Guyana chronicle 17 05 14

GUYANA No. 103830

SATURDAY MAY 17, 2014

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

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President charges ...

Opposition ‘playing very cheap politics’ Page

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–– in passage of Motion to reduce Berbice Bridge toll Ramsammy warns…

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High cost of imported food threatens nutrition security

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Courts Guyana rallies to a worthy national cause

––donates $2M to Guyana Festival 2014

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PYO calls for ‘weekend of prayers’ for abducted 7 Nigerian schoolgirls Page

Agriculture Ministry sets up special El Nino watch

centre

Minister of Tourism (ag), Irfaan Ali, receiving the ceremonial cheque from Managing Director of Courts (Guyana), Clyde De Haas

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Ramsammy warns…

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

High cost of imported food threatens nutrition security

By Vanessa Narine

more than US$5.1B in food, with The Bahamas, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago being the biggest importers, of which the importation of onions was valued at US$13M alone.

The Minister said:“In 1990, the food import bill for CARICOM countries was about US$1.3B.It surpassed US$2B by 1997. After 2002, the food import bill for Caribbean countries increased significantly and, by last year, had exceeded US$5.1B. “The food import bills for three countries, Jamaica, Bahamas and Trinidad and Tobago amount to approximately US$1B each in 2013.

“In eight countries, per capita import bills amount to more than $500 per capita, with Suriname, Guyana and Belize at about $200 per capita at the lower end. The global average among developing countries for food importation is underUS$100 per capita,” Ramsammy related.

He pointed out that, in contrast, CARICOM’s food export in 2013 amounted to just about US$1.4B.

MINISTER of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy has warned that the high cost of importing food into Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries is a threat also to nutrition security in the Region.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, he said: “Together with the high cost of energy and climate change, the high food importation bill stands as a major threat to sustaining food and nutrition security in CARICOM countries and leave our countries very exposed and vulnerable to price increases and production shifts.”

According to him, CARICOM needs to address this issue with urgency and treat the matter as a crisis situation.

He pointed out that, just as the Region is vulnerable to price increases in oil, it is threatened by price increases and the uncertainty of agriculture production from the supplying countries.

Citing corn as an exNOT CHANGED ample, Ramsammy posit“While the food import Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Leslie Ramsammy ed:“When corn production bill has grown significantly fell in the USA and Russia in since 1990, the food export 2012/2013, the increases in corn prices affected prices in other bill has not changed much since 1990. In 1990, the food areas, such as cost of meat and dairy products. export amounted to about US$0.9B. Last year, food ex“…the Region spends about US$200M on corn importaport rose to only US$1.4B. This means that, while the food tion. Guyana imports about US$12M worth of corn each year. import bill last year was about 400 percent higher than Jamaica, with importation of about US$83M per year is the 1990, the food export remains relatively stagnant since Region’s largest importer of corn.”

1990,” Ramsammy said.

He continued that, in 2013, CARICOM countries imported He reported that a large amount of processed and canned food is imported into CARICOM, including items such as ketchup, jams, sauces and soups, in excess of US$300M per year and represent the number one ranked commodities imported into CARICOM countries.

Ramsammy said:“Also high on the list and ranked number two is the importation of wheat for the production of flour.

“CARICOM countries imported almost US$300M of wheat each year. Guyana imports about US$24M wheat each year for the production of flour. The largest importers of wheat in CARICOM are Jamaica $US73M, Haiti with US$62M and Trinidad and Tobago US$49M. “While Guyana and Belize could be satisfied that they, generally, are self-sufficient in poultry meat, other CARICOM countries imported more than US$250M in poultry meat in 2012. The largest importers of poultry meat are Haiti withUS$71M, The Bahamas with US$36M, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago with US$30M each and Suriname with US$22M.” The Agriculture Minister stated, too, that CARICOM countries have become dependent on imported milk for food security, importing up to US$200M annually.

“Guyana spends about US$25M, Trinidad and Tobago more than US$42M and Barbados and Jamaica about US$10M each per year importing milk. For Guyana, See page 9

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

President charges Opposition with ‘playing very cheap politics’ –– in passage of Motion to reduce Berbice Bridge toll

THE Motion passed by the Parliamentary Opposition on Thursday, demanding a reduction in the Berbice River Bridge tolls is populist politicking and irresponsible, according to President Donald Ramotar.

In an interview with the Government Information Agency (GINA) yesterday, the President said that members of the A Partnership for

National Unity (APNU), which piloted the Motion, were very much present in the National Assembly when the Act governing the bridge’s operations and construction was tabled and passed.

“They know that the government is constrained from doing anything in relation to the toll of crossing the bridge, largely because

the Act itself says that any changes in the toll have to come from the Board of Directors of the bridge, making a request to the minister,” the President said, adding that to date, “no such suggestion has come.”

Noting that since the bridge has been in operation, there has been a significant increase in traffic between the Ancient County and De-

merara, President Ramotar said: “... it used to take between three and six hours to cross the Berbice River with the ferry; now it takes about three minutes to drive over. Obviously, it’s much more efficient; there’s no hassle.”

Equating the opposition’s call to an attempt at nationalisation, the President said

GPL explains recent power interruptions

THE GUYANA Power and Light Company (GPL) Inc has disclosed that one of its two transmission lines between Sophia and Garden of Eden tripped on Thursday night at around 22:32 hrs, resulting in a shutdown of the Demerara Intercon-

nected System (DIS).

A GPL statement noted that, due to the time the incident occurred, it was not possible to undertake a detailed inspection of the transmission

––apologises for the inconvenience

line to determine the reason for the trip.

An inspection is currently in progress, focusing on the section of the line traversing the backlands of Garden of

Eden and Friendship, where the line protection department calculated the fault may exist.

“The DIS was incrementally restored, with all circuits repowered by 00:28 hrs. Un-

fortunately, power supply to consumers on the East Coast between Industry and Success was further affected by a burnt connection on a switch at Industry. The burnt connection was found at 01:15 hrs, repairs were completed, and power was restored at 01:51hrs” GPL stated.

Investigations are ongoing into what may have pre-

that seeing that the bridge is owned and operated by Guyanese, “we therefore have to be careful how we handle the situation; the mobilisation of funds to build the bridge was totally a local effort.”

As one of the more successful private-public partnership arrangements, President Ramotar said of the the opposition’s attempt to put a proverbial spoke

in the bridge’s wheel: “The opposition obviously are playing very cheap politics; acting extremely irresponsibly with the suggestion they have made.”

He reiterated that the fare structure, which has not increased since the bridge’s opening in 2005, is the same as that which obtained with the previously used ferry service. (GINA)

cipitated the damage to the circuit. GPL will undertake an upgrade to a section of the circuit this Sunday to reduce the impact any future fault may have.

GPL also noted that on Wednesday, May 14, 2014, an unknown incident resulted in damages to four parts of a circuit supplying sections of Kingston, Cummingsburg and Werk-en-Rust. Repairs were completed by 19:28 hrs, and power was restored to all consumers.

In undertaking the repairs, the supply to consumers in other sections of Kingston, Cummingsburg and Werk-en-Rust unfortunately had to be interrupted.

“We are pleased to announce that the supply for

most of our consumers in South Georgetown has been switched to our new substation in North Ruimveldt.

Further, we are currently preparing to commission our new substation at Columbia (Mahaicony), and the power supply for all consumers between Burma Road and Victoria will be switched to this substation.

“GPL extends sincerest apologies for the occurrences over the last two days, and thanks customers for their patience. As our company progresses with its development agenda for 2014, it should be noted that power interruptions may occur as supply sources for feeders are switched” GPL has disclosed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 16, 2014

India’s pro-business Modi storms to historic election win

By Rajesh Kumar Singh and Aditi Shah

NEW DELHI (Reuters) Narendra Modi thundered to victory yesterday in India’s election, trouncing the ruling Nehru-Gandhi dynasty in a seismic political shift that gives the Hindu nationalist and his party a mandate for sweeping economic reform.

Modi’s landslide, the

Speaking to a sea of people dressed in the party’s official orange colors and chanting his name in his home state of Gujarat, Modi thanked the nation, and immediately addressed concerns his pro-Hindu leanings would sideline minorities.

“The age of divisive politics has ended, from today onwards the politics of uniting people will begin,” Modi said. “We want more strength for the wellbeing of

Narendra Modi thanked supporters for the election victory in his home state of Gujarat.

(BBC photo)

most resounding election victory India has seen in 30 years, was welcomed with a blistering rally on India’s stock markets and raucous celebrations at offices across the country of his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), where supporters danced, let off fireworks and handed out sweets.

The BJP looked certain of a parliamentary majority, giving the 63-year-old former tea-seller ample room to advance reforms started 23 years ago by current Prime Minister Manmohan Singh but which stalled in recent years.

the country ... I see a glorious and prosperous India.”

Singh’s Congress party suffered its worst wipeout, a big boost to Modi’s goal of ending the dominance of the Nehru-Gandhi family that has governed for most of the 67 years of independent India.

Singh, whose party looked set to win less than 50 of the 543 parliamentary seats at stake, congratulated Modi with a telephone call.

Party president Sonia Gandhi and her son Rahul quickly conceded defeat.

The desire for change has been so strong that voters put aside concerns about Modi’s

Hindu-centric politics.

“India’s economy was in the doldrums. We have hope that he’ll lift up the economy, that he’ll create jobs,” said Shailesh Jha, 29, embracing a jubilant group of friends at the BJP’s Delhi headquarters.

Jha echoed the sentiment of those who believed Modi’s promises of economic growth to meet the demands of millions of youngsters who reach working age each year and could boost India’s productivity if given jobs.

With more than six times the seats of its closest rival, Modi’s is the most decisive mandate for a leader since the 1984 assassination of prime minister Indira Gandhi propelled her son to office.

Since 1989, India has been governed by coalitions.

By 10 p.m. (1230 EST), the BJP had won or was winning in 282 seats in parliament, counting trends showed, comfortably across the halfway mark of 272 required to rule. An alliance led by the party was ahead in 340 seats, TV channel NDTV said.

I n Wa s h i n g t o n , t h e Obama administration congratulated Modi and the BJP and said he would be granted a visa for U.S. travel. Washington denied Modi a visa in 2005 over sectarian riots in Gujarat three years earlier, when he had just become chief minister of the state.

More than 1,000 people, most of them Muslims, were killed.

MARKETS SOAR Responding to the news, Indian markets got off to a

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roaring start, with the rupee breaking below 59 to the U.S. dollar, an 11-month high, and the benchmark stock index jumping 6 percent to a record high before paring its gains.

Betting on a Modi win, foreign investors have poured more than $16 billion into Indian stocks and bonds in the past six months and now hold over 22 percent of Mumbai-listed equities - a stake estimated by Morgan Stanley at almost $280 billion.

Unlike his predecessors, Modi will not have to deal with unruly partners as he implements reform. That could usher in profound economic changes, with some supporters imagining him as India’s answer to Margaret Thatcher.

He will try to replicate his success in attracting investment and building infrastructure in Gujarat, the state he has governed for more than 12 years.

“He can afford to have a smaller but stronger cabinet, that means a far more decisive government. He has been saying less government and more governance, we are really likely to see that,” said Navneet Munot, chief investment officer at SBI Funds Management in Mumbai.

But with India’s economy suffering its worst slowdown since the 1980s and battling high inflation, it will not be an easy task to meet the hopes of millions of Indians who have bought into the idea that Modi will quickly push their country

onto the top table of global economic powers.

His party also lacks strength in the upper house of parliament, where backing is needed for legislation to pass.

“It’s important to be realistic about how quickly they can instigate change.

It takes time to, number one, get economic reforms through the political machinery and, number two, it also takes a while before economic reforms actually have a positive impact,” said Leif Eskesen, an economist at HSBC in Singapore.

DESIRE FOR CHANGE India’s election was the world’s largest. Staggered over five weeks, a record of more than 500 million ballots were cast from the Himalayas in the north to the tropical south, with voters braving blistering heat for a record 66 percent turnout.

Since being named as his party’s candidate in September, Modi has flown 300,000 km (186,000 miles) and addressed 457 rallies in a slick, presidential-style campaign that broke the mould of Indian politics.

Modi contrasted his humble roots with the cloistered life of privilege of his dynastic rivals.

He ran circles around his slow-footed opponent Rahul Gandhi, 43, from the Congress party which his family has dominated since his great-grandfather, Jawaharlal Nehru, led India to independence from Britain in 1947.

Rahul, his Italian-born

mother, Sonia, beside him, shouldered blame for their party’s rout.

“The Congress has done pretty badly, there is a lot for us to think about. As vice president of the party I hold myself responsible.”

Both mother and son held onto their own seats, but these were the only ones their party clinched in the crucial state of Uttar Pradesh, which sends 80 lawmakers to parliament.

Prime Minister Singh launched reforms in 1991 as finance minister that opened India’s socialist economy to global capital, but his spell in the top job ended marred by corruption and a floundering economy amid mounting policy paralysis. He has already bid farewell to his staff after 10 years in office.

