Guyana chronicle 11 08 14 by Guyana Chronicle

GUYANA No. 104005 SATURDAY NOVEMBER 8, 2014

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Hope Canal construction not without its challenges

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– NDIA’s Lionel Wordsworth

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Rodney Commission ends session on upbeat note

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Resurfacing of Linden/ Lethem Road almost completed 2

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It’s all about a storm in a teacup - Gov’t Chief Whip

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Driver charged with causing death of 12-year-old Isaiah Khan Page

Eight-Gate High Level Discharge Sluices currently under construction (Adrian Narine photo)

Government never gave up on Amaila - HPS Page 11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

Hope Canal construction not without its challenges – NDIA’s Lionel Wordsworth WITH a $3.6B investment, the East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) Northern Relief Channel, commonly referred to as Hope Canal is not without its challenges. This is according to National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) head Lionel Wordsworth.

areas after repeated flooding over the years had caused damage to crops and loss of livestock. While the project remains within its budget, as stated by NDIA’s Chief Executive Officer, with some $3.2B of the total $3.6B already spent, the factors of time and climate seem to have the final say in its

Wordsworth said, adding that this suitable clay was used to strengthen the river defence embankment to the conservancy. The clay was then dredged from one location and transported to the next, while the intention was to use tractor-trailer services for this task, bad weather conditions left the

Head Regulator of the Hope Canal (Adrian Narine photo)

Excavator drawn pontoons carry clay 3,000 metres up the channel to the drop-off point (Adrian Narine photo)

Two excavators at varying levels building the embankment to the designed height (Adrian Narine photo)

Entirely funded by the Government of Guyana, the multi-billion dollar project is expected to ease the flooding concerns of residents in Mahaica/Mahaicony/Abary (MMA)

completion. One challenge, the NDIA head noted was the strength of suitable clay used for the dam.“There is an area that we found there is suitable clay,”

team scrambling for solutions. “Having recognised that, we quickly switched to having other measures in place to have continuity in the construction works,” Wordsworth said, as he alluded to the use of excavators and pontoons which eventually minimised the time taken to transfer clay some 3,000 metres up the channel to be used for strengthening and lifting the embankment. As it relates to the ideal

clay for the project, Wordsworth stated that geotechnical investigations were conducted for determining the sheer strength values derived from the soil. “We found an area where there was mixed clay material so it has a much lower sheer strength.” The engineering team with swift action found it necessary to “reinforce the embankment with geotextile material of PP300 grade with a width of 20 cm... on one layer of the embankment on the ground level.” The multi-billion dollar Hope Canal project which started in 2011 is separated into four components, which are being completed at the same time. One of those components is the $349M Public Road

Bridge commissioned last February by President Donald Ramotar. Similarly completed is the Head Regulator at the southern end of the channel, which will interject the East Demerara Water Conservancy acting as “a control structure to release water from the conservancy into the channel.” Works, however, are still to be completed on the 10km Canal as well as the eight High Level Discharge Sluices gates at the northern end of the EDWC. Some controversy had fallen on the plans to have the sluices constructed as dissenting voices questioned whether eight gates would be necessary. The capacity of the eightgate sluice to discharge 58 cubic metres per second of water is similar to emptying 1.9B small bottles of water every second. Responding to those concerns, Wordsworth said: “It could’ve been a smaller structure but it has to be deeper, and you could’ve had continuous dredging which is costly so, of the options, the choice was to build the eight-gate sluice which gives you the same desired discharge capacity of discharging 58 cubic metres per second.”

Wordsworth called for greater interest to be taken by both the media and those observing the works to be more aware of the many technical challenges facing the project’s completion. While a deadline of November month end still stands, the NDIA Director called for persons to “understand the huge scope of works required to put this thing in place [since] it wasn’t just a canal with two embankments and the engineering that went into it.” The ultimate test of the project will be done when all the works have been completed and the necessary conditions are in place which requires the canal to function. The East Demerara Water Conservancy Northern Relief Canal was designed to relieve the conservancy when it moves above its full supply level. Once that full supply level is exceeded, “then the operations manual would tell you that you [should] start opening the flood gates,” Wordsworth noted, adding that this is likely to occur in the rainy season when continuous rainfall raises the normal level of the conservancy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

Serious crimes in Berbice down by 19% - DSP Terrence Paul DEPUTY Superintendent of Police and Divisional Detective of ‘B’ Division, Terrence Paul, has reported a 19% decrease in the most serious crimes in that division during an exclusive interview with this newspaper recently. Paul indicated that based on the division’s checks and balances, the period between January and October of this year has seen considerable decrease in the rate of serious crimes committed in the division, compared to the same period in 2013. There have also been decreases in the most prevalent offences in the country, and by extension the division; namely, break and enter and larceny, according to the senior police officer. The division has also recorded decreases in incidents of rape and robbery-with-violence, Paul said. With respect to the fight against cultivation, sale and use of illicit drugs, Paul believes that the division is on top of its game to some extent, given the many discoveries, raids and prosecutions being carried out. He said that ranks, especially those on patrol, have been working in the division for some time now, and are

familiar with the various hideout points and other places where drug pushers would operate and congregate. Those places are raided and, based on intelligence, the police often become aware of places where cannabis is cultivated; and those areas are visited, fields destroyed, and offenders taken into custody and placed before the courts after they are charged. The police have also been increasing their presence in areas where they found that crimes are being committed frequently, and many times there are the raids which net items which had been illegally obtained, and in some cases those items include unlicensed weapons. The Corentyne Coast is the area that poses most problems for the police with respect to criminal activities, and according to Deputy Superintendent Paul, a very condign approach has been adopted to address the issues, while not offending he law-abiding citizens. The division has listed the Corentyne as the most troubled area, while in New Amsterdam the police have been able to get a ‘handle on things’ which has seen a reduction in serious crimes. The reason for that has been

Advisory on wreath laying at Remembrance Day Service tomorrow THE Office of the President has indicated that only the following persons/or their representatives will lay wreaths at the Cenotaph during the ceremony on Remembrance Day tomorrow, Sunday, 9 November, 2014. 1. His Excellency The President 2. The Prime Minister 3. The Chief of Staff 4. The Commissioner of Police 5. Leader of the Opposition 6. President, Guyana Legion 7. The Mayor of Georgetown 8. The Heads of Mission of the Diplomatic Corps 9. Representative – Guyana Ex-Soldiers’ Benevolent Association 10. Ex-GDF Association of Guyana OP advised that any other Persons/Organisations wishing to lay wreaths at the Cenotaph on that day may do so after the end of the Service.

the prevalence of ranks in almost every street via way of patrol. With respect to the Corentyne, the areas are stretched out and very hard to police, even as the division has been coming up with various methods to address deficiencies whenever those arise, Turn to page 10

The “B” Division Command team. From L-R are C/O Hamer, ASP Persaud, Sen. Sup Chapman, Commander Joseph, DSP Paul, ASP Brown and C/O Alli

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday NOVEMBER 8, 2014

Peshmergas blunt, don’t break, Islamic State siege of Syria’s Kobani By Omer Berberoglu and Rasha Elass (Reuters) - IRAQI Kurdish forces have blunted but not broken the siege of the Syrian border town of Kobani, a week after arriving to great fanfare with heavy weapons and fighters in a bid to save it from Islamic State. Kobani has become a test of the U.S.-led coalition’s ability to halt the ad-

dent ... There also needs to be better co-ordination between the Kurdish units and coalition air forces,” he said, adding that Islamic State suicide attacks were also proving effective. The peshmerga entered Kobani in more than a dozen trucks and jeeps last Friday from Turkey, cheering and making victory signs. They were given a heroes’ welcome by Turkish Kurds and Syrian Kurdish refugees, angry at Turkey’s refusal to send in its own troops and optimistic, as they lined the streets cloaked in Kurdish flags, that the peshmerga would turn the tide. The Kurdistan Regional Government, which runs a semi-autonomous region in northern Iraq, has made clear from the outset that its peshmerga fighters, numbering around 150, would not engage in direct combat in Kobani but rather provide artillery support to Syrian Kurds. “Of course the presence of the peshmerga has been helpful because they’re shelling ISIS positions, destroying their fighters and weapons,” Idris Nassan, a local official in Kobani, said by telephone. “Because of the peshmergas shelling we’ve stopped ISIS advances in the western rural areas as well as the east and southeastern front line of the city,” he told Reuters.

An Islamic State flag flies atop a building on the east side of the badly damaged Syrian town of Kobani during fighting between Islamic state forces and Kurdish fighters on November 6, 2014. (Credit: Reuters/Yannis Behrakis) vance of the Sunni Muslim insurgents. The town is one of few areas in Syria where it can co-ordinate air strikes with operations by an effective ground force. The arrival of the Iraqi Kurd peshmerga, or “those who face death,” with armored vehicles and artillery, has enabled them to shell Islamic State positions around Kobani and take back some villages. But the front lines in the town itself are little

changed, its eastern part still controlled by the insurgents, and the west still largely held by the main Syrian Kurdish armed group, the YPG, and allied fighters. “There is no change at all in Kobani as a result of the peshmerga. Maybe one or two streets are gained then lost, back and forth,” said Rami Abdulrahman of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the war. “ISIS (Islamic State) posts are well entrenched in Kobani city, and the Kurds say they need more heavy weaponry to make a

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Ukraine accuses Russia of sending in tanks, escalating crisis

A man walks past a residential block and a car damaged by recent shelling in Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, November 6, 2014. Credit: Reuters/Maxim Zmeyev By Natalia Zinets and Vladimir Soldatkin (Reuters) - UKRAINE’S military accused Russia on Friday of sending a column of 32 tanks and truckloads of troops into the country’s east to support pro-Russian separatists fighting government forces. Thursday’s cross-border incursion, if confirmed, is a significant escalation of a conflict that has killed more than 4,000 people since the separatists rose up in midApril and would call into question Russia’s commitment to a two-month-old ceasefire deal. The truce has looked particularly fragile this week, with each side accusing the other of violations after separatist elections last Sunday condemned as illegitimate by the West. “Supplies of military equipment and enemy fighters from the Russian Federation are continuing,” military spokesman Andriy Lysenko told a briefing in Kiev, de-

7/11/2014

scribing a column that included 16 big artillery guns and 30 trucks carrying troops and ammunition as well as 32 tanks. He said five Ukrainian soldiers had been killed in the past 24 hours although Kiev has denied rebel charges of launching a new military offensive. Russian President Vladimir Putin summoned security chiefs on Thursday to discuss the deteriorating situation but announced no new moves afterwards. Although Russia blames the crisis on Kiev and the West, NATO says it has overwhelming evidence that Russia has aided the rebels militarily in the conflict and it has left Moscow’s relations with the West at their lowest ebb since the Cold War. A NATO military officer said on Friday the alliance had seen an increase in Russian troops and equipment along the border and was looking into reports of Russian tanks crossing into eastern Ukraine.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday NOVEMBER 8, 2014

Mexico cancels China contract for high-speed train line (BBC News) MEXICO has abruptly cancelled a $3.75bn (£2.3bn) contract awarded on Monday for a Chinese-led consortium to build a high-speed passenger rail link. President Enrique Pena Nieto said he wanted to avoid “any doubts about the legitimacy and transparency” of the bidding process. Mexico has forged closer links with China, while Mr Nieto is going to Beijing on a state visit next week. The tender for the 130-

mile rail link is being reopened. Mexico’s communications and transport ministry said the new auction would start from mid-November and be open for about six months. The contract was scrapped after lawmakers accused the government of favouring China Railway Construction Corp (CRCC). Rival bids by Germany’s Siemens, Canada’s Bombardier and France’s Alsthom were considered.

According to reports, the three had asked for more time to prepare their submissions, but the requests were denied. Japan’s Mitsubishi also expressed an interest. But only CRCC and its Mexican partners had submitted a bid proposal by the 15 October deadline for the link between Mexico City and Queretaro. It is possible that CRCC could be eligible for compensation because its contract has been withdrawn, government officials admitted.

Drug charges against Brazilian footballer Adriano rejected (BBC News) A JUDGE in Rio de Janeiro has rejected charges of drug trafficking against Brazilian footballer Adriano. Prosecutors said on Tuesday he had allegedly bought a motorbike and given it as a gift to a known drug dealer in the Rio shanty town where he grew up. But the judge, Maria Tereza Donatti, said the case was dismissed because there was not enough evidence to uphold the accusations. Adriano, 32, could have faced a lengthy prison sentence if convicted. He had denied the allegations, which first emerged

The judge dismissed the charges of drug trafficking over lack of evidence in 2010. Brazilian police said he had bought the motorbike in 2007 and registered it in the name of the mother of

drug dealer Paulo Rogerio de Souza Paz, known as Mica. The bike was used for drug trafficking in one of Rio’s shanty towns, or favelas, then controlled by Comando Vermelho (Red Command), a powerful criminal gang. But the judge said “there was not enough evidence as to the authorship of this crime”. The Brazilian striker had a successful career in Italy, winning titles with Inter Milan. But off-field problems and injuries cut his career short. H e h a s re p o r t e d l y been negotiating a comeback with second division French club Le Havre.

