the Guyanese market Page

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Fifty Amerindians successfully complete monitoring

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– Finance Minister

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Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh delivers his remarks

Cereal production facility for Region 2

Guyana Goldfields Inc. begins commercial production mid next year Page 10 Industry/ Plaisance NDC Overseer's appointment above board - Whittaker

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Private sector optimistic about Guyana’s potential, future - PSC Chairman

President Ramotar (far right) Dr Suresh Narine (left), Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy (centre) seem to be relishing the rice cereal on Thursday at the opening of GuyExpo (Adrian Narine photo)

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GuyExpo treats patrons with excellent local fruits, vegetables, packaged food items 14 Page

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

An opportune time for foreign investors entry into the Guyanese market – Finance Minister

By Savitri Laikram THE GUYANA Office for Investment (GO-Invest) in collaboration with the GUYEXPO Secretariat yesterday hosted an investment forum at the Guyana International Conference Centre (GICC).

Minister of Finance Dr Ashni Singh welcomed the foreign delegations who are here in Guyana participating in GUYEXPO. He posited that it is a delight having them here and showing interest in investing in Guyana.

The minister believes that this is an opportune time for entry into the Guyanese market and encouraged the foreign delegation to explore every possible frontier which may lead to the forging of business relations, which will increase shareholder values as well as to create new jobs and partnerships.

Dr Singh outlined that the Government of Guyana has worked hard for this country to develop partnerships to put Guyana in a place that can be now described as a business and investment destination, as this was not always the case in the 1970-1980 period when the Guyanese economy was “on its knees.”

He opined that if one were to look at most graphs

which plot economic development overtime, it would be seen that there was a 20 – year- old decline, which had put Guyana at a disadvantage, vis-a-vis its Caribbean counterparts.

He said that a task was then set to effect constitutional and legislative reforms that relate to the business environment.

Dr Singh continued that restoring and re-orienting the fiscal operations, public ensemble and policies to make the necessary investments in rebuilding physical and social infrastructure were critical, and has not been an easy task.

He pointed out that investors can now come to Guyana and find an educated workforce and the credit worthiness of the country has finally been restored.

He posited that there is now no control on financial flows; no restrictions of foreign currency; a freely floating currency which is tradeable in an open domestic market.

Dr Singh further stated that there are no restrictions on investor entry to Guyana, adding that as a result of restoring macro-economic credibility, investors have no worries about unpredictability and instability in the macro-economic environment.

He said that Guyana has the highest premium in

achieving sustained economic growth and stability, as a result of this, today, the Guyanese economy is much more diversified than it has ever been.

He outlined that even in the most severe economic crisis, which saw food prices spiked tremendously, Guyana has seen uninterrupted growth in the past eight years.

The Finance Minister claimed that the exchange rate of the Guyana dollar has been strikingly stable, although many have questioned the quality of the dollar as compared to other currencies; the level of the exchange rate is not a reflection of weakness in the economy.

He used Japan’s currency as an example when comparing the economy and its currency.

What matters is that of the stability of the exchange rate, because while there may have been ups and downs, the Guyanese currency has encountered minimal volatility and striking stability.

He reiterated that investors need not worry about this and the fact that there is a growing level of consumption and domestic savings.

He emphasised that domestic demands present a small part of the picture of investment, noting that

Some of the persons who attended GO-Invest forum (Adrian Narine photo)

in a matter of a few hours, persons here can drive to Suriname and Brazil with ease.

This allows an investor to expand his business and distribute to Guyana’s neighbours.

Dr Singh noted that presently, there are a number of Guyanese companies located in Lethem, these companies have expanded their product range in a number of ways to garner sales from the Brazilian community there.

He lauded the integration with Lethem and Brazil, urging that in the vibrant and growing Guyanese market, it is a worthwhile investment.

He acknowledged the investors who have invested billions in the mineral sector reaping gold, oil, manganese etc.

The minister pointed out that the largest private employer here came through GO-Invest, a Mexican company, which has opened a relatively large call centre here creating jobs for over 2000 persons and are currently in construction of another which will see the creation of another 5000 vacancies.

He concluded by urging the investors to explore their options in Guyana as the country has a diversified and stable economy.

Chief Executive Officer of GO-Invest Mr. Keith Burrowes in his opening address

CEO of GO-Invest, Mr Keith Burrowes

said that GO-Invest’s vision is to see investors linking up with businesses here to promote trade among countries.

This, he said, would be the key outcome of this forum.

He opined that Guyana has one of the most liberal incentive programmes when compared to the incentive regimes of other countries.

Mr. Burrowes said that it is important to note that some persons have the perception that GO-Invest is a “one-stop shop.”

This is not the case and what is needed is not formalize relations with other agencies.

He informed attendees that there will be a major

re-organising of GO-Invest, which will see more persons being added to the team to enhance operations within to better oversee the programmes and projects.

He said that in the re-modernisation process of GO-Invest, this will be addressed, among other key factors.

He also stressed the importance of promotions and joint efforts, adding that Public/Private Partnerships are essential.

The forum saw presentations from the Agriculture Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy and Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Mr. Indranauth Haralsingh, among others.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Concentrate on training for jobs that are available – FITUG President urges at WFTU rally

GAWU’s Aslim Ali chairs the Rally in GAWU compound, High Street, Kingston. Others seated from left are: Sherwood Clarke: Seepaul Narine; Kenneth Joseph; Dr. Nanda Gopaul; Carvil Duncan and Komal Chand, President of GAWU

A section of the workers on parade in observance of World Federation of Trade Unions Action Day (Sonell Nelson photo)

By Shirley Thomas THE Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) on Wednesday joined affiliates of the World Federation of Trade Unions in observing World Federation of Trade Union (WFTU) International Action Day. The WFTU has affiliates in some 20 countries with an aggregate membership of around 90 million.

The local observance, which brought together sister trade unions of Guyana, began with a march from the Bank of Guyana through the streets of Georgetown, culminating in a rally in the compound of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU), High Street, Kingston.

The theme of the observance was: “Unemployment: End Unemployment!

Organise and fight for Dignified Work and life.”

Speakers included: Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda Gopaul; President of FITUG and General Secretary of the Guyana Labour Union,

Carvil Duncan; Second Vice President of the Federation and President of the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union, Sherwood Clarke; Representative of GAWU, Mr. Seepaul Narine and General Secretary of NAACIE, Kenneth Joseph. Chairing the rally was GAWU’s Mr. Aslim Ali. A message was also read from the General Secretary of the Caribbean Conference of Labour (CCL), Mr. Chester Humphrey.

GAWU representative, Seepaul Narine, pointed to the Paris-based Organisation for Economic Co-operation (OECD) report which revealed that more than 16 million persons have been out of work for at least a year in the first quarter of 2014. He also cited the International Labour Organization (ILO) Global Employment Trends Report which states: ● In 2013, the number of unemployed worldwide rose by five million, to almost 202 million, a 6% unemployment rate. ● Some 23 million workers have dropped out of the labour market

● The number of job seekers is expected to rise by more that 13 million by 2018 ● Around 839 million workers lived with their families on less than US$2 in 2013.

“Based on current trends, global unemployment would rise by another 13 million people by 2018, thereby having more than 215 million job seekers,” Narine projected.

According to the GAWU representative, not having a job in today’s world is indeed a horrifying ordeal. “It is a situation which undoubtedly lends to greater poverty which has been stalking our world, especially since the crisis of capitalism erupted in 2008,” he declared.

Against this backdrop, Narine called on working people to take care of their jobs, while calling on union members to focus on the protection and creation of jobs. However, he noted that according to the Millennium Development Goal Report, poverty in Guyana has declined from 43.2 per cent in 1993 to 36.1 percent in 2006.

He added that GAWU upholds the principle of stable

A section of the gathering at the FITUG/GAWU- organised rally in GAWU compound in observance of WFTU Action Day on Wednesday

and steady work and decent wages for all, since a just and peaceful future cannot be based on exploitation and growing unemployment.

Meanwhile, FITUG President Carvil Duncan, whilst acknowledging that unemployment is haunting almost every country in the world, said that, the question to be

asked in our local context is: “Do we have unemployment or under-employment in Guyana?”

He noted the thousands of persons graduating from university with degrees, but cannot get jobs. The trend, Duncan said, is that they are all going in to seek academic qualifications such as doctors,

lawyers, public servants or managers and are not going after training that qualifies them for technical jobs, which indeed are the jobs available.

He said that the Ministry of Labour can attest to the fact that there are lots of jobs available, but that we have been concentrating on trainTurnt to page 12

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Hong Kong clashes break out, protesters threaten to boycott talks (Reuters) – VIOLENT scuffles broke out in one of Hong Kong’s most famous and congested shopping districts on Friday, as hundreds of supporters of Chinese rule stormed tents and ripped down banners belonging to pro-democracy protesters, forcing many to retreat.

As news of the confrontation spread, more protesters headed for the gritty, bustling district of Mong Kok, considered one of the most crowded places on Earth, to reinforce.

Tens of thousands have taken to Hong Kong’s streets in the past week to demand full democracy in the former British colony, including a free voting system when they come to choose a new leader in 2017.

Hong Kong leader Leung Chun-ying agreed to open talks with pro-democracy protesters but defied demands that he resign. He and his Chinese government backers made clear they would not back down in the face of the city’s worst unrest in decades.

The Hong Kong Federation of Students, one of the

Anti-Occupy Central protesters stand behind a police cordon on Nathan Road at Hong Kong’s Mongkok shopping district October 3, 2014, demanding the tents set up by pro-democracy protesters to be demolished. REUTERS/Bobby Yip

main groups behind the protest movement, accused the government and police of conspiring to provoke attacks on protesters in Mong Kok, and threatened to pull out of planned talks.

Numbers dwindled at some other protest sites in and around the Central financial district as rain fell on Friday and as Hong Kong people returned to work after a two-

tion reported that 131 people had been taken to hospital on Friday with injuries of varying severity sustained during protests across the city.

Some demonstrators held umbrellas for police in the rain, while others shouted at police for failing to clear the demonstrators.

“We are all fed up and our lives are affected,” said teacher Victor Ma, 42. “You don’t hold Hong Kong citizens hostage because it’s not going to work. That’s why the crowd is very angry here.”

The police defended their handling of the clashes, during which protesters also accused them of doing too little to protect them.

Stampede at Hindu festival kills 32 in eastern India (Reuters) - AT least 32 people were killed in a stampede during a Hindu festival in the eastern Indian state of Bihar on Friday, most of them women and a few children, the state police chief said.

A huge crowd had gathered at an outdoor venue in the state capital, Patna, for the burning of effigies at dusk, part of the Dusshera festival.

Officials said the stampede happened as people were leaving at the end of

DATE: 24/09/2014 J

day holiday.

However, crowds built up again from hundreds to thousands late at night in the Admiralty district, where government offices are concentrated.

In Mong Kok, where notorious Triad criminal gangs operate bars, nightclubs and massage parlours in highrise apartment blocks packed together, about 1,000 Beijing supporters clashed with around 100 protesters, spitting and throwing water bottles in a side-show to the main protests.

Police formed a human chain to separate the two groups amid the wail of sirens.

Hong Kong’s RTHK radio sta-

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People search for their belongings amongst shoes left behind during a stampede in Patna.

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the event. Television channels quoted a witness as saying there were not enough lights when the ceremony ended.

At least 15 injured people were taken to hospital, the police chief, P.K. Thakur said. Police are examining closed circuit television to determine what had triggered the stampede.

“There was very little police presence and there were vendors who had put up their stalls at the exit gates, making it more difficult to leave,” a witness told NDTV.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Mexico relatives search for students in Guerrero

Gov’t allocates more money for national response to chik-V (Jamaica Observer) NATIONAL Emergency Response Team has been activated to coordinate and support the country’s response to the current outbreak of the chikungunya virus.

At the same time, the Government has allocated an additional $150 million to the chikungunya response, which includes a massive clean-up campaign aimed at destroying and removing mosquito- breeding sites.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, who addressed yesterday’s technical meeting at Jamaica House, which involved key Government agencies, mandated those involved to be thorough and consistent in the

planning, implementation and public communication of the ongoing national response to the chikungunya outbreak.

The National Emergency Response Team, which is headed by the prime minister, involves representation from key ministries, agencies and non-government stakeholders with the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) having a lead role in coordination and implementation.

The team’s activation is at level two, which means that activation is related to a specific event or specific events. Activation of the National Emergency Response Team will also provide a robust, thorough, intensive, and

extensive management framework for Jamaica’s planning for prevention, mitigation and response action in respect of other communicable diseases, including Ebola.

Jamaica House said the planning and preparation has already started with focused attention being paid to the country’s various ports of entry and sensitisation, and response training of key first responders, including health workers, being undertaken by the Ministry of Health.

Training of other stakeholders, including immigration officers, Customs officers and other air and seaport workers will be intensified.

Bermuda government overhauls work permit regulations Relatives went door to door backed by security forces to give out pictures of the missing students

DESPERATE relatives have joined soldiers in the search for 44 students who disappeared during protests in the Mexican town of Iguala in the state of Guerrero.

The trainee teachers are missing since last Friday.

They were last seen being bundled into police vans during protests over job discrimination against rural teachers.

Police had opened fire on their buses and on protestors killing six people and injuring 17.

Some 22 officers are being held in connection with the shooting.

In Iguala and in the outskirts of the town relatives knocked on doors of homes handing out pictures of their loved ones.

Backed by soldiers and state police they looked in gullies, on empty land and in villages around Iguala in the hopes of finding traces of the students.

Manuel Olivares, coordinator of the Guerrerense Network of Human Rights

Organisations told the French news agency, AFP: “The search is taking place in places that people know as being high-risk because organised crime dominates these places. “ He said while the families were hopeful their loved ones would turn up alive, they were looking in places that gangs use to bury bodies.

State prosecutors say they are following leads that drug gangs in the area could be involved in the disappearances.

Ebola response unit for Caura Hospital A NATIONAL Ebola Response Unit will be included at the Caura Hospital to provide treatment to people who may contract the Ebola virus.

Acting Minister of Health Dr Tim Gopeesingh said Thursday the facility would be upgraded to ensure proper management of the virus, which has killed more than 3,000 people in Africa, and had reached the United States, with one person being treated.

Gopeesingh was speaking at the post-Cabinet news briefing at the 18th Floor of the San Fernando Teaching Hospital.