The dark chapter of violence against Muslims that occurred on Modi’s watch in Gujarat has mattered less and less to many, including a ballooning middle class alarmed by dwindling purchasing power and job opportunities as the economy slumped to sub-five percent growth in the last two years.

Modi has promised that, if elected, he would take decisive action to unblock stalled investments in power, road and rail projects to revive economic growth.

Tax and labour market reforms, backed by a gradual opening up to foreign investment, would seek to create the 10 million jobs that Asia’s third-largest economy needs every year to absorb young people entering the workforce.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

Antiguans vote for new government on June 12 ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer has called on supporters to ensure that his ruling United Progressive Party (UPP) is returned to power for a third consecutive term in the June 12 general elections, even as his main challenger, Gaston Browne was telling voters Antigua and Barbuda will be liberated on that day.

Nomination Day is scheduled for May 21 and political observers say control for the 17-seat Parliament will be a straight contest between the UPP and the main opposition Antigua Labour Party (ALP).

In the 2009 general election,

the UPP won nine of the 17 seats with the ALP six and the other seat going to the Barbuda People’s Movement (BPM).

Spencer addressing supporters at a mass rally in the village of Potters, east of the capital, said it was important for the UPP to be returned to office in order to continue with the socioeconomic programmes and policies that have enhanced the lives of every citizen over the past 10 years.

“We are moving to build a new society, we are moving to create a charter for the future development of Antigua and Barbuda and so we need a third term. We need to be able to stamp

our authority on the future development of Antigua and Barbuda for and on behalf of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

“The elections are very critical. It is very important to the continued development of Antigua and Barbuda. We cannot return to the past. I want to say to you that it is necessary for us to recognize and appreciate that although victory is in sight we cannot drop our guard. I want to tell you that it is not over until it is over,” he said.

Spencer urged supporters not to become complacent, saying “Although victory is in sight we cannot drop our guards.

We have to make sure we

Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer

keep going, as I always say, it is not over….as the Americans would say, until the fat lady sings. So we

have got to make sure my people…that all of us, we have our work to do to make sure we concretise and cement this victory,” he added.

But Browne, who is leading the ALP into elections for the first time, said he was confident of victory adding that the naming of the election date was “long overdue.

I think his (Spencer) performance was pathetic and bordering on a pappy show. The 12th of June, 2014, will be judgment day for Baldwin Spencer and the UPP. It will be deliverance day for the people of Antigua and Barbuda and victory day for the ALP.”

He said June 12 would mark a turning point for the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

The ALP suffered its first electoral defeat in 2004 after nearly 30 years in power held by the iconic and controversial Bird family.

Lester Bird, 76, who succeeded his father and ALP founder Vere Bird Snr as prime minister from 1994 until 2004, lost the ALP’s leadership race to Browne in 2012.

About 48,000 people have been registered to vote after a registration exercise in November 2013, the Antigua and Barbuda Electoral Commission (ABEC) had said.

Union wants government to meet financial obligations to teachers NASSAU, Bahamas, (CMC) – The Bahamas Union of Teachers (BUT) Friday called on the Perry Christie government to meet its financial obligations to teachers after a government-appointed select committee recommended that the government build a new House of Assembly complex during its five-year term in power.

“As hundreds of teachers wait for millions of dollars to be paid to them for correct salaries, back pay, confirmations and more, the Bahamas Union of Teachers is very concerned after the details of an interim report of the House Select Committee were revealed by Dr Bernard Nottage in Parliament,” said BUT president Belinda Wilson.

She said that while the union agrees that parliamentarians should earn substantial salaries, enjoy benefits

Bahamas Union of Teachers president Belinda Wilson

“and yes, there is a need for a new Parliamentary complex, however, travel, constituency, duty allowances and salary increases will be granted to them by a stroke of a pen,” she added.

The government appointed select committee also recommended an increase of salaries for legislators and the Deputy Speaker, indicating that the wages should be adjusted to reflect the duties and requirements necessary to abandon normal professional work.

At present, the House

Speaker has an US$80,000 per year salary while his deputy receives US$32,000.

An MP’s salary is US$28,000 a year. No projections were made for the new increase or how much it would cost taxpayers to construct a new Parliament.

But Wilson in a statement asked what were priorities of the government, adding that the recommendations of the select committee “should not take priority over the small man, teachers and workers of this country who are suffering”.

The BUT official said that some citizens were “losing (and have lost) their homes; many are unable to pay their light bills, others are unable to provide food and basic necessities for

their children and their families (although they are working hard every day).

“Teachers are the nation builders and the cornerstone of our nation. BUT is again calling on the government to pay the five million dollars to all teachers who are owed now,” she added.

The select committee report has not received support from two opposition legislators -Neko Grant and Hubert Chipman – who argue that while it was generally agreed that the current Parliamentary complex was greatly inadequate, the construction of a new facility is not feasible at this time.

“We agreed in principle that a Parliamentary Complex is

needed. We also made note that we could not afford it at this time, but we did not object to a competition for the design going up,” Grant said, while Chipman added “That’s where we were because we didn’t agree to that.

“We agreed that they

should get the ball rolling in terms of drawings. But not only that at the end of the day a site has not even really been decided.

But we did not conclude this term. We did not. We didn’t reach that point,” he said.

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GUYANA

EDITORIAL

Depression and the tendency to commit suicide

GUYANA has recorded unprecedented rates of suicide over recent years. With a prevalence of teenage self-destruction that is shattering families from one end of the country to the other, there is an urgent imperative in addressing this scourge in our nation through counselling and/or relevant interventions.

Morbidity associated with depression is difficult to quantify, but the lethality of depression takes the measurable form of completed suicide, a primary cause of death in many developing countries.

Depression is a potentially life-threatening mood disorder that affects most people at one time or the other in their lives. Depressed patients are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Research has shown that, not counting the effect of secondary disease states, over the next 20 years, unipolar depression is projected to be the second leading cause of disability worldwide, and the leading cause of disability in high-income nations, including the United States.

The current economic cost of depressive illness is exacting a toll on nations hugely both economically and financially. In addition to considerable pain and suffering, which interferes with individual functioning, depression affects those who care about the ill person, sometimes destroying family relationships or work dynamics between the patient and others. Therefore, the human cost in suffering cannot be overestimated.

In Guyana, depression is neither generally viewed nor treated as a disease; and people with depression do not realize that they have a treatable illness, and do not seek treatment, so only a few of those individuals receive treatment consistent with current international practice guidelines; and certainly, most of these people have resources, not to mention caring and supportive persons in their lives.

The reality is that, of patients who had suicidal ideation, and of those who have actually made attempts at suicide, few are recognised to be ill. What is worse, those persons who attempt suicide in Guyana are treated as criminals, instead of as people who are really ill and in need of help, because the powers that be do not provide the requisite care, or even perceive the need for such care.

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 16, 2014

SN’s ‘Simply Unacceptable!’ article is truly unacceptable

I WISH TO respond to an article entitled “Simply Unacceptable!” published in the Stabroek News of Wednesday, May 14, 2014.

While it is not my intention to delve into the entire lengthy article, it is imperative that I make the following observations.

(1): It must be accepted that, over the years until 2014, basketball in Guyana was at its lowest ebb, and no one must ever attempt to doubt or argue that. Nothing was done by the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation for the development of basketball.

Repeated discussions/meetings were held with the then presidents, the late Godwin McPherson and David Patterson, and their officials to encourage the return of Basketball to its glorious days of the past, but somehow, the initiative and drive were not evident.

Something had to be done to arrest the rapid decline of Basketball, especially at the youth and school level.

(2): Youth basketball Guyana must be applauded for successfully taking on that responsibility, which indeed is one of the mandates of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation.

(3): The Inter-Guiana Games are International sporting competitions among students 19 years old and under, who must be attending school or an educational institution. The Games are officially held among French Guiana, Suriname and Guyana.

(4): Correctly, the IGG comprises eight, and not seven, disciplines, as has been mentioned. Chess is an official discipline of the Inter-Guiana Games.

(5): All national associations and federations are always invited to the first meeting of the IGG for, among other things, establishing the IGG Committee for the year (two legs of the game).

(6): The organizing committee of the IGG co-ordinates and manages the process of the IGG, guided by a Protocol of Agreement of General Rules and Regulations for the organisation of the IGG. Unless the Protocol of the IGG is read, studied and understood, the position taken by the GABF would be unavoidable.

(7): Both the late Mc Pherson and immediate past president Mr. David Patterson recognized and accepted that the GABF at the time hadn’t the capacity to organize and prepare the IGG teams. The YGB was brought onboard and was accepted by both gentlemen when they served in office.

(8): Again, it is dishonest and unfair for it to be publically said that GABF is the only national body not invited to participate. Wherever a National Association/Federation is unable to prepare teams, alternative measures are put in place to ensure, in the interest of IGG, Guyana participates in the respective discipline(s). If GABF and Sports Scope had taken the time to do proper investigations, then it would have been revealed that GABF is not the only Association/Federation not preparing teams for the IGG.

(9): In a letter under the pen of Mr. Nigel Hinds, President of GABF, addressed to the Director of Sport, dated May 09, 2014, he states reasons for disapproving and objecting to the involvement of the YBG in the preparation of the IGG Basketball teams.

I must state accordingly: REASON 2: The NSC is very happy to learn of the GABF’s capacity to organise and manage the IGG. REASON 12: The YBG, over the long years, has enjoyed overwhelming support and sponsorship from many large corporate entities. 2014 was even more encouraging.

(10): The Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation is so discredited that sponsors do not want to support it because it is not accountable and transparent, as its history would confirm.

REASON 14: The National Associations/Federations are aware that they are responsible for the preparation of their IGG teams. Never does the NSC totally provide funding for such preparations. The NSC assists where and when it is necessary.

REASON 16: Funds are never budgeted for individual sports of the IGG. Actually, an IGG budget is prepared for approval under the following heads.

Persistent ignorance about, and misperceptions regarding, depression, by the public and even some health providers, as a personal weakness or failing that can be willed or wished away, lead to painful stigmatization and avoidance of the diagnosis by many persons who are affected by the disease.

The cause of depression is multifactoral, but family history of depression is common among persons with the disorder.

In addition to depression, other etiologies, such as alcohol/ substance abuse (especially of opiates and cocaine), impulsiveness, and certain familial factors are highly associated with risk of suicide. These factors include a history of mental problems or substance abuse, suicide in the immediate family, family violence of any type, separation or divorce, and other depressive emotional issues.

Other risk factors include prior suicide attempt(s); presence of a firearm in the home; incarceration; and exposure to the suicidal behaviour of family members, peers, celebrities, or even highly publicized fictional characters; along with peer pressure; bullyism in and out of schools or other institutions; and sibling rivalry, among many other factors.

It is also established that the initiation of treatment for depression with psychotherapeutic agents can temporarily increase the incidence of suicidal ideation, and therefore the likelihood of suicide attempts.

The incidence of depression in health-care workers is comparable to that in the general population, though the rate of completion of suicide is higher.

In a society where societal, community, and even family structures have broken down, leaving someone feeling alone, lonely and abandoned, with no one to turn to for help, guidance, or even companionship -- such as old and helpless parents neglected or abandoned by their children; or little children whose perception is that their parents do not care about them, whether real or imagined -- there is every likelihood of an increase in depression, leading to a suicidal state and even to committal of the ultimate act of self–destruction – suicide.

“If only…” are the saddest words at grave sites during funerals, so each of us should ensure that we never have cause to repeat those words over a burial site of a loved one.

Pay heed to mood swings; listen, get involved in your children’s lives, so that they feel free to confide in you about any and every issue; be a friend to the friendless, and a guide to the directionless; be less judgmental of your fellow human being, and reach out with friendship and care to others less fortunate. In doing these things, you may very well help save a life.

1. Accommodation 2. Transportation 3. Refreshments and meals 4. Field Materials and Supplies 5. Other Administrative Changes The NSC has never been, and has no intention of being, disrespectful to the National Associations and Federations, including the GABF. Rather, it is the function of the NSC to promote sports and its organization by all available methods.

(11): The NSC is willing to sit and discuss with the GABF and YBG the issue of the future of the IGG Basketball.

I wish at this point to clearly state that GABF cannot dictate for the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/National Sports Commission.

I wish also to state the following: 1. The MCYS/NSC has not given the GABF any such mandate for the IGG basketball teams. * We have asked the GABF to provide referees and officials, and give support to an already established process. * The Games are coordinated and managed by the IGG Committee. * The NSC decides on the process it uses for each discipline.

2. The National Sports Commission and Youth Basketball Guyana-National School Basketball Festival, now in its ninth year, have, since 2006, been the process used for basketball. This process was accepted by both Mc Pher-

(Please see page 7)

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 16, 2014

Courts Guyana rallies to a worthy national cause --donates $2M to Guyana Festival 2014

By Rebecca Ganesh-Ally FOR the very first time, the fusion of the six different cultures that make up the Guyanese tapestry will be brought together to

create a true melting pot that reflects the Guyanese identity at the Guyana Festival 2014.