Argentine leader Cristina Fernandez ‘stable’ in hospital (BBC News) DOCTORS treating Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, 61, say she is “in a stable condition.” They said she was being treated for symptoms of a bacterial infection of the colon. Her doctors also said she would have to rest for a minimum of 10 days after her release from hospital, for which they did not set a date. The president has had a series of health problems, some of which have forced her to cancel official trips. A government spokesman said Ms Fernandez would miss the G20 summit of leaders of the world’s 20 biggest economies in the Australian city of Brisbane

Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner has been told to rest for 10 days once she is released from hospital next week. Ms Fernandez checked herself into a hospital in Buenos Aires on Sunday with an infectious fever. Doctors said she was suffering from a sigmoiditis,

an inflammation or infection of the sigmoid colon. As a result, the president had to cancel her attendance at a commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the signing of a peace treaty with Chile, which Chilean President Michelle Bachelet was also due to attend. President Fernandez, of the left-wing Front for Victory party, was first elected in 2007 and then returned to power by a comfortable majority in 2011. Last year she had an operation to treat bleeding on the brain, which forced her to rest for a month. She also missed this year’s Independence Day celebrations because of a throat infection.

Hitching a lift on a Mexican freight train is a common way of getting around the country

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday NOVEMBER 8, 2014

EDITORIAL

GUYANA

Unwelcomed ‘guests’ at church GUIDED by traditional patterns, churches and other places of religion and holy commune are not usually visited by the unwelcome persons of robbers and acts of violence. Not even in times of civil unrest, unless if it entails sectarian violence, where actions of a retaliatory nature do occur on such sacred sites. But it is well known that in states where persons would have sought refuge in places of worship, such precincts were attacked without due regard, with horrific results. There is the well-known case of 5,000 persons who sought refuge in a church at Ntarama, during the Rwanda genocide – they were all killed by machete and grenade attacks. Such then, are brutalities that are related to specific situations of national extremes. Thus despite the high levels of crime and criminal violence experienced in Guyana, very few citizens would have been prepared for the news of last Sunday’s early morning robbery attack, at the St Phillip’s Church, shocking and unbelievable, as much as it would have been bold and brazen. We stand to be corrected by stating that there have been a

few instances of places of worship being broken into, but not in which worshippers were robbed of personal effects. And since such sanctity, as alluded to above, is the very last place where such an unholy attack is expected, then the worshippers who would have been unprepared for such a numbing encounter would have surely been traumatised into disbelief. After all, these are generally staunch parishioners, most of decades old vintage, who would have been accustomed to worshipping every Sunday, punctiliously, without thought of such an occurring heresy. Are such acts signs of the times, as are often intoned; or is it a degeneration of societal morals? Whatever the conclusion/interpretation, Sunday’s robbery points to the more than growing realisation of abysmal deterioration of both personal and societal values, where respect for institutions are being trampled upon. And it points to that great social unit, the family, from which all communities, and hence societies, evolve. The reality is that the family is no longer that moral producer of young progeny with that once talked about moral rectitude that has been

the guiding light for those of the older generation. Though we agree that this degeneration is worldwide, it is right that we comment on the national experience. From an eyewitness’s account, it can be deduced that the perpetrators of this outrage may be youths, since they have taken over the criminal landscape, with most acts of robbery, and some murders, now attributed to them. Again, this points to the home; and we candidly ask whether parents are doing the job expected of them. Sure enough, daily life is a challenge for many, yet such is not an excuse for allowing our young to become involved in acts of criminality, where quite a number have already been felled by police fire. Far too many parents, because of adverse circumstances, allow their offspring to drift. Although many do go the extra mile, even against the odds, for a better life for their children, there is the other category that holds their condition as an excuse and a reason for their young to commit illegalities, from which proceeds they do benefit. Again, not all parents, whatever the adversities, lend support to their young’s dangerous life style. They

are known to upbraid, with strong reprimands. But not all are that morally strong in taking such an uncompromising line. For them, survival by any means becomes a way of life. This is very unfortunate, because with every act these lads commit, they become emboldened for even bigger transgressions, leading to an inevitable clash with the law, imprisonment, but with ultimate tragedy always being a definite possibility. Parents of such youths should understand the heavy moral responsibility they hold, when such instances do occur, especially when they would have been com-

plicit in such acts their sons commit. We sincerely hope that the robbery committed at the St. Philip’s Church is not replicated at other places of worship, or that armed guards, for pre-emptive reasons, start appearing at the doors of places of worship. After all, persons should not have to offer their spiritual supplications in such a stressful environment. Or are we going to have worshippers, strapping on their irons, in anticipation of being attacked by robbers? It will be a very sad day for religion in this country, should such become a norm.

Sase Narain has forgotten the government was once subservient to the PNC I READ with alarm certain comments attributable to Sase Narain, a former Speaker of the National Assembly in a governmental structure that came into being through electoral fraud, intimidation and oppression, and which made his Speakership possible. Narain’s comments related to the illegal recording of a conversation between the Attorney General and a very deceptive Kaieteur News reporter. Notable among Narain’s comments reported in the Kaieteur News of November 2, 2014, are that ‘the People’s Progressive Party has always been vociferous in its quest for absolute domination. Narain said that the AG’s actions reflect government’s obsession with dominating the media.’ This man Narain, in the sixties and eighties was described by the PPP as a ‘PNC stooge’ and ‘PNC puppet.’ Every year he continues to pay homage to Forbes Burnham\ ham (to whom he has much to be thankful for) on the anniversary of the latter’s death at Burnham’s mausoleum. But on his view of domination, I need

only to remind this Brahmin, well known for a taste for fine liquor, coarse language and the free use of expletives that it is domination by the PNC which he conveniently ignores or pretends to forget but which was best captured in the statements of Desmond Hoyte who is on record as having said, in response to a question about his perception of the role of the PPP in opposition, that ‘that main minority interest group must understand that it is in their best interest to cooperate with the Government (PNC) of domination of the media, I am willing to send Sase Narain, copies of the Guyana Chronicle of the seventies and eighties, to refresh his mind, on the vulgar abuse of that newspaper by the PNC and its indecent coverage of PNC as opposed to Government information, but then the declaration of Sophia which I am sure comrade Speaker, Comrade Sase Narain also comrade Attorney-at-law well remembers, the established policy of the day that the government was subservient to the PNC and was the PNC Party executing agency. Talk about domination! Oh my, comrade Sase Narain, you have

obviously forgotten but then it is an accepted fact that aging is accompanied by memory loss. I would also like to remind comrade Narain of the famous Liberator Party case, where that party took the Guyana Chronicle to court to contend that that newspaper was discriminating against it by refusing to carry its advertisements. I recall a court upholding the claim of the Liberator Party. Did you not see these signs comrade Narain? They were the signs of absolute domination. The most insensitive statement reportedly made by Sase Narain however, was ‘Nandlall’s actions do not shock me. Look at the persons they are putting in these prominent positions.’ Inherent in that statement, assuming Narain has been correctly reported; (though I have not seen a correction or denial) is Sase Narain’s elitist class bias, prejudice and arrogance. Sase Narain, a well-known character of many dimensions during the years the PNC ravaged this country, considers himself to have been suited for the Speakership of the National Assembly, but Nandlall as Attorney General? No, not

Nandlall, an unknown Indian coming from humble beginnings and who has his origins in Mon Repos/Annandale who but for his professional reputation was a virtual unknown. The office of Attorney General was held by Ramphal and Shahabudeen, well known upper class Indians. But Nandlall, Narain disgustingly says, ‘just look at the kind of persons they are putting in these prominent positions’. Never mind Nandlall is bright, vibrant and energetic in office, never mind that his is well read and articulate, never mind that as AG he has been an achiever, never mind that he has shown tremendous political acumen, qualities Sase Narain is prepared to ignore. To reflect on the implications of Sase Narain’s comments is to sicken the stomach but that was the feeling of many in Guyana when mention was made of the name of comrade Sase Narain during the tarnished years of PNC paramount, with which comrade Sase Narain was intimately involved. SIDDHU SINGH

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday NOVEMBER 8, 2014

Driver charged with causing death of 12-year-old Isaiah Khan

Dead: Isaiah Khan

THE drunken driver who struck down and killed 12-year-old Isaiah Khan, of Lot ‘A’ La Union, West Coast Demerara, was arraigned yesterday at the Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara, Magistrate’s Court and placed on $500,000 bail. Relatives of the deceased told this publication that the driver indicated that he would visit the “wake house” where he is hoping to engage them in a discussion pertaining to a monetary contribution. Police reported that about 00:15 hrs on November 5, 2014, Isaiah Khan, 12, of La Union, WCD, was struck down by a motor car on the public road at La Union. He was pronounced dead on arrival

at the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH). The driver of the motor vehicle was tested and found to be above the legal alcohol consumption limit and was in police custody assisting with the investigation. Mother of the deceased, Natasha Bacchus, 39, told this publication that she was in bed when she heard a car door slam and suspected that her children had returned home from the WDRH. She told her husband to go open the door and welcome the children, but before he moved they heard a loud sound, “blam” and knew that someone had been struck down and immediately got out of

bed to investigate. The distraught mother stated that almost everybody in the house rushed outside to see what was happening and when they saw who the victim was, they were inconsolable since Isaiah had died on the spot. The grieving woman explained that Isaiah had accompanied his siblings, Melissa, 16, and Crystal, 15, the latter, who was not well, and they left home about 23:30 hrs on Tuesday night for the WDRH seeking medical attention for Crystal. His sisters managed to get out of the way and fell near the trench but their brother was not so lucky.

Parliament must not be transformed into a circus

THERE is a lot of sabre rattling going on in the AFC’s camp on the No-confidence motion filed by Parliamentarian Moses Nagamootoo. It is their contention that this matter be given priority over all others before the House. In their estimation very important and other serious matters that should take pre-eminence, should be sidelined for this ludicrous No-confidence motion. In their view Parliament is a place where their “monkey business” is paramount. Well, I am not so sure of that motion being anywhere near to priority rating, if ever it should be debated at all. This country has constructive ways to utilise its time than to be engaged in a hollow No-confidence debate. The point is, several motions of grave importance to this

nation’s development were left undone in the last sitting of the House and the AFC would want us to put these aside for some nonsensical No-confidence motion? Outrageous! So, I would like to apprise my learned friends in the AFC that this is not going to happen; our Parliament has important things to do. But far more important is the fact that the next sitting of the House the matter of the Speaker’s removal should be tabled. A hot topic such as the rape and buggery of a minor by the speaker is of grave importance to Members of Parliament as well as our nation as a whole. I would not want to sit in parliament where such a vile individual presides and I am calling on the Government’s Chief Whip to whip up the debate on this matter. Trotman has to be removed from the

Speaker’s chair before we can proceed with anything in this noble House. I must remind my readers that a similar situation occurred here in St Lucia with the Speaker of the House and he resigned forthwith. Why is Trotman still there? Such a twisted and perverted character should not be holding office. So, if there is to be a matter of importance, the burning issue of rape and buggery of a minor should be one. The PPP/C for its own part would be grossly negligent in their duties in not safeguarding the integrity of our House if the embattled Speaker is allowed to stay in office. NEIL ADAMS

Nowrand Persaud seems awakened from a deep slumber PLEASE permit me space to respond to Mr. Nowrang Persaud’s letter dated October 30, 2014 captioned “Is this another symptom of debility in the sugar industry.” Firstly, Mr. Nowrang Persaud, himself being a cane farmer for 20 odd years, and GuySuCo former Human Resource Director, should have known how the NCFC functions, and of the benefits farmers are receiving. Mr. Nowrang Persaud for your information kindly note the following:1. Presently NCFC has a revolving fund to assist small farmers. 2. Farmers (you included) benefited from a 50% reduction in their cost of fertiliser, which was negotiated for by NCFC.

3. Your canes are harvested by the Estate, supplied with fertiliser from the Estate, and applied by the Estate labourers, your farmlands are also tilled and planted by the Estate as you require. Therefore, I was mortified at the sentiments you expressed and captioned “Is this another symptom of debility in the sugar industry,” when you were invited to the meeting and chose to remain silent when requested to make a contribution. 4. Your claim that your “repeated attempts to get some clarifications from the Chairman of the NCFC were fruitless” is baseless, because you were advised to refer to the NCFC act Chapter 69:04, and to the Estate’s Liaison Committee for clarification of your issues.