He said: “It will be a

four-bed treatment centre and Caura will be refurbished to provide housing for health care workers who will be required to provide 24-hour care and management of suspected cases of Ebola, so as to have proper management of these cases.”

Gopeesingh said two rooms would be upgraded at the Piarco International Airport to treat any suspected cases.

He said a team comprising health officials and Government ministers will visit Nebraska, USA, to attend a training symposium for infectious diseases.

“The team will observe

how infectious diseases like Ebola can be safely undertaken with minimal risk to health care workers, a situation which is taking the attention of the WHO. The team will work with the Nebraska bio-containment unit and will submit recommendations to have a planning policy and programmes and presentation plans. Prevention, early detection and management of Ebola in keeping with international best practices,” he said.

Gopeesingh said the Ministries of Health, National Security and Transport would work together in the fight against the Ebola virus.

(Jamaica Gleaner) THE Bermudan government plans to overhaul work permit regulations to enable the reduction of red tape to demonstrate that the island is open for business.

Home Affairs Minister Michael Fahy says the revisions were compiled by the government after extensive consultation.

And he says they are

designed to attract foreign businesses to Bermuda and include the creation of new categories of work permit for exempt companies.

The changes could come into effect by the end of the year.

A new Bermuda Employment Visa will allow exempt companies to employ some foreigners without needing to advertise or to apply for

a standard work permit, although companies applying for such visas will have to be accredited.

A new Global Entrepreneur Work Permit will allow entrepreneurs looking to start up a business in Bermuda to obtain a work permit and the right of residency on the island while they are setting up their business.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

The Ukraine crisis TO those who earn their living by the work of Diplomacy, whether they are Ambassadors or Foreign Ministers, the world is unfortunately never a quiet or placid place.

So it is no surprise the current Ukraine problem should eventually have been projected into Guyana, a small country, most of whose inhabitants had never heard of ‘Ukraine’ or had any idea where on the Earth’s surface it was.

Ukraine was one of the most important republics in the former USSR and it is contiguous to the Russian Republic. The Ukrainians and Russians are closely linked historically, culturally and ethnically and are together the most important part of the Slavic world.

When the USSR disintegrated into various republics, the Russian Republic and the Ukrainian

Republic, despite the inevitable rise of nationalisms, still maintained a remarkable degree of cooperation and closeness.

But the western regions of Ukraine, with the passing of time, tended to see greater cultural and economic progress if they linked with Western and Central Europe and became part of the European Union. The eastern regions tended to feel greater affinity with the Slavic world and Russia. When the pro-Russian President was driven out of office, he was succeeded by pro-Western ones who declared that Ukraine would seek EU membership and join the Western military alliance, NATO. And these two positions, the pro-Western and pro Slavic/Russian, kept growing in strength and the Ukrainians found themselves a divided nation.

At this point, the EU informally indicated that they would be willing to

admit Ukraine to membership of the EU and would integrate them into NATO in due course. The eastern regions strongly objected to this position.

Russia may have perceived itself as being cornered and this probably led to the seizure of Crimea, a part of Ukrainian territory, where in any case, there was a large Russian naval base at Sevastopol. Crimea had always been part of Russia from Imperial times and it was only comparatively recently, it was removed from Russia and ceded to Ukraine by Nikita Khrushov.

European states, aware of the complexities of the Crimean problem, are more cautious in their positions on the issue than outsiders.

Unfortunately, violence has erupted between the western and eastern regions of Ukraine with the USA and the EU tacitly supporting one side and Russia supporting

the other side. But all sides, the West, Russia and opposing parties in Ukraine are distressed at this slide into civil war but they all seem powerless to stop it and seemed to have been caught in a determinist spiral.

It is quite clear that Ukraine is a European problem and not a world problem and non-Europeans being involved in it would make it more intractable and difficult to solve. The Europeans should be allowed to solve this problem and they are quite capable of doing so without outside involvement.

Unfortunately, this purely European problem seem to be spinning out into a clash between the West, led by the USA and Russia and smaller states, without any discernible interest of theirs or any involvement in the problem are being drawn into this increasingly com-

plex conflictual situation.

The present truce between western and eastern Ukraine promises to develop into permanent peace and reunification of the country. This would allow for unfair and unacceptable pressures on small states such as Guyana to be relaxed and removed.

Guyana knows that any involvement, even indirectly, in this purely European problem would in no way help to solve it and may exacerbate it. Guyanese have always been confident that the Europeans are able to successfully solve their problems and therefore feel it is incorrect and unwise to involve themselves in this regrettable civil conflict.

Guyana is a small state

which has enjoyed and is still enjoying very valued close and friendly relations with both the Western countries and Russia, and Guyanese strongly desire to make those relations deeper.

But Guyanese realise how obviously peripheral they are to solving the Ukrainian problem and to the core Western and Russian interests in this issue. Most Guyanese feel that Europe would be able to solve this European problem and that once peace has returned, both the West and Russia should make good their promises of billions of dollars of assistance to Ukraine.

Involve stakeholders Electioneering for Municipal & Local in climate change Government Elections agreements I WOULD like to congratulate the Guyana team for attending the UN summit in New York last month. I am encouraged by the many side meetings our President had with a number of Heads of State. I am particularly pleased with his meeting with the new Norway Prime Minister and the desire to continue the Climate Change partnership.

The current Guyana/Norway agreement, I believe, expires at the end of this year. I would, however, like to advise the President that for any new agreement or extension of the current agreement he must put his technical people at OCC, GGMC, MNRE, MOAA and GFC to be involved in the negotiations.

These are the folks that manage our natural resources and know what to agree to and what is difficult to achieve.

When we have people in negotiations who are not involved in the operation of the various sectors we put ourselves at great disadvantage. Let us look at what we have right now and what to do for Norway-compliance with a low level of deforestation rate, EItI, Eu Flegt, IFM, Moratorium on issuance of concessions for mining and forestry, a whole long list of Governance indicators - just take a look at the JCN on the LCDS website; it is just ridiculous. And that is not all; when the money is earned it goes to IDB or World Bank for another set of compliance requirements.

Is this the way we negotiate, where we earn and cannot spend? This must stop. It is time Guyana gets competent negotiators who understand the dynamics of our country for a new or extended Guyana/Norway agreement.

I AM about to return to Guyana after spending a couple weeks with professional colleagues, family and friends in Toronto and Ottawa. I used to work and live in Toronto in the 1970’s when immigrants from around the world, including Guyana, were not as widely and numerically present as they obviously are these days.

The relatively high representation of immigrants and their offspring in all spheres of their Canadian life, especially in professional, community and cultural activities was a special joy to behold. This contrasted remarkably with my recollection of the 1970’s. For example, at an intersection close to my family home in Markham, a part of the Greater Toronto area, there are 15 colourful, obviously costly pictorial placards of the candidates vying for election. Judging by their photos and names 4 are women and 12 are apparently descendants of immigrants. Also interesting was the fact that the placards are planted on the ground at all busy intersections for weeks without any noticeable attempt to vandalise or remove them by any of the 15 contestants or their respective supporters. In my view, this is uniquely refreshing and speaks volumes for the high level of sophistication and good sense of mutual respect for civic responsibility.

It was also quite uplifting to note the absence of mud-slinging in the campaigns among the candidates. The positive, non-accusatory electioneering for municipal/local government representation and the relatively high participation rates among immigrants and their Canadian-born children and grand-children are worthy of note by their families and friends ‘back home’.

Of note also, were the apparent absence of rancor and the presence of civility during the televised mayoral debates.

Having regard to the possibility of imminent elections in Guyana, one hopes that the level of sophistication and civility witnessed in Toronto can be emulated in spirit and action among our compatriots.

FABIAN CHARLES

NOWRANG PERSAUD

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Stop the pussyfooting POLITICIANS and media moguls who should be sitting in a jail, rather than sitting in an office or sitting in parliament, for buggery, paedophilia, tax fraud, incitement to terrorism and murder, and other criminal acts, most often are not prosecuted because their first recourse to defence is accusations of political harrassment.

The Government must push them in parliament to go ahead with their no-confidence motion, which must be first on the

agenda.

They had it in their

power to recall parliament and to keep parliament open during the break to go ahead with their no confidence motion against PPPC. Why the talk now of other bills? There must be no talk of other bills, the only thing should be

on the table must be their no-confidence motion against Government.

It is evident that one Opposition leader is trying to deflect the buggery charges coming against him since he appears guilty as hell.

How much longer will they continue to bugger, beat, rob, sexually molest and kill innocent citizens and get away with it?

Imagine if Opposition leaders and media operatives get away with no prosecution for the serious crimes they allegedly commit what would become of the poor people in Guyana.

TED KING

Government and Diaspora working together

THE Diaspora is playing a very important role to the country’s development, and the Government has recognised this so much so that President Donald Ramotar and two senior ministers addressed the Guyanese community in California and South Florida during the past few days.

In California, Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh told a large gathering that the PPP/C Government is appreciative of their assistance to their relatives and friends at home, and in Florida the President and Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, expressed their thanks to the diaspora, which turned out in large numbers at Miramar.

Members of the Diaspora, besides sending regular remittances to relatives and friends in Guyana, also send books, computers and other forms of assistance to the primary and secondary schools they attended in Guyana.

A few offer scholarships to students in Guyana. Recently, businessman Brian Ramphal who hails from Kitty, Georgetown and now resides in California decided

to give back to his community and offered two scholarships to students of his alma mater, St. Stanislaus College, with recipients being Omefia Garraway and Oral Mc Alister to study at the University of Guyana.

Ramphal is known to be very generous and in several instances contributed to disaster relief funds, personal tragedy victims, US Armed Services personnel, Univer-

sities and his alma mater.

The Guyana Government has planned to work in collaboration with the Diaspora through the numerous Guyanese Associations in several cities and towns in the United States, mainly in New York, Florida, California, Atlanta, as well as a few in the Caribbean islands.

OSCAR RAMJEET

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Guyana Health Care Education Institute controversy…

Nigel Hughes attempts to mislead the public THE MINISTRY of Education notes that Nigel Hughes in his attempt to distance himself from the controversy in relation to the Guyana Health Care Education Institute, attempts to mislead the Guyanese public by withholding relevant information.

The Ministry of Education having been deliberately drawn into the fray by political activists of the Opposition feels compelled to respond so as to fully inform the people of Guyana about this issue.

Firstly, the ministry wishes to commend Nigel Hughes for admitting that he advises and represents Nanda Kissoon and Guyana Health Care Education Institute-a body that many young people alleged have robbed them.

The Guyana Health Care Education Institute also known as the School of Nursing and the American Health Institute applied to the National Accreditation Council for registration. The ministry is advised that the NAC denied the application on the grounds that the Guyana Health Care Education Institute had failed abysmally to meet the required standards for registration.

In an effort to force the Council to register the Guyana Health Care Education Institute, proceedings were filed in the high court by Nanda Kissoon and Guyana Health Care Education Institute claiming that the Council had not reached and its decision not to register the Guyana Health Care Education Institute was not according to fair hearing principles. Whether the Council was right or had grounds to have denied registration was never an issue that the court would

Nigel Hughes

have considered. What was under examination was the process by which that decision was taken.

In other words, it was a procedural incorrectness and not the substantive decision that was being complained about.

The ministry is advised that it is true that the Council consented to the order being sought

by Nanda Kissoon and the Guyana Health Care Education Institute.

The Ministry is disappointed in Nigel Hughes for failing to tell the Guyanese nation what the consent order means.

The ministry is advised that consenting to the order sought by Nanda Kissoon and Guyana Health Care Education Institute only means that the decision by the National Accreditation Council not to register the Guyana Health Care Education Institute is quashed.

It does not mean that all of a sudden and automatically, simply because Nigel Hughes and his controversial client wish it were so, that Guyana Health Care Education Institute has now met the required standards to which our young people are entitled and which are internationally set and demanded by the Council.

Once the order by the Council was quashed whether by consent or otherwise, it is the status quo ante that would kick in. This means that the status enjoyed by the Guyana Health Care Education Institute just before the Council made the decision not to register that body is what would kick in. At the time the Council denied registration the Guyana Health Care Education Institute was not registered. Therefore, the Guyana Health Care Education Institute is still not registered.

The ministry is advised that a prudent lawyer would have prayed for and obtained an order compelling the registration of the Guyana Health Care Education Institute. The ministry is advised that such an order was never prayed for and therefore never granted and so the contempt proceedings compelling the members of the National Accreditation Council to register the Guyana Health Care Education Institute or be jailed, is perverse and bound to fail.

In light of the above, what exactly is the relevance of all the legal jargon and fluff written by Nigel Hughes in his press release if not to mislead

the nation? He speaks of a consent order but that order does nothing to change what the ministry said the day before in its press release.

Additionally and significantly, Nigel Hughes recognises his constitutional right to practise in whatever matters he desires but characteristically, he fails to recognise the rights of other lawyers to so practise. In fact, in the same missive that he seeks protection of the constitution, he clumsily attempts to chauvinistically drag the name of the young, female lawyer who represents the Council, a statutory body, into disrepute by vulgarly pointing to other matters where she appears. This behaviour is typical of the Alliance For Change (AFC) and its leaders.

The crux of the matter is that the same poor Guyanese students are alleging that they are being robbed by the Guyana Health Care Education Institute. Nigel Hughes has admitted that he advises that body and its owners.

He has not apologised to the students or to the nation. He is in fact seeking to jail people who are trying to prevent those students from falling prey to what the students have alleged is a fraud. These are the facts. Nothing he has said in his press release says otherwise.

Contrary to the role of other players in this sad story, the National Accreditation Council and the Ministry of Education are inspired by a duty to ensure that those who seek to offer educational training to our people are duly qualified and competent to do so. From this responsibility, we shall not shirk! (Ministry of Education release)

Mining Information Toolkit for Guyana communicates a shared vision of excellence in mining - Persaud

Minister Persaud receiving a copy of the Mining Information Toolkit for Guyana from Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Nicole Giles during the re-launch Wednesday last

closed that the Guyana Mining Information Toolkit was origiThe second edition of the nally developed from the CanaMining Information Toolkit dian Mining Information Toolkit for Guyana communicates a for Aboriginal Communities.

Dr. Giles said that Canashared vision of excellence in mining, Minister of Natural da had decided to design its Resources and Environment mining toolkit in 2007 because the Natural Resources Agency Robert Persaud has said.

“The development of the had recognised the need to help handbook provides a powerful communities surrounding mines and credible way for compa- to voice their views and have nies, development agencies and them taken into consideration.