Courts Guyana yesterday came onboard the festival promotion with a donation

PYO calls for ‘weekend of prayers’ for abducted Nigerian schoolgirls THE Progressive Youth Organization (PYO), in a statement yesterday, joined many well-wishers in urging those responsible for the abduction of 234 female students in northern Nigeria on April 14 to release them unharmed, and return them safely to their families, where they rightfully belong.

And in making clear the body’s condemnation of the actions of the Boko Haram group, the organisation has called on all religious leaders in all places of worship and all religious gathering, as well as the general public to offer a prayer over the weekend for the 234 Nigerian girls.

The PYO noted too that the call for the girls’ return is not simply a call for their return to their families, but their return to the lives they knew, their ability to go to school and be educated, to have “a better future, and to be beautiful, active sister and daughter.”

SN’s ‘Simply ...

(From page 6)

son and Mr. David Patterson administrations. * There is no other system in place at the school level that provides such an expansive and extensive platform for our students to participate in basketball. * The NSBF provides a fair an open process for all eligible student basketball players. * It is a proven and tested process. * Case in point: Guyana females are IGG defending champions.

3. The NSC condemns this imposition by the GABF of randomly hand-picking players, who may not be eligible according to the IGG protocol on the grounds of age and/or academic status of students. We further think that this approach is counter-productive to developing a strong foundation for student participation at the schools’ level, and would prove destructive in the long term.

4. If the GABF is serious about our students’ development, it will first develop a system to foster such development at the schools’ level. Until then, the current process will remain in place.

The NSC will continue to work with all National Sports Associations and Federations for the further development in sport. However, we highly appreciate the efforts of Civil Society Organisations and persons who are making genuine efforts to help in the process of development.

The NSC looks forward to continue working with all and sundry for peace, unity and the realization of our athletes’ full potential.

NEIL KUMAR Director of Sport

of $2M. At the handing over ceremony, done at its Main Street location, Tourism Minister (ag) Irfaan Ali expressed his gratitude to Courts Guyana for yet again supporting the Tourism sector, this time the Guyana Festival. “Courts Guyana is playing its part in ensuring that this event is a success,” he said.

Ali reiterated that “this festival will bring back all our legendary artistes, sportsmen and women from across the world, and we are currently promoting this

event heavily overseas. The committee is expecting a large influx of tourists for this event.”

He explained that the festival will showcase the ‘Sound, Soul and Taste’ of Guyana, which will be presented to the world through a spectacular display of art, craft, dance, drama, music and cuisine.

Speaking at the ceremony, Managing Director of Courts (Guyana), Clyde De Haas, noted that Courts Guyana is as the company’s tag line states: ‘bringing value home’. He said that Courts Guyana supports the

Minister of Tourism “and our Minister in bringing our people home”. He applauded the Minister’s drive, and said that, in supporting this event, Courts Guyana was creating tourism awareness, not only at home, but in the entire world.

He reaffirmed that Courts Guyana has always supported the Tourism Sector and will continue to do so.

The Guyana Festival covers three days, and will feature our most celebrated legends in sports, culture, art, music, food, entertainment, and much more. Day one will feature an airshow

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and national concert; day two the audience will experience the Night of the Legends, and day three will feature a national cook-off, with food from every culture, followed by the Generation X Concert.

There is also a Guyana Festival Passport which costs US$15. It will be available to mark this event, as well as a festival Coin that will be available at King’s Jewellery World.

This event is slated to take place at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence from August 8 to 10, 2014.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

Old Kai: Chronicles of Guyana ...

Littering while travelling: A favourite pastime of some Guyanese OLD KAI was travelling along the East Bank Demerara public road one lazy afternoon in early May when the monotony was suddenly broken by a partly empty, crumpled tin of energy drink being hurled by a passenger of the minibus in front of the vehicle I was in.

The tin took flight and landed at the feet of a police traffic officer who was a short distance from the Providence Station. The rank was on foot, so it was impossible for him to react in time and go after the perpetrator.

Old Kai took down the licence number of the minibus, but in hindsight it would be pointless to publish it, as one cannot hold the operators responsible for the actions of their passengers. They may not have even been aware of the individual’s action.

If you want to get an idea of the sickening habit of littering by some of our citizens while they are travelling, simply take a glance at the section of the East Bank or East Coast road under construction. At times they are filled with empty beer and other disposable beverage bottles. There is no way of confirming if the alcoholic containers belong to drivers, but it underlines the fact that people litter with impunity when they are travelling.

The guilty parties have become emboldened because people hardly ever stand up and chastise them for their behaviour, reminding them that it is not only against the law, but it reflects negatively on their character.

Old Kai once looked a minibus driver in the eye as he was driving along the Stabroek Market area, the reason being that he had just finished a ‘snow-cone’ in a plastic bag and instinctively placed his hand containing the bag on the roof of the bus. I knew what was to come next, so I gave him a stern look and shook my head to indicate ‘No, don’t do it’. He smiled and released the bag to fall where it may.

Whenever I was at the wheel, I would flash a car or two ahead of me when I observed boxes, bags or bottles flying out the window. In return, I received

some colourful language, and at times a strange greeting, characterized by their holding up one finger of the hand.

I assume that it meant they had taken note of their folly and were repenting.

It is no secret that littering is a major problem in our country; but to effectively tackle it on a national front, we need to compartmentalize it in its various forms, and then develop specific programmes to target the demographics.

A few years ago, there was an effort to place bins in the minibuses, and to educate the public transport operators so they can encourage their passengers to put any refuse they have in the bin, rather than throw it through the window.

This was short-lived, but it is a good idea and needs to be revived.

To add meat to this idea, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment should work with the GRA to make it mandatory that, before public transport operators have their licences renewed, they must participate in a special class on environmental awareness and the role they play. You may not convert all at first, but you would make significant inroads. The programme would encourage drivers to put up anti-littering information in their vehicles, and also, from time to time, verbally remind passengers to refrain from littering.

After being publicly reminded of this, that individual would be morally pressured against lifting his/her hand in plain sight of others to dispose of his/her garbage from a vehicle.

With the new littering laws out, which increases to $50,000 the penalty for anyone caught littering, passengers and operators should be given an incentive for bringing to the nearest police station anyone caught littering, once the guilty party has been fined. This would automatically encourage more people to be on the alert, and those who previously littered with impunity would equally be on the lookout.

Old Kai also wonders if the new laws have taken into consideration the fate of children if they are caught littering. Depending on their age range, I am of the opin-

ion that penalties could range from an environmental awareness class specially designed for that age group; and for teenagers, a combination of awareness classes and mandatory involvement in at least one ‘Pick It Up campaign.

There should be an increase in the public relations campaign, with specially designed television and radio programmes or infomercials and newspaper ads giving our people real-life scenarios, and not just telling them what they should not do, but, more importantly, show them the right way.

We need these messages coming from all ages, walks of life, economic status, and communities across the country so the majority of our population will be able to relate directly. We need a sustained anti-littering programme from playschool to the University of Guyana.

Last, but not least, parents have the most important role of all. Old Kai once observed a kid in the rear passenger seat of a car dispose of the plastic wrapping of his snacks along the roadside as his mother was in the driver’s seat. I attempted to flash the driver; when the road was clear, I pulled up alongside her and told her the kid was littering. Her response was “mind your f…… business!”

Sorry madam, I cannot; the actions of your child and others who litter will also affect me. It is the litter that clogs up drains and canals which causes flooding that affects our citizens; and it is in the litter that the insects, such as mosquitoes that carry viruses which would affect our citizens, find ideal shelter.

Those are just two of several reasons why it is my business to upbraid litterbugs, and why I will continue to make it my business!

If you are reading this article, it is also your business to spread this message as far and as widely as you possibly can. Your health and wellbeing depends on it, and you will also be saving some of your relatives and friends the added expense of a $50,000 fine.

Finance Minister reports…

Most recent unemployment measured at 10.7 percent

By Vanessa Narine MINISTER of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, disclosed Thursday that the most recent available data on unemployment was recorded in 2006, when it was measured at 10.7 percent.

He made the revelation in a written reply to a question, posed in the National Assembly by Alliance for Change (AFC) Member of Parliament (MP) Cathy Hughes.

Minister Singh pointed out that the new numbers in the labour force, among other indicators, will follow in a larger and final report, which is expected to be completed in December 2015.

The Bureau of Statistics is currently in the process of completing its preliminary compilation on the 2012 census and expects to release it by June.

The Minister said that would include the preliminary population count, the country’s gender distribution, the population distribution by coastland and hinterland distribution; the regional population density; the number of households and average household size by region; the number of business places by region and the regional population growth rates, among other details.

COMPILE DATA The AFC MP had also asked whether or not the current Administration or State agencies compile data on

levels of unemployment in Guyana and questioned those recorded in the last 10 years.

She also wanted to know what Government’s economic policies are aimed at reducing the levels of unemployment in Guyana and what data is used to assess the impact of those policies on the level of unemployment.

Minister Singh answered:“This Government’s economic policies are aimed at creating jobs and reducing unemployment.

“Data used to assess the impact of these policies on the level of unemployment include macro statistics, such as the overall unemployment rate in addition to sector-specific and project-specific data.”

He said the data on levels of unemployment is compiled by the relevant agency, the Bureau of Statistics, with appropriate periodicity.

In addition, he said the issue of unemployment continues to be a challenge for the Caribbean Region and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, at the Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD) meeting, which ended on Thursday, underscored this fact.

The latter stated that unemployment continues to be a key concern for the Region and urged Heads of Government at the 26th Meeting of the COHSOD to ensure that their development agendas allow all to benefit under CARICOM’s Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) initiative.

Assistant Secretary-General, Human and Social Development, Dr. Douglas Slater echoed similar sentiments.

He said:“Within our Region, there is significant unemployment and under employment existing alongside acute skill shortages in some key sectors of our economies.

POVERTY GAPS “The lack of access to technology by many of our young people has the potential to widen employment and poverty gaps and this needs to be addressed.

“We need to broaden offerings within our general education system to foster creativity and innovation to enable our citizens to take advantage of emerging occupations.”

Slater also referenced the report of the CARICOM Commission on Youth Development, which highlighted the voices of youth who expressed worry about this situation and pointed to the high economic cost of youth unemployment.

He declared:“The incidence of unemployment among the youth is higher than among the adult population. It is estimated that a reduction in youth unemployment to the adult levels would contribute to growth of between one and two percent in GDP among our Member States.”

The COHSOD meeting has been hailed by Guyanese and regional stakeholders as critical in preparing for the upcoming International Labour Conference in June, the 18th Session of International Labour Organisation (ILO) Americas Regional Meeting and the 18th Inter-American Conference of Ministers of Labour.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

Minister Rodrigues-Birkett hosts farewell for Brazilian Ambassador

MINISTER of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, hosted a farewell reception yesterday, in honour of Ambassador Luiz Gilberto Seixas de Andrade, who has completed his tour of duty for Brazil in Guyana.

His Excellency was accredited on September 9, 2009.

Minister Rodrigues-Birkett, in her remarks at the function, thanked the diplomat for the significant role he played during his tenure in further advancing the Guyana/Brazil bilateral cooperation programme.

She said it included several high level exchange vis-

its, the establishment of the Joint Commission for the Development of Infrastructure Projects in Guyana; the creation of a Guyana/Brazil Frontier Committee and collaboration in key areas, such as health, agriculture development, security and consular matters.

Minister Rodrigues-Birkett extended best wishes to the departing envoy and his wife in their new posting to Barbados.

Since the establishing of diplomatic ties in 1968, Guyana and Brazil have enjoyed very friendly relations not only at the bilateral level but also within the framework of several

High cost of imported food ...

From page 2 is the largest food import for the country,” he said.

“CARICOM countries imported, mainly from the U.S., almost US$50M worth of vegetables per year. Imports include more than US$13M of onions, annually, more than US$8M of carrots, more than US$5M of lettuce, more than US$3M of broccoli and cauliflower and more than US$3M of tomatoes.”

HEFTY APPETITE He posited that the Region’s nationals have a hefty appetite for imported food while, at the same time, the need for the massive importation of certain foods are unnecessary.

At the local level, the Minister said Government has

A typical Caribbean marketplace a legitimate role in promoting our local products.

“How we do so will be a challenge in the new world of trade liberalisation, but we do produce high quality nutritious food and we must create a demand for our food, not by limiting what could come to Guyana, but by creating a preference for our food.

“We must not ban food products. It is an option we once tried. But preference for locally made plantain chips, pepper sauce etc. will reduce import of these products.”

Ramsammy concluded that action must be taken to address what is an increasingly growing problem and action must be taken with a matter of urgency.

regional and sub-regional mechanisms, such as the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organisation and the Union of South American Nations where they share common membership.

Guyana and Brazil also work closely on issues of mutual interest on the international agenda.

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Foreign Minister, Ms. Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, shares a farewell toast with Ambassador Luiz Gilberto Seixas de Andrade and his wife

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Changing the world

By Hydar Ally

IT WAS the German Philosopher and revolutionary, Karl Marx who famously wrote that “philosophers have interpreted the world in various ways; the point however is to change it.”