5. You acknowledged your attendance at the NCFC meeting of which I presided, and could have gotten any information you desired. I repeatedly enquire from you for any comment, clarification or issues you may encounter that required to be addressed by the committee, to which you replied “no” in the presence of all the members and other cane farmers who attended. 6. The 17 issues listed on the action sheet, were issues highlighted at the previous NCFC meeting, which are summaries for members of the committee to address, give updates and clarifications at that meeting on the progress of work. 7. You mentioned farmers diminishing output, discontinuation, selling off, etc.; you are probably

speaking on your own behalf. Because more lands were leased by the Government to farmers at Wales, Uitvlugt, Albion and Skeldon locations. Finally, I will continue to ensure that you receive a copy of the NCFC minutes, to keep you informed on what the NCFC is achieving. Mr. Nowrang Persaud it seems like you have just awakened from a deep slumber, because you mentioned that you have attended occasional meetings of which you don’t even know the name – those are the Cane Farmers Liaison Committee meetings, from which farmers were elected to represent their colleagues from that location. You stopped attending those meetings claiming that they are a waste of your pre-

cious time; now you seem to have renewed interest. Mr. Persaud, you were surprised by the preponderance of “officials”, kindly do us a favour and familiarise yourself with the NCFC Act, Cap 69:04., and just in case you still do not get it, those ex-officios (as you called them) are there for a special purpose (apart from abiding with the Act) – to assist, and guide farmers accordingly, by firstly making themselves all available in one room with the farmers, for the farmers. ROY HANOMAN Chairman National Cane Farming Committee (NCFC)

Key to no-confidence motion Gopaul commended for lies with Glenn Lall and GECOM highlighting PNC atrocities THE key to this AFC obsession no-confidence against Government lies with GECOM and Glen Lall: Most Guyanese are of the belief that something sinister is taking place within GECOM for these people to act the way they are. Same could be said of KN Glen Lall, as it would appear that he has everything covered by the goons that are on his payroll. If he is to get away with this you bet your life the next move he will make is to get his people to make video recordings of those he hates

most, so every word every move will be documented. Most Guyanese in the U.S. the UK and the rest of the world know PNC cannot win an election with its support base no matter who get in bed with them to contest election. Last election on SN blog site one blogger on election night declared PPP minority government so therefore they knew this was so even though results would show same days after. They had that inside information right after polls closed and only GECOM

could have had that kind of info. Once things are set in GECOM for a PPP loss, PPP will be buried in court action since the court system is fully stacked with PNC supporters. PPP should ask the UN and the International Community to step in before it’s too late. Glen Lall won’t mind spending his millions to have Granger as President since that would translate into billions in short order for Lall. TED KING

I WISH to commend the Honourable Minister of Labour, Dr. Nanda Gopaul for taking to the stand and highlighting the several atrocities that took place during the Rodney Commission of Inquiry. Gopaul has done well in recounting those painful days in our political life when the workers were harassed by the PNC regime and denied their basic and fundamental rights. I have vivid memories

of the days when all public servants were forced to participate in PNC-sponsored rallies and meetings. I recall one particular experience when I was a student of the Cyril Potter College of Education we were all compelled to participate in Labour Day rallies and to hold placards one of which read “No to Increase in Minimum Wage” at a time when workers were actually starving. Except for a few trade

unions such as GAWU and NAACIE all the other unions were “toothless poodles” and were actually in cahoots with the PNC regime to suppress the working class struggle. The indignity of having to hold placards which were at variance with one’s conscience and convictions was just one of the numerous violations experienced by public service workers. HYDAR ALLY

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

RODNEY’S DEATH: AN ENIGMA BEING ANSWERED Special Report on the Rodney Commission of Inquiry by Shaun Michael Samaroo

Rodney Commission ends session on upbeat note WRAPPING up the sixth session of the historic Rodney Commission yesterday at the High Court, Minister of Labour Dr Nanda Kishore Gopaul and Counsel for the People’s National Congress (PNC) Mr Basil Williams brought the Court alive with energetic engages and mutual respect. This session’s hearings ended on a positive, upbeat note, with Williams eschewing his usual aggressive tone, for a relaxed demeanour, punctuated with laughter and easy pleasantries. Ending on this positive note injects a welcoming breath of fresh air into the usually somber, acrimonious exchanges between witnesses and Counsels aligned to PNC sympathies. Dr Gopaul, who serves as Minister of Labour in President Ramotar’s administration, introduced a tone of tolerance and mutual understanding to the proceedings, noting with intense gesticulation and a firm voice that his participation at the Commission is purely of his own conscience, and because he wants to see “closure” and justice in the demise of his friend and associate in the fight for democracy, Dr Walter Rodney. The Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry yesterday ended the sixth session of public hearings, with a slew

Dr Gopaul and Williams went head-to-head over two days of cross-examination this week, and at the end both came out smiling and in good spirits, and everyone in the Courtroom felt the light atmosphere that open, authentic dialogue between the two political leaders engineered, with the distinguished Commissioners guiding the process.

Dr Walter Rodney

of witnesses appearing to testify into the circumstances and conditions that existed in Guyana in the 1978 to 1980 period, which saw the bomb blast assassination of Dr Rodney, on Friday, June 13, 1980. Much of the evidence accumulated so far at the Commission substantiates worldwide suspicions and allegations over the past three and a half decades that the PNC Government plotted, conspired and executed a deadly PNC State-sanctioned plan to execute Dr Rodney. Dr Rodney was leader of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), and was engaged in a civic rebellion against the dictatorship PNC Government, which rigged local and national elections, and collapsed the national economy, causing untold suffering on Guyanese workers.

Dr N K Gopaul

Basil Williams

Dr Gopaul, a long-standing Trade Union leader and closely aligned with Dr Rodney and other great Guyanese freedom fighters for over two decades, provided damning testimony and evidence to the Commission to support his contention that the PNC State machinery assassinated Dr Rodney. But Dr Goapul said he holds no malice towards the PNC, and welcomed the PNC to join with other political parties in Guyana to develop the country, and cooperate to build a good future for the nation. He sounded a note for

forgiveness and cooperation, and Williams responded with a softer tone to his cross examination. This resulted in the Commission adjourning with everyone in a light mood. President Donald Ramotar has directed that the Commission accumulate the evidence it unearths, and issue an official report, bringing closure and justice to the brutal demise of Dr Rodney. The cold case of the political leader’s death languished for 34 years before President Ramotar convened the Commission early this year. But the PNC adopted a

Commissioners Sir Richard Cheltenham, Seenath Jairam and Jacqueline Samuels-Brown

hostile stance towards the Commission, with only Williams opting to appear on behalf of the disgraced party, as its Counsel. Yesterday’s shift in tone could see Williams cooperate with the Commission in the future, thus ensuring Dr Gopaul’s olive branch to welcome the PNC’s role in Guyana’s development bear fruit. The Commission could provide the platform the nation needs to see healing of the political divides that strangle development and hamper the Government of President Ramotar in its initiatives to carry out major development projects. Williams’ perspective, based on his participation in the Commission, could play a major role in inculcating that atmosphere of workability and mutual cooperation. Although the Commission sees vociferous criticism to its work from a minority of vocal PNC-sympathisers, yesterday’s session - and the public engagement between Dr Gopaul, a sitting Minister of Government, and Williams, a senior executive member of the PNC and a Member of Parliament for the political coalition A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), comprising the PNC and its arch-foe, the WPA - showcased what’s possible out of the work of the Commission. Dr Gopaul and Williams went head-to-head over two days of cross-examination this week, and at the end both came out smiling and in good spirits, and everyone in the Courtroom felt the light atmosphere that open, authentic dialogue between the two political leaders engineered, with the distinguished Commissioners guiding the process.

The Commission resumes public hearings next year, but the Commissioners - Chairman Sir Richard Cheltenham of Barbados, Jacqueline Samuels-Brown of Jamaica and Seenath Jairam of Trinidad and Tobago, along with the Commission Secretariat based at the High Court, would monitor the political situation in Guyana before fixing firm dates to resume. The Commission adjourns as Guyana’s Parliament faces acrimony, strife and division, with the Opposition, comprising the PNC and WPA in coalition, along with the Alliance For Change (AFC) seeking to topple President Ramotar’s Government in a questionable no-confidence motion. Yesterday’s Commission sitting was groundbreaking, however, as Dr Gopaul and Williams showed what’s possible with open dialogue and authentic expression of feelings and perspectives. The Commission may have elevated its impact on this nation, in providing the platform and forum for Williams and Dr Gopaul to thus engage on sensitive national and historical issues. Should the tone set yesterday become a regular feature at the Commission, out of its convening could emerge a new way of being for this nation, with a meeting of the sides over the watchful eyes of legal luminaries of the Caribbean. The energetic exchanges, mutual respect and genuine engagement between Williams and Dr Gopaul saw the Commission take on a new dimension in its last hours of this session, one of, in reality, providing the forum for healing, understanding, forgiveness and ventilation of the nation’s dark history.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday NOVEMBER 8, 2014

Honouring our heroes

SINCE time immemorial some outstanding figures in the family of humankind have been putting their personal welfare – even their lives, in the line of fire – literally and figuratively, for the benefit of the general good, while there are yet others who trample on the rights of others, including leaders who engage in programmes against their own people, to advance their self-serving interests. Within the Guyana landscape many tried to end the scourge of slavery in various ways. The slaves through rebellions, with some paying the ultimate price, and the various monuments around the country do not even begin to tell the stories, many unrecorded, of the desperate courage of men and women who refused to vitiate their humanity to bestiality. It is through a continuum of sacrifices by heroic antecedents of the Guyanese people that this country finally achieved Independence from Great Britain which, sadly, did not confer real freedom to the newly-birthed Guyanese nation, because this country was still held captive to a dictatorship, which refused to relinquish their stranglehold on the fledgling nation, with many of the freedom fighters locked up in jails, even while the instruments of freedom were being conferred to the dictator. However, the greatest freedom fighter Guyana has ever known, who strategised and led the fight for freedom against colonisation, Dr. Cheddi Jagan, along with a team of loyal and committed patriots including current President Donald Ramotar, continued relentlessly to pursue true democracy whereby the peoples of this land could truly celebrate their national identity through cultural diversity on once common path to peace, progress and prosperity.

ithin the Guyana landscape many tried to end the scourge of slavery in various ways. The slaves through rebellions, with some paying the ultimate price, and the various monuments around the country do not even begin to tell the stories, many unrecorded, of the desperate courage of men and women who refused to vitiate their humanity to bestiality

The journey was rugged and the way was filled with the encumbrances of violence meted out to the pathbreakers, who sometimes paid with their lives to create a way forward for a pathway on which their descendants could tread with the confidence of a brighter future ahead – if they succeeded. And succeed they did, but the martyrs are strewn like flowers on that path that led to the lives steeped in democratic freedoms that the current and future generations of Guyanese are enjoying. June-July marks the season of Guyanese martyrdom. It was during this season that 17-yr-old Jagan Ramessar and father of five, Parmanand Bholanauth, were brutally shot and left to bleed to death when they tried to prevent the hijacking of ballot boxes by members of the Guyana Defence Force during elections of 1973; a brutal murder that is still being defended by then high-ranking officer in the GDF and Burnham’s security advisor, and current PNC presidential candidate, David Granger, who is adding insult to injury by placing the blame on the victims for their own gruesome and unnecessary murder. Young and charismatic leader of the Working People’s Alliance, Dr. Walter Rodney, also paid the ultimate price for opposing the dictatorship, with the Guyana Defence Force once more being accused of his murder; and he was merely one of many others, including peaceful Catholic Standard

photographer, who was merely taking out photographs, yet was ran down and bayoneted in full public view. It was in June of 1948 that five sugar workers on the Enmore Estate sacrificed their lives in pursuit of humane working conditions in the industry, which precipitated even greater efforts on the part of an already charged young Dr. Cheddi Jagan on a lifelong course to pursue justice and equity to the overburdened and abused working class people of then British Guiana. Throughout the decades of much injustice and suffering meted out to him and his supporters he continued unswervingly to place his beloved country and people in a comfort zone that would guarantee a posterity of promise of unity in this nation’s cultural diversity, which would become bridges to strengthen a pathway to progress for the nation, instead of chasms that could lead to a nation forever divided. And he pursued this dream of freedom

and unity in diversity all his life. What he achieved in the early 1950’s is once again fructifying, despite the frantic efforts of those who want to once more divide the people so that they can rule the land with an iron fist. The current administration is succeeding in bringing the Guyanese nation together in shared efforts at nation-building, where everyone is a participant in joint community initiatives, which is slowly but surely melding the Guyanese people into a nation with one common objective – the pursuit of peace, progress and prosperity for all, collectively as a Guyanese nation. But in the various engagements to reach this objective the peoples of this land must never forget to honour those who have made these achievements possible – the martyrs of Guyana who sacrificed their own welfare and sometimes their lives to carve this pathway to a brighter future for Guyana and the Guyanese people.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

Former cop jailed for human trafficking

OVER a year ago Police Lance Corporal 17370 Huford David of Sisters Village, East Bank Berbice, was slapped with a human- trafficking charge. The 36-year-old convict was yesterday sentenced to four years imprisonment by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. Particulars of the offence said, between January 1 and 31, 2013, he engaged in trafficking a 14-year-old female juvenile to Kukumu, Mazaruni River, for sexual

exploitation. David was represented by Attorneys-at-Law Ms. Latchmie Rahamat and Mr. Peter Hugh. In a plea for mitigation, Ms. Rahamat pleaded that her client had had an impeccable record while he was a member of the Police Force. She added that he is father of four minor children and is the sole breadwinner for his family. Defence counsel asked the court to temper justice with mercy and to deliver a sentence that is reasonable.