The document arrived at other stakeholders in the mining sub-sectors, objectively to as- during widespread consultations sess the sector’s economic and was designed in four modules social contribution and to build corresponding to the main stagconsensus on ways to enhance es of the mining cycle: mineral exploration, mine development, it,” he said.

He urged that the handbook mine operation and mine clo“which presents the bigger pic- sure.

The Canadian Mining Toolture of the way things ought to be” be used as a guiding instru- kit provided practical examples ment by miners and all other of best practices in community stakeholders so that the local experiences, positive relationsector can become an example ships and partnerships with to other mining countries facing mining companies and the regusimilar challenges in managing latory process of mining.

It enabled communities to the extraction of their mineral become well informed about resources.

He hopes too that all Guy- the range of economic social anese would read the handbook and environmental effects and to understand the sector and benefits that mining posed; to hopefully participate in making identify the many opportunities operators rise to higher levels that mining could bring to their of performance not only in pro- communities.

“It became a How to Guide duction and environmentally friendly mining but in socially for best practices in Canada’s Mining Sector; has been a tool responsible operations.

The Mining Information for successful company, comToolkit for Guyana was first munity stakeholder and Govlaunched with support from the ernment engagement; and has Canadian High Commission in since been adopted by emerging and very stable mining countries 2012.

A revised version was for- such as Peru, Mali, Columbia, mally handed over to Persaud by Mexico, Ghana, Nigeria and Canadian High Commissioner to recently Guyana, “ she disclosed.

Baksh said that there will Guyana, Dr. Nicole Giles at the Guyana International Confer- be need for constant upgrading ence Centre (GICC) Wednesday of the 114 page-book to keep last during a programme attend- the information current and ed by miners, suppliers, repre- relevant.

He also invited comments sentatives of miners and other stakeholders in the local sector and recommendations to imas well as by representatives of prove the range and quality of indigenous communities which its contents.

The revised edition of the are or can be impacted by mining Mining Information Toolkit activities.

During the programme, De- for Guyana can be accessed sign Consultant Ajay Baksh dis- on the website of the MNR&E.

By Clifford Stanley

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Industry/Plaisance NDC Overseer’s appointment above board- Whittaker LOCAL Government Minister Norman Whittaker has refuted claims made by residents of the Industry/Plaisance Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) in respect of the newly appointed overseer, stating that he was selected fairly using a democratic process.

The Government Information Agency (GINA) quoted Whittaker as saying that the residents were misinformed and misguided on the appointment of the overseer, Orlando Jardine.

On October 1, a small group of residents protested in front of the Industry/Plaisance NDC, over Jardine’s appointment and what they claim is the takeover of inherited land by the Government.

But Jardine’s appointment, Whittaker explained, followed a standard required procedure implemented in all of the 65 NDCs. According to the minister, the recent appointment of the Industry/Plaisance, Unity/ Vereeniging and Ordnance overseers, among others were all subjected to the same requirement.

The minister explained that the vacancies for these positions were altogether advertised by the Ministry in many of the national newspapers.

They were carried on August 24, 29 and 31 in the Guyana Times, Kai-

eteur News and Stabroek News and on the Government Information Agency (GINA) website, the minister said. The position, which was open to all, had the same requirements; that the applicant must have five subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Examination Council (CSEC), Grades One -Three, be at least 25 years, be computer literate, have previous work experience and a police clearance.

The applicants for the positions were all shortlisted and interviewed by a panel comprising a representative from the ministry, another from the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Region 4 and another from the respective NDC. With regards to the Industry/Plaisance appointment, Whittaker explained that eight persons applied for the position of the overseer, and the interviewing panel (that comprised representatives of the Ministry, the RDC, Region 4 (Demerara/Mahaica) and the Industry/Plaisance NDC, shortlisted five of these persons to be interviewed.

However, on invitation only two of the shortlisted, turned up to the interview and after consideration the panel determined that Jardine was the one most suitable for the position.

Jardine, among his other qualifications is a second year University of Guyana

student pursuing a Diploma in Social Work. He also has accounting qualification and has work experience, working in a senior position.

Further, the NDC, based on its financial situation, could not meet the salary expectation of the second person that was considered for the position, the minister said.

Whittaker refuted the residents’ argument that Jardine should not have been chosen for the position as he is not from the area. He noted that contrary to what is being said there is no geographic restriction on who can be appointed overseer of an NDC. “There is nothing that precludes any person from any part of the 83,000 square miles of Guyana applying for that position. What is being pointed out there is intended to convey that the overseer for Industry/Plaisance must come from Industry/Plaisance.” Whittaker said.

He added that it is in fact desirable to have an overseer from within the community, but once he/she meets the requirements/ qualifications for the position.

He explained that this was in fact the case with regards to Deborah Mc Dowell, an assistant overseer, residents felt was overlooked for the position.

But Whittaker explained that although Mc Dowell has

Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker months, overseer acting.

15 years of experience within The panel, as well looked the NDC, she in fact has only at all of this including Mc been acting in the position Dowell’s qualifications and for two months; contrary to experience before deciding the impression being given on selecting Jordon, the that she has been acting in the minister said.

“We cannot set requireposition for longer.

Mc Dowell who started ments, set standards and out as a typist clerk within compromise those stanthe NDC moved on to the po- dards. We cannot repose sition of a rate collector, then confidence in a set of peomarket clerk, then assistant ple to view potential emoverseer and for the past two ployees, and having done

9

that say to them without good cause that we do not respect and cannot accept your recommendation,” Whittaker exhorted.

He added that the person whom the press were told has many Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) subjects, have to be premised on the belief that Grade 4 at the CSEC is a pass. He said that whilst this candidate has a couple of subjects at Grade Four, which might be suitable for employment in some areas, it was not suitable for the requirement of the position as advertised by the ministry.

Whittaker also addressed the issue of the land dispute, noting that contrary to what is being said, the land under question is in fact owned by the Guyana Sugar Corporation, which in fact has no intention to sell it, but instead is now clearing it for use.

The minister noted that what has happened is that no one bothered to verify what obviously is a rumour, but proceeded to spread such around the village.

MABEL noted that Chief Whip Gail has described the fracas over the speaker’s sexual predilection as utter poppycock, but she may be mistaken, it has nothing to do with poppy’s and everything to do with Donald’s.

Nothing has caused the Mayor of Georgetown Hamilton Green as much embarrassment and left him in a bitter mood, as when Mabel labeled him a dunderhead, because it is a genuine truth, the truth really hurts, eh Hammy. ………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………….

Budgetary proposals for 2014 are being prepared in the Ministry and Mabel wishes to remind the authorities that a really pressing need has been neglected for far too long and that is to satisfy the many young Guyanese involved in myriad entrepreneurial ventures to be provided with a properly professional managed industrial bank.

Conscious and deliberate scheming to deprive Customs and Trade Administration of legitimate taxes is a most dishonest and corrupt practice, persons found guilty of this detestable act should be given the maximum sentences. …Mabel recognises that it takes money to run a country. Robbery by evading the payment of duties, etc. can only harm the quality of service expected from government. ……………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………………………………………………………..

Protesters demonstrating outside the Industry/Plaisance NDC office

Shattering news from Georgetown Public Hospital maternity ward just reached Mabel.

It is being alleged by first hand sufferer that expectant mothers are not receiving traditional pre-birth preparations.

Enemas appear to be something forgotten. Mabel is shocked into disbelief.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Guyana Goldfields Inc. begins commercial production mid next year -says safety will be one of its highest priorities, if not the highest

By Clifford Stanley PRESIDENT and Chief

Executive Officer (CEO) of Guyana Goldfields Inc, Scott Caldwell, which is

planning to begin commercial production of gold by the second half of

next year, says that safety will be one of the company’s highest priorities, if not the highest.

“And of course the environment,” he added.

He made the comments while briefing stakeholders in the gold mining industry on progress being achieved by the company in meeting its mid next year target.

He said that the company is installing one of

to be taken to the mine site.

The mill will be fully computerised and automated with state-of- the- art technology and environmental protection.

There will only be a few people actually running the mill as most of the workforce will be in the mines and maintaining the mill.

Work is currently ongoing on building the SAG

the price of gold goes up but if it doesn’t the operation is low cost and the company will still be able to make some money and stay in business.

The company antic ipates a mine life of at least seventeen years in the form of an open pit mine transitioning to an underground mine.

He added that the company feels that the size of the gold deposit at Aurora is quite large so that it may

Mr. Caldwell addressing stakeholders in the mining industry during the re-launch of the Mining Information toolkit for Guyana Wednesday last

the newest state-of-the art plant on the face of the earth and the method of operation will ensure that there isn’t a cyanide risk at this plant “Things have changed a lot over the past twenty years in terms of standards in tailings dam construction. Cyanide will be destroyed before we even discharge it into the dam or into the tailings facility.

There will be fish; there will be wildlife in the tailings facility. I will drink the tailings water. I have done it before I will do it again,” he said.

He disclosed that there are 500 people, men and women working at Aurora at the moment, mainly in construction.

The company is spending an average of US $20M a month and the road to and from the mine site is busy.

The Semi-Autogenous Grinding Mill (SAG ), which arrives later this month, weighing over 60 tonnes is the heaviest load

mill foundation. “ We have been pouring concrete every day into construction of the foundation. Our largest pour was about 450 cubic metres about a month ago and the typical pour about 100 cubic metres of concrete per day.”

“We are getting ready to feed the mill. The mill will be ready to accept ore sometime April May next year. Commercial production targeted three to four months after.”

The mill will grind rocks down to a powder; leach the powder with cyanide so the gold is dissolved and retrieve the gold using carbon.

The company will ship gold bars It is planning to double the mill size in a couple of years from a 5,000-tonne a day processor to a 10,000-tonne a day mill .

Caldwell said that the company was hoping that

quite possibly lead to a mine life of between 30 to 35 years.

He said that the goal of the company is to be a Guyanese mine run by Guyanese.

“We buy what we can locally; we employ as many people as we can locally; and we give back to the community in lots of different initiatives to add to the sustainability of the project.”

The company is working with the Georgetown Technical Institute (GTI) as it moves into operations to acquire youths trained in skills such as welding and electrical work.

He said that apart from the direct employment and indirect employment benefits, the royalty and income tax to be paid to the Government of Guyana, should be a significant contributor to the local economy for many years to come.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Fifty Amerindians successfully complete monitoring

...data collection training under CMRV Programme

Graduates of the Community Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (CMRV) Programme with Latin American Director of the Gobal Canopy Programme (GCP), Luis Meneses, members of the Project management Team, Project Consultant Vanda Radzik, Director of Resource management and training of Iwokrama Dr Raquel Thomas and members of NRDDB

By Raveena Mangal THE Community Monitoring, Reporting and Ve r i f i c a t i o n ( C M RV ) Programme, which was pioneered over the past two and a half years in the North Rupununi Wetlands of Guyana, wrapped up on Tuesday last with the presentation and discussion of a comprehensive monitoring report of the resources and social well-being of all 16 villages in the North Rupununi.

The CMRV Programme, funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), was implemented with its partners - the North Rupununi District Development Board

(NRDDB), Iwokrama and the Global Canopy Programme (GCP). The programme saw the successful training of over 50 Amerindians – mostly youths- from sixteen villages of the North Rupununi area in new technologies using smart phones as tools for data collection and monitoring.

Speaking about the project at a news briefing at Cara Lodge in Georgetown, on Thursday, Project Consultant Vanda Radzik said “local Knowledge Practitioners such as the Makushi Research Unit were also involved and the linkage between traditional knowledge and skills and digital devices and systems were blended to

Arya Samaj elects new executive committee THE GUYANA Central Arya Samaj last Sunday 2014 elected a new executive committee at its biennial general meeting held at its headquarters, 78 Prem Niranjan Place, Prashad Nagar, Georgetown.

The new executive committee is headed by Vishnu Bandhu of West Demerara who copped the presidency with 20 votes from his lone contender Kamal Dhanesar of Corentyne, Berbice who secured 14 votes.

The other members of the executive committee were all elected unopposed. They

include Muneshwar Rup – senior vice-president, Amy Seedan – Junior Vice President, Jaidev N.Dudhnath – General Secretary, Satya P Balgobin and Dr. Bolan Persaud – joint secretaries, Vidawatee Mohabir – treasurer and Aruna Lall-Chan – librarian.

The elections were conducted by former president Dr. Dharam Deo Sawh who served as Returning Officer.

According to the new president Vishnu Bandhu, the committee will meet shortly to plan a work programme.

produce an enhanced method for data collection and reporting.” These local monitors were referred to as CREWS, Community Resource and Environment Workers, upon their convocation from the programme they are now Local Community Scientists (LCSs).

Regarding the progress of the programme, she noted that the Community Monitoring Framework covering essential indicators for local, national and international levels was developed. More than 6,000 forms collected by local monitors on hunting and fishing, wildlife and water, farming and road impacts and social wellbeing were turned into village reports

and repots to Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC); Forest Carbon Stocks were measured in the community owned forests. GFC was also supported with Ground - truthing and verification of the 2010 satellite imagery on deforestation and forest cover in the North Rupununi and digitalised and scaled community resource maps were produced for each of the sixteen communities.

Latin American Director of the Global Canopy Programme (GCP), Luis Meneses, while speaking of his experience throughout the programme mentioned his exciting journey with the Makushi people and North Rupununi, the fantastic years

of learning for those on the ground, for the management team and also for GCP learning about the realities and the difficulties of such projects.

“We are doing monitoring with last generation smart phones where the community is going out into the forest and collecting information.

GPS points, photos, videos and the filling out of forms using internet cloud based mechanisms to send information and access information.

So the latest in terms of technology is being given to the community and traditional people of Guyana. This is very unique bringing together of two worlds,” he said.

Director of Resource Management and Training of the Iwokrama International Centre, Dr Raquel Thomas-Caesar said: “Empowering communities to manage the lands they own is a very important aspect. Iwokrama has been training and learning from persons in the north Rupununi for many years.

Collectively and through partnership we have created a calibre of experts, new experts in the North Rupununi.”

She proudly related that the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) hired some of the graduates from the project to train other communities in their sister project, graduates, therefore, are not only empowered but they are sharing their skills learned.

She urged the recognition of the skills that the programme has provided to

those embowered, by communities and the country as a whole to ensure that they are used not only to build the country but to ensure that the North Rupununi remains the beautiful place that it is, knowing that development is inevitable but it should be done in the right way.