Change, it is said, is the only constant. As the French saying succinctly summed it up, ‘the more things change, the more they remain the same’.

The two sayings may appear contradictory, but on closer examination, they are not, and point to the dialec-

tical nature of society, one in which change is inevitable but does not take place in a linear or a straight-line manner.

Lenin captured that point very well in his very lucid publication, ‘One Step Forward, Two Steps Backward’, in which he pointed to the dangers of moving too fast ahead of the masses without taking into account the objective and subjective factors which obtained at any given time.

According to Marxist scholars, we live in a material world, where everything

changes. This is true of objects (material things) as it is true of society. Hence the term dialectical and historical materialism, which describes the changing nature of both Man and the physical environment in which he lives, as well as the society of which he is a part.

Put in a different way, we live in a changing and dynamic environment, where changes take place all the time. Take our own society: We started out as a slave society, in which the production relations and the mode of production were basically

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 16, 2014 that of master and slave.

This was changed later on to one in which there was a semi-feudal production mode, where the peasants, especially on some parts of Essequibo, were tied to the system in an almost semi-feudal manner, whereby they were forced to almost empty their pockets at the hands of the big farmers who, in exchange for their labour, provided them with goods and other basic items from their shops.

The workers were doubly exploited, firstly in the form of low wages, and secondly from high profit margins from their business operations.

Guyana, after a hard and prolonged struggle waged by the PPP, managed to free the country from colonial rule, and earn its people the right to vote, regardless of literacy, income or property qualifications. The result of those developments were the election to office of the PPP administration, led by the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan; but just a mere six months later, the relatively advanced Constitution was suspended, and an interim pro-British administration installed in place of duly elected leaders.

Four years later, in 1957, elections were again held, and was convincingly won by the PPP, despite a split in the Party, engineered by Forbes Burnham with the support of foreign and local vested interests. The PPP went on to win the elections of 1961, but was again manipulated out of office in the elections of 1964, which saw the coming to power of a PNC-UF coalition government.

The democratic and con-

stitutional gains made by the PPP were sooner eroded by the PNC administration, which rigged all elections from 1968 to 1992. Under pressure from democratic forces, both within and outside of the country, the PNC administration was forced to give in to democratic reforms, which saw the widely-anticipated PPP/C administration take the seat of Government after an absence of close to three decades.

The dialectics of change and development is once again playing out in present- day politics, both at the municipal and at the national levels. The current fiasco at City Hall between the Mayor and City Council and the City Clerk is a good case of municipal politics, which has almost reached hilarious proportions. The most recent Court ruling has deemed the actions of the Mayor and the City Council to remove Ms. Carol Sooba as Town Clerk ultra vires and outside of the limits of authority of the Council. It is interesting to see how the Mayor would respond to this ruling, having done everything possible to subvert the Office of the Town Clerk, and prevent her from carrying out her duties.

At the level of our national politics, the situation playing out in our parliament today is no less intriguing, with the combined parliamentary parties seeking to block spending on key and critical expenditure items, and using their one-seat majority to blacklist the country as is currently the case with its blunt refusal to support legislation to pass the anti-money laundering and countering of terrorism bill.

The history of Guy-

ana’s politics, especially its post-colonial history, is basically one of struggle against reactionary and anti-democratic forces led by the PPP and now PPP/C administrations. In the end, the forces of progress have always prevailed over the forces of reaction. This is in keeping with the laws of historical and dialectical materialism, where, despite setbacks and temporary reversals, the forward march of history is inevitable and pre-determined.

Our country is, without doubt, on the forward march.

The late Dr. Cheddi Jagan, during the days of PNC dictatorship, always reminded us that the struggle will be long and hard, but victory is inevitable.

We have come, as a country and as a people, a long way since the difficult days of colonial rule and PNC dictatorship. Guyana, today, is a free and democratic country that is well respected among the community of nations.

We have shed our image as a pariah state, and we are now ranked not as a Less Developed Country but one that has advanced to the ranks of a middle-income country.

The PPP/C government must be given credit for this achievement, despite the several challenges it has had to contend with, both in terms of our domestic politics and a harsh international economic environment.

Guyana has undergone fundamental transformations, both in terms of our body politics and in our economic and social landscape.

The challenge before us is to sustain our growth momentum in the face of a hostile political environment.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

GPF Project Impact set for Agricola Limited, Friendship Oxygen Ltd., Churches Chicken, Hairlox (Guyana) Ltd., Cevons Waste Management and a few other private entities for their stalwart contributions to the school’s functioning.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) launched the ‘Impact Albouystown Project’ on Friday, April 11. It sought to develop the community through social intervention activities by law enforcement officials in partnership with a number of stakeholders.

The initiative, also termed the “safe neighbourhood” initiative, has HM of St. Anne’s Primary, Melissa Isaacs, with former Commander of ‘A’ Division, George Vyphuis (second from left), and stakeholder representatives

By Derwayne Wills POLICE COMMISSIONER Seelall Persaud has given word that Agricola will be implementing an Impact Project similar to that of Albouystown, according to Former Division ‘A’ Commander, George Vyphuis.

Speaking at an Appreciation Ceremony for Stakeholders networking in Community Development, held at the St. Anne’s Primary School in Agricola, East Bank Demerara yesterday, Vyphuis remarked that the history of the small village has reflected ‘developmental flout’ as a result of high levels of criminal activity

throughout the area.

He said that the thrust towards community development in Agricola will complement the Project Impact initiative to be implemented in the area on a date which has not yet been announced by the Police Force.

He further declared that GPF has made sterling contributions to the school, divulging that he has full assurance in his successor, newly appointed Division ‘A’ Commander Clifton Hicken, to continue embracing community development, especially in Agricola.

Vy p h u i s ’s s e r v i c e of some 35 years to the Guyana Police Force will officially conclude

on the May 31, but he maintained that he would continue to advocate and impact GPF outreach initiatives.

Headmistress (HM) of the primary school, Ms. Melissa Isaacs, observed that the stakeholders have vehemently advocated for positive development in the community through their contributions to the school, the majority of which was donated by the Guyana Police Force.

She added that the Force was adamant on ensuring that the pupils “receive equal opportunity” as others in the country.

The HM commended the efforts and contributions of Neal and Massy/ Geddes Grant Guyana

assisted Albouystown youths between the ages of seven and 16 years old to become actively involved in training in vocational development, Information Technology and leadership skills, which would ultimately translate to community development.

According to Police reports, Albouystown has had no major crime committed since implementation of the Impact project, which continues to pave the way for youth empowerment in the community for the sake of making more productive decisions.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

Crime Chief plugs use of newer crime-fighting methods

By Michel Outridge CRIME Chief Leslie James has said that in view of the ever changing approach to crime by criminal elements here, he intends to explore newer methods of addressing the issue “since we live in a developing society and the tactics of criminals are also changing.”

He also made the point that the criminals of today are not just savvy and hi-tech, the latter in terms of their preference in equipment, but their approach is also methodical, as the types of crimes being committed by these individuals display a certain element of precision.

ALERTNESS James added that this trend would show that persons are meeting and planning and so the citizenry must be conscious of their surroundings at all times to exercise a sense of alertness.

He also urged the business community to outfit their businesses with the requisite security as a form of protection.

The Crime Chief said that if one invests in a $5M business, for instance, it is in one’s interest to be security conscious enough to safeguard that business place by way of surveillance cameras, security guards and to utilise security services to do banking, etc.

He pointed out, however, that some businesses use their own staff to do their money deposits which include large sums and it becomes a habit. They then get robbed because person (s) follow the paper

trail and there is also collusion.

PLASTIC He advised adopting proper security measures so the business and staff are protected. In this regard he urged that persons use ‘plastic’ via electronic transactions to deter the possibility of armed robberies in money transactions and banking.

MOUNTED AND CANINE BRANCHES When asked why the Canine and Mounted Branches of the Guyana Police Force are seemingly under-utilised, the Crime Chief said that they are utilised in many instances.

He added that there is a need for those sections to be incorporated but they are not totally under-utilised because the Mounted Branch has patrols in the city and when the need arises they are deployed for unruly crowd control.

James noted that similarly, the Canine Section has a presence at the airports, including the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and Ogle International Airport.

The Mounted and Canine Branches of the GPF are also featured in the annual Police Gymkhana, which attracts a large gathering of civilians.

The trained dogs and horses perform various skills at the behest of ranks, providing a very entertaining feature.

The Mounted and Canine Branches

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

Schoolboy stabbed with pencil to fly to Trinidad

By Shirley Thomas

NARESH Ramotar, the six-year-old boy stabbed in the left eye with a pencil by another pupil of Strathspey Primary School, East Coast Demerara on Monday, may have to be medivaced to Trinidad for corrective surgery.

That would be necessary to save the injured eye, his grandfather, Harantak Harbahadur, told the Guyana Chronicle Thursday evening.

A surgical operation was performed on the child at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) on Wednesday, two days after he suffered the injury and doctors were, at the time, concerned about prospects for the restoration of his vision.

However, a decision has now been made to have him flown to Trinidad, and the logistics are being worked out.

Meanwhile, relatives are disappointed at the initial response by the class teacher, claiming that she took no action to get the patient to hospital.

It was his parents who had to rush to the school on learning of the incident and take him to the Melanie Damishana Health Centre, on the East Coast Demerara, too.

But, in what sounds, pathetically, like a tragedy of errors, relatives related other acts of seeming negligence as they sought to get attention for Naresh.

A relative explained that two other boys, allegedly the class bullies, were pulling and tugging at each other over a lead pencil when Naresh, who was sitting next to them got stuck in the eye.

At the time, the headmistress was not at school, on account of illness and, when

the incident was reported, the teacher who was also acting for the designated Grade One Class colleague

the damaged eye and they became terrified because the teacher was taking no action and they had to whisk him

Injured: Naresh Ramotar did nothing.

An aunt said, when the family arrived at the school and saw Naresh, fluid was leaking out of the white of

away to the health centre.

However, to their horror, the staff there merely covered up the eye with waterproof dressing and told the father to take him home.

The boy had a bad night with his swollen eye as he cried out for pain, vomited and refused to eat.

The aunt recalled that his parents spent a restless night, only praying for morning to

take their child to the GPHC. On Tuesday morning, very early, they returned with the child to the Melanie Health Centre and begged the staff to give them a referral document to take to the GPHC. Although they got the certificate marked ‘emergency’ on it, the family, instead of taking the child to the Accident and Emergency Unit, took him to the Eye Clinic, so he was not seen until Tuesday afternoon.

IMMEDIATE SURGERY Then he was examined

by Dr. George Norton who determined that it was an emergency and recommended immediate surgery.

With the latter’s intervention, things began to progress and the child was prepared for theatre. But something appeared to have gone wrong and surgery was no longer performed that day, despite the relatives’ pleadings.

The boy was taken into a ward and admitted pending operation the following day

and he remains warded at the GPHC. The doctors’ prognosis, though, has caused some concern and the boy’s parents are praying for a miracle.

The relatives said it was disclosed, to them, that had the surgery been done the same Monday the child was stuck, his chances of saving the eye would have been greater.

Two days later has resulted in considerable more damage being done to the eye and its tiny delicate nerves.

Meanwhile, on learning of the incident, the headmistress, who was on leave, is said to have made contact with the officials at the Region Four Department of Education and a blame game has since been in progress surrounding messages between Region Four and Georgetown.

And, as Guyana observes Blind Awareness Month Naresh would have his name written into the register of Guyana’s visually impaired persons.

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 16, 2014

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Home Affairs Ministry reports on officials overseas attendance

THE Ministry of Home Affairs disclosed yesterday that several officials attended, or are attending, training and other programmes overseas.

They include from: * Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) Technical Officer Sanjay Shew who participated in the 20th Annual Regional Drug Commanders Conference on March 3, in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

That conference identified strategies to combat illegal drug trafficking and develop cooperation among managers, primarily focusing on conducting criminal investigations and collecting intelligence on major trafficking organisations operating within the Caribbean. * Mr. James Singh, Head, Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) who took part in the ‘Annual Project Latitude Conference’ from March 4 to 6, in St. Lucia. That forum focused on continued initiative to promote closer regional work and build on the regional knowledge of trafficking by pleasure craft. It also provided for the sharing of experiences and discussing future targeting.

POLICE FORCE

* From the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Detective Sergeant 156161 Sherlock Houston of the Criminal Investigation Department who was part of a ‘Training Course on Drug Trafficking for Police Officers’ from March 3 to 14, in Italy.

It dealt with the development of contrasting techniques against drug trafficking.

Detective Corporal 19172 Mahendra Thuknauth, also of the CID, who was in attendance at the ‘Precursor Chemicals Course’ from March 10 to 21 in Jamaica. That provided a full understanding of such chemicals, how they are diverted into illegal markets and the manufacturing process of illegal drugs. The participants were also educated on the regional and international laws and regulations governing the movement and enforcement controls of those chemicals and the implications for money laundering and asset forfeiture.

Police Superintendent Errol Watts was at an international conference themed ‘Policing by Consent’ from March 17 to 20 in Kerala, India.