H o w e v e r, t h e c h i e f magistrate took into consideration both the mitigating and the aggravating factors before sentencing. The aggravating factors include: the fact that the victim is of a tender age; the convict being the mastermind of the offence and the need to send a strong message to both the offender and any other person contemplating such an act. As it relates to the mitigating factors, the court also considered that David appeared to be

remorseful; the father of minor children; the sole breadwinner for his family and the time he spent on remand. After the former police officer was sentenced, Mr. Hugh gave the court an oral notice of appeal and requested that his client be admitted to bail during the appeal. The bail application was refused by the chief magistrate. On his first appearance in court on April 25, 2013, the court had heard that

David offered the virtual complainant and her sister a job in a bar while making an offer for her to do other business. He told the teen she must collect two ounces of raw gold or $20,000 from every man she slept with and hand over the payments to a shopkeeper named “Rankin” to keep. After the girl had accumulated gold and cash, she made contact with the shopkeeper and demanded her money and gold; the shopkeeper informed her

that he did not have anything for her. She then took David to “Rankin” and the latter could only account for less. She then left the place where David took her to work and contact was made with the Guyana Women Miners Association and subsequently, the matter was reported. David was denied bail on his first court hearing and spent 15 days on remand, after which he managed to secure bail.

Bartica police present Labourer jailed for break sports gear to secondary and enter and larceny schools and communities – gear gifted to Bartica by G/t businesswoman with students’ welfare at heart OFFICER in Charge of the Bartica police, Assistant Superintendent R. Banwarie, led his force on October 27 in a distribution of sports gear (footballs and volleyballs) at the Bartica and Three Miles Secondary schools, and in the Batavia, Kartabo and Goshen communities. The sports gear was made available by businesswoman Mrs. Callender

of New Market and Camp Streets in Georgetown, who piloted the idea of providing the means to have the Bartica students utilise their free time meaningfully through sporting activities. The Bartica police also welcomed the gesture as a proactive collective community and police response towards appropriate career guidance for the youths by having them simply en-

gaged in the right activities; for through sports, healthy minds and bodies are also built. The Bartica police recently began working along with the Agatash Community Development Council (CDC) to clear away bushes that were encroaching on the Agatash Community Centre Ground, a place youths utilise for sporting activities.

A 49-year-old labourer of Lot 106 Silvertown, Wismar, Linden was yesterday sentenced to nine months imprisonment by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on a break and enter and larceny charge. Collin Batson pleaded guilty to the charge that said between October 13 and 31 at Omai Backdam, he broke and entered the storage bond of K & B Mining Company and stole a quantity of items which included one chain

saw, one weeding machine, one radiator, one Yamaha engine, 24 bearings and a quantity of medical supplies, together totalling $997,500, property of Omkar Persaud. The unrepresented man told the court that he did not steal all the articles mentioned in the charge, but only some of them to meet his payments. He first told the court that he operates an excavator and had injured his head; after he told the general manager(GM) about his situation,

he was told to have a check with a doctor. He later told the court that the articles mentioned in the charge were missing and he was accused of stealing it and beaten by the security guard. He added that after that he stole some of the items mentioned to get money to see a doctor. Police Prosecutor Michael Grant told the court that the gas tank, some medical supplies and the Yamaha power engine were recovered.

Serious crimes in...

Officer in Charge of the Bartica Police Station, ASP R. Banwarie, and Woman Police Sgt Felix are seen with Police Constable Aaron as they present sports gear to Head Mistress of the Three Miles Secondary School

and loopholes are discovered. On the West Coast of Berbice, the B Division police have also been having some issues there, especially, with regard to break and entry crimes. Recently, however, the police have been able to bring the situation there under control with some new methods of policing the various communities along the area. Another plus for the police in ‘B’ Division is its successful efforts in soliciting the help of the general public in sharing information with the police. That has, however, had its limitations, as some

people would share information with the cops and other would report matters. But because of the slothfulness of the judicial system, and out of fearfulness, it becomes a challenge to have those same persons come forward and give evidence in court. In regard to the judicial system, many persons have been opting to settle matters out of court, and would sometimes approach the police to facilitate the process; but according to Paul, that is never encouraged by the police, and the matters are sent to the court for the decision to be made there.

From page 3

According to the Divisional Detective, the police are looking to achieve a 50% rate in crime solving in the division, but it all comes back to the witnesses cooperating and the information flowing, but that does not often happen, he added. Repeat offenders pose a huge challenge for the division, and most crimes in the division are being committed by persons aged between 17 and 27. However, the police in the division have vowed to continue their fight against crime, as they strive to serve and protect the citizenry.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

Government never gave up on Amaila - HPS HEAD of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon said that “by no means has this Administration ever surrendered its intentions to have renewable energy and erect the Amaila hydropower facility.” Speaking at his weekly post-Cabinet press briefing at the Office of the President on Thursday, the HPS said that notwithstanding the roadblocks imposed by the parliamentary Opposition, the Administration remains optimistic especially now with the US $80M that will be made available through the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF). This money will be transferred to the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), which remains an important player among the stakeholders involved in furthering the ambitions of the Administration on renewable energy. According to the Cabinet

Secretary, the Guyana-Norway agreement is undoubtedly a significant feature of former President Bharrat Jagdeo’s term in Office. “The Norwegians with whom Guyana executed such an agreement have held and are holding great promise for Guyana and the world,” he said. Norway assures of its conviction that Guyana continues to safeguard its forest, a pledge that is inherent in the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). Dr Luncheon said the post 2015 LCDS engagement with the Norway is a matter that enjoys strong support by the Guyana Government, as well as by the Norwegians. Guyana has thus far received US $250M of which US $150M has already been received. It is anticipated that the balance will be made available over the fifth and

President Donald Ramotar meeting with a team from Norway. Also in photo are Minister Carolyn Rodrigues- Birkett and Robert Persaud (backing camera)

sixth cycle of payments. “Guyana’s pre-eminence among Caribbean States in the world of climate change is on the basis of the engagement with the Norwegians… this Government remains inflexibly committed to renewable energy in the form

of the hydropower facility at the Amaila Falls,” the HPS affirmed. Guyana is expecting its fourth payment for climate services and continued low deforestation from the Norway in the amount of US $35M, US $80M of which

will go towards the Amaila project. Additionally, US $10.8M will go towards land titling, US $8.2M for Amerindian community development projects, US$5.1M for small and micro-enterprise development, US$0.5M for a

climate resilience strategy and action plan, US$1.9M for the Monitoring Reporting Verification System, $US6.4M for institutional strengthening, US $1.2M for national and international awareness campaigns on the LCDS. (GINA)

It’s all about a storm in a teacup - Gov’t Chief Whip GOVERNMENT’s Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira has dismissed the Speaker’s statement that the President has no power to reconvene Parliament as a “storm in a teacup”. In an invited comment, she reminded that there have been calls by many people, including by sections of the political Opposition, for the President and or the Government to convene a sitting of the House. Last week, President Donald Ramotar directed that the House be reconvened within 14 days. In keeping with this commitment, he subsequently made an address to the nation where he announced November 10 as the date for the House to be reconvened. The recess ended on October 10. The Chief Whip explained that it is the head of the Executive, and not the Speaker that is the head of Parliament. No usurpation Subsequent to the President’s announcement of the date, the Prime Minister in his capacity as Leader of the House communicated the necessary information to the Clerk who is in charge of making the necessary arrangements in keeping with

the established procedures. “There is no question of any usurpation of any constitutional norm or any parliamentary practice. This is all a storm in a teacup,” Teixeira said. Unsubstantiated The Government has drafted a Motion of Privilege against Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Khemraj Ramjattan which it plans to move at the November 10 sitting. In September, at one of his Party’s press conferences, Ramjattan had accused the ruling Party of attempting to buy out three Opposition parliamentarians at $30M each. Shortly thereafter, Teixeira wrote to the Speaker, calling for Ramjattan to retract his statement or provide evidence of the so-called bribery. In the said correspondence, it was brought to the Speaker’s attention that the accusations made by the AFC and in particular Ramjattan, have brought the Parliament’s image into disrepute and are in fact, damaging to the integrity of the members of the House. “Let him name who was bribed and who is the briber. We can’t be making reckless, unsubstantiated statements to the public and misinforming

President Donald Ramotar

Gail Teixeira

Raphael Trotman

the public,” she said. A Privileges Motion is granted solely on the Speaker’s discretion; he decides whether a prima facie case has been made out and whether the member, against whom the Motion is moved, should be sent to the Privileges Committee. Moreover, a Privileges Motion does not require notice, and therefore can be raised immediately after written and oral questions have been addressed on a sitting’s agenda and the Government plans to do exactly this. Anyone’s guess The Chief Whip said that the imminent parliamentary sitting is fraught with many

possibilities ranging from a No-Confidence Motion to several other important matters on both the Government and Opposition’s agenda. “It is anyone’s guess how everything will unfold. It could be a day of extraordinary importance or it could be a normal sitting with the usual sparring back and forth,” she jokingly submitted. Meanwhile, another Motion has already been circulated under the name of APNU member, Joseph Harmon. This Motion seeks to amend the Standing Orders to allow for the Speaker to be able to convene a sitting of the House in instances when no date has been fixed. Unlike the Privileges Mo-

tion however, this Motion has to adhere to the requisite 12-days notice period and as such it wouldn’t be ready for debate at the November 10 meeting. Nevertheless, the Opposition can move for a suspension of the Standing Orders to allow for their Motion to be addressed, but even so, no decision can be made on the floor with regards to this issue. As per procedure, the Motion has to go to the Standing Orders Committee where it will be discussed in the hope of reaching a mutually accepted agreement. Importantly however, the Opposition has a majority in this Committee as they do in all of the others.

Constitutional concerns Teixeira said that whether or not Harmon decides to wait for the maturity of the Motion, does not take away from the constitutional concerns that the Government has of it. She said that the Motion appears to either denigrate or erode Government’s right or prerogative to convene a sitting. “There are some issues in the language of the amendments that he has brought… so this will be hotly debated once it is laid in the Standing Orders Committee,” she said. This same issue of who could convene a sitting was recently a bone of contention between the Speaker and the Clerk. The Clerk shared the view that the Speaker does not have the authority to call a sitting and as such, refused to carry out his request to do same on November 6. The Clerk noted that after consulting with his counterparts in the region, it is clear that the Speaker only has that right when there is an adjournment date. If passed, Harmon’s Motion will, in effect, not allow Parliament to be adjourned to a date to be fixed or sine die. (GINA)

NCN observes 17th anniversary of 98.1FM Radio with road show at Stabroek Square

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

Miss World Guyana, Rafieya Husain, visits GPHC’s Paediatric Ward to spread cheer

Miss Guyana World and officials from the GPHC

Radio Announcer Seegobin and Quacy Coates, called “Avalanche”, in action on Friday last during the live road show at Stabroek Square

NATIONAL Communications Network (NCN) Radio 98.1 FM celebrated its 17th anniversary on Friday last, and marked the occasion with a live road show held at Stabroek Market Square in downtown Georgetown. Members of the public were gifted with hampers at the road show, after answering questions pertaining to the radio station and its establishment. Sound Engineer and Studio Supervisor Devon Roberts told this publication that, to observe the event, NCN wanted to make radio more

interactive and also to give members of the public, an opportunity to meet the radio announcers, DJs and others manning the radio station, hence the live road show was conceptualised. Roberts added that the public received the initiative very well, and turned out in their numbers to participate in the question-and-answer segment. He said because NCN also wanted to make 98.1 FM social media savvy, the station has been placed online and has received good feedback since its launching on the Web.

He explained that listeners and others can comment on the 98.1FM website, besides it providing an avenue for them to air their concerns and rate the programmes on radio, so radio can improve. Radio Manager Michella Abraham-Ali was also present, and interacted with members of the public during the question-and-answer segment. She said that NCN received hampers from several companies to make the Friday event extra special, hence NCN was able to give away the prizes that it did.