The Project Management Team was fully staffed by Amerindians and local personnel. They included Field Coordinator Bryan Allicock who spoke of the changes he saw occurring with the community, “Communities can be able to make wise decisions to help their development.”

Technology Assistant Shurland Davis related that working in the CMRV project gave him the opportunity to return to his community after studying, to teach and help empower others. It allowed him to not just gather data but to build confidence in himself and others. “When the data is analysed, it becomes information to help the people make wise decisions and to manage them resources, to use it (sustainably).”

Ms. Susan George, graduated local community scientist who received the best CREW award, said that their experience on the ground to gather and analyse data, was more than simply going to sites and noting what they saw, it allowed new and important information to be taken to those in authority.

Education Ministry, Roraima State University explore ways of enhancing Portuguese curriculum MINISTER of Education, Ms. Priya Manickchand and Chief Education Officer, Olato Sam on Thursday met with Professor Dr. Gioconda Martinez, Chancellor of the Federal University of Roraima State, Brazil and her team to discuss ways in which the ministry and the University can work together to enhance the Ministry’s Portuguese curriculum.

The Ministry of Education is very conscious that it has a responsibility to make sure that it meets the needs of Guyana today, as well as prepare young people to meet the needs of Guyana‘s growing global connections.

Since the launch of the Portuguese Curriculum in 2013, the Ministry of Education has started teaching Portuguese in (From Left) Chief Education Officer, Olato Sam, Minister of Education, Ms. Priya 25 schools across Regions 3, 4, Manickchand, Chancellor of the Federal University of Roraima State, Brazil-5, 9, 10, and Georgetown.

Professor Dr. Gioconda Martinez and Dr. Meer Khan

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Cereal production facility for Region 2 THE Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce on Wednesday launched an initiative to build a commercial facility in Region 2 (Pomeroon/Supenaam) for the production of breakfast cereals from rice. The launch was attended by President Donald Ramotar and First Lady Deolatchmee Ramotar as well as Prime Minister Samuel Hinds and Mrs Yvonne Hinds and ministers Irfaan Ali, Ashni Singh, Leslie Ramsammy, Ali Baksh and Juan Edghill. Government

will invest Guyana $75M into the project, for a facility which would have the capacity to produce five tonnes of breakfast cereals daily. The funding is secured under the Rural Development Fund administered by the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce.

Director of IAST, Professor Suresh Narine, commented: “This is the first of a series of innovative projects at the IAST that will be commercialised within the next 10 months, and I am delighted that this, the first of the series, focuses on adding value to rice to

produce a nutritious, tasty and high-value product. I would like to express my sincere thanks to Minister Ali for his partnership and vision in collaborating with the institute to make this commercialisation possible.”

Minister Ali said: “In keeping with this year ’s theme for GuyExpo, ‘Transformation through Partnership’, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce is delighted to take the lead in collaborating with the IAST to ensure rural development, value-adding to our agricultural commodities, and the creation of more than 60 jobs in Region

2.” By taking the lead on this project, the minister clearly was able to “walk the talk” when he encouraged patrons during his speech at the opening ceremonies of GuyExpo to take risk so as to create wealth.

Among the beaming and visibly delighted dignitaries, Minister of Agriculture Dr Leslie Ramsammy also joined the others in commending IAST for its role in fostering innovation and further indicated that this project fits in perfectly with the vision the Ministry of Agriculture has been advocating - the utilisation of science and technology for

the adding of value to our agricultural commodities, not only for the production of nutritious food, but also for the production of other useful and valuable products.

Similar words of encouragement and commendation were echoed by the other speakers, which included Dr Ashni Singh, Minister of Finance and Prime Minister Hinds.

President Ramotar, in his comments, congratulated IAST for its efforts and pointed out that in his opinion there were many other innovative processes developed by the Institute that justifies additional com-

mercialisation activity. The President visited the institute approximately six weeks ago and was impressed by the number and spectrum of projects underway at the institute.

The institute began a market survey last night at GuyExpo to evaluate the product. Already, based on approximately 200 taste testers from among the public, the product, which is currently either chocolate or molasses flavoured, has received almost unanimously positive reviews.

Rohee weighs in on positive, negative aspects of technology – at PYO 62nd anniversary function GENERAL Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and Home Affairs Minister, Clement Rohee, last Wednesday, noted that

technological development has its advantages and disadvantages.

He made this observation while addressing a function at

the Cheddi Jagan Research Centre (Red House) to mark the 62nd anniversary of the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO)-youth arm of

the PPP. Mr. Rohee stated that years ago, people did not enjoy the luxury of having cell phones and other electronic devices. He noted that nowadays people do not have only one phone, but several, also, some years ago persons had to walk great distances to make phone calls, but now times have changed; people could now transmit information in a split second.

Mr. Rohee, however, added that this vast development in technology can be a bad thing and a good thing.

He used an internet source to give the audience an example of a bad aspect of information and communication technology. He referred to the pro-democracy protest going on in Hong Kong, during which youthful protestors used “tech tactics” to

protest by posting scenes of the protest on Facebook and other social media. A young girl who was studying, saw the post and rushed outside to get a first-hand look and was affected by tear gas thrown by police to disperse the protestors.

He noted that the cell phone is a powerful tool and can be used to do many things and this is a typical example of what could possibly take place in Guyana, and stories such as that in the example can spread panic and encourage others to get involved in activities that are not conducive to progress.

Mr. Rohee urged persons to be careful how they use technology to transmit information, and also to know what they are posting on social media, because once it’s there, it can send out either a

Clement Rohee

positive or negative message.

He then mentioned the positive aspect of people benefiting from technology through saving them money. Business people for example, do not necessarily have to expend large sums of money travelling abroad to sell their products; they could do so through the internet.

Concentrate on training... ing in the wrong direction.

“We must now concentrate on training for jobs that are available, or be faced with a serious dilemma,” Duncan said.

NAACIE General Secretary Kenneth Joseph contended that too many of our youths, 18 and over are still unemployed.

He noted that even though the newspapers advertise a lot of vacancies, the problem is that the job seekers are either over-qualified or under qualified; in the latter case, they lack the qualification requirements or suitability for the jobs being advertised.

This has resulted in many youths being self-employed;

driving taxis; engaging in gold and diamond mining or in the forestry sector. Alternatively, they are forced to opt for low- paying jobs.

Noting that there is dignity in labour, Joseph condemned the practice of employers employing cheap labour, and called on government to initiate moves to robustly and relentlessly stamp out cheap labour, by both local and foreign employers. Only then can we truly lay claim to embracing the paradigm of twinning employment with dignity, he said.

CCWU President, Sherwood Clarke, addressing the harsh realities of unemployment and how it negatively

From page 3

impacts the ability to live in dignity, also alluded to the pathetic global scenario where around 839 million workers lived with their families on less than US$2 per day.

He quoted the World Bank’s findings of a 22% unemployment rate in Guyana, Clarke contended that one reason for the unemployment situation in Guyana being what it is, is that too many job-creating projects have been placed on hold because of political bickering. “Our situation can be resolved with increased dialogue in an environment in which “trust” is observed by all the players,” he concluded.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Private sector optimistic about Guyana’s potential, future - PSC Chairman

Mr Ramesh Persaud – Chairman of the PSC

By Savitri Laikram GUYANA’S largest Trade and Investment Exposition (GuyExpo) which showcases locally produced goods and services began last Thursday evening at the Sophia Exhibition Centre.

GuyExpo is a national event and has a permanent place on the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce’s annual Calendar of Events.

The event saw hundreds of exhibitors, who stepped out to showcase what they have to offer; dominating the showcase, however, were a majority of private companies and private sector entities.

Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) Mr. Ramesh Persaud, addressing the thousands in attendance said that this is the time of year when members of the business community showcase all that is good about Guyana and showcase their enterprises, products and services.

The theme for this year’s GuyExpo is ‘Transformation: Partnering for a better Guyana’. Persaud said that the theme resonates with the Private Sector Commission.

The PSC is an umbrella organisation comprising sectoral orgnisations; large private companies; Chambers of Commerce; business associations, etc, which themselves represent a wide cross-section of a large number of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, he said.

He added that the PSC itself is a reflection of the partners working together as businesses with competing interests or even direct competitors coming together to

advance policies for a better Guyana.

Persaud said that the private sector is proud of being a contributor to Guyana’s development today, and the private sector is optimistic about its potential and future.

He opined that the bright optimism manifested by the participation of entrepreneurs and overseas investors, is also a good show of confidence.

He said that the private sector partnering efforts with the Government for a better Guyana pre-dates independence in 1966, when the Governors and Mayors back then always consulted with the leaders of the Chamber of Commerce before any major decisions were made by the state.

This continued after independence, but was interrupted when the state began its experimentation with cooperative socialism and nationalisation in the 1970s up until the 1980s.

Persaud added that the private sector’s influence and contribution to the economy were significantly reduced during that period. However, after the markets were opened up in the late 1980s, the private sector regrouped and through the PSC became the major leading civil society partner in the struggle for restoration of democracy in Guyana and subsequent transformation of the economy.

He noted that in partnership with the Government and civil society, the private sector contributed to the establishment of the National Development Strategy; Poverty Reduction Strategy; National Competitiveness Strategy and the Low Carbon Development Strategy; all of which are policy tools used by the Government to achieve the economic transformation experienced in recent times.

He added that under the National Competitiveness Strategy, the private sector, through the PSC, has an input into the formulation and implementation of Government policies. Much has been achieved as a result of this partnership, but it is a work in progress.

The Commercial Court, which fast-tracks commercial disputes resolution, is one

example of the improvements to the business environment effected under this strategy.

He noted also the introduction of a Credit Bureau, which would help to mitigate credit risks and increase access to finance by businesses, as well as the revamping of the Deeds Registry. Tax reforms through the introduction of VAT, reduction in

personal and corporate taxes are also products of this strategy and partnership.

He said that the allocation of the Government’s expenditure has grown and this benefits the private sector as it is essential for businesses.

Addressing all of the major sectors, he pointed out that they are all privately owned, with the exception of

the sugar industry.

Persaud further stated that the private sector is the pillar of Guyana’s economy.

In the case of mining and quarrying, gold- mining by the private sector accounted for more than 40 percent of all export receipts in 2013.

Even as the private sector expands its operations to transform the economy,

it must be remembered that Guyana’s private sector is relatively young.

He urged entrepreneurs to showcase their assets through their products and services at the 2014 GuyExpo, persons should continue to think of how each of their businesses can be more effective in transforming the society.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

GuyExpo treats patrons with excellent local fruits, vegetables, packaged food items

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally AS the hype continues, Guyexpo saw thousands of patrons on the second night eagerly viewing and discussing with exhibitors their products. It was to many much a surprise that Guyana Supermarket was so well stocked with so many local produce.

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Irfaan Ali had alluded to during a recent press conference that GuyExpo 2014 will have several new features that are conceptually different from previous GuyExpos and this year “we will be launching in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, The Eat What you Grow Campaign”. He explained also that this major innovation will be a 100% local supermarket “a large supermarket right here at the Exhibition site with an extensive array of local products and produce”.

Speaking exclusively to the Guyana Chronicle, Bakewell, a household name in homemade bread, noted that the company has been serving the country over the last 28 years producing bread, tennis rolls, pastries, cakes and other delicacies. Jacob, only name given, said that all products used are local and they have had tremendous support from our people over the years. He also said, “we are present here at the expo because we believe that even though we are a house hold name we can still educate people out there about our product.”

It was noted that many local fruits and vegetables vendors were seen selling their produce and patrons were excitedly buying. There were fruits available that many persons did not know are grown in Guyana; the ‘Suriname genip’ as it is commonly called a red spikey fruit was the high point for many patrons.

Inava a very new company, located in Cummings Street, is one of the first to pack fruit lemonade in a tetra – pack. A representative of the company noted that the lemonade comes in three flavours and is very easy on the pocket. She noted also that the company which is very new on the market is trying to get their name out there. Umani, a sister company, produces locally Chinese sauce, hot sauce, white vinegar, green seasoning, ketchup and all-purpose seasoning. This company as was related was launched in November 2013 and is currently seeing great returns.

Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), this company was established in November 2008 and is located at Lichfield village West Coast Berbice. Their main purpose is to create employment for women and currently has been able to employ some fifty women. YWCA makes an array of products such as pepper, tamarind, seasoning and mango products. Guyana Chronicle reporters were given samples from this booth and it was unanimously agreed that “the tamarind archar was very tasty”.

Marjorie Rodrigues from Moruca’s Finest Products are producers of authentic cassava bread, casareep, farine and roasted peanuts. Rodrigues noted that all their products are available at the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs gift shop and her most popular product is the cassava bread. She explained that since the opening night patrons have been flocking her booth to purchase casareep for the upcoming Christmas holidays.

Dabi’s variety is somewhat different from the other exhibitors since their products are imported from Brazil and New Zealand in bulk quantities and then locally packaged. A representative from this entity explained that their signature product is the Nautra whole cream milk.

GuyExpo 2014 will continue today and Sunday at the National Exhibition Centre under the theme, ‘Transformation: Partnering for a Better Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Chief education officer hails CPCE role in teacher education

The Early Childhood Department booth

The North Georgetown Primary Steel Orchestra perform their musical rendition

By Celestine Juan IN honour of Education Month, the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) held an open day on Friday on the lawns of the CPCE, Turkeyen, to commemorate the theme: “Literate by

Grade 4 through consistent homes, school, and community involvement.”

In the presence of education officials as well as students, a plethora of powerful messages were delivered through brief remarks, as well as musical and dramatic renditions from

These nursery children seem bewildered by an educational display

Chief Education Officer Mr. Olato Sam during his address

The Social Studies Department booth promotes geography

teachers and students.

Gracing the occasion with his presence was Chief Education Officer(CEO) Mr. Olato Sam, who delivered the main address. The CEO noted that the CPCE is a premier teaching institution, which has a key

role to play in identifying and preparing suitably qualified teachers and the overall molding as their professional careers unfold.

Additionally, Sam noted that teachers must use proper teaching methods and CPCE must be the fulcrum of the education system, which must move beyond traditional techniques and use a more progressive educational approach in line with contemporary educational demands.

He expressed great regard

for the expansion of secondary education and training in the hinterland in the future to widen the education of Guyana.

The Principal, CPCE, Ms. Viola Rowe, in her speech said that “Literacy is not only the business of language teachers alone, but also other subject areas.” A student will then apply their knowledge to other aspects such as mathematics or simple map reading.