Its focus was on the sharing of related experiences and research findings.

Detective Corporal 18811Quanza Bagot attended an ‘Advanced Narcotics Investigation Course’ from April 28 to May 9 in Jamaica. That was designed to give a full understanding of the techniques used in drug law enforcement, thereby enhancing drug enforcement officers’

ability to conduct thorough professional investigations.

Corporal 16630 Handel Moses attended the ‘Second Regional Armoury Management Training Course’ for Caribbean States, from April 28 to May 9, in Trinidad and Tobago. It was aimed at bolstering the capacity of Government armourers in the specific technical skills and management processes necessary for the safe, effective and efficient accounting, inspection, repair, maintenance, storage, security and destruction of firearms and ammunition.

Acting Police Commissoner, Seelall Persaud (DSM), attended the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police 29th Annual General Meeting and Conference from April 28 to May 1, in Trinidad and Tobago. That gathering brought together policy makers, technocrats and practitioners to discuss a more collaborative and cooperative approach to law enforcement related issues and share experiences and initiatives undertaken.

PRISON SERVICE * From the Guyana Prison Service (GPS), Chief Officer Gornall George, Acting Chief Officer Christine George and Cadet Officer Deoraj Guyandat attended a ‘Corrections Institutional Management Course’ from March 23 to 29, in Nebraska, United States. It was geared towards increasing capacity to operate juvenile detention facilities that are safe, secure, humane and transparent. * And from Ministry of Home Affairs, Coordinator, Task Force on Fuel Smuggling and Contraband Floyd Mc Donald (DSM) attended the ‘Preparatory Conference for the Eleventh Conference of Defence Ministries of the Americas’ from March 6 to 7 in Peru.

Research Officer Tabitha Barnwell was in attendance at the ‘Regional Conference for the Americas on the Geneva Declaration on Armed Violence and Development’ from April 28 to 30, in La Antigua, Guatemala. The latter discussed the integration of armed violence reduction and prevention into national, regional and international development processes.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

May 7 execution ...

No further progress in Police probe THE Police have reached no further in the investigations since the execution-style murder of city businessman, Orvin Millington, nicknamed ‘Champo’, 30, of Lot WW7 North East La Penitence, Crime Chief Leslie James reported Tuesday.

But he said the probe is continuing to find the gunman who shot the victim in the head.

Millington suffered one gunshot wound as he was leaving Curtis Street, Albouystown, also in Georgetown, where he was playing card games with friends.

A post mortem revealed that he died from shock and haemorrhage due to the gunshot that Police said was fired about 00:50 hrs on May 7, 2014, when a man approached him and asked whether he remembered him.

However, without waiting for a response, the man discharged a round, hitting Millington and then escaped.

The wounded Millington was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH).

His sister, Abby Millington told the Guyana Chronicle that, shortly before the shooting, her brother had

assured them that he would be returning home in a little while.

The Muslim father of four, who died before the fifth was born, had another brother who met his death in a similar way.

Four years ago, that sibling, Vibert ‘Vibey’ Weeks was shot dead in front of a popular night spot on Robb Street, in the city, too and, to this day, no one has been arrested for that killing.

However, while still seeking justice for that brother’s murder, the surviving siblings are very disturbed by the latest one.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 16, 2014

Library hosting exhibition for 2012 Guyana Prize winners

RUEL Johnson, Ian McDonald, Cassia Alphonso, Mosa Mathifa Telford and Chaitram Singh, all winners of the 2012 Guyana Prize for Literature, were honoured Thursday as the National Library, launched a book exhibition to display their work to the Guyanese public.

The authors who were awarded in September last year won in the various categories - which included Johnson (Best Fiction); Telford (Best play); Singh (Best Book) and Mc Donald and Alphonso (Best Poetry).

Each writer, except Mc Donald and Alphonso, who were absent, made presentations on their works to an audience comprising teachers and students who eagerly anticipated what was presented on local writing and acknowledged by Chairman of the National Library and writer, as well, Petamber Persaud.

The occasion which sought to spotlight those writers after realising the lack of appreciation for their work, saw the participation of students who seemed to be very interested in Guyanese Literature.

One student told the gathering of her dream to become an author having been inspired by local writers seeking to make

their voices heard.

Without stating her name, she said:“I would like people to know my story and see where I erred so they, too, won’t make those mistakes.”

Three of the winners present, Singh, Johnson and Telford confessed that their major challenges were knowing from which perspective to write a story, the appreciation of political views and making a living off writing.

The Guyana Prize for Literature was founded by late President Desmond Hoyte in 1987, with a view to promoting the development of local literature. It was awarded biennially in categories for best book of fiction, best first book of fiction, best book of poems, best first book of poems, and best play.

The Guyana Prize is managed by a committee consisting of a number of university personnel and the Chief Librarian of the Guyana National Library.

The exhibition will showcase pieces such as Collected Fictions by Johnson; Black Cake Mix by Alphonso; The Comfort of All Things by McDonald; The Flour Convoy

by Singh and Sauda by Telford.

At GPHC, the first baby girl born on Mother’s Day is Lallmine, along with Joel Lee and Onica Benjamin of

Agricultur up special Author, Chaitram Singh, during his presentation Thursday. At the head table are, from left, Ruel Johnson, Mosa Telford and Chairman of the National Library, Petamber Persaud

Students viewing the books on display at the National Library Thursday

THE Ministry of Agriculture, after consultation with its Hydro-Meteorological Office and taking into consideration predictions from various Regional and International Forecasting and Weather Agencies, yesterday, issued an El Nino Watch.

According to the Ministry, Guyana’s rainfall for the

period from March, April and, so far, in May, has been below the average expected for the same long term averages.

A special El Nino Working Group has since been set up to monitor and plan actions to reduce any adverse impact of a possible El Nino on agriculture production.

The Ministry said the El Nino/ Southern Oscillation (ENSO)

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 16, 2014

ANSA McAL gives hampers to mothers of newborn babies on Mother’s Day

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ON Mother’s Day last Sunday, ANSA McAL Trading made a special effort to honour mothers of newborn babies by giving them “Cheekies Bundle of Joy” hampers.

The presentation of the hampers marked the 14th Aniversary of the annual tradition, and is always welcomed by Guyanese mothers.

Cheekies hampers were presented to all mothers who gave birth to a baby boy or girl on Mother’s Day in Georgetown. The generous gifts were well received and brought smiles to the faces of many new mothers.

Mr. Joel Lee, Marketing Assistant Consumer Goods at ANSA McAL Trading, said that it was his and the company’s pleasure to support mothers as they ushered in a new generation filled with hope and promise on Mother’s Day. Large hampers containing diapers were presented to the mothers of the first boy and girl born at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, while all other hampers contained Cheekies cloth soft diapers.

The list of mothers who received hampers on Mother’s Day follows:

seen with (from left to right) Sister Margot Prescott and the baby’s mother f Ansa McAl and other GPHC staff.

re Ministry sets l El Nino watch diagnostic discussion, issued

by Climate Prediction Center (NCEP) and the International Research Institute for Climate and Society, on May 8, there is now more than a 65 percent chance that the Northern Hemisphere will experience El Nino conditions by the June-July-August season.

Meanwhile, La Nina is above average rainfall in an

area for a particular period of time and is, generally, associated with drier places and follows a period of El Nino.

The Ministry has confirmed the below normal amount of rainfall experienced along Guyana’s coast, which is reflected in the levels of water in Guyana’s various conservancies.

The water level data from

the four main conservancies indicated that: The East Demerara Water Conservancy (EDWC) stands at 55 Georgetown Datum (GD), over its full supply level of 57.5 GD; The Mahaica/Mahaicony/Abary (MMA) stands at 60.25GD over its full supply level of 64 GD; The Boeraserie currently stands at 59.30GD, compared to the full supply level of 61.3GD and Tapakuma stands at 56.6GD over the fully supply level of 57.5GD. Additionally, in late April, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warned countries that the possibility of a severe El Nino must be heeded.

Climatologists and weather forecasters predicted an El Nino for the Americas, starting in July and intensifying towards October and December. The prediction, as of this time, is that it could be a serious El Nino with severe droughts in many parts of the Americas.

Guyana has been a victim and continues to be a victim of climate change, but has taken steps to adapt.

GEORGETOWN PUBLIC HOSPITAL CORPORATION Aficia Carnette, gave birth to her first baby, a boy.

Beena Ramcharran gave birth to her first baby, a girl.

Lallmine gave birth to her first baby, a girl.

Marcia Lewis gave birth to her second baby, a boy.

Lauran Gittens gave birth to her second baby, a girl.

Zisha Leander gave birth her fifth baby, a girl.

WOODLANDS HOSPITAL Deborah Fredericks gave birth to her first baby, a boy.

Moharaine Sahadeo gave birth to her first baby, a boy.

Meanwhile, Mr. Joel Lee, on behalf of the Cheekies family at ANSA McAL Trading, extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all Guyanese mothers.

ANSA McAL Trading has also expressed gratitude to the management and staff of all of the hospitals throughout Guyana that helped to make the “Cheekies Bundle of Joy” presentation on Mother’s Day 2014 a great success.

GPL explains Thursday night’s total shutdown

GUYANA Power and Light (GPL) explained yesterday that its system suffered a total shutdown on Thursday night.

The utility company said, around 22:32 hrs, one of the two transmission lines, between Sophia, Greater Georgetown and Garden of Eden, East Bank Demerara, tripped, resulting in a blackout within the Demerara Interconnected System (DIS).

A press statement said, due to the time this occurred, it was not possible to undertake a detailed inspection of the transmission line to determine the reason for the trip.

“An inspection is, currently, in progress, focusing on the section of the line traversing the backlands of Garden of Eden and Friendship, where the line protection calculated the fault may exist,” the release said.

GPL said the DIS was incrementally restored with all circuits repowered by 00:28 hrs, yesterday morning.

Unfortunately, power supply to consumers on the East Coast Demerara between Industry and Success was further affected by a burnt connection on a switch at Industry.

That connection was found at 01:15 hrs, repairs were completed and current was restored at 01:51hrs, GPL reported.

GPL revealed, too, that, on May 14, an unknown incident resulted in damages to four parts of a circuit supplying sections of Kingston, Cummingsburg and Werk-en-Rust. Repairs were completed by 19:28 hrs and power returned to all consumers.

The release said, in undertaking the repairs, the supply to consumers in other sections of Kingston, Cummingsburg and Werk-en-Rust had to be interrupted and investigations are ongoing into what may have precipitated the damage to the circuit.

GPL said it will undertake an upgrade to a section of the circuit this Sunday to reduce the impact any such future fault may have.

SINCEREST APOLOGIES Meantime, it extends sincerest apologies for the occurrences over the last two days and thanks customers for their patience.

“As our company progresses with its development agenda for 2014, it should be noted that power interruptions may occur as supply source for feeders are switched.

“We are pleased to announce that the supply for most of our consumers in South Georgetown has been switched to our new substation in North Ruimveldt. Further, we are currently preparing to commission our new substation at Columbia (Mahaicony) and the power supply for all consumers between Burma Road and Victoria will be switched to this substation,” GPL said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

EU reaffirms commitment to equality, non-discrimination

THE High Representative of the European Union (EU), Ms. Catherine Ashton, for the May 17 occasion of the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia (IDAHOT), wishes to reaffirm the commitment to equality and non–discrimination.

She said the EU is committed to the principle of the universality of human rights and reaffirms that cultural, tradition-

al or religious values cannot be invoked to justify any form of discrimination, including discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) persons.

Homophobia, biphobia and transphobia are unacceptable infringements of human rights, the diplomat added.

According to her, May 17 or the International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia, as it is widely recognised, is

an essential feature in the international LGBT rights calendar.

“In the ninth edition, in 2013, commemorations took place in almost 120 countries, in all world regions.

“The day aims to coordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBT rights violations and stimulate interest in LGBT rights work worldwide. The date of May 17 was chosen to commemorate the decision to remove homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1990.

GRASSROOTS ACTIONS “The original founders of the International Day Against Homophobia (or ‘IDAHO’), established the IDAHO Committee to coordinate grassroots actions in different countries, to promote the day and to lobby for official recognition of May 17,” she recalled.

Ashton said that, notwithstanding positive examples of strengthened non-discrimination measures, sexual orientation and gender identity continue to be used to justify serious human rights violations around the world.

“In some countries, sexual relations between consenting adults of the same sex are criminalised and are liable to be punished with imprisonment or even with the death penalty.

In other countries governments actively seek to limit freedom of assembly, association and expression of LGBTI persons.

This is a source of concern for the EU. “The EU’s Foreign Ministers adopted the LGBTI Guidelines on 24 June, 2013 and we campaign tirelessly for the respect of human rights, irrespective of sexual orientation and gender identity. We raise the issue of equal rights for LGBTI persons whenever necessary in our contacts with third countries and in international fora, we speak out through

public statements, and we work with our delegations to argue the case for justice and human rights. Through the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights, the EU supports LGBTI human rights defenders across the world,” Ashton asserted.