CONTINUING her bid to spread goodwill, reigning Miss World Guyana, Rafieya Husain, recently brought smiles to the faces of over thirty (30) children at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation’s (GPHC) Paediatric Ward when she visited the facility and spent time chatting with the children, who were all delighted to meet her. “I count it a great privilege to spend part of my day

with the children, and I appreciate the warm welcome given. Although it hurts me to see them in pain, I am happy that I can spread some cheer and brighten up their day,” Rafieya said. The children were treated to a variety of flavored ice-cream, compliments of Brusters, who collaborated with Rafieya in her visit to the hospital. In advancing her “Shatter the Silence” campaign, nurses from the GPHC Pae-

diatric Ward were presented with bracelets and a booklet, which serve as educational and conversational tools in Rafieya’s campaign to bring awareness on the issue of violence against women. Public Relations Officer of the GPHC, Mitzy Campbelle, expressed appreciation for Rafieya’s visit and for Brusters’ kind contribution in spreading cheer to the children, which she noted as “timely and thoughtful.”

COS intervenes, GDF provides sponsorship for Cleveland Forde THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) this afternoon, provided celebrated national distance athlete Cleveland Forde with the sponsorship necessary, to enable his participation at Sunday’s Association of Athletic Federation (IAAF) South American 10km Road Race Classic, in Panama. Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Mark Phillips, indicated that it would have been a travesty had Forde lost the opportunity to participate at this the third and final leg of the Classic. “After reading of Cleveland’s predicament in one of the dailies this morn-

ing, I decided that this young man who has worn Guyana’s colours with dignity and integrity, always delivering excellence, deserved the opportunity to once again represent himself and the nation at this prestigious race,” he said. “The Guyana Defence Force is happy to be able to provide him and indeed Guyana with this opportunity. I am confident that he will do us proud.” Forde, expressing his gratitude to the Chief of Staff and the GDF, said that participation in the Classic is very important.“This is perhaps the 12th edition of this Clas-

sic and I have participated in nine editions. I have progressed from placing fifth in my first exposure several years ago, to chalking up wins in at least one or two stages in my most recent showings. This time, I am aiming to bring the title home for Guyana,” he says. The officers and ranks of the GDF stand solidly behind Forde as he seeks to do himself and country proud. Forde is also a member of the GDF Athletics Club and performed with excellence at the recently concluded Inter-Services Athletics Championships.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

GT&T responds to GPTWU press statement regarding accidental death of employee

THE telecommunications giant GT&T has issued a press release reiterating its deepest regret at the unfortunate accident which resulted in the death of its employee Mr. Vijai Gaznabi on Monday, November 3, 2014. The release said the company remains saddened by the accident, and has been actively giving its fullest support to family members and loved ones of the late Vijai Gaznabi during this difficult period. “ We h a v e n o t e d t h e comments in the Press Statement issued by the Guyana Postal and Telecommunications Workers Union (GPTWU) to the media, and are concerned about the several inaccuracies in the release, the timing of which we view as opportunistic and somewhat in poor taste, given this period of mourning in the organisation”, the GT&T press release dis-

closed. The company has said it has taken this opportunity to offer clarity to the GPTWU missive, and intends for this clarification to be its only response to the GPTWU in this matter. The company has said that its maximum priority placed on Labour Relations and Occupational Safety and Health is manifested in its collective bargaining agreement. Hence, contrary to the GPTWU thinking, every employee of the GT&T has a reasonable expectation to be afforded the opportunity for promotion in any work situation. Therefore, to equate the justified promotion of staff as “Union Busting” is in itself tantamount to the Union’s questioning of the merits of its membership’s ability for upward professional mobility. Moreover, the company has said, promotion of staff in no way affects or

diminishes the level of supervision offered to its workforce, because there are tiers of supervision which go right up to the level of the Executive. Further, the company has said, technicians are provided with assistance from contracted labourers based on the assessment of the assignment and/or their request; and staff members are all provided with safety gear relevant to their area of work, and are routinely implored to use same as they embark on every assignment. The company has also said it has undertaken a comprehensive review of the incident, and will continue to work constructively with the Union and other relevant bodies to further review its practices, protocols which would result in more rigid enforcement of all procedures, including safety best practices.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

‘Because we Care’ cash grant distribution to end soon

Minister Manickchand takes time to explain to parents what they need to do as they wait to uplift their ‘Because we Care’ vouchers Education Minister Priya Manickchand poses with a student and teacher of the Covent Garden Secondary School

HAVING completed distributing the ‘Because we Care’ $10,000 cash grant in most of the regions, the Ministry of Education (MoE) is now preparing to service the few remaining communities before it

ends this first cash grant distribution. The process has been mostly seamless, considering the magnitude of the task undertaken by the Government through the Ministry of Education

Saturday, November 8, 2014 - 05:30 hrs Sunday, November 9, 2014 - 05:30 hrs Monday, November 10, 2014 - 05:00 hrs

to deliver this $10,000 cash grant to parents of almost 200,000 children in the public school system. Education Minister Priya Manickchand, in her remarks to parents and guardians at the Covent Garden Secondary School, East Bank Demerara, noted that the past six weeks have been smooth and have been marked by order, civility and efficiency. Minister Manickchand also reiterated that local statistics as well as international reports written about the country show that Guyana is doing better as a country; and that, she said, is why the Government of Guyana can invest in giving parents the additional support. “We are able to give $10,000 as a grant this year because our country is indisputably doing better.

Minister Manickchand helping to direct parents to their respective service area

It is a fact…our economy is going better, we can better spread our resources and reinvest it back in you…. We care about your

families’ welfare.” The ‘Because we Care’ $10,000 cash grant was distributed at 10 locations across the East Coast and the East Bank of Demerara, and approximately 7,671 children benefited. Thursday, November 6, was the final day for the distribution of the grant in Region 4 (East Bank and East Coast Demerara), and distribution was expected to be completed in Georgetown by today, Saturday November 8. The MoE wishes to report that parents from the following administrative regions have received their ‘Because we Care’$10,000 cash grant thus far: Region 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, and Region 10. Distribution is expected to be completed in most of these regions

by the end of this week. The remaining regions are expected to be serviced by November 23. The ‘Because we Care’ $10,000 cash grant programme is meant to provide more support to parents with school age children, and increase the disposable income of parents with school age children, with a view to raising enrollment and attendance rates. This is, in fact, the first programme of its kind in the Caribbean, and indeed anywhere else in this part of the world, where every public school child is entitled to this benefit. Parents have until the November 30, 2014 to encash their vouchers at any Westen Union or Bill Express location.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

GFS conducts fire-safety drill at Guyana Chronicle that the boss or supervisor is in charge and is ultimately responsible for the drill, David explained. He also demonstrated to staffers how to use a fire extinguisher using the P-A-

Fireman David explains to staffers of the Guyana Chronicle how the fire extinguisher should be used

THE Guyana Fire Service (GFS) yesterday conducted a fire drill at the Guyana National Newspaper Limited (GNNL)/Guyana Chronicle in an effort to enhance its fire-safety capacity. Fireman Gleyndon David, after alerting staffers of using the fire alert alarm in the building, ensured that they evacuated the one-storey edifice in a timely manner. Thereafter, he engaged them in a discussion on several fire-safety methods, including the use of a fire extinguisher and general topics on fire safety. The following methods pertaining to preparations for a fire were explained to staff-

ly it is or act as if it is not worthwhile or important, then children won’t respect it either. David reminded staffers about the need for remaining calm during the outbreak of a fire. He said that this (the drill) seems like a given, but sometimes the supervisors cause more problems than the staffers by not remaining calm from the beginning. “You should act seriously and be in charge. No yelling; no getting excited. Just tell your students or staffers to line up calmly,” David exhorted. He also told staffers to demand excellent behaviour and to make sure workers stay together.

Chronicle’s General Manager Mr. Michael Gordon (pink shirt), Editor-in-Chief Mr. Mark Ramotar (black shirt) and Sunday Editor (ag) Mr. Chamanlall Naipaul (sitting) can be seen in photo

ers of the Guyana Chronicle by David. A fire is something serious David said, adding that even though it is just a drill and even though one might have participated in these since one was a small child, this does not mean that one should not treat it as though it is an actual emergency. Children will take their cue from adults; if one should talk about how sil-

David added that once you get to the assembly area, there will be some time before the all-clear signal is given. During this waiting period, you will want your workers to stay with you. Therefore, make sure that you stay with your workers and enforce your rules. “You can use this time to chat with your workers in a more relaxed atmosphere. However, always remember

S-S method; the acronym P-A-S-S means Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep. He also said that when one is finished using the fire extinguisher, it should be placed on its side on the

floor. It will be collected and recharged after the fire scene is secured. The management and staff of the Guyana Chronicle would like to thank the Guyana Fire Service which

is led by Fire Chief Marlon Gentle; his deputy Winston McGregor; Divisional Commander, Compton Sparman and also Fireman Gleyndon David for this initiative.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday NOVEMBER 8, 2014

Resurfacing of Linden/Lethem Road almost completed

The Ministry is advising drivers to reduce their speed on the roadway in order to curtail the risk of becoming involved in accidents.

RESURFACING of critical sections of the Linden/Lethem Road, which has reduced the travel time from 13-plus hours to seven, will be completed in another seven days. The sections were compacted with lateritic material. The multi-million-dollar project, which commenced in September 2014, was executed in phases by Troy Resources; Omai

Gold Mines (OGM); Demerara Timbers Limited (DTL); Mekdeci Machinery and Construction (MMC), and Vevakanand Dalip Enterprise (DALIP). Two hundred and seventy-six miles of road were upgraded under the project; and in an effort to improve visibility along the busy thoroughfare, extensive bush cutting was done, especially in the vicinity of the Iwokrama Concession.

GTA embarks on initiative to educate Guyanese on tourism importance to enhance what the chefs or cooks already possess and this training is done free of cost to the participants.” Participating groups included OMG sports bar, Waterchris, Maharaja Palace, Upper Crust Restaurant, Gravity Lounge, Windjammer Restaurant and Bar and Antonio’s Grill. In the coming weeks, many more activities and events will be rolled out including the Essequibo Bird Guide Training, to be conducted at Fort Island, this Saturday; a Birding Tour at the Botanical Gardens will

also be facilitated on this day. Additionally, several tour operators and businesses are offering specials during TAM, these include, Dagron Tours, Old Fort Tours, Air Services Limited, GuyBraz Tours and Hurakabra River Resort. The month long calendar of activities, rolled out under the theme ‘Tourism Entrepreneurs and Ambassadors Mobilised’ kicked off with the grand launch on October 31 when all of the sector players gathered to usher in this celebratory period.

School talk being conducted at Berbice High School. AS Tourism Awareness Month (TAM) activities continue the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has executed several activities including the hosting of a ‘School Talk’ at the Berbice High School on November 3. GTA has embarked on an initiative to educate Guyanese on the importance of tourism. The much needed attention and awareness have not been given to the tourism sector, the Tourism Minister Irfaan Ali restated during the launch of Tourism Month. He had also explained that if our people do not have the relevant information, how will the sector be able to move forward. Kemie William, the facilitating officer and staff of GTA, explained during her remarks to the fifth and sixth form students of Berbice High School, that it is the aim of the

tourism sector to educate our young people on becoming tourism ambassadors. “School talks are part of the series of events that are aimed at educating our young ambassadors about Tourism, the economic, social and environmental impacts and what they can contribute as ambassadors and tourism students,” she said. During the power point presentation the new tourism brand and Guyana’s Tourism product among other sections of tourism were presented to the students. The GTA on November 5 also hosted a training session in the culinary arts, where several groups attended to enhance their skills in kitchen hygiene and safety, meal planning, methods of cooking and cooking terms. The session was conducted by Ms. Doreen Oburmuller who said: “The training was

One of the displays of exquisite culinary art

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday NOVEMBER 8, 2014

Government’s investment provides opportunities for children to pursue academic interest- Dr Gopaul RECENTLY Labour Minister Dr Nanda Gopaul assisted in the distribution of cash grants vouchers under the ‘Because We Care’ initiative for public school children where thousands of parents queued up to receive theirs and also to show their appreciation of what they termed “a thoughtful gesture” by the Government. Much favourable responses to this initiative were received by Dr. Gopaul, when he joined the distribution process at several locations across the country, including schools along the West Bank of Demerara, the Essequibo Coast, St. Ambrose Primary School in Georgetown and Tagore Memorial in Region 6 (East Berbice/Corentyne). During his remarks, the Labour Minister urged parents to see Government’s investment in their children as opportunities for them to pursue their academic interest and accomplish professional development. He alluded to the fact that the cash grant is in addition to the many other initiatives Government has instituted to aid parents’ efforts to ensure their children are educated, including the provision of free uniforms, text books, hot meals and transportation in some cases and snacks in other instances. “In addition, Government has made the school environment safer, cleaner, and more conducive to learning to the extent that within recent years, Guyana has