In keeping with the education theme, she noted that the Cyril Potter College of

Education theme is “Literacy across the curriculum.” The College implements literacy in all its courses of study offered to enhance their students’ reading ability.

Open Days at the institution give one the opportunity to get a sense of what the Cyril Potter College of Education is like, and to pick up a wide range of useful information, courses offered, meet tutors and current students, and speak to the Admissions Officer.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Digicel makes donation to Step-by-Step Foundation – keeps ALS ice bucket challenge promise

By Michel Outridge DIGICEL Guyana, delivering on its promise to match their ALS Ice Bucket Challenge donation to a local charity, yesterday handed over a cheque to the Stepby- Step Foundation in support of caring for children with autism.

The Step- by-Step Foundation is committed to providing a range of clinical and consultative services to children with autism and other neurological disorders and their families.

Step by Step Foundation is geared towards helping children to reach their full potential.

“This donation is very timely since we have been planning on doing some very important maintenance work in and around the school; this is something that we would like other corporate entities to follow suit. Thank you Digicel,” said Ramona Rahat,

Administrator.

Meanwhile, Communications Manager, Vidya Sanichara said: “We decided on matching the ALS donation to the Step- by- Step Foundation because, like ALS, Autism is a neurological condition and making this donation is a step that cements our commitment to the non-governmental organisation and the fight against autism.”

Digicel has been supporting the Step- by- Step Foundation by contributing annually to the foundation’s cause and is a major donor to the organisation.

The Ice Bucket Challenge, sometimes called the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, is an activity involving dumping a bucket of ice water on someone’s head to promote awareness of the disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and to encourage donations for research. It went viral on social media during July–August 2014. In the US, many peo-

ple participate for the ALS Association, and in the UK, many people participate for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, although some individuals have opted to donate their monies from the Ice Bucket Challenge to other organisations.

The challenge encourages nominated participants to be filmed having a bucket of ice water poured on their heads and then nominating others to do the same.

A common stipulation is that nominated participants have 24 hours to comply or forfeit by way of a charitable financial donation.

Police destroy ganja fields at Yarrowkabra, Hauraruni POLICE have reported another cannabis sativa (marijuana) bust on Monday at Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway, in which half an acre of plants was destroyed by burning.

Around 12:00 hours on Tuesday ranks of a mobile patrol conducted a raid at Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, in which a field totalling about half acre in size of cannabis sativa (marijuana) plants ranging from 1-4 feet in height under cultivation, along with 500 plants and a camp were found and destroyed.

No arrests were made Meanwhile, on Tuesday also the Narcotics Branch conducted a drug eradication exercise at Hauraruni, Upper Demerara River.

Police said 10 fields totalling about 15 acres were found with approximately 17,000 cannabis sativa (marijuana) plants ranging from 1-8 feet in height under cultivation, along with 25 nurseries with about 9000 seedlings, and seven camps.

They were destroyed.

Arrests have not been made in this case either.

Police investigating death of Paradise miner

Digicel Guyana Communications Manager Vidya Sanichara as she hands over the cheque to Step-by-Step Foundation Administrator, Ramona Rahat

POLICE are investigating the death of a miner, who hails from Paradise, West Coast Berbice, He was working in a mining pit when it caved in on him on Thursday at Princeville, Potaro River.

He has been identified as Rocklyn Solomon, 32. The incident occurred at about 12:30 hrs, at Princeville, Pota-

ro River.

Investigations revealed that Rocklyn Solomon and other workers were in a pit working, when the wall caved in and trapped him beneath the soil. His body was later retrieved and taken to the Mahdia Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

12th Berbice Annual Car & Bike Show for Better Hope ground FOLK from the Edinburgh Youth and Promotion Club are poised to host one of the biggest events on their entertainment calendar.

Come Sunday, October 12, 2014 the Better Hope Community Centre Ground (East Coast Demerara) will come alive with great festivity when the 12th Annual Berbice Car and Bike Show is hosted at the venue. With the preliminaries of this event hosted in June 2014 at the Bath Community Centre Ground, promoters are now bringing the finals to this new location, since most of the finalists are from the East Coast Demerara district.

Under the theme, “Togetherness,” this event will showcase fiery clashes between the East/West Coast Berbice entrants and participants from along the East Coast of Demerara.

Participants will face off in the categories for Best Bike, Best Rims, Best Sound, Best Graphics, Oldest Model Vehicles and Bikes, and more. Groups expected to participate are

the Hommer Crew, Raj’s Auto Music, Ramchand Auto Body Works, Miracle Optical, Trans Pacifuc, Unity Cabs, Team Destroyer, Home Wreckers, Trini Auto Works, all from the East Coast of Demerara.

East and West Berbice will be represented by Doctor Love Posse, Mohan, Alli’s Bakery, Feroze Service Station, Pishu, and others.

All the competitors will be battling for trophies, gold jewellery, and cash prizes in US and Canadian currencies.

Music for the event will be provided by Stereo Sonics, Thunderbolt, High Tech and Hard Core Sound Systems.

Promoters are urging parents to bring out the kids to this event, since there will be Merry-go-Around, Trampoline, Ring Games and more for the kids.

The event is sponsored

by Sukpaul’s Gas Station, Trophy Stall, People’s Pawn Shop, White Castle Fish Shop and Carib.

Admission to this event has been set at $500 for children, and $1000 for adults.

MoHA in appeal to cattle owners THE Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) yesterday reported that during the month of September 2014, the Stray Catching Unit operating in Georgetown; East Coast Demerara; West Bank Demerara; West Coast Demerara; West Coast Berbice and The Corentyne, Berbice, caught and impounded a total of 286 animals comprising 21 horses, 119 cows, 87 goats and 59 sheep.

A statement added that the Georgetown Unit accounted for 111, whilst the

Berbice Unit accounted for 175.

The MoHA said 17 animals were impounded in ‘A’ Division; 175 in ‘B’ Division; 61 in ‘C’ Division; and 33 in ‘D’ Division.

The ministry appealed to cattle owners to contribute to the safety of road users by ensuring that their animals are properly supervised during their grazing periods and not be left to pose danger to persons using the public roads, and also to cause damage to crops and other properties of persons.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Twelve GPHC nurses complete Neonatal, Burn Care training programmes TWELVE nurses on Friday received certificates after successfully completing the Neonatal and Burn Care training programmes at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

The training programmes were conducted at the Resource Centre of the GPHC and were made possible through the Caribbean

North Charities Foundation (CNCF), a Canada-based non-profit organisation. The CNCF has been working to assist the development of the GPHC for over 12 years.

The organisation was responsible for the re-opening of the Guyana Burn Care Unit (GBCU) in November 2002; since then, they have been constantly assisting in the maintenance and devel-

opment of the GBCU. According to Vice-President of the CNCF, Mrs. Pamela Harakh, in the year 2012, the CNCF started the Neonatal Resuscitation Programme (NRP), which has continued to date.

She also stated that the NRP was set up to enhance the ability of nurses, making them capable of becoming Registered Nurses and also

The nurses with their certificates in hand pose for a photograph with officials of the GPHC and the Caribbean North Charities Foundation (CNCF)

Trained Mid-Wives.

On November 13, 2013, they began an online examination programme, which saw 59 nurses graduating to date; the most recent batch received their certificates yesterday for successfully completing the training programme.

Director of the Nursing Service, Ms. Audrey Corry, thanked the CNCF for its

kind gesture and said that there is no possible way they could ever repay them.

Ms. Corry, however, promised the CNCF members that the nurses will use the knowledge gained to better the services which they offer to patients.

She also added that when the neonatal intensive care unit was upgraded, the necessary equipment that

was needed to operate the unit was expensive; but as soon as the CNCF heard of it, they raised funds immediately and assisted in buying the equipment for the unit.

Ms. Corry said that they are indebted to the CNCF, and they will always be thankful for their support.(Navindra Deoraj)

Members of the head table yesterday, from left; Vice- President of the CNCF Mrs. Pamela Harakh; Director of Nursing Services Audrey Corry and Trainer Vernie Ali

You and I Foundation officially launched – after three years of yeoman service

Faith Corrica of Diamond Secondary School performs her song that highlights social issues in Guyana at the You and I Foundation launch on Thursday

By Shivanie Sugrim WITH over three years of yeoman service combating teenage pregnancy and juvenile delinquency among other social issues in Guyana, the You and I Foundation was officially launched yesterday before a small gathering.

The event was graced by the presence of health sector officials, including Dr Bhiro Harry, phychiatrist at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Dr Harry placed specific emphasis on mental health in Guyana and underscored the fact that “The minister [of health] and the Government

of Guyana are staunchly supportive of mental health in Guyana, since mental illness is real and the mentally ill should not be stigmatised.”

Representing the National Aids Programme Secretariat (NAPS) was Mr. Nazim Hussain, who emphasised engaging the private sector as well as all stakeholders to aid in putting appropriate mechanisms in place to foster a society that is no longer plagued by social issues. In his brief presentation, he enlightened the gathering on HIV/AIDS awareness, whilst encouraging the You and I Foundation to continue assessing the issue as part of their projects.

Ms. Teresa Gaime, an official of the Child Protection Agency (CPA), gave the assurance that the CPA is definitely on board and is willing to collaborate with the You and I foundation. She added that this collaboration will seek to facilitate not only persons in Georgetown, but in other regions also.

National director of the Community Development Council Ms. Philomena Sahoye, of the Office of the President (OP), roused the audience with a motivational speech that encompassed the quest for ending social issues regionally. She made reference to the great Mahatma Gandhi and his advocacy for non-violence and righteousness, since the day marked his 145th birth anniversary which is celebrated worldwide.

Ms. Michelle Bristol, President of the You and I Foundation, related that the organisation was formed in 2007 but became active in 2010 onwards and has over 575 volunteers in all regions of Guyana. The organisation is non-governmental and is funded privately. It is mandated by the Laws of Guyana to assist mentally challenged children; children who are

From left: Chairperson of the event alongside National Director, Community Development Council Ms. Philomena Sahoye; President of the You and I Foundation Ms. Michelle Bristol; Child Protection Agency official Ms. Teresa Gaime; Mr. Nazim Hussain, National Aids Programme Secretariat (NAPS) official and Dr. Bhiro Harry of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

victims of domestic abuse; the less fortunate; prevention on teenage pregnancy; prevention of suicide; and children who are infected by HIV/AIDS, etc.

The foundation is also affiliated with a Global Movement for Children, who have dedicated themselves to improve the lives of children and as such, raising awareness on other surrounding social issues in Guyana via workshops and special events.

On the lighter side, Faith Corrica of Diamond Secondary School performed a stirring rendition of a song which highlighted social issues in Guyana.

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Photos by Adrian Narine

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

AN EXOTIC DISPLA FRUITS, VEGETABLE PRODUCTS AT G

Marjorie Rodrigues from Moruca’s Finest Products displays proudly her Amerindian produce.

Bakewell (Ro

Guyana Shop local produce display.

Some products currently available from Umani

Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

AY OF LOCAL ES AND FOOD GUYEXPO

Fruit vendor sells a delicious looking piece of watermelon to an eager patron.

otihut) a household name for homemade bread.

) staff display products.

Natura, New Zealand’s full cream milk packaged in Guyana.

Tetra-packed lemonade from Inava.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

‘E’ Division police host medical outreach for Lindeners

By Asif Hakim

THE police in ‘E’ Division (Linden) through their Commander, Superintendent Calvin Brutus with the help of Traffic Officer Inspector Forbes Browne and Officer- in -Charge of the Wismar station, Inspector Oswald Pitt, last Sunday hosted a medical outreach for the commu-

nity of Linden.

The medical outreach saw over 50 people from the community of Victory Valley, Wismar gather at the Victory Valley ground to test their blood pressure; glucose level; dental care; counselling and educational advice, among others.

Doctors, nurses, pharmacists and medications were allocated to the police

by the Ministry of Health Mackenzie Hospital Complex, while transportation for the medical personnel, food and snacks were provided by ‘E’ Division police.

Speaking with the Chronicle, Commander Brutus said that the medical event will be a monthly one in various villages throughout Linden; he said that the next medical outreach will

Children enjoy a table game as they await their turn to be attended

be in the next two weeks at the Christianburg Community Centre ground.

Since taking over the division a few months ago, Brutus has already planned various events for the communities of Linden, Ituni, Kwakwani and environs: forming of youth groups, meetings with the business community and also various sporting events.

Brutus said that after he would have seen the reduc-

fencing, levelling and making goals will be done.

He said that there is a need for the renovation to be done, because he sees the need for it. “Every afternoon after school, I will see the children playing football on the road corners and with the renovating of this ground, it will be much safer for the

An elderly patient gets her blood pressure checked by a health worker

tion in crime in his division, he will also renovate the Victory Valley ground where

youths and more sporting could be done,” Brutus said.

GPOC releases commemmorative stamps for UG 50th anniversary THE Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC), in collaboration with the University of Guyana (UG), launched its new local issue of commemorative postage stamps on Friday, to observe the 50th anniversary of the institution.

Stamps are available in $80 and $150 denominations and can be purchased at all post offices countrywide, from October 7, 2014.

The GPOC said the memorial stamps are the perfect memorabilia to celebrate an anniversary or significant event.

The stamps will be circulated both locally and internationally to a wide spectrum of people. These stamps will attract the interest of philatelists who purchase, sell and store them as valued collectables.

UG was established in April 1963 and began its operations in October of the same year with a batch of 164 students in temporary premises loaned from Queen’s College in Georgetown. Today, UG operates two campuses at Turkeyen and Berbice.

The management of GPOC has congratulated UG on its 50th anniversary.

Philatelists who are not registered with the GPOC and other members of the public who would like to obtain first-day covers for this new issue of commemorative postage stamps should contact UG on telephone number 222-5402. Philatelists who are registered with GPOC will receive an updated programme.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday October 4, 2014

Below rates for October 3, 2014 Currency G$/US$ G$/GBP G$/CAD$ G$/euro BDOS$ G$/EC$

Buying 205.98625 331.01589 184.14119 259.80730 101.86969 75.45903 32.14873

Selling 208.43594 335.16499 186.26675 263.10869 102.89094 76.21551 32.47103

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Aries March 21 - April 19 Have you been going crazy with all the demands placed on you? Don’t despair.

Reflect on all that’s been going on. Think about where you want to make changes.

Once you’ve come to a decision, don’t hesitate to implement it. This is easier than waiting for one big opportunity and doing it all at once. That chance may never come. The step-by-step approach can bring satisfying results.