Head of the EU Delegation in Guyana Ambassador Robert Kopecký had called on government, “to decriminalise same sex intimacy,’’ during his remarks at the annual Europe Day reception on May 7, 2014 which was attended by President Donald Ramotar and other dignitaries.

GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY May 16, 2014

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GPF: File on 2012 Fish Shop shooting awaiting advice THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) said Thursday that the file in the matter regarding the fatal shooting of Dameon Belgrave has been sent to the Chairman of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA) and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the process of seeking legal advice.

In a release, the GPF added that cognisant of electronic and print media broadcast/publications concerning the dismissal of charges against the two ranks who were prosecuted following the incident on Hadfield Street, Georgetown, during a Police operation on October 5, 2012, the Force wishes to note that the occurrence had been given wide coverage.

That included the fact that the file had been dispatched to PCA Chairman

and the DPP. However, the GPF is informing the general public that: * It acted on legal advice obtained from the competent

vice being given and * The prosecutor in the matter is part of the early case assessment programme and operates out of the DPP’s Chambers and not from any Police location.

The Police release went on to state that the GPF accepts criticisms in good faith and is continuously making efforts to address excesses and deficiencies of its ranks.

EVERY NEGATIVE

DAMEON BELGRAVE

authority and will continue to do so in the future; * The statement of the Police Ballistics Expert was in the file prior to legal ad-

For Saturday May 17, 2014 -05:30hrs For Sunday May 18, 2014 -05:30hrs

But the GPF also wishes to bring to the notice of the public the efforts of some sections of the media to continuously use the Police as a scapegoat for every negative in the justice system.

“The process forward in the Dameon Belgrave matter is for the DPP to examine the depositions and take a decision on how the Police or the Court proceeds with the matter,” the GPF release said.

It disclosed that a post mortem revealed that Belgrave, who was killed by the Police, died from shock and haemorrhage, as a result of a gunshot wound which entered and exited his body.

Belgrave met his demise as the Police pursued occupants of car number PG 3506, on October 5, 2012, while he was with friends at White Castle Fish Shop at John and Hadfield Streets.

The 21-year-old man, of Middle Street, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara, was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH).

Belgrave would have celebrated his 22nd birthday the next day and had been having a pre-birthday drink when he was shot.

Aries March 21 - April 19

As you continue a quieter phase on the sidelines, take the opportunity to evaluate some recent conflicts in your life. You can take things in new directions -- all that’s missing is a real plan. Today you should have the time and resources you need to figure out the next steps for an old relationship. Be honest with yourself and admit that not every relationship is meant to last forever. All this introspection will fade soon, so delve as deeply as you can now.

Taurus April 20 - May 20

It is essential to be clear about what you want today. Speak more loudly and more clearly, and don’t beat around the bush! From ordering your lunch to having a heart to heart with your romantic partner, you must say what’s on your mind. If anyone tries to cut in line or feed you some nonsense, stand up for yourself -- a healthy dose of your charm with help smooth over the news that no one expected to hear. Saying ‘no’ to a tempting invitation will be liberating.

Gemini May 21 - June 21

Enjoy watching the world go by today, and resist the urge to hop in the rat race. Life from the sidelines can be just as beautiful as life in the heat of the action. In fact, gaining an outsider’s perspective will come in handy in future relationships and job opportunities.

Understanding why people are doing what they’re doing will give you a leg up on the competition. Don’t feel guilty -- coasting through life will help you appreciate the rewards of a hard day’s work.

Cancer June 22 - July 22

Looks count today -- in terms of work, love and self-esteem. Dress for the job you want to have five years from now, and keep an eye toward appealing to the cutie in your life -- spruce up your plumage and try a new style. Looking good can’t make you happy, but it can certainly give you a pleasant surprise when you catch your reflection in a store window. You need to remind yourself how attractive you are -- once you fully realise this fact, everyone else will too.

Leo July 23 - August 22

A little effort goes a long way today: You can spark a major transformation with a minimum amount of effort, so make a quick list of the mountains you want to climb. It’s a great time to try a far-fetched idea or even your most hair-brained scheme -- your odds for success are extremely high. Approach someone you’ve had your eye on and send them a few subtle signals. You’ll make your point without having to risk any rejection, and that’s always good.

Virgo August 23 - September 22

Despite your best efforts, you can’t give someone confidence -- they have to earn it by challenging themselves and moving outside their comfort zone. Let go of the efforts you’ve been making to change other people -- and put the focus back on yourself right now. Too much effort has gone toward pleasing other people -- it’s time to make choices based on what you want, not on what you think others want. Trying to read someone else’s mind is sure to frustrate you.

Libra September 23 - October 22

Lots of laughter and gossip will beckon you today, but don’t get too deeply sucked in -you have lots of other (more important) things to take care of. A deadline is announced, and you are right on schedule to make it if you can stay on task. People will be distracting you repeatedly, but they’re not doing it on purpose, so don’t lose your cool. If you focus, you can get the boring stuff out of the way early and be ready to rejoin the fun by tonight.

Scorpio October 23 - November 21

Organise a group outing or put together a party. All your different people need to meet each other, and you are the only catalyst that can make it happen. An outdoor event would be the perfect setting for a meeting of minds -- physical activity will get everyone laughing and will tear down any inhibitions. While everyone’s having fun, stand back and watch.

Realise how lucky you are to have these people in your life.

Sagittarius November 22 - December 21

You’ll wake up in a semi-foggy state today, and it might take a little while for this fog to clear -- but don’t write off this day! There’s some interesting news and it will affect your love life -- take advantage of a travel opportunity, even if it seems a bit too exotic for your taste. Also, you’ll get a revealing look inside the mind of someone you treasure -- and it will make you love them all the more. Show them your affection in a sappy email.

Capricorn December 22 - January 19

What are you worrying about? Set your concerns aside today, because this cloud you’ve been floating on isn’t about to disappear anytime soon. You can feel free to make plans based on what will surely be success -- speaking of the future, today will give you a clear glimpse of what your path will be. It’s not quite time to go down that road, but you will enjoy the sense of confirmation. Today will be worry-free, offering a strong sense of relief.

Aquarius January 20 - February 18

Today you’ll enjoy a luxurious aspect of your lifestyle at a whole new level -- but in the midst of all that excess, are you losing sight of the value of money? It’s important to enjoy what you’ve worked for, but it’s easy to get too comfortable. Don’t fall into any traps -- work to regain a bit of your edge today. It wouldn’t hurt to investigate how to start funnelling your resources into some smarter investments, either. You could be profiting more.

Pisces February 19 - March 20

Lots of back-and-forth will be going on today -- sharing ideas has taken a front seat in your life, and it’s rewarding to find yourself in such accord with so many people you respect. Another rewarding aspect of all these discussions is that they remind you of what you believe and what governs your life. You’ll find these convictions to be strengthened over the next few days. Listen to opposing viewpoints with objectivity -- above all else, do not judge others!

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

Wenger under pressure like never before in FA Cup final

By Steve Tongue LONDON, England (Reuters) - During Arsene Wenger’s most successful period as manager of Arsenal, the FA Cup final became a regular date in the club’s diary.

From 1998 onwards they played in English football’s showpiece five times in eight seasons, winning four of those games.

Yet, since the last success, a lucky one on penalties after being outplayed by Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United in 2005, Wenger’s magic touch has deserted him not only in the Cup but every other competition too.

Arsenal therefore go into today’s final against Hull City at Wembley without having won anything in the ensuing nine years, leaving the urbane Frenchman under the sort of pressure he has not experienced before in 30 years in management.

After the London club finished their Premier League programme in fourth place, ensuring a shot at the Champions League for a 17th successive season, Wenger, 64, insisted he would remain at the club

next season.

He has not signed a new contract, however, and defeat by lowly Hull, 16th in the league and contesting their first major final, would lead to a backlash by supporters, many of whom already believe that going almost a decade without winning anything is unacceptable for one of England’s great clubs.

“All the pressure is on Arsenal,” the club’s former midfielder Ray Parlour, who also played for Hull, told Reuters yesterday.

“I know the supporters sometimes get frustrated with no trophy.”

The other source of frustration among the 60 000 fans who attend every home game is Wenger’s perceived reluctance to spend the sort of money on new players that allowed clubs like Manchester City, Chelsea and - until this season - Manchester United to win the trophies they have missed out on.

For some years he put that down to having to finance the expensive move from Highbury, with its limited capacity, to the Emirates Stadium. That switch was completed eight years ago

and Arsenal have not won anything at their new home.

The club board, which the American businessman Stan Kroenke joined in 2008,

Arsene Wenger

has always said funds were available to Wenger, whose more recent argument has been that other clubs have flouted Financial Fair Play rules and will now have to conform to them.

DAZZLING START The decision to spend £42M on Real Madrid’s German midfielder Mesut Ozil at the start of the season appeared to indicate a new philosophy but after a dazzling start, Ozil’s form fell away in tandem with Arsenal’s.

Top of the table from midSeptember in an almost unbroken sequence lasting

Pacers ready to battle Heat after banishing Wizards (REUTERS) - David West delivered his strongest game of the playoffs with 29 points to help guide the Indiana Pacers into Eastern Conference finals with a series-clinching 93-80 Game Six win over the Washington Wizards, on Thursday.

The veteran power forward was in an aggressive mood from the opening tipoff, taking 26 shots and sparking a fourth-quarter surge that helped the Pacers advance from the best-of-seven series with a 4-2 victory.

The top-seeded Pacers’ next challenge starts tomorrow, with a home Game One encounter against the two-time defending NBA champions Miami Heat.

The Pacers will be hoping to make it third time lucky against the Heat after losing to Miami at the same stage in the last

two seasons, with West confident of success this time around.

“We’ve got home court (this time), which is a good start,” West told reporters.

“We know who they are, they know who we are. It’s going to come down to the details.

“Feeding off their home crowd, the Wizards threatened to force a Game Seven when they rallied to take a 74-73 lead with about eight minutes remaining but West calmly sank two straight jump shots and the Pacers closed the game with a 20-6 run.

“David has a way of settling our young guys and riding the waves in a game,” Indiana coach Frank Vogel said. “He made a couple (big) buckets. We’re lucky to have David West.”

Lance Stephenson added 17 points and eight assists for the visitors.

Marcin Gortat scored a team-high 19 points for

the fifth-seeded Wizards, who can hold their heads high after ending a sixyear playoff absence with a first-round victory over the Chicago Bulls and causing the Pacers plenty of problems.

The underdog Wizards won the opening game of the series then lost three straight.

Facing elimination in Game Five in Indiana on Tuesday, Washington stunned the Pacers with a 23-point rout to extend the match-up.

On Thursday, the Wizards fell 16 points behind in the third quarter but fought back to put the Pacers on their heels.

“Nobody thought we’d be this far,” said Washington second-year guard Bradley Beal, who finished with 16 points and led the team in scoring for the post-season.

“For us to believe in ourselves and make Indiana earn it, we should be proud of ourselves.”

until February, they dropped out of the running for the title with a series of humiliating defeats to other contenders, 6-3 at Manchester City, 5-1 at Liverpool and 6-0 at Chelsea.

There was widespread criticism when the only new signing in the January transfer window was the Swede Kim Kallstrom, another midfielder, at a time when Olivier Giroud appeared to need back-up in the form of a new striker.

Giroud’s 16 league goals made him the only Arsenal player to reach double figures apart from midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who scored his 10th in the final match at Norwich last weekend.

Ramsey, who missed four months of the season, England’s Jack Wilshere and Ozil all suffered injuries that hampered Wenger’s plans in the second half of the season but with all three now back it is imperative that Arsenal leave Wembley today with their hands on a trophy.

If not, the taunt of Chelsea’s manager Jose Mourinho that Wenger is “a specialist in failure” will gain greater credence.

From back page

Guyana Cricket...

“The Minister’s role has been minimised in this Bill, the only role is that which is provided for. He can only appoint the ombudsman, after that first election the role of the minister ceases.”

The National Assembly was also told that the Bill provides for better financial accountability. As such, the GCB, under this new legislation will be required to present timely audited financial reports to the National Assembly, as well as the National Sports Commission.

“We feel that with greater scrutiny and oversight of financial records, allegations of financial impropriety will be reduced.”

The Subject Minister added that the recommendations from the Chief Justice in From back page

Sunday start won’t ...

Best Batsman Gayle, regarded in some quarters as one of the best batsmen of the modern era, has been a staple of the West Indies’ Test team since making his debut in Trinidad in 2000.

He averages 42.01 in the format and has so far scored 15 hundreds and 34 halfcenturies.

New Zealand are scheduled

Sport Minister...

“Keep it safe, keep it fair and may the best come out on top,” Minister Anthony said in closing.

Earlier, Director of Sport Neil Kumar congratulated the cyclists who registered and called on the cyclists to break the record time for the 175.5mile event which concludes on Sunday.

Race organiser Hassan Mohamed, in brief remarks, noted that last year there were 76 starters but only 46 started the final stage (Kara Kara Linden Highway to Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown). So this year is a record-breaking one in terms of entries.