A parent receives her voucher from Labour Minister Dr Nanda Gopaul at Tagore Memorial seen significant improvement in the results at both the CXC and CAPE levels. As parents we ask that you be part of their upbringing. Show your children love and encourage them to attend school regularly and punctually,” he said. He urged the parents to understand that there is no limit to opportunities “as Government has made these opportunities available to every single child that wants to pursue a career path. Ensure your children complete secondary school so that they could go on to study and develop themselves and their families. Completing school is one of the surest ways to end the scourge of child labour that is affecting many countries around the world.” In recent years, more than 300 students have returned to Guyana from Cuba as doctors, engineers and agriculturalist, he added, noting

Labour Minister Dr Nanda Gopaul helping in the distribution during his visit to the Essequibo Coast that in the colonial past and even after, “only the rich and privileged could have become doctors, lawyers and other professionals, but the last 20 years saw an unprecedented level of technical and professional training given to the children of working class families. The result is that today in all regions of this country there are proud parents who can say that their

PPP/Civic MPs discuss parliamentary agenda billed for Monday’s sitting PEOPLE’S Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Members of Parliament (MPs) met yesterday at Freedom House to discuss the parliamentary agenda billed for the sitting of the National Assembly on Monday. One of the main items on the agenda is the No-Confidence Motion tabled by the Alliancs For Change (AFC), which if passed will pave the way for General and Regional Elections. In this Adrian Narine photo MPs going into Freedom House for the meeting

A section of the parents that gathered at Tagore Memorial in Region 6

son or daughter is a doctor or a young professional.” He also highlighted the opportunities offered to the unemployed in Guyana over the last eight years, pointing to the numerous persons placed in jobs through the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency at the Labour Ministry and the thousands trained through the various programmes of the

Board of Industrial Training. “The training has allowed many school drop outs to become marketable and employed. Similarly, many single parents have benefited, as well as many others who used the opportunity to be trained for the job market,” he said. These opportunities and development to the country’s human capital, including higher standards for workers, Gopaul stated, are in addition to the infrastructure, economic and social services development taking place, with Guyana’s economic performance being deemed exceedingly well in comparison to sister Caribbean countries. “The PPP/C Government has been engaged in a development process all across Guyana in a non-discriminatory manner and the Government believes in the even handed approach to development as a sure way to see real development in

Guyana,” he said. He lamented the fact that one of the areas which could bring greater development to the country is hydropower, but noted that the hydropower project scheme was thwarted by politicians who did not put the country first. The minister made it clear that for Guyana to further develop, all its people, and civic and political organisations must work together in putting Guyana first. Speaking on recent horror stories of child abuse, which resulted in a few young children becoming pregnant locally, the minister urged parents to ensure their children are protected. “This molestation must be brought to an end and those engaged in the act must face the long arm of the law. Government will ensure an end is brought to the abuse of our young children. Love and compassion must the hallmark of our children’s development,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday NOVEMBER 8, 2014

Guyana presented in all its glory in London

AT a high profile gathering yesterday at the Guyana High Commission in London, Guyana was once again presented in all its glory. During presentations on the new Guyana Tourism Brand and Investment Op-

portunities in Tourism, those present were informed of the essence behind the new destination branding and told of the myriad of opportunities that exist for the addition of new tourism enterprises and expansion of existing ones. The Director of the

Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), Indranauth Haralsingh, presentation to the gathering included Guyanese businessmen/women, members of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) and the Commonwealth, Tour Operators, Travel Agents,

Non-Governmental Organisation’s, Travel Writers, and Media among other prominent business people. Copies of the GUYEXPO magazines as well as copies of the GUYANESE magazine produced by the Government Information Agency

Some of the newly branded promotional material. (GINA) were distributed; the newly branded promotional and marketing materials for ‘Guyana, South America Undiscovered’ were also launched in London. The GTA in collaboration with the Guyana High Commission (GHC) will also be participating at the Commonwealth Fair on today at the Kensington Town Hall, London. While there, the Guyanese delegation will use the opportunity to promote the new destination brand, showcase the tourism product including the food, music,

craft, RICH culture, and diversity of the destination; Guyana Home Coming 2015 will also be promoted. This is an annual event which the GHC has always supported and participated in; the Fair is organised by the Commonwealth Countries Leagues to raise funds for the Commonwealth Countries League Education Fund. A large number of Guyanese is expected at the Fair as well as thousands of others from the Commonwealth, visitors to the UK, UK and EU citizens. (Rebecca Ganesh-Ally)

Long-serving PPP members lunch with general secretary, other party leaders

Long–serving PPP members being treated to lunch Scores of long- serving, dedicated and active members of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) were on Friday treated to a special lunch with General Secretary Mr Clement Rohee and other senior leaders of the party. Reports said party comrades were very happy to

meet and interact with the general secretary and also to have lunch with him at State House, Anna Regina. The general secretary is currently on a five- day visit to the region and is expected to host another luncheon for young, dedicated members of the party on Saturday.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

Carlsberg Beer on board ... From Back Page products that I think Guyanese people themselves are slowly gravitating to and I think Carlsberg itself as a beer is a very reputable company that is known worldwide and we would be very happy to affiliate ourselves with them.” Meanwhile, Zamal also said that on race day, patrons will be treated to special giveaways, compliments of Carlsberg Beer and while he did not disclose the magnitude of the sponsorship, he said, “it’s substantial and we’ll be here for a long time”. Guyana will play host to the third and final leg of the CMRC after runs in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, with the event bringing the region’s top drivers and their cars to the South Dakota for what is already gearing up to be a memorable event. Carlsberg beer was founded in 1847 by J. Carl Jacobsen in Denmark. The Carlsberg founder famously demanded quality above all else and in 1883, Carlsberg succeeded in overcoming the biggest challenge of time – low yeast quality – by discovering the first clean yeast to guarantee the great taste of our beer. This yeast, scientifically named ‘Saccharomyces Carlsbergensis’ in honour of the Carlsberg discovery was freely offered to other breweries and still forms the basis of many modern lager beers today. Carlsberg beer is locally known when it was last here

in 2006 and now bold to be back with an even more attractive and modern packaging, synonymous with its rich heritage and authentic appeal to inspire and be relevant to people’s lives today. Take for instance the new catch phrase of the beer which allows for persons to celebrate their finest moments with the finest beer: ‘That calls for a Carlsberg!’ replacing its previous tagline, “Probably the best beer in the world” in 2011. Carlsberg’s partnership with the renowned Barclay’s Premier League (BPL) is the latest global sponsorship and has been associated with football since the 1970s. In addition to having ‘Official Beer’ status of national football teams England and Ireland, Carlsberg also sponsors Liverpool FC and Arsenal FC at club level. Carlsberg is also the longest-standing sponsor of the European Football Championships. The 2016 tournament will be Carlsberg’s eighth consecutive tournament since 1988.

Racing Tips South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:35 hrs 08:35 HRS Africa’s Delight 09:10 hrs Mootahadee 09:40 hrs Illuminati 10:15 hrs Green Crest 10:50 hrs Sageator 11:25 hrs Melody Of Magic French Racing Tips Saint-Cloud 08:30 hrs La Reveuse 09:00 hrs Great Virtues 10:08 hrs Speed Run 10:40 hrs Miss De Havilland 11:10 hrs Tea Gown 11:40 hrs Zashka English Racing Tips Doncaster 08:10 hrs Stake Acclaim 08:40 hrs Mobsta 09:15 hrs Johnny B Goode 09:50 hrs Levitate 10:25 hrs Jack Dexter 11:00 hrs La Banderilla 11:35 hrs Latenightrequest 12:05 hrs Personal Touch Sandown 08:45 hrs Gores Island 09:55 hrs The Wallace Line 10:30 hrs Loose Chips

Shakib claims rare all-round feat in Bangladesh win (REUTERS) -All-rounder Shakib Al Hasan became the third man to hit a hundred and take 10 wickets in the same match as Bangladesh beat Zimbabwe by 162 runs in the second Test to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Zimbabwe, who lost the first Test in Dhaka by three wickets, folded for 151 in their second innings at Khulna as they chased 314 for victory. Former captain Shakib, who took 5-80 in the first innings, underlined his status as Bangladesh’s best cricketer by taking five wickets for 44 in the second. He followed England all-rounder Ian Botham and Pakistan’s Imran Khan in completing a hundred and a haul of 10 wickets in the same Test. The left-hander, who

11:05 hrs The Brock Again 11:40 hrs Lookslikerainted 12:10 hrs Deadly Move Wincanton 08:55 hrs Bertie’s Desire 09:30 hrs Southfield Theatre 10:05 hrs Blue Buttons 10:40 hrs Opening Batsman 11:15 hrs Rock On Ruby 11:50 hrs Present Man Irish Racing Tips Naas 08:25 HRS Valours Minion 09:00 hrs Analifet 09:35 hrs Uncle Danny 10:10 hrs Le Vent D’antan 10:45 hrs Killer Crow 11:20 hrs Top Cat Henry 11:55 hrs Jack Slade American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Artemus Paperboy Race 2 Dispersion Race 3 My Adonis Race 4 Bemata Race 5 Miss Atomic Bomb Race 6 Dream On Race 7 danza Cavallo Race 8 Offical Race 9 Lutheran Miss

Shakib Al Hasan is pumped up after taking a wicket. nings, was the only visiting

scored 137 in the first innings to set up Bangladesh’s first-innings total of 433, took out the dangerous Hamilton Masakadza (61) in the last session to spark a collapse as Zimbabwe lost their last five wickets for 15 runs. Masakadza, who scored 158 in Zimbabwe’s first in-

batsman to provide some resistance. Shakib’s fellow left-arm spinner, Taijul Islam, who took three wickets in the first innings, bagged three more in the second. The third and final Test will be begin in Chittagong on Wednesday.

BANGLADESH 1st innings 433 (S. Al Hasan 137, T. Iqbal 109, M. Mahmudullah 56) ZIMBABWE 1st innings 368 (H. Masakadza 158, R. Chakabva 101; S. Al Hasan 5-80) BANGLADESH 2nd innings (o/n: 201-5) T. Iqbal c & b Panyangara 20 Sh. Rahman c Taylor b Waller 23 M. Haque c Chakabva b Waller 54 M. Mahmudullah c H. Masakadza b M’shangwe 71 S. Al Hasan lbw b Waller 6 M. Rahim c Chakabva b Waller 0 S. Hom c H. Masakadza b M’shangwe 50 T. c Panyangara b M’shangwe 1 S. Hossain c H. Masakadza b M’shangwe 3 R. Hossain not out 8 Extras: (b-4 lb-4 nb-1 w-3) 12 Total: (for 9 wickets declared, 83.5 overs) 248 Fall of wickets: 1-28, 2-75, 3-131, 4-145, 5-145, 6-220,7-222, 8-236, 9-248. Bowling: E. Chigumbura 6-2-13-0 (nb-1, w-1); T. Panyangara 12-3-45-1 (w1), T. Chatara 7-3-19-0, M.