Taurus April 20 - May 20 If you’re currently romantically involved, your lover could well go from what appears to be utter lassitude to total passion. This could throw you for a loop, and you might not know exactly how to deal with it. If you’re single, you could meet someone you find attractive but forget to get his or her contact information!

Keep paper and pen handy. You don’t want to miss anything!

Gemini May 21 - June 21 Have you made plans to have a romantic interest come to your home? If so, don’t rush to get ready. Your friend is probably going to be late. Events beyond anyone’s control have interfered, and you might have to wait. Don’t make yourself crazy over it. Don’t imagine all kinds of horrible scenarios. Your friend will show up even if later than planned. Have fun!

Cancer June 22 - July 22 A visitor to your house may have some juicy gossip for you. Perhaps someone is getting married. You aren’t the type to put too much stock in gossip, but your guest could be so convincing that you believe everything. Be skeptical! What you’re hearing may not be outright lies, but it could be exaggerated. Wait until you see the people in question before accepting it as truth.

For Saturday October 04, 2014 -13:30hrs For Sunday October 05, 2014 -14:30hrs For Monday October 06, 2014 -14:30hrs

Leo July 23 - August 22 A last-minute gift that you’ve wanted to buy for someone special might elude you today. You could go to several stores and find the item sold out. This could be disappointing, but don’t despair. There are other options. You could order it online or find something else and save this particular item for a birthday. Relax and enjoy your shopping.

Virgo August 23 - September 22 Everything may look wrong to you today. The house doesn’t look right, the furniture needs adjusting, and you probably aren’t happy with the way you look either. Your perfectionism could kick in and you might plunge into action, determined to make it all right. Don’t bother! There’s probably nothing you can do to make it look right today. Relax. You’ll see things differently tomorrow.

Libra September 23 - October 22 A gathering in your neighbourhood could attract all your friends and many of your neighbours, but you may feel a little under the weather and consider staying home. Your energy may be lagging, as all energy does once in a while after a stressful time. It might do you good to make the effort and go. It’s up to you, of course, but enjoy the evening whatever you do.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21 A quick check of your bank balance might reveal that it’s a bit lower than you expected. You probably won’t panic, but you’re apt to feel a little disappointed.

Don’t waste time kicking yourself. Money can always be earned. Relax, resolve to tighten your belt a little, take care of the necessities, and stick with a financial plan. Soon you’ll be glad you took action.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21 Working late? What could be so important that it keeps you from paying attention to your family or partner? Probably nothing! Take a good, objective look at what you think must be done tonight. You’ll probably find that your company won’t go broke if you leave some tasks. Get as much done as you can and then go home to your loved ones. They’re important, too!

Capricorn December 22 - January 19 A prayer or meditation group could meet tonight, and you may get carried away with the spiritual dimensions these meditations take on. You feel comfortable with the people in this group, and you’re grateful for the friendship and support they provide. Be with this feeling tonight, and try to hang onto it for as long as you can. It can help you through some rough times.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18 Love matters have been going well for you recently, but today you could be alone and unable to reach a current or potential romantic interest. This could bring about a twinge of the blues, which up until now have passed you by. Don’t waste time feeling down. Find something to distract you until your friend can come around to see you and you can have a little fun.

Pisces February 19 - March 20 You could go over your accounts today and find that there’s considerably less there than you thought. It isn’t serious, but it can still be disappointing. There could be a new contract in the final stages of negotiation that will prove favourable, and you can find a way to make up for the shortfall. In the meantime, cut expenses so finances stay healthy until the new contract materialises.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday OCTOBER 4, 2014

Berbice and ...

Bad light stopped play at 13:19hrs, with Berbice on 250 for 8, an overall lead of 302 with Veerasammy

Permaul on 13 inclusive of two fours struck off Jacobs and Gudakesh Motie-Kanhai to bring a premature end to the contest for 20 minutes.

Play was restarted and only 1.4 overs were bowled, before the players and officials left the field a second time for bad light at 13:50hrs, with Berbice adding 5 to their previous score, while an early tea break was taken in heavily overcast conditions.

Berbice declared their second innings close at 15:00hrs on 273 for 9, with Motie and Johnson unbeaten on 13 and 0 respectively, while Paul and Ramcharran ended with three wickets each for 41 and 70 runs respectively.

Asked to bat one hour before the schedule close of play, the Developmental XI saw Shimron Hetmyer hit Joseph for two fours in his first over, while Tagenarine Chanderpaul followed suit with a boundary of his own off Johnson in the following over.

The introduction of Jonathan Foo saw the demise of Chanderpaul (16, 2x4), who feathered the first ball from the legspinner into the waiting gloves of Bramble, with the game being brought to a close shortly after, with Developmental XI 51 for

From back page 1, with Hetmyer unbeaten on 34 (4x4).

Meanwhile, at the brief presentation ceremony which followed, GCB secretary Anand Sanasie applauded all four teams for their contribution to the tournament making it a success, even as he extended heartfelt gratitude to West Indies middle order batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul, for his contribution to the Developmental XI in their final game.

Sanasie, in the presence of GCB TDO Colin Stuart, Senior and Junior Chairman of Selectors Rayon Griffith and Nazimul Drepaul, and Match Referee Grantley Culbard, applauded Demerara for coming out on top in the four-team tournament as well.

Demerara’s Rajendra Chandrika was named Best Batsman for his 402 runs inclusive of a first round double ton against Berbice and Most Valuable Player, while Essequibo’s leftarm spinner and skipper Anthony Adams and Jacobs were jointly named Best Bowler.

For winning the competition, Demerara received a cheque for $100 000 and a trophy while Berbice uplifted half that amount and a trophy as their runner-up spoils.

Global search ...

From back page

“Our stakeholders and our fans have high expectations. Though there have been periods of success in recent times, we have struggled to consistently maintain that success over a sustained period.”

The WICB says Gibson’s replacement must have International or First-class coaching credentials.

Interested candidates must also possess key skills such as being an accomplished strategic planner, an excellent communicator and people manager and an ability to develop and improve

talent, WICB said.

“West Indies has a rich history in this game, so it is most important for us to identify the right individual for the organisation, the team and the region,” said Muirhead.

“We must vigorously examine all options in order to identify the best possible candidate because there is a lot of hard work ahead for us to see our side sustain playing at a consistently high level in the future.”

No timeline was given for the appointment of the new West Indies head coach.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday OCTOBER 4, 2014

Platini wants FIFA World Cup report to be made public UEFA president Michel Platini wants FIFA to publish the report into alleged World Cup bidding corruption.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter previously rejected calls to publish the report by American lawyer Michael Garcia, the man who compiled it.

“I have no issue with the findings and recommendations being made available to the public,” said Platini.

German judge HansJoachim Eckert is now considering the report and will announce his findings in November.

“As long as the regulations of the FIFA code of ethics regarding the actual investigation are respected, I support the publishing of the report,” added Platini in a

Michel Platini statement.

Qatar selected for 2022 Platini is the latest Garcia, the chairman of senior FIFA figure to break the investigatory chamber ranks after Garcia called for of FIFA’s ethics committee, greater transparency. filed his report with the “I believe it is now governing body this month. necessary for the FIFA FIFA’s executive executive committee to committee started a twoauthorise the appropriate day meeting yesterday, publication of the report,” with the debate over said Garcia.

Garcia’s report set to be The 2018 World Cup high on the agenda. was awarded to Russia with FIFA vice-presidents

Jeffrey Webb, Prince Ali bin Al-Hussein of Jordan and Jim Boyce have also called for the key findings of the report to be made public.

And FIFA presidential candidate Jerome Champagne tweeted his agreement: “It is essential to protect the sanctity of the World Cup as a celebration of football and of our universality. It will contribute to the efforts to reconcile FIFA with the football lovers around the globe.”

Garcia added: “Publication would be consistent with statements made by a number of executive committee members.”

Speaking on Tuesday, Prince Ali bin Al-Hussein, who was not on the executive committee for

the 2018 and 2022 bids, said: “The entire football family and those who follow the game worldwide have a full right to know the contents of the report in the spirit of complete openness.

“It is important that the much-anticipated report on the ethics investigation that is crucial to ensuring good governance at FIFA is fully disclosed to the FIFA executive committee.

“The main findings should also be fully disclosed to the general public.”

The growing clamour for publication follows Conservative MP Damian Collins’ request to the Serious Fraud Office for a copy of the report because it could lead to criminal charges.

Garcia interviewed more than 75 witnesses in the

course of his investigation, and has recommended further action against individuals and made proposals for future bidding processes.

FIFA’s ethics chief Hans-Joachim Eckert, who previously told BBC Sport the report would “never” be made public, said a decision on the findings of Garcia’s report would not be likely until next spring.

The Qatar 2022 bid committee is facing claims of corruption after the Sunday Times alleged in June that former FIFA vice-president Mohamed bin Hammam paid £3M to football officials around the world in return for support for the bid.

The Qatari bid committee members deny all allegations of wrongdoing. (BBC Sport)

Nadal stunned by Klizan in China, injured Serena out BEIJING, China (Reuters) - Rafael Nadal’s return to action came to a shuddering halt yesterday when the Spaniard was beaten by Slovakia’s Martin Klizan in a late-night quarter-final duel at the China Open.

After world number one Novak Djokovic had continued his march through the draw to set up a mouthwatering semi-final against Andy Murray, Nadal ran out of steam against the aggressive Klizan who won 6-7(7), 6-4, 6-3 for the biggest scalp of his career.

Women’s top seed Serena Williams was forced to pull out through injury while Maria Sharapova destroyed Svetlana Kuznetsova in an all-Russian women’s quarter-final.

American world number one Williams, who had reached the last eight on the Beijing hard courts with a three-set win over Czech Lucie Safarova late on Thursday, cited a problem in her left knee for handing a walkover to Australian Sam Stosur.

It was the second tournament in a row the 33-year-old, who won her 18th grand slam singles title at the U.S. Open last month, had been forced to withdraw after she quit her opening match at the Wuhan Open last week because of illness.

Djokovic, looking for a fifth title at the China Open, dismantled a flat Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-4 in a onesided quarter-final while Murray maintained his quest to qualify for the ATP World

Rafael Nadal Tour Finals when he stormed past U.S. Open champion Marin Cilic 6-1, 6-4.

Nadal, making his return from a wrist injury at the China Open having not played since losing at Wimbledon, seemed to be on course for the semis and a match-up with Czech Tomas Berdych when he edged the first set on a tiebreak.

At the scene of his 2008 Olympic gold medal Nadal was then a break ahead in the second set when the match began to turn in favour of 56th ranked qualifier Klizan.

Klizan broke the Nadal serve twice to level the match but Nadal again forged ahead in the decider, leading 3-2 with a break before the match slipped irreversibly out of his control.

Looking a little weary, the 28-year-old Nadal lost his serve to love and with Klizan playing a fearless brand of attacking tennis the Mallorcan suddenly found himself 5-3 down.

Klizan showed no nerves and finished the two-hour 37-minute contest with a spectacular smash.

Earlier, Djokovic extended his winning run on the blue hardcourts of the National Tennis Centre to 22.

The Serb targeted the faltering backhand of the fifth seed in the opening set, which he took with breaks in the fourth and eighth games in an improved display after showing signs of rust in his opening matches.

Dimitrov showed more fight in the second set, breaking back with a thumping forehand cross court winner only to lose serve again in the next game to trail 4-2.

He broke again with a stunning backhand winner when Djokovic served at 5-3, but he could not capitalise and crumbled in the following game, ending the match with his third double fault.

Djokovic will face Murray, who, like Dimitrov, is chasing a place in the seasonending ATP World Tour Finals.

Murray, eyeing back-toback titles after Sunday’s Shenzen Open triumph, was far too good for Cilic, whose serve crumbled under pressure in the opening set.

In the women’s tournament, Stosur will take on Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova in the semis after the Czech beat Italian Roberta Vinci 7-6(7), 6-4.

French Open champion Sharapova crushed Kuznetsova 6-0, 6-4 in an hour and 24 minutes to set up a semi-final clash with former world number one Ana Ivanovic.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday OCTOBER 4, 2014

Saints Toronto Alumni donate football uniforms to West Ruimveldt Primary School THE Sixth Form students of St Stanislaus College recently made a presentation of a quantity of football uniforms and boots to the students of West Ruimveldt Primary School.

The items were donated by the Saints’ Toronto Alumni as part of their efforts to encourage a balance between education and

organised sports in schools.

At the brief handing-over ceremony held at the College’s Brickdam location, Sixth Form student Kendra Warner encouraged the young students to continue to study hard and work towards achieving good results at their National Grade Six examinations.

St Stanislaus College’s Sixth Form student Kendra Warner hands over the uniforms and boots to West Ruimveldt Primary School teacher Petal Lashley in the presence of students from both schools.

GT BEER/BERBICE CUP 2014

Annual Berbice Cup KO football tourney to kick off today BANKS DIH has committed to part sponsorship of the 2nd annual Berbice Cup KO football Tournament set to kick-off later today at the Monedderlust FC ground, West Coast Berbice.

This year’s competition will involve the top four sides from the Berbice FA and their counterparts from the East Coast FA as they battle for $1M in cash prizes as well as individual prizes.

According to Outdoor Events Manager of Banks DIH, Mortimer Stewart, ”We are happy to be part of this competition and assure the teams and organisers that Banks DIH is on board.”

The official march past and address to the eight contesting teams is scheduled for 16:00hrs after which the opening game between last year’s beaten finalists Rosignol United and Berbice oldest football club Cougars FC will put the tournament in motion.

Both coaches have expressed confidence in advancing to the next

Trophies up for grabs for the 1st to 4th place winners of the GT Beer/Berbice Cup 2014. round which could very well send the game into extra time and possibly a penalty shoot out.

Former national goalkeeper Phillip Carrington who is in charge at Cougars stated that his youthful side has been hard at preparations over the last two weeks and from the commitment he saw and the enthusiasm generated, he expects a good showing tonight.

His opposite, Keith O’Jeer, is equally confident of a good showing from his unit which includes

former national youth players, Mark Wrong and Delroy Ferdinand who will control the midfield. Captain Curtis Moore will marshal the defence. For Cougars, Stefon DeFlorimonte will control the defence with Roger Crandon and Alvin Reynolds in midfield. Sherwin Parris and Ron Wilson will spearhead the attack.

The feature match will bring together the home side and defending champions Monedderlust FC and Bakewell Buxton Stars. Both sides possess

loads of young talent and this game is expected to be fast-paced.