Mohamed called on the cyclists to adhere to the rules and cautioned that cyclists not adhering to the rules can be penalised - something he does not want to do.

Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) president Cheryl Thompson, in her brief remarks, like Mohamed, implored the cyclists to adhere to the rules and called on them to work as a team so as to win the event and not allow the 12 foreigners who will be participating to take

his rulings were taken into consideration and were clearly crafted in the Bill.

Issues raised during public consultations over a period of time were also taken into consideration.

Minister Anthony added that he is confident that all the past issues which once hampered cricket in Guyana have been addressed in the Bill.

Guyana now joins two other Caribbean nations, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados which made the governing bodies for cricket legal entities.

This bill also will bring to an end the life of an Interim Management Committee which was established following a court battle and the Chief Justice’s ruling in 2011. (GINA)

to play three Tests and two Twenty20 Internationals while on tour.

The second Test will be played in Trinidad at Queen’s Park Oval and the third in Guyana.

The Twenty20 International series, in the meantime, will be played at Windsor Park in Dominica.(Jamaica Star article).

From back page

the top honours.

“Let them know that the Guyanese are a force to be reckoned with,” Thompson declared.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Alfred King, also remarked that cycling in Guyana has come a long way and his ministry wants to see the sport move beyond the shores of Guyana whereby locals can dominate at the Regional and International levels.

Barbadian Jomal Eastman is the defending champion, winning last year’s event in six hours 58 minutes 13 seconds.

Eastman had won the first and second stages last year with Alanzo Greaves and Hinds finishing second and third.

Williams and Robin Persaud were second and third respectively in stage two.

The event will wheel off outside the Corriverton Police Station at 07:00hrs for the downward journey to New Amsterdam, a distance of 46.6 miles.

The second stage begins at 14:00hrs today also and

will wheel off from the Rosignol stelling and proceed to Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown, for the finish, a distance of 60.4 miles.

Stage three will commence 08:00hrs tomorrow morning from Kara Kara, Linden Highway, and conclude on Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown, a distance of 75.5 miles.

The overall record holder for the event is Ivan Dominiquez of Team Coco that is based in Miami, USA. Dominiquez’ time for the event is six hours 44 minutes 55 seconds which he registered in 2012. This eclipsed the six hours 45 minutes 54 seconds that was recorded by Godfrey Pollydore in 1998.

Dominiquez’ team mate Yasmani Pol holds the record (one hour 38 minutes 31 seconds) for the first stage, which was registered in 2011, the very year he registered a new record (two hours 15 minutes 31 seconds) for the second stage.

Dominiquez holds the record (two hours 42 minutes 39 seconds) for stage three.

This was done in 2012).

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

Mistake to award World Cup to Qatar, says Blatter (REUTERS) - Awarding the 2022 soccer World Cup to Qatar was a ‘mistake’ and the tournament will probably have to be held in the winter because of the heat, FIFA president Sepp Blatter has said.

“Of course, it was a mistake.

You know, one comes across a lot of mistakes in life,” he told Swiss television station RTS in an interview.

“The Qatar technical report indicated clearly that it is too hot in summer, but the executive committee with quite a big majority decided all the same that the tournament would be in Qatar,” he added.

Asked whether the World Cup was likely to be held in the European winter, the

FIFA president Blatter

Sepp

78-year-old replied: “It’s probable, yes. In fact, it’s more than probable.”

FIFA launched an investigation last year into alleged corruption surrounding the voting procedure for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, awarded to Russia and Qatar respectively.

EBFA/Cult Energy Drink

COMPETITION in the inaugural Cult/East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-17 league is set to kick off today at the Grove Playfield with double- header action from 14:00hrs.

Afforded the opportunity to set a positive tone for the rest of the tournament which has attracted eight clubs are Herstelling and Mocha Champs.

RACING TIPS

Herstelling has been showing encouraging improvement ever since becoming a member of the EBFA over one year ago and will be seeking to continue their upward climb.

They (Herstelling) will start this game with a slight advantage over Mocha Champs given the fact that Mocha did not field a team in the recently concluded Trophy Stall Under-15

The choice of Qatar was particularly controversial given that the small Arab nation has little footballing culture and summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (40 Celsius).

FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke said in January that the 2022 World Cup would not be played in the summer months but was likely to be held between November and January.

The soccer body has said no decision will be taken until after this year’s World Cup finals in Brazil with all stakeholders and commercial partners to be consulted.

Blatter was adamant oil and gas-rich Qatar had not

‘bought’ the World Cup, however, and indicated political pressure from France and Germany had played a part.

“I will never say they (Qatar) bought it,” he said.

“We know full well that big French and German companies work in Qatar, but they don’t just work for the World Cup. The World Cup is only a small part of what is going on in Qatar.”

Asked about his future at the helm of FIFA, Blatter again indicated he would stand for a fifth term in next year’s election.

“At the moment I say I want to finish my mandate well. Of course I am willing to continue,” he said.

U-17 league to kick off today tournament which Herstelling competed in.

Today’s feature game brings together Timehri Panthers and Agricola Red Triangle; both teams will be playing their first junior game for the season like Mocha Champs. While the exploits of both teams are well documented at the senior level, they will now have the chance to chart a new course in the junior realms.

Eight teams (Kuru Kuru

Warriors, Timehri Panthers, Grove High-Tech, Diamond United, Herstelling United, Mocha Champs, Agricola Red Triangle and Soesdyke Falcons) will play the roundrobin formatted tournament and the top four teams will advance to the knockout stage to vie for top prizes and bragging rights.

Officials of sponsors Continental Group of Companies are expected to be on hand to witness this afternoon’s action.

10:30 hrs Stars Above Me

South Africa Racing Tips

12:05 hrs Lord Alfie

English

11:05 hrs Pinzolo

Turffontein

12:40 hrs Sir Scorpion

Newbury

11:40 hrs Yuften

08:40 hrs Glasswing

08:30 hrs Connecticut

12:15 hrs Miner’s Lamp

09:15 hrs Regal Stride

American Racing Tips

09:50 hrs Whatalady

Pimlico

09:05 hrs Forgotten Voice 09:40 hrs Monsieur Chevalier

Thirsk

10:25 hrs Wisdom Stone

Race 3 Cheyenne Nation

10:15 hrs Cannock Chase

09:15 hrs Zeela

Race 4 Majestic Hussar

10:50 hrs Montridge

09:50 hrs Al Ghuwariyah

11:00 hrs Empire Of The Moon

11:25 hrs Dianora

10:25 hrs Keep It Dark

12:00 hrs Token Of Love

11:00 hrs Eutropius 11:35 hrs Robot Boy

Newmarket

12:10 hrs Cosmic Chatter

08:45 hrs Zaitsev

12:45 hrs Air Pilot

09:20 hrs Van Percy

13:20 hrs Kalahari Kingdom

09:55 hrs Aeolus

Irish Racing Tips Punchestown 09:10 hrs Marchese Marconi 09:45 hrs Bless N’ject 10:20 hrs Vasco Du Mee 10:55 hrs Protaras 11:30 hrs Steps To Freedom

Race 5 Happy My Way Race 6 Sensible Lady Race 7 Brewing Race 8 Special Envoy Race 9 Strathnaver Race10 Class Leader Race11 Hey Leroy Race12 California Chrome

EBFA mourns the passing of Delon Barton THE EXECUTIVE and members of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) is mourning the loss of Grove Hi Tech player, Delon Barton, who passed away as a result of a vehicular accident on the Craig Public Road on May 4, last.

The former midfield player was a prominent member of the Grove Hi Tech club and was an integral part of the side, currently at the helm of the Stag Beer division one league.

EBFA president Wayne Francios, said that Barton’s death came as a shock to the football fraternity, noting that his last hours were spent at the Grove Playfield before he joined his friends in a car that was involved in the accident.

“We, at the EBFA, would like to extend our sincere condolences to Barton’s family and the Grove Hi Tech Football Club which honed his skills through the years.

He was maturing into a fine player and making

Delon Barton

his contribution. He was always disciplined and dedicated.”

President of the Grove Hi Tech Club, Kevin Anthony, stated that Barton, who was born on March 26, 1981, grew up next to the Grove Playfield and was a foundation member of the club.

“Barton played with us at every junior level up to the senior team and will always be remembered as one whose efforts helped to shape the club into what it has become today - the leading club on the East Bank.”

Barton will be laid to rest on Sunday at the Diamond/Grove cemetery following a funeral service at the Grove Seventh Day Adventist Church, Tank Street.

The service begins at 13:00hrs.

GSCL Inc. says thanks to sponsors and teams

FOLLOWING the successful hosting of its inaugural Independence Cup which was held in collaboration with the National Sports Council, the Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc. wishes to say thanks to its list of sponsors and those teams who made the event a success story.

Regal XI, Regal Masters and Trophy Stall Angels and Mike’s Wellwoman, were crowned the Open, Masters and joint female champions respectively, when the tournament culminated at the Everest Cricket Club ground on Monday May 5.

“Amidst several hiccups, the three-day tournament was a huge success for us. Yes, we had some onthe-field problems that were minor and dealt with and I wish to assure those teams that in the future, such matters of concern would not occur again, as we seek to give them tournaments that are conducive and in good keeping with the rules and regulations of the GSCL Inc.,” said Public Relations Officer Calvin

Roberts.

Roberts took the time to thank Regal Stationery and Computer Centre, Romaine’s Car Wash, Star Party Rentals, Trophy Stall of Bourda Market and Hadi’s City Mall, Agri Parts, GuyTrac and Agri Parts, Goodwood Racing Service, Puran Brothers Topmix, Jialing and Digimax for their support.

He also thanked teams such as Memorex, Regal Champs, Floodlight Masters, Trophy Stall, Wolf Warriors, Farm XI, Speedboat, for whom Greg Singh struck a double ton, Parika Defenders, Smith XI, Industry Super Kings and Karibee Girls among others “The sponsors and teams made it a success story for us, but most importantly, I wish to say thanks from the depths of my heart to Director of Sport Neil Kumar who in February had challenged us to involve female teams in our tournaments and at the launching, promised his unflinching support to the GSCL Inc.”

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

GCA/CARIB BEER T20

Grand finale at PSC ground this afternoon … Hosts looking to arrest GCC

SUBSEQUENT to their comprehensive showing in the Georgetown Cricket Association/Ansa McAl Carib Beer first division T20 tournament to date, where they upset the highly favoured Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) in last week Saturday’s semifinal, Police Sports Club (PSC) will be brimming with confidence when they host and oppose Georgetown Cricket Club in today’s final.

The action starts at 13:00hrs

and based on the number of supporters who were at DCC last Saturday to cheer the lawmen to victory, another large partisan crowd is expected today, especially since they will be playing in their first division final, following a lengthy absence from such a stage.

When the tournament was launched last year, nine first division teams were placed in two groups of four and five at the draw for the preliminary round matches.

The result was that Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) topped Zone ‘A’ with 69 points, having played unbeaten in all four of their matches.

Police Sports Club (PSC) ended as runners-up in that Zone with 54 points, winning three matches and losing one, while in Zone

Who needs it more? Here PSC skipper Royan Fredericks (left) and his GCC counterpart Robin Bacchus proudly display the GCA/Carib Beer T20 trophy which will be up for grabs when the two sides clash in the final this afternoon.

‘B’, defending champions DCC claimed the pole position with 66 points, Guyana National Industrial Corporation second, having accumulated 57 points, with both sides winning three matches and suffering losses to each other.

However, GCC stopped GNIC while Police arrested DCC, despite the presence of Christopher Barnwell, Trevon Griffith, Paul Wintz and Andre Stoll. Hence today’s final can certainly be seen as a humdinger.

For their part, the home

Linden and Georgetown ready for showdown Inter-Association tournament bounces off tonight in Linden

By Rawle Toney ONE of the bitter rivalries in Guyana’s rich sporting history – Linden versus Georgetown - will add another note to their long list of stories when the two towns collide tonight from 20.00hrs at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court for the start of the GABF Inter-Association Championship. seasoned If you ever heard a conversation among seasoned lovers of the game locally about who were some of best players they’ve ever watched, names like Ulric Tappin and Lugard Mohan will certainly surface in the heated debate.

History would show that several of the best to ever play the game, both locally and internationally, hail from either of Guyana’s townships.

Tonight, the likes of Georgetown’s Akeem ‘The Dream’ Kanhai and Dwayne ‘Brown Sugar’ Roberts of Linden will add to that legacy of top players to go head-to-head in a battle that is bigger than the sport itself.

The Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) announced that based on performances in

Linden players huddle during last evening’s practice session at the MSC hard court as they prepare to face Georgetown tonight in Linden.

this tournament they would shortlist players for the national squad for the 2014 CBC Championships in July.

Fans could expect nothing short of a perfect game from the competing teams.

Looking at both sides, pundits would say that Georgetown, equipped with more talented players, solely because of Kanhai, his Ravens teammates Ryan Stephney, Ryan Gullen, Rudy James and Jermaine Slater, not forgetting Pacesetters marksman Stephon Gillis, are favourites.