Waller 27-4-59-4, S. Raza 6-0-22-0, N. M’shangwe 25.5-2-82-4 (w-1). ZIMBABWE 2nd innings (Target: 314 runs) S. Raza c M. Haque b Al Hasan 9 B. Chari c & b T. Islam 4 H. Masakadza c M. Haque b Al Hasan 61 B. Taylor c Hom b Al Hasan 0 R. Chakabva c Mahmudullah b J. Hossain 27 C. Ervine stp. Rahim b J. Hossain 21 E. Chigumbura c Mahmudullah b Al Hasan 12 M. Waller b T. Islam 4 T. Panyangara not out 8 N. M’shangwe c Rahim b Al Hasan 0 T. Chatara lbw b T. Islam 1 Extras: (b-4) 4 To t a l : ( a l l o u t , 5 1 . 1 overs) 151 Fall of wickets: 1-11, 2-13, 3-15, 4-85, 5-117, 6-137, 7-142, 8-142, 9-142. Bowling: T. Islam 15.13-44-3, S. Al Hasan 185-44-5, S. Hom 4-2-9-0, R. Hossain 4-2-8-0, J. Hossain 10-0-42-2.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

Olympic officials name best London and Sochi athletes By Julian Linden BANGKOK (Reuters) Kenyan middle distance runner David Rudisha was named as the best male athlete of the 2012 London

Olympics at the inaugural Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) awards ceremony yesterday. Chinese table tennis player Li Xiaoxia won the women’s award while Norwegian biathlete Ole Einar Bjoerndalen and Dutch speed skater Irene Wust were recognised as the top male and female athletes at this year’s Sochi Winter Olympics. Olympic officials hope the awards, held for the first time

Gold medallist David Lekuta Rudisha of Kenya celebrates during the presentation ceremony for the men’s 800m event at the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium August 9, 2012.

as part of an initiative to modernise the Games, will become the “Oscars of Olympics sport.” The prizes were presented at a gala ceremony in Bangkok, attended by more than 1 000 delegates from over 200 countries. For the inaugural presentation, the winners were decided by a special committee set up by ANOC but in future will be decided by the public, voting through media. Rudisha, who broke the world record to win the 800 metres in London two years ago, had to beat a star-studded field to win the men’s individual award. “To win this award really means a lot to me, it’s very special,” Rudisha said. “I can’t really forget about it (winning gold), it was the greatest moment in my career. Li claimed two gold medals in London, in singles and the team event, and was the only Chinese winner at yesterday’s awards. “Winning the title at London 2012 was the proudest moment in my career as an athlete, and one that I will always remember.” CONSECUTIVE GOLD The French handball outfit was named as the best men’s team in London after becoming the first to win back-to-back gold medals in the event, while Brazil won the women’s award in volleyball after clinching a second successive gold. “It will mean so much to the people of Brazil if we win in Rio 2016, We hope we can give

Gold medallist Li Xiaoxia of China celebrates in the medal ceremony of the women’s singles table tennis tournament at the ExCel venue during the London 2012 Olympic Games August 1, 2012. them that,” said Brazil captain Fabiana Marcelino Claudino. The United States won the award for the most successful country in London after topping the medals table with 104 medals, including 46 gold. Bjoerndalen won two gold in Sochi, in the 10 km sprint and mixed relay, to become the most decorated Winter Olympian of all-time, with a total of 13 medals, including eight gold. Wust was the leader of the Netherlands team that dominated the speed skating competition in Sochi. She won five medals - two gold and three silver - the most by any competitor at the 2014 Olympics. Canada won the men’s and women’s team awards after

claiming gold in both events, while hosts Russia were named most successful country after topping the medals table with 33 medals, including 13 gold. Former Soviet gymnast Larisa Latynina won the outstanding achievement award in recognition of the 18 Olympic medals she won between 1956 and 1964, a record that stood until Michael Phelps surpassed her in London. Phelps sent her a personal note of congratulation that was read out during the ceremony. Former International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge received the outstanding lifetime achievement award. (Editing by Ken Ferris)

Faulkner shines as Australia level T20 series with easy win MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - James Faulkner was the pick of Australia’s fast bowlers as his three wickets helped the hosts to a comfortable victory over South Africa at the Melbourne Cricket

Ground yesterday to level the three-match Twenty20 series. South Africa, who took the first match in Sydney by seven wickets on Wednesday, won the toss and opted to bat but were restricted to a paltry 1017 on the MCG pitch, which was offering steep bounce for the bowlers. Captain Aaron Finch smashed an unbeaten 44 from 30 balls and added 43 for the opening stand with Ben Dunk (23) as Australia chased down the target in the 13th over, losing only three

James Faulkner wickets. All-rounder Shane Watson, who made 47 in the first match, continued his good form with the bat after his return from a long injury layoff. Watson hit five boundaries, four of them in an over against medium-pacer Ryan McLaren, in his 23-ball 30 and added 49 for the second wicket with Finch. E a r l i e r, F a u l k n e r l e d a strong bowling effort with figures of 3-25 from his four

overs. Fellow pacemen Doug Bollinger and Pat Cummins, who bowled a rare maiden over, took a wicket each, while leg-spinner Cameron Boyce also picked up two for 15 in a rounded effort. “The bowlers were outstanding, blew them away,” Finch said. South Africa never recovered after losing two wickets in the first couple of overs and were indebted to JP Duminy’s knock of 49 for getting them up to the 100-run mark. “We were outplayed in all forms today, there’s a lot of learning,” Duminy said. “I was happy batting first but they blew us away. Every time we started building partnership they took wickets, so it was difficult for us.” The third and final T20 will be played in Sydney tomorrow.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

Tendulkar wants review system Caribbean Cup pushed used across the board back by a day By Sam Holden

LONDON, England (Reuters) - India may continue to resist the Decision Review System (DRS) but there is a place for technology in cricket as long as it is the same for every leading nation, former captain Sachin Tendulkar said yesterday. DRS consists of HawkEye, Hot Spot and the Snickometer although the use of the last two components varies around the globe. Hot Spot,

Sachin Tendulkar for example, did not feature at the 50-over World Cup in 2011. The International Cricket

Council (ICC) says the use of

the review system is not mandatory and is only used when there is agreement between national boards. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refuses the use of technology in their international matches, saying the system is not foolproof and is expensive. Tendulkar, the leading run-scorer in Test history who is now retired from the sport, supports technology but only if Hot Spot and the Snickometer are used in tandem. “I don’t know right now

Hits and Jams to play Premiership A CRICKET team representing Hits and Jams may have found themselves between a rock and a hard place after throwing down a challenge to Alberttown `bad boys’ Team Premiership. The two sides would lock horns in a grudge 20/20 cricket match scheduled for tomorrow at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue. At stake is a trophy donated by CEO of Big Boss Trucking Services, Linden `Poison’ Boston. Team Premiership middle order batsman Mark Young said that his side

have been hard at training since they intend to teach Hits and Jams a lesson. “They have thrown out the challenge and we readily accepted. It is my understanding that Hits and Jams are more inclined to play music and promote shows. I think they were ill-advised to come play us,” Young said yesterday. “We don‘t have the facilities to big up ourselves on the radio and on TV. So we would be doing it on the cricket field.” Hits and Jams would be led by Rawle Ferguson and includes popular Kerwin

Bollers. The Premiership team would be selected from Lancaster, Kashif Muhamad, Mark Young, Dion Innis, Dev Gangaram, Ray Innis, Ezra Humphrey, Stobey Sommers, Dwayne Lovell, Matthew Langevine, Patrice Andries, Quamy Cross, Dale LaRose, Eon Parks, Carey Griffith and Steve Ninvalle. Team Premiership is based at Albert and Sixth Streets in Alberttown and is sponsored by Dave’s Grocery and Variety Store and Industrial Supplies and Services. The match begins at 12:00hrs.

Pakistan stick with same squad for NZ Tests KARACHI, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistan selectors have retained the 16-member squad that whitewashed Australia in the recent two-Test series for this month’s Tests against New Zealand. “No changes have been made to the side that won the second Test against Australia. This is to ensure there is consistency, which will bring more stability and strengthen team-bonding and combination,” chief selector, Moin Khan said in a statement. Pakistan, after scoring their first Test series win over Australia in 20 years, take on New Zealand in three Tests, five one-day internationals and two T20 matches

Zulfiqar Babar in the United Arab Emirates. The first Test is scheduled to begin on November 9 in Abu Dhabi. Khan said Pakistan were proud of their achievements against Australia but the New Zealand series would also be tough. “We need to put this success behind us and switch our focus on the series against New Zealand. It will be a

fresh start and we will need to keep the momentum going. “Obviously, this is another opportunity for the youngsters to test and hone their skills in this series,” he added. Pakistan spinners Zulfiqar Babar and Yasir Shah, who spearheaded the Test series win over Australia, are expected to again play key roles in the coming series. Pakistan batsmen scored nine centuries in the two Tests including two each by Younis Khan, captain, Misbah-ul-Haq and Azhar Ali. Khan said he hoped the team would again do well, relying on their combination of experience and new players.

what BCCI’s stance is. From an individual point of view I can definitely say that we can’t have bits and pieces in different parts of the world,” said Tendulkar as he spoke at the launch of his autobiography ‘Playing It My Way’ at Lord’s. “One part of the world is using Snickometer, the other part of the world is Hot Spot,” he told reporters. “Somewhere else we are using something else -- it’s got to be standardised. “Why should we settle for a 50 percent result? Why not get close to 100 percent. There will be some errors here and there but why don’t we put together a package that is standardised all across the world?,” said Tendulkar. “An international match is an international match, wherever it is played. I feel it is unfair on the lesser teams who do not have that full package.”

ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – The start of the Caribbean Cup has been pushed back by a day, organisers announced Thursday. In a statement, the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) said it had made the decision as a result of a request from some teams. The tournament, the Caribbean’s premier football competition, will now begin November 11 and finish on the 18. “Following the request of at least three participating member associations and the support of several other participating member associations, the CFU Executive Committee has been considering the delay of the Final Round of the CFU Caribbean Cup by one day,” the release said. “Today, the CFU president and executive committee decided to change the dates of the CFU Caribbean.” The release did not indicate the reason behind the teams’ request for the date change. Trinidad and Tobago, the 2012 losing finalists, will raise the curtain on the tournament when they face Curacao in the first game, with title-holders Cuba clashing with French Guiana in the feature game.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

George looking for CAC finals berth By Leeron Brumell GUYANA’S Olympian Winston George is looking for a finals-berth when he competes at the Central American and Caribbean Games in Veracruz, Mexico later this month. The games are set for November 14-30. Guyana last week, announced its intention to participate in nine disciplines. In Athletics – Guyana has gone with four sprinters – George leading the way. Also listed to run the 400m is overseas-based athletes Stephan James and 100m sprinters

Adam Harris and Jeremy Bascom. Chronicle Sport caught up with George who is training under coach Mark Scott. ‘Seeing that it’s the end of the year and they say people don’t usually run fast at the end of the year, I’m still going there to show them at the end of the year I’ll still be running fast to see if I can at least be in the finals and come out successful,’ said George. He shied away from saying what time he has in F l a s h b a c k ! G u y a n a ’ s mind, but noted that for the Olympian Winston George year he’s been in the 45-seccruises to victory in the 200m ond bracket. Heats at the ISAAC Games. “I ran 45 twice for the

Brilliant Taylor fails to save Windies from series defeat MELBOURNE, Australia (CMC) – A superb, attacking half-century by Playerof-the-Match Stafanie Taylor was not enough as West Indies Women went under by four wickets to Australia Women in the third Twenty20 International, to extend their losing skid here yesterday. Taylor’s top score of 78 was the foundation of the Caribbean side’s 149 for six off their 20 overs but the hosts rallied around captain Meg Lanning’s 51 and a late innings, unbeaten cameo 25 off 12 balls from Alyssa Healy, to get home with a ball remaining in the contest at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The result - the third straight loss for the Windies

Stafanie Taylor

Women - handed Australia the series with one game still left to be played tomorrow.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Saturday November 08, 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) Desmond Haynes (238 ODIs) (2) South Africa & Bangladesh Today’s Quiz: (1) How many centuries Shiv Chanderpaul has scored in Tests? How many in ODIs? (2) How many WI players have scored ODI centuries to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Opting to bat first, West Indies Women were propelled by two key partnerships which were both anchored by Taylor. After losing 16-year-old opener Hayley Matthews cheaply for eight with the score on 14 in the third over, the right-handed Jamaican took charge of the innings. She put on 41 for the second wicket with Deandra Dottin whose lean run continued with 19 off 18 balls, before adding a further 56 for the third wicket with Shanel Daley who scored 15. Taylor, the Windies Women’s leading scorer in the series, faced a mere 58 balls and counted 11 fours and a six before falling to the first ball of the penultimate over. Shemaine Campbelle then gave the Windies a flourish at the end, cracking two sixes and a four in a brisk 24 which required a mere 13 balls. Pace bowler Rene Farrell (2-31) and fellow seamer Sarah Coyte (2-32) grabbed two wickets apiece. West Indies Women then claimed the early wicket of dangerous opener Jess Jonassen for just six at 26 for 1 in the fourth over but were then frustrated by two successive partnerships underpinned by Lanning’s knock. The Aussie skipper posted 38 for the second wicket with opener Elyse Villani who gathered 28 from 27 balls and then put on a further 40 for the third wicket with Alex Blackwell, who played a supporting role with 19 off 26 deliveries. Lanning fell in the 14th over at 104 for three after facing 35 balls and counting

year and early 46. I’m in the range so I should be good.” The 28-year-old-George has been utilising the synthetic track at Leonora. “So far it’s been good, I do my workouts there. It’s the same surface I’ll be running on so I would say yes it is aiding my preparation.” The IAAF website has his 400m time of 45.57secs - clocked in June this year in New York - as the 80th fastest time this year among quarter-milers. The top 196 times are listed on the site. In the 200m he registered 20.77 seconds. It’s listed at the joint 217th fastest time in 2014. George clocked that time in Chile. Here at home, his hand timing this year is 20.4 seconds, recorded at the Inter-

Service Athletics Championships. It’s listed as the jointthird fastest time this year. Joining George in the 400m preliminaries is James. He has a time of 46.15 seconds in May 2014. It’s recorded as the 173rd fastest time on the outdoor circuit this year. The world-leading time is 43.74 seconds held by Grenada’s Olympic Champion Kirani James. Both George and James are down to compete in the 200m. In the shorter sprint, Harris and Bascom will face the starter’s gun. At 52nd, Harris clocked 10.12 seconds in May this year in neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago in the 100m. Interestingly enough, later that

same month in Florida Harris ran a wind-assisted 9.90 seconds. It’s listed as the 7th fastest time this year. Harris is the lone athlete to do any field event. He’ll compete in the long jump. Bascom, at 31 and the oldest member of the team, has his name entered for the 100m. His last recorded time is 10.19 seconds back in 2012. When all four are done with their pet events, they will combine to run the 4x100m relay. They’ve collaborated before at the Commonwealth Games but were disqualified. They’ll be hoping to erase that blemish. Mark Scott is listed as the team’s coach. Track and field opens with the marathon on November 23.