National Under-17 captain Kevin Layne Jr will be in charge at midfield with main support from Leon McDougal.

Royston Khalil and national U-17, Atlyn Browne will lead the offence.

The experienced Travis Henry will be in charge of the defence.

In his pre-game comment, manager of Monedderlust Kevin Layne Sr dismissed any claim of his side being the loser and predicted that his side will triumph.

Meanwhile coach of the Buxtonians, Sherry Abrams, stated that her players are prepared and ready and will be coming at the Cup holders.

Midfielder Rawle Fredericks will skipper the side and play alongside Sherwin Griffith in the middle, while a lot will depend on Tierre Joseph up front as well as defender Kester Hatton and goalkeeper Tyron Abrams at the back.

36

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday OCTOBER 4, 2014

Samuels comes good but West Indies lose MUMBAI, India – Marlon Samuels made a classy half-century but that was the only highlight for West Indies as they lost by nine wickets to India-A at Brabourne Stadium yesterday.

The classy right-hander stroked eight boundaries in a polished 56 with eight boundaries, as West Indies were restricted to just 148 for nine off 38.1 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat.

Opener Lendl Simmons retired hurt on 12 with a back complaint and could not resume his innings.

India-A then raced to 149 for one to win in the 26th over.

India bowlers were steady with leg-spinner Amit Mishra’s three-wicket haul doing most of the damage.

Jason Holder (21) batted responsibly and ensured that the Indian spinners didn’t run through the tail.

After batting for 46 balls he finally ran out of patience and stepped out to offspinner Parvez Rasool. He missed, and Sanju Samson did the rest. Holder and Samuels added 48 for the seventh wicket.

In the second half of the

Racing Tips South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:35 hrs Sisters Of Mercy 09:15 hrs Bezanova 09:50 hrs Winter Star 10:25 hrs No Worries

Scoreboard WEST INDIES innings

Marlon Samuels

L. Simmons retired out 12 L. Johnson c Chand b Bumrah 0 Darren Bravo b Kulkarni 9 M. Samuels lbw Sharma 56 D. Ramdin+ c Chand b Binny 7 K. Pollard b Mishra 2 D. Sammy b Mishra 0 J. Holder stp. Samson b Parvez Rasool 21 J. Taylor b Mishra 0 K. Roach not out 10 R. Rampaul b Sharma 3 Extras:: (lb-9, w-18, nb-1) 28 Total: (all out, 38.1 overs) 148 Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-34, 3-38, 4-70, 5-75, 6-76, 7-123, 8-124, 9-144.

India-A Bowling: D. Kulkarni 6-214-1, J. Bumrah 6-0-46-1, A. Mishra 10-1-26-3, S. Binny 6-0-19-1, K. Sharma 7.1-1-27-2, Parvez Rasool 3-1-7-1.

INDIA A (Target; 149) M. Vijay c Samuels b Roach 26 U. Chand not out 79 K. Nair not out 28 Extras: (lb-5, w-10, nb-1) 16 Total: (one wkt, 25.3 overs) 149 Fall of wicket: 1-71.

West Indies Bowling: R. Rampaul 6-1-25-0, J. Taylor 5-0-25-0, J Holder 3-0-25-0, M. Samuels 7-035-0, K. Roach 4-0-28-1, K. Pollard 0.3-0-6-0.

Result: India A won the 1st warmup by 9 wickets Toss: West Indies won the toss and elected to bat Umpires: Rajesh Deshpande & Pashchim Pathak Match Referee: Manu Nayyar

match, the India-A batsmen motored to the small target.

Opener Unmukt Chand was particularly impressive with 79 not out off 81 balls. He hit eight fours and two consecutive sixes off Samuels’ offspin.

He added 71 for the first wicket with Murali Vijay who made 26 before he was well caught head-high by Samuels off Kemar Roach’s first ball. Chand was then joined by the attacking Karn Nair who scored 28 not out off 26 balls to rush to victory. warm-up match tomorrow at The two teams will the Wankhede Stadium. meet in a second 50-over

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Professional Cricket League schedule

St John’s, Antigua – THE West Indies Cricket Board today announced the schedule for the inaugural Professional Cricket League’s (PCL), Regional 4 Day Tournament.

The R4D will be played on a home and away basis over ten rounds from November 14, 2014 to March 23, 2015.

Each of the six franchise teams will have a unique name. The Windward Islands franchise will be known as Volcanoes while the Trinidad and Tobago franchise will be known as Red Force. The other four franchises will announce their names in due course.

The league format tournament will commence with three matches in the opening round from November 14 to 17 in Jamaica, Trinidad and Guyana. Each round will consist of three matches.

Each team will play ten matches, five at home and five away.

The PCL inaugural Draft Ceremony will be held on Monday, October 6th in Barbados. Each franchise has retained 10 players and will be required to draft five additional players to make up a squad of 15 players.

The Draft Ceremony will be video streamed live on windiescricket.com The WICB Professional Cricket League comprises the Regional 4 Day Tournament and the NAGICO Super50 Tournament which will be played in January 2015.

WICB Professional Cricket League R4D Schedule Round 1 – November 14-17 Jamaica Franchise v Volcanoes – Sabina Park Red Force v Barbados Franchise – Queen’s Park Oval Guyana Franchise v Leewards Franchise – Guyana National Stadium Round 2 – November 21-24 Guyana Franchise v Volcanoes – Providence Stadium Leewards Franchise v Red Force – Leewards venue TBC Barbados Franchise v Jamaica Franchise – Kensington Oval Round 3 – November 28 – December 1 Volcanoes v Leewards Franchise – Grenada National Stadium Guyana Franchise v Barbados Franchise – Guyana National Stadium Red Force v Jamaica Franchise – Queen’s Park Oval Round 4 – December 5 – 8 Volcanoes v Barbados Franchise – Arnos Vale Jamaica Franchise v Leewards Franchise – Sabina Park Red Steel v Guyana Franchise – Queen’s Park Oval BREAK Round 5 – February 6-9 Jamaica Franchise v Guyana Franchise – Sabina Park Volcanoes v Red Force – Beausejour Cricket Ground Barbados Franchise v Leewards Franchise – Kensington Oval Round 6 – February 13-16 Volcanoes v Jamaica Franchise – Arnos Vale Barbados Franchise v Red Force – Kensington Oval Leewards Franchise v Guyana Franchise – Leewards venue TBC Round 7 – February 20-23 Leewards Franchise v Volcanoes – Leewards venue TBC Barbados Franchise v Guyana Franchise – Kensington Oval Jamaica Franchise v Red Force – Sabina Park BREAK Round 8 – March 6-9 Red Force v Volcanoes – Queen’s Park Oval Guyana Franchise v Jamaica Franchise – Guyana National Stadium Leewards Franchise v Barbados Franchise – Leewards venue TBC Round 9 – March 13-16 Barbados Franchise v Volcanoes – Kensington Oval Leewards Franchise v Jamaica Franchise – Leewards venue TBC Guyana Franchise v Red Force – Guyana National Stadium Round 10 – March 20-23 Volcanoes v Guyana Franchise – Windsor Park Stadium Red Force v Leewards Franchise – Queen’s Park Oval Jamaica Franchise v Barbados Franchise – Sabina Park WICB Media Release.

37

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday OCTOBER 4, 2014

4th Petra Organisation/COURTS Pee Wee football tournament kicks off today .. St Pius open title defence against J.E Burnham Primary The 4th annual COURTS Pee Wee Football tournament will kick off today at Banks DIH’s Thirst Park ground where defending champions St Pius Primary will open their title defence against J.E Burnham Primary.

COURTS, Guyana’s leading furniture and appliance store, has pumped $2.8M towards to the hosting of this event while the organisers – Petra Organisation – have once again brought beverage giant Banks DIH Ltd on board under its Malta Supreme brand.

The tournament will engage children under the age of 11, and involve 24 Georgetown primary schools, playing in a round-robin format.

Prizes will be awarded to the top four finishers and individual incentives to the player adjudged the Most Valuable Player (MVP), Highest Goalscorer, Best Goalkeeper and the Most Disciplined Team.

Twelve matches will be played

Flash-back! St Pius Primary celebrate after winning the COURTS Pee Wee Football tournament last year.

today and the remaining fixtures will see West Ruimveldt face Redeemer Primary at 10:00hrs on Pitch #1, while Comenius will take on Green Acres on Pitch #2.

Starting at 10:45hrs, St Stephen’s will engage St Gabriel’s while Tucville and St Thomas Moore square off at the same time.

At 11:30 hrs, F.E Pollard clash with St Angela’s and at 12:15hrs, Success Academy go up against Enterprise and East La Penitence and Ketley do battle.

St Margaret’s and Smith Memorial collide at 13:00hrs and this game will be played simultaneously with the one between South Ruimveldt and St Ambrose.

In the final double-header of the day, Marian Academy collide with Stella Maris and North Georgetown tackle Winfer Gardens.

The Ministry of Education is also working in collaboration with the Petra Organisation to ensure that the event is a success.

Narine ban skews KKR, Dhanpaul slams double-century for Zeeburg Super Kings title fight ... Zeeburg defeat Western United by 300 runs IT’S EASY to overstate the influence of one player in a team sport, but the loss of just one player might mean Kolkata Knight Riders go into the Champions League T20 final in Bangalore as underdogs despite having won their last 14 matches.

Unless they choose to play him as a specialist batsman, Sunil Narine will play no part in today’s final.

Chennai Super Kings, against whose powerpacked batting lineup he has an economy rate of 5.90 in eight matches, must have rejoiced when they heard news of his bowling ban during their semi-final game.

The last time Super Kings faced him, in the opening game of the tournament’s group stage, they scored nine runs off Narine’s four overs, and scored 148 off the 16 overs, bowled

by Knight Riders’ other bowlers. In the end,

Knight Riders won despite slipping to 51 for 5 at the start of their chase.

Narine is the

MS Dohni highest wicket-taker in this tournament, has the best economy rate of anyone who has bowled a significant number of overs, and is absolutely central to Knight Riders’ bowling plans. Out of the 20 overs he has bowled in the CLT20, only four have come outside the first six or the last five of an innings.

Now, in their most important game of the tournament, Knight Riders will have to rejig their entire bowling

Gautam Gambhir plan and figure out which of their bowlers will deliver the most critical overs.

This isn’t to say Knight Riders are a one-man team. As shown by S. Rajesh, ESPNcricinfo’s stats editor, in his analysis of their winning streak, the improved performance of their batsmen has been a

vital factor in their success. The rest of their spin attack, moreover, has been excellent. But can they stand up to Super Kings’ fearsome phalanx of batsmen without their talisman bowling the bulk of the pressure overs?

Squads: Chennai Super Kings: Dwayne Smith, Brendon McCullum, Suresh Raina, Faf du Plessis, Dwayne Bravo, MS Dhoni (capt. & wkp.), Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Ishwar Pandey/Pawan Negi, Mohit Sharma, Ashish Nehra Kolkata Knight Riders: Robin Uthappa (wkp.), Gautam Gambhir (capt.), Jacques Kallis, Manish Pandey, Yusuf Pathan, Ryan ten Doeschate, Suryakumar Yadav, Andre Russell, Piyush Chawla, Pat Cummins, Kuldeep Yadav.

(ESPN Cricinfo)

YATESH Dhanpaul slammed a breathtaking double-century last weekend as Zeeburg shattered Western United by 300 runs in the West Demerara Cricket Association 40-Over cricket competition.

Batting first at the Zeeburg ground, Zeeburg piled up 407 before being bowled out in 38 overs, with Dhanpaul hitting an unbeaten 212 which included 17 sixes and 16 fours. He received support from Balbinder Shewpersaud who made 62. Western United were bowled out for 107 in 20 overs in reply, with M. Deonarine 4 for 33 and R. Kellawan taking 3 for11.

In other matches, All Youth defeated Supreme by five wickets at the La Grange ground. Supreme made 178 all out in 28.4 overs with R. Adams scoring 53 and M. Bacchus 40. A. Haniff took 4 for 27 and D. Scott 3 for 28. All Youth reached 180-5 in 19.1 overs. S. Persaud made 40, G. Persaud 33, and A. Carrington 37. R. Baksh 3/20.

At Joe Vieira Park, 2 Sports Club kept out Christ Ambassadors by 110 runs, as Sports Club posted 198 all out in 34.2 overs. A. Azeez made 38 and S. Mohamed 37. P. Ashby had 3 for 20 and M. Gittens 4 for 24. Christ Ambassadors were bowled out for 88 in 18.3 overs. R. Wills was the only batsman with double figures (22). P. Parsram grabbed 4 for 33 and J. Mohamed 3 for 12.

At Meten-Meer-Zorg ground,

Meten-Meer-Zorg (MMZ) stopped Invaders by one run. MMZ scored 131 all out in 31.4 overs. V. Rajkumar (21) and S. Evans (20) were the main scorers. P. Persaud grabbed 3 for 33. In response, Invaders crumbled for 130 in 26.2 overs. V. Dhaniram top-scored with 24 and A. Azim made 23. S. Alexander (4 for 33) V. Rajkumar (3 for 27) were too good for the batsmen.

At the Zeelugt ground, Zeelugt knocked over Transport United by 87 runs. Zeelugt posted 227 all out in 29 overs. T. Dass led the way with 56 and T. Mangro chipped in with 28. D. Nandon was among the wickets with figures of 4 for 47.Transport United batsmen couldn’t get past 140 29.3 overs. L. Andrews made 27, and T. Mangro took 4 for 53.

At the Okoo ground, McGill Super Stars got the better of Malvern Sports Club by 53 runs. Super Stars tallied 295/8 in their allotted overs.

Abdool Razack top-scored with 98, he was supported by Balram Airan 52, and Daniel Basdeo 36. Victor Dass captured 4 for 55 and Azar Deen 2 for 47. Malvern in reply managed 243-9 in their 40 overs.

Dereck Mangar knocked a brilliant 78 and Peter Persaud registered 58. Also among the runs were Davindra Singh 34 and Victor Dass 26. Balram Airan was the pick of the bowlers grabbing 4 for 29.

38

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday OCTOBER 4, 2014

GRFU ‘Road to Mexico’ 7s Ramdin eyeing big League starts today!

SOME of Guyana’s top players drawn from the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Guyana Police Force (GPF), Pepsi Hornets, Yamaha Caribs and University of Guyana (UG) Wolves will be in action from today when the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) opens its 7s League at the National Park Rugby Field.