Permaul and Bishoo fight back, as game ends in tame draw By Calvin Roberts L E F T- A R M s p i n n e r Veerasammy Permaul took another five-wicket haul, his second of the match which together with Devendra Bishoo helped Leon Johnson’s XI decimate Vishaul Singh’s XI in the second innings of their Cricket Guy Inc. four-day practice game at the Guyana National Stadium yesterday. The two sides were playing the second of two practice games, ahead of the inaugural West Indies Cricket Board (WICB)/Professional Cricket League which bowls off next weekend, with Singh’s XI winning the first by two wickets at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground, last week. Resuming the final day yesterday on 31 for 2, an overall lead of 87 with Kandasammy Surujnarine on 9, Singh’s XI failed to negotiate the Albion Cricket Club spin duo effectively and were bowled out for 151, with Steven Jacobs topscoring with 40 (5x4, 1x6). Jacobs got support from Chandrapaul Hemraj who made 29 (3x4, 2x6) while Surujnarine made 22, as Permaul ended with 5 for 44 for match figures of 13 for 140, while Bishoo who flew in from Sri Lanka where he was a member with the West Indies ‘A’ team, took 4 for 77. Set a target of 208 for a

Veerasammy Permaul come-from-behind victory, Johnson’s XI saw opener Rajendra Chandrika, who was given a life by Anthony Adams at point off Raun Johnson, bowled by Canadian fast bowler Jeremey Gordon for 15 at 26 for 1, before reaching 36 for 2 at tea with Trevon Griffith on 14 and Raymon Reifer 4, before finishing on 74 for 3. Earlier in the day, Singh’s XI lost their skipper without scoring with the addition of one run to their overnight score, followed by the wicket of Royston Crandon (8), 10 runs later, with both wickets going to Permaul. Surujnarine and Hemraj pushed the score to 54, before Surujnarine was bowled by Permaul, at which stage Jacobs joined forces with Hemraj and they added 51 for the sixth wicket, with Hemraj hitting Permaul for two sixes, while Jacobs also cleared the ropes off Bishoo seeing their side to the lunch interval without further

trouble. After the break, Hemraj was caught by Gudakesh Motie-Kanhai at midwicket off Permaul at 115 for 6, followed 10 runs later by the wicket of Jacobs who edged one to Christopher Barnwell at slip off Bishoo, who proceeded to wrap up the innings shortly after in partnership with Permaul. Ricardo Adams struck two fours in his 9 before he was run-out, Kemo Paul scratched about for his 6, Amir Khan cleared the ropes off Bishoo in his 9 before he was bowled by Permaul to be the last man out, leaving Johnson with an achievable target, as they needed 172 more in the final session. After tea, Reifer got a sweetly-timed four through extra cover off Raj Nannan, while Griffith also hit a four off Jacobs, before they were both dismissed via lbw, with Griffith going to Jacobs at 70 for 2 for 37 and Reifer to Nannan without any addition to the team’s total, with his contribution being 15. Surprisingly, the game was called off at 15:30hrs when the umpires signalled for the water break with Johnson’s XI on 74 for 3, still needing 134 more to win with Johnson yet to score and Narsingh Deonarine on 5, while Jacobs, Gordon and Nannan ended with a wicket each.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday November 8, 2014

A DAY WITH KRISTI

Athletes get pre-race tips By Leeron Brumell AN AFTERNOON with Kristi Castlin - junior athletes get a few pre-race tips from the 100m hurdler. On the Camp Ayanganna ground, Castlin ran the athletes through a series of warm-up drills, explaining to them the techniques and benefits of the exercises. On the interaction Castlin said, “It’s been great. You guys have a talented bunch of athletes.’ The coaches of the

athletes were also on hand, watching from the sidelines. They said the drills were not new to them, but some of the athletes who were not technically sound would have benefited from the session. Castlin over three days visited the Leonora facility, interacted with coaches and athletes and paid a courtesy call on Minister of Sport, Dr Frank Anthony. Public Relations Officer of the U.S. Embassy George-

town, Bobby Adelson Jr. said the trip came off smoothly. “I think Kristi has learnt a lot about Guyana and hopefully the people have learned from her visit.” On future visits by sports personalities, Adelson said basketball and football (soccer) players may reach these shores. Sports Minister Dr Frank Anthony said there has been positive feedback from Castlin’s visit. It was used as a stimulus to spark interest in the hurdles event and athlet-

U.S. hurdler Kristi Castlin (centre) shows a pre-race leg drill to athletes. ics as a whole. He said overtime, government plans to bring experts from other countries to work along with coaches to introduce all track and field events. In the near future, the Sport Ministry hopes to extend its bi-lateral arrangement with Cuba, to have track and field coaches live and work here. But it may By Rawle Toney not be limited to Cuba the minister noted. SPEAK of motor racing in Guyana and the name AnDr Anthony said a tender drew King is certain to pop up and all the classic races has been put out for the suphe has won, but, recently, things have not been the same ply of a few million dollars’ and with the Caribbean Motor Racing Championship worth of equipment for the set for November 16 at the South Dakota Circuit, the Leonora facility. Guyanese is hoping for a turnaround. Castlin, a 100m hurdler “Frankly I haven’t been very competitive over the last is hoping to medal at the year/year and a half maybe since I’ve been having some Rio Olympics in Brazil reliability issues with the car but I still feel once I’m on the U.S. hurdler Kristi Castlin corrects the form of an athlete. 2016. track and there’s no failure, I will be competitive,” King told Chronicle Sport in an exclusive interview yesterday. When King, sitting behind the wheel of his rotary Mazda RX7, was asked about his preparation for the event, the dapper race car driver said, “I’m having a slight delay on an engine that has been rebuilt but we should be at the circuit by Tuesday to start testing … It’s the same car but we have modified the engine; l am actually combining developments by two builders in the rotary world and hopefully we would see some significant increase in horse out in Brisbane, Australia. power and torque.” “I have applied for the visa and hopefully I should leave Group 4 in which King races is the marquee event next week. But I am supremely confident of a strong comeon race day and the veteran driver believes that at presback to the national team,” Ajmal told reporters in Lahore on ent, the rules favour the drivers whose cars are turboThursday. Ajmal, who has taken 178 wickets in 35 tests since his debut charged and though it’s a bother to him since his car is in 2009, went for analysis as per ICC regulations after match offi‘rotary’, he made it clear that “this is something I think cials reported his action following the first test against Sri Lanka I will just fall in line next year and put a turbo- charged at Galle in August. engine in my car, rather than have a revamp of rules The champion spinner, who was Pakistan’s leading wicket because that tends to be painstaking and that tends to taker in the last two years before his suspension, said he had be ‘counterproductive’ to the sport.”

The King will rise!

Ajmal says revised action will be as effective as ever

Saeed Ajmal

(REUTERS) - Pakistan’s suspended off-spinner Saeed Ajmal

says he will be as effective as ever when he returns with a remodeled bowling action. Ajmal, 37, leaves for Britain next week to undergo tests on his new action, having been suspended by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in September following a biomechanical test carried

already made some corrections to his bowling action. “I have made some changes to my action and I am comfortable with the new action,” he said. “I am also confident whenever I am back I will be as effective as before.” The off-spinner bamboozled the world’s best batsmen with his mastery over the so-called “Doosra” delivery -- a ball that spins in the opposite direction to the off-spinner’s stock delivery. Since being suspended Ajmal worked on his action for a month at the national cricket academy with Pakistan’s former spinner Saqlain Mushtaq, a bowler who perfected the Doosra. “I will return with an improved bowling action but as effective as before,” he added. “I have already undergone some informal tests under the supervision of our experts so I am going to England confident of clearing the tests.” Ajmal said he was disappointed to miss the series against Australia but said he had enjoyed watching the mauling. “We completely dominated them and our spinners did extremely well,” he said. After the informal tests in Cardiff, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will apply to the ICC for a formal test before the World Cup.

Andrew King sits in his Mazda RX7 at the South Dakota Circuit.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

Athletes get pre-race tips

See Story on Page 27

Carlsberg Beer on board with GMR&SC By Rawle Toney

OUTHLAND International Inc., a subsidiary of the Pereira Group of Companies and Carlsberg Beer yesterday formed an alliance with the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) to sponsor the November 16 Caribbean Motor Racing Championship (CMRC) at the South Dakota Circuit. “Southland International and Carlsberg Beer are looking to foster and continue a strong growth of the motor racing sport in Guyana wherever it is represented locally and regionally and as you know, as a new company, we bring a new injection into motor racing and into the club in participating in the diverse and energetic event,” said Southland International Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Irzad Zamal. Speaking at the simple presentation at the GRM&SC’s Thomas Land headquarters, Zamal added “This company is happy to ride along and just as our brand is also an elite sponsor of the Barclay Premier League which is known globally and Southland, like Carlsberg Brewery, we’re happy to be a part of such a growing sport in the region,” Carlsberg is the flagship beer brand in Carlsberg Group’s portfolio of more than 500 beer and beverage brands ranging from alcoholic to non-alcoholic products including MOUSSY & SOMERSBY Apple Cider which have been on the Guyanese market for the past year. Headquartered in Copenhagen Denmark, Carlsberg Breweries operates over 100 breweries around the world with more than 165 years of brewing expertise making them the 4th largest brewery in the world – behind Anhueser Busch, SAB-

Southland International CEO Irzad Zamal presents GMR&SC treasurer Handel Singh with the sponsorship cheque while secretary Carey Griffith (first from left) and Carlsberg representative look on (Sonell Nelson photo)

Miller and Heineken. Handel Singh, treasurer of the GMR&SC believes the partnership with Carlsberg will not only enhance the sport of motor racing in Guyana but will also add a familiar brand to the sport in the Caribbean. According to Singh, “The company itself brings a lot of other

See Page 27

Axing as captain breached my rights, says upset Ramdin

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CMC)_ – West Indies wicketkeeper Denesh Ramdin has again accused the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board of axing him as national captain because of his role in the abandoned tour of India, and says their actions are a breach of his rights. Though the TTCB rejected the player’s initial allegations in a statement earlier this week, Ramdin reiterated Thursday that he had been told that he would not be appointed captain because he did not “demonstrate proper leadership” in the West Indies players’ controversial decision to abruptly quit the oneday series over a contracts and pay row with their union, WIPA. “On Monday, November 3, 2014, I attended a meeting with the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board. At that meeting, I was told that since I did not demonstrate proper leadership in relation to the tour in India, I would be relieved of the captaincy and would be replaced by Rayad Emrit,” Ramdin said in a statement. “I understood this to be a punishment contrary to the undertaking given by the WICB at the meeting on Friday, October 31, 2014. “I am also advised that this action is a breach of my rights having regard to the fact that the Task Force appointed by the WICB has not made any findings and has

Denesh Ramdin made no findings of misconduct against me.” Ramdin was one of the players who walked off the tour of India last month, sparking a bitter dispute between WIPA, the West Indies Cricket Board and themselves. Their actions, which wrecked the one-day tour and also resulted in the cancellation of the three-Test tour, left the

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WICB facing a damages claim from the Indian Cricket Board of nearly US$42 million. At a recent high-level meeting here chaired by St Vincent’s Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, Ramdin said the WICB had given the assurance that none of the players involved in the abandoned tour would face recrimination. Further, the board announced it would set up a Task Force to investigate the reasons behind the abandoned tour. Ramdin said the TTCB’s actions were a violation of these agreements, and claimed he had been even barred from attending a recent national team practice session. “I feel compelled to state that on my return from India I was restricted from attendance at a practice session with the Trinidad and Tobago team on Thursday, October 30, 2014,” Ramdin said in the statement. “Although I felt hurt and embarrassed, I knew that I should remain committed to my responsibilities.” Ramdin said he also remained fully dedicated to Trinidad and Tobago and West Indies cricket. In statement earlier this week, the TTCB said that Ramdin’s anticipated unavailability because of his upcoming commitments with West Indies, was the only reason behind his non-appointment as captain. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2014