The tournament dubbed the ‘Road to Mexico’ is being sponsored by Windjammer Hotel, Pomeroon Oil Company under their Golden Brook Brand and Sports Journalist Rawle Toney.

It will be used to help select Guyana’s team for the North America Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) Sevens

Yamaha Caribs captain Theodore Henry Championship, to be held in Mexico City, Mexico from December 3 to 4.

Guyana won five consecutive championships from 2006 to 2011 but lost to Mexico in 2012. However,

GDF captain Dwayne Schroder lack of funding kept the Caribbean’s best 7s Rugby team out of the competition last year.

Under the guidance of strength and conditioning Instructor Barrington

Brown, the GRFU had selected a provisional squad that commenced training in the later part of August.

In the opening game today from 15:00 hrs, National captain Ryan Gonsalves will lead his Pepsi Hornets squad into battle against Theodore Henry and the Yamaha Caribs.

Dwayne Schroder and his GDF troops are set to face UG Wolves in the following game while the Guyana Police Force will aim to arrest Pepsi Hornets in the day’s third game.

UG Wolves vs Yamaha Caribs and GDF vs GPF will close the day’s proceedings.

Matches will be played again on October 11 with five more games with the final set for October 18.

2014 Berbice Bridge Company First Division …

Albion host RHTGG in day/night final today TODAY is a big day on the Berbice cricket calendar, as it is the day when the two top teams for over the past five years - Albion Community Centre and Rose Hall Town Gizmos and Gadgets (RHTGG) - will meet in the 2014 Berbice Cricket Board/ Berbice Bridge Company first division 50-over final in a day/night affair at the Albion Community Centre Ground.

It is the first time ever lights will be used in an official BCB club competition match, making this encounter a historic one in more ways than one.

Defending champions Albion Community Centre, with their star-studded line-up will certainly start as favourites even without Devendra Bishoo who is unavailable due to his West Indies-A team duties and former West Indies batsman Sewnarine Chattergoon who is ineligible to play.

They still boast six play-

ers who represented Berbice in the just concluded senior inter-county tournament in out-of-favour West Indies

Narsingh Deonarine players Narsingh Deonarine and Veerasammy Permaul, national wicketkeeper/ batsman Anthony Bramble, batting star Jonathan Foo, Gudakesh Motie and former Guyana Under-19 opener Kandasammy Surujnarine.

They will be supported by this year’s Guyana Under-19 spinners Shiraz

Ramcharran and Balchand Baldeo, Berbice Under-19 batsman David Latchaya and two other players with

Royston Crandon Inter-territorial Under-15 experience Veerapen Permaul and Adrian Sukhwa.

RHTGG, on the other hand, boast a less star-studded team but even without West Indies-A batsman Assad Fudadin, they can be a handful to handle.

Their batting will be spearheaded by the in-form

Royston Crandon, former Guyana wicketkeeper batsman Delbert Hicks, Berbice batsman Jason Sinclair, national Under-19 middle order batsman Ashkay Homraj, who blasted a century in the semi-finals recently, and all-rounder Rajiv Ivan.

Backing them up will be former Berbice cricketers Eon Hooper and Shawn Pereira, Guyana Under-17 batsman Brandon Prashad and Vidol Crandon, while their bowling will hinge on off-spinners Royston Crandon, Hooper, Ivan and Troy Mathieson, with support from leg-spinner Shawn Pereira.

The match is expected to start at 14:00hrs today and a representative from the Berbice Bridge Company Inc. is expected to be introduced to both teams before the first ball is bowled. The umpires for this fixture are Imran Moakan and Moses Ramphal with Zaheer Moakan as the standby.

scores in India

MUMBAI, India (CMC) - West Indies recordbreaking wicketkeeper, Denesh Ramdin, is hoping to continue his good run of form when he faces the Indian bowlers in the upcoming five-match One-Day International Series.

The first ODI will be played on Wednesday in Kochi.

“For the last 18 months I have been working really hard. I have been getting most of the runs I would like to,” said Ramdin who skippers the Test team.

“The last series wasn’t the best for me so hopefully this one in terms of One-day and Test matches …I would get a good start and bat for the team and put ourselves in position to win games for the team.”

The 29-year-old who has played 112 ODIs recently made a career-best 169 against Bangladesh, the highest score by a West Indies keeper in ODIs. That knock surpassed the previous record of 128 made against England in March.

“It is a very big series

Denesh Ramdin for both teams leading up to the World Cup. I think everyone wants to finalise their squad,” said Ramdin whose highest score against India is 96, the third highest score by a West Indies wicketkeeper.

“We really need to put out a big show in this series. The last series a very close one, two-one, going into the last one was one alls.”

West Indies team is bolstered by the presence of about nine of the world’s leading T20 cricketers who also ply their trade in the prestigious Indian Premier League.

Ramdin believes India will be in big trouble once the top T20 players on the regional side can deliver.

“When you look at our team we have eight to nine top T20 players that play for franchises here and they are very big players,” he said.

“Once we get those players to put their performances on the board I think India will have a force to be reckoned with this series.”

CRICKETQUIZ CORNER (Saturday October 04, 2014) 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: (1)

WI vs AUST, Brisbane, 1979-80

(2)

RohanKanhai (WI vs ENG, Leeds, 1973)

Today’s Quiz: (1) Tests?

How many centuries Rohan Kanhai made in

(2) Who has the honour of scoring the first ever ODI century?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday OCTOBER 4, 2014

West Indies assessing whether to play Narine in India ODIs - Lloyd CLIVE LLOYD, the chairman of the West Indies selection panel, has said the decision on whether Sunil Narine remains in India for West Indies’ upcoming limited-overs series’ will be made in consultation with the WICB “in a day or so”.

Narine was suspended from bowling in the Champions League Twenty20 on Thursday, and is ineligible to play in the tournament’s final today.

action is different, doesn’t mean that you are throwing.

“We have to take a look at things and assess the situation. We don’t want to make any rash decision as such. We will discuss it. The board (WICB) will probably take it from there. We will have to inform the board.

We can’t take decisions just like that. They have to be informed.”

ESPNcricinfo understands that the

need to raise questions over the legality of Narine’s action when “he has been bowling in the same manner” for years.

“He has been bowling over the years with the same sort of action. Now all of a sudden it has changed. What has changed, I don’t know,” Lloyd said. “You can’t just ban him from bowling just before an important tour like this and with the World Cup coming up. It destroys the individual’s ability as such

Clive Lloyd: ‘This guy has been doing well for KKR for three years. [His action] has been pretty much the same; what has been found that they ban him?’ © BCCI Suggesting that corrective measures to his action, if any were needed, should have been made earlier, Lloyd questioned the timing of Narine’s suspension, saying the decision could be “destroying” to Narine and could affect the team’s chances on the forthcoming tour of India and in the World Cup. From October 8, West Indies will play five ODIs and a T20 against India, before three Tests. Narine’s bowling ban is restricted only to the Champions League and other BCCIrun tournaments like the IPL, but it is sure to increase scrutiny on him in international cricket as well.

“We will have to take that decision in a day or so. I am very disappointed because he is an exciting cricketer,” Lloyd said yesterday, at Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, where West Indies played a warm-up game. “The point is, just like (Muttiah) Muralitharan, because your

decision will be arrived at before October 6, when the West Indies squad leaves Mumbai for Kochi, which will host the first ODI. Lloyd said the WICB and the West Indies team management had been told that Narine would be under the scanner in India by a source whose identity he would not disclose.

“Before we came here we were told that they were going to call Narine, so it’s quite obvious that something must have been said somewhere,” he said.

“I really can’t tell you that (who it was) but I can tell you it’s a highly reliable source, because we have to make contingency plans for things like that just in case it happens,” Lloyd said, adding that the West Indies cricket fraternity would back Narine.

Lamenting the timing of the suspension, “just before an important series against India and the World Cup that follows”, Lloyd said he could not really understand the

and I think you may end up destroying someone’s career.

“This guy has been doing well playing for KKR for the last three years.

If you look at his action, he has been doing pretty much the same and I want to know what is it that has been found that they ban him and not say something like, ‘Listen, you have a bit of a problem and you have to rectify it.’”

Lloyd compared the situation with that of Pakistan off-spinner Saeed Ajmal, who has been suspended from bowling in international cricket. “All of a sudden, this guy (Narine) who is supposed to be one of the best bowlers around - like Ajmal for that matter, how many Test wickets does Ajmal have? - and all of a sudden his bowling action is suspect.

My point is something should be done before all this comes to this point.

“It can destroy a team.

You want to know if this is being orchestrated because if you lose your main bowler

then it puts some pressure on the selectors and the team and so on.”

Lloyd also questioned the Champions League T20 regulations and procedure, which have proven to be rather ambiguous.

“Nobody has told us anything. Nobody has written a letter. That is the thing about it. Something should be said to us. We are left high and dry. All of a sudden, the guy is not playing in a tournament he has played for the last three years. What are you saying about the tournament then? Are you saying that the tournament has probably previously allowed people who have got bad actions to play?”

Asked if the ICC, which has been tightlipped over the issue since it doesn’t govern the Champions League, should step in and get in touch with the WICB, Lloyd said he hoped it happens soon.

“I think it’s wrong the way they have gone about it and I have been involved in the ICC for years (as a match referee and technical committee chief) and I think you cannot just ban a guy just like that.

This is a guy who has played for us all over the world, not only in the West Indies. All of a sudden, this guy has got a suspect action.

I am not happy, I would like to strongly say that.”

Kumar Dharmasena, a leading umpire on the ICC Elite Panel, has been involved in three of the four cases of suspect actions being reported in Champions League. So, Lloyd said, he was not sure if that indirectly meant Narine would be reported in international cricket.

With the ICC taking a hard stance on illegal actions in the last six months, the WICB is likely to be wary.

Ian Gould, another Elite Panel umpire, will be one of the match officials for the ODI series in India. Gould was among the umpires who reported off-spinners Sachithra Senanayake and Ajmal, both of whom were later banned from bowling in international cricket, earlier this year. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Sammy says Gayle’s absence wont jolt Windies confidence

Darren Sammy MUMBAI, India (CMC) - West Indies all-rounder Darren Sammy says the absence of talismanic opener Chris Gayle should not jolt the confidence of the Caribbean side as they prepare to battle India in a five-match One-Day International (ODI) series.

Gayle, who has been struggling with a lower-back injury and had missed the final Test against Bangladesh last month, will miss the limited-overs leg of the India tour as well.

The first ODI takes place in Kochi on Wednesday.

“The last time we played India Chris got injured in the first game and we played the series without him and we won the second match and it ended two-one,” said Sammy, the former skipper.

“But you always gonna miss Chris in any team but we not gonna let it be a negative towards us.”

Gayle, who had a reasonable home summer in the Tests, with three halfcenturies in four games, has not played competitive cricket since the first Test against Bangladesh earlier this month.

He is, however, predicting a return to fitness in time for the Tests in India starting October 30.

“It is another opportunity for someone else to come out and showcase their talent,” said Sammy in reference to Gayle’s absence.

“The team will go out there with the confidence knowing that we can still compete and do well and win matches against India and it will be good to do so before the World Cup.” Sammy said the West Indies players are focused on what is expected to be a competitive five-match OneDay International Series against India.

He reveals that it was exciting for the players to have legend Sir Curtly Ambrose as Bowling Consultant with the team.

“For me being in the same dressing room as Ambrose, my childhood hero, is a massive plus,” he said.

“I would want to go out and try and pick his brain, impress him and I think that in itself is motivation for the dressing room and that’s what’s been happening”.

Sport CHRONICLE

West Indies assessing whether to play Narine in India ODIs - Lloyd See story on page 39

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Berbice and Developmental XI play to tame draw … Chandrika named MVP, Jacobs Best Bowler

By Calvin Roberts BAD LIGHT, overcast conditions and a tame draw brought the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) senior Inter-county four-day matchup between Berbice and the GCB Developmental XI to a close at the Wales Community Centre ground yesterday.

Scores: Berbice 418 and 273 for 9 decl’d, GCB Developmental XI 366 and 51 for 1.

Berbice resumed the day on 136 for 4, with Narsingh Deonarine on 55 and Keon Joseph yet to score for a lead of 188, after bowling out their opponents the previous day for 366, in reply to their 418.

They quickly lost Joseph (1) who was caught by Ashkay Homraj at short extra cover off Kemo Paul in the second over of the day’s play, while Paul dropped a return chance offered by Royston Crandon in his next over.

Crandon rode his luck well to add 54 for the sixth wicket with Deonarine, who was caught at point

by Homraj off Shiraz Ramcharran for 77 (190 balls, 2x4, 3x6) at 196 for 6 and 20 minutes before lunch, which was taken with Berbice 219 for 6 with Crandon on 33 and Anthony Bramble 16.

After the break, Berbice lost both Bramble and Crandon to Ramcharran, who, in tandem with Jacobs and Steven Sankar, continued to toil away at the Ancient County batsmen, with Ramcharran bowling back-to-back maidens after the break for the two quick wickets.

Crandon made 40 (92 balls, 2x4) and Bramble 24 (3x4, 28 balls), before Jacobs took a welljudged catch at slip to dismiss Bramble, while Crandon was bowled to a delivery that kept low in the Albion Cricket Club’s off-spinner’s next over.

Turn to page 33

Congrats Cheesy! Captain of the victorious Demerara senior Inter-county team Vishaul ‘Cheesy’ Singh proudly uplifts the winners’ trophy and cheque from GCB secretary Anand Sanasie (right), while in background from left: Grantley Culbard, Rayon Griffith, Colin Stuart, Nazimul Drepaul and Shivnarine Chanderpaul share the moment.

Global search begins for new Windies head coach

The WICB says Ottis Gibson’s replacement must have International or First-class coaching credentials.

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) - The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) announced yesterday that a global search has been launched to find a new head coach for the West Indies Cricket team.

A WICB statement released yesterday afternoon said the new coach must have a proven track record as a World-class coach,

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sound practical experience in developing elite players and teams as well as at least five years experience as a head coach.

“These are just some of the attributes that candidates for head coach of the West Indies team will need to possess to be considered for the position,” the statement said.

The position became

vacant following the resignation of Ottis Gibson in August with more than a year remaining on his contract.

“We expect a lot of interest in this position from not only within the Caribbean, but from outside the region,” said WICB chief executive officer Michael Muirhead.

Turn to page 33 SATURDAY, October 4, 2014