The Georgetown backcourt certainly would have more depth than the Linden counterparts, being led by

Kanhai, Stephney, Dominic Vincente, Shelroy Thomas, Dave Causeway, Nikkolai Smith and Jason Squires but the home side are wellstocked in their frontcourt.

Roberts is probably the country’s most dominant player in his position as power forward and his frontcourt partners, the Webster brothers (Shane and Alister), will certainly be a force to be reckoned with in the paint, leaving Georgetown to rely heavily on their shooting game.

Georgetown would be looking to use their superior control on the ball and their distinct advantage, boasting some of the more athletic players in the

country, against Linden who normally settle to play halfcourt basketball.

If Linden want to go ‘oneup’ against Georgetown in the three-way round-robin tournament, they should try to exploit Roberts’ advantage he would have on the city side in the paint.

Royston Siland, Roberts’ only threat (not much really) is out nursing a fractured finger, leaving Georgetown to look at Rudy James and Haslyn Hooper to play up against the tenacious Linden power forward.

The problem is, to put it in layman’s terms: the City ‘bigs’ are too ‘soft’ to play against Roberts, so Georgetown will have to hope he has a very bad night or the Linden guards nonsensically play ‘hero’.

It’s true, basketball is a team sport. Roberts’ supporting cast will have to work with their 6’5” forward if they really want to stop the exterior explosive game of the City players.

Meanwhile, Chronicle Sport understands that Linden will have to do without Omally Sampson, former national captain Steve Neils Jr, Marvin Hartman and Neil Marks who have indicated their unavailability.

team will be looking to the energetic Trevor Benn and his older brother Troy, along with skipper Royan Fredericks, Jason Heyliger, Rawle Browne, Jermaine Reynolds, Kelvin Leitch, Randolph Knights, Seon ‘Big Neck’ Daniels and the hard-hitting Ricardo Adams, the man who singlehandedly won their semifinal encounter against DCC. On the other hand, the GCC unit, despite the absence of inspirational skipper Leon Johnson - away on West Indies Sagicor High Performance Centre ‘A’ team duties and Ramnaresh Sarwan, can still be a force to be reckoned with.

As always, the absence of key players from any team creates the opportunity for other players to step to the fore and for GCC today, recently selected Guyana Amazon Warriors’ Robin

Bacchus will hold the reins of captaincy in the absence of Johnson and Sarwan.

Bacchus will be looking to Devon Lord, Martin Pestano-Belle, Royston Alkins, Treon Forde, Joshua Wade, Ellon Fernandes and Chidanand Shivram for full support, as the Shivnarine Chanderpaul Drive-based GCC team seek to stop the lawmen’s winning streak and take home the trophy and $110 000, leaving their opponents to settle for the runner-up prize of $60 000.

Apart from the two top prizes mentioned above, trophies and medals will be issued to the leading batsmen, bowlers, fielders and MVPs from the two zones in the preliminary rounds while the man-ofthe-match, batsman with the highest score, bowler with the most wickets and fielder who effected the most dismissals in the final will also be rewarded.

Sri Lanka beat Kent by 128 runs SRI Lanka claimed their first victory on English soil this summer as they beat Kent by 128 runs in their one-day match at Canterbury.

The tourists posted a total of 301 for the loss of seven wickets as Angelo Mathews top-scored with 51.

Kent could only manage 173 all out in reply, as Suranga Lakmal, Thisara Perera and Ajantha Mendis

claimed three wickets apiece.

Sri Lanka will next play Sussex at Hove tomorrow.

The tourists’ first match against England will be a Twenty20 international at the Oval on Tuesday.

During their tour of England, Sri Lanka will also play five one-day internationals and two Test matches, the first of which begins on June 12.

(BBC Sport)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday May 17, 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) Chris Gayle-RCB; Dwayne Smith-CSK; Sunil Narine-KKR; Kieron Pollard-MI (2) 28 centuries Today’s Quiz: (1) Which team has been the first to be bowled out in less than 20 overs in this year’s IPL? (2) Who is the first wicketkeeper to be declared Man of the Match in this year’s IPL? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday May 17, 2014

ECFA launches Stag Beer Division One League DISTRIBUTING giant Ansa McAl yesterday partnered with the East Coast Football Association (ECFA) to launch the Stag Beer Division One League at its Beterverwagting head office.

Buxton United, Mahaica Determinators, Victoria Kings, Haslington, Golden Grove, Buxton Stars, Ann’s Grove and BV/Triumph United are the teams vying for the league’s $200 000 first prize, beginning on Sunday May 25, following its opening ceremony on Sunday, May 18, at the Buxton Community Centre ground.

“Sponsorships of Leagues are neglected by most companies and this is where the real development of any sport starts. This is Ansa McAl’s real focus and to help in the development of the game in the communities across

WCFA vice-president Sherry Abrams receives the sponsor’s cheque from Stag Beer Brand Manager John Maikoo in the presence of other company and football officials.

(Sonell Nelson photo)

Guyana,” said Stag Brand Manager John Maikoo.

“People might say the prize money is small, but they

are a host of other things we are undertaking,” Maikoo further added. “We will be dealing with the marketing,

advertising and a couple of other things. The thing is, what we like was the ECFA approach to this. They said

to us, the idea is not about putting up big prize money, but building a product and to get the people on the East Coast back behind the sport and Ansa McAl endorsed that position.”

Organising Secretary Joseph ‘Bill’ Wilson pointed out that in the past most the tournaments would normally be sponsored by Ansa McAl but a shift of administration of the sport on the East Coast saw the company being put on the back bench as of 2011.

“Things have changed now.

We have a new executive body now headed by Mr Aubrey Hudson and we intend to take this sport in the right direction and we’re happy that Ansa McAl is willing to partner with us in making a few things happen and this league is just the start,” Wilson said.

On Sunday, according to Wilson, the League will have

a gala opening ceremony which will be followed by the semi-finals of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Under-17 Inter-Association championship between East Coast and Upper Demerara.

The highlight of the evening will be a clash between West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) champions Slingerz FC and an East Coast Under-23 side.

Buxton Community Centre, Victoria and Beterverwagting Community Centre are the venues which will be used throughout the tournament, as Wilson explained, “most of the double-headers will be played at the Victoria ground because it has lights but matches will be played every Saturday and Sunday until July 13.” $150 000 is the second-place prize, third-place $100 000 and fourth $75 000.

CPL to fund local First Sir Viv can create winning culture, says HPC head Class contracts

West Indies Cricket Board CEO Michael Muirhead

Caribbean Premier League CEO Damien O’Donohoe

ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) announced today that a critical funding component for the professionalisation of First Class cricket will be provided by the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) which will contribute US$360 000 towards the annual retainer contracts for First Class players.

Following the last Board meeting in March, the WICB announced the approval of a 19-point plan for the complete professionalisation of First Class cricket in the Caribbean starting with the next season of regional cricket.

As part of the plan, 15 players in each of the six territories will be contracted on a full time, year-round basis. This will allow for 90 First Class players

to be annually contracted joining those contracted under WICB Annual Retainer Contracts.

“The professionalisation of First Class cricket in the Caribbean is long overdue and finally we have taken a firm decision to realise this. It will be a most costly venture but one which is absolutely necessary for West Indies cricket to move forward.

We are exceedingly grateful to the CPL for this significant commitment towards the funding of these annual First Class contracts,” WICB CEO Michael Muirhead said.

CEO of the CPL, Damien O’Donohoe praised the development. “A fundamental part of CPL is securing the future of cricket in the Caribbean by creating a platform for the next generation

of stars to showcase their talent to a global audience.

Our partners at WICB are working towards getting West Indies cricket back to the top across all forms of the game and we at CPL will endeavour to play our part in that mission.

The WICB approached us with this new vision, and following discussions with President (Dave) Cameron and Director of Cricket, Richard Pybus, we didn’t hesitate to embrace it,” he said.

West Indies Players Association (WIPA) president and CEO Wavell Hinds, was also positive about the development. “WIPA welcomes the contribution of the CPL to this programme, and we have also played a pivotal role in the process of bringing the professionalisation of the first class game in the region closer to reality.

Our members voted unanimously at our last AGM to support the initiative, and agreed to take the steps asked of them to make it happen. We see it as a great opportunity for a broader base of our membership to earn a living from the game,” said Hinds.

Under the new Professional First Class structure the contracts will see players being part of a First Class Franchise system, the details of which will be made public shortly.

CAVE HILL, Barbados (CMC) – High Performance Centre head coach Graeme West believes the presence of legendary West Indies captain Sir Vivian Richards in the training camp for

sessions with the players – how to create and maintain a winning habit,” West said.

“We need winners and we need winning teams and we need champion players, and they do not come any bigger

Sir Vivian Richards (left) chats with fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell during a training session.

the upcoming Bangladesh A series can help create a culture of winning in the young group.

Sir Vivian, who never lost a Test series as captain, has joined the HPC squad as a technical adviser for the tour which runs from May 26 to June 15, and which comprises two four-day, three 50 overs-a-side and two Twenty20 matches.

“When you look at the experiences that he had and the teams in which he played, he helped to create a culture of winning – and this is one of the things we want him to emphasise during our

than Sir Viv.” Sir Viv has already made his presence felt in the camp which opened on Tuesday at the 3Ws Oval, UWI Cave Hill. He has spent time with both batsmen and bowlers imparting knowledge, and has taken an active role in training sessions.

West said in addition to passing on technical advice, Sir Viv would also be critical in instilling confidence in players.

“In the few sessions he has had so far, you can still see that hunger, that passion, that desire for West Indies to be successful still burns

within him,” said West.

“He can also add value with the batsmen in terms of little technical and tactical approaches that can help them, but he is also very keen on helping them to build confidence and self-belief.

It’s a great opportunity for all of us and it raises the bar in terms of what we are able to offer.”

Sir Viv was the most devastating batsman of his era, compiling 8 540 runs from 121 Tests, at an average of 50.23. He led West Indies in 50 Tests, winning 27, losing just eight and drawing 15.

More recently, Sir Viv served in an advisory capacity to Twenty20 teams in the Australia Big Bash and the Indian Premier League.

“To work alongside someone like Sir Viv is a privilege and his presence offers a number of things to the players as we prepare for the upcoming matches,” West pointed out.

“First, the players can see the importance of this camp when someone of the calibre of Sir Viv is standing there and observing them, talking to them, offering some mentoring to them.

The value that brings to the programme, you cannot put a price on it.

Sport CHRONICLE

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

ECFA launches Stag Beer Division One League

See story on page

35

NSC annual Three-Stage cycle road race

Sport Minister optimistic this year’s event will be a ‘ground-breaking’ one MINISTER of Culture, Youth and Sport Dr Frank Anthony is optimistic that this year’s Annual Three-Stage Cycle Race which commences today at 07:30hrs from Corriverton, Berbice, will be a “groundbreaking” event.

Addressing cyclists, parents and members of the media yesterday shortly before the cyclists departed his ministry’s compound for Berbice, Minister Anthony opined that this year’s event, sponsored by the National Sports Commission in collaboration with his ministry, will be a “ground-breaking” one since it has attracted a record number of participants including foreign riders.

Dr Anthony said he is pleased that the NSC and his ministry are able to stage the event which has become a part of the NSC’s sports calendar.

“When you race, we see we’re not afraid of competi-

tion. When we ride among ourselves we tend to get complacent, so we need international competition,” Dr Anthony noted, adding “this year marks our 48th Independence Anniversary and we want people to understand what we fought for over 48 years ago.”

The minister extended an invitation to the cyclists to attend the Independence exhibition which will be held next week so that they can be among the VIPs in attendance and be honoured for their contribution to cycling.

“While you are riding the three stages, I want you to remember we are celebrating our 48 years of Independence.” Dr Anthony declared.

According to the minister, seminars and discussions will be held later in the year to discuss how Guyana can move the sport to the next level.

Turn to page 32

Sport Minister Dr Franck Anthony, Director of Sport Neil Kumar and Permanent Secretary Alfred King pose with the cyclists before they left the Ministry’s compound for Berbice, yesterday.

Guyana Cricket Administration Sunday start won’t dampen Gayle party Bill passed in National Assembly KINGSTON, Jamaica - Despite a Sunday start to the first Test between West Indies and New Zealand, head of the Jamaica Cricket Association, Wilford ‘Billy’ Heaven, believes it will turn out to be a success.

The Test, which will be West Indies opener Chris Gayle’s 100th for the regional team, is scheduled to get under way on Sunday, June 8 and end on Thursday, June 12.

“I believe starting the match on Sunday comes

with an upside as well as its downside,” said Heaven.

“Starting on a Sunday, it allows for more people to come out and hopefully set the tone, as it is more like a family day.

“On the other hand, it takes the other four days into the work week, which could prove to be a bit of a challenge.

“However, given the occasion, and with Gayle being one of the centres of attraction, people may very well come out and show their support.”

Turn to page 32

The first Test against New Zealand will be Christopher Gayle’s 100th for the West Indies.

THE National Assembly on Thursday night passed the Guyana Cricket Administration Bill that seeks to provide legal administrative guidelines for cricket, which over the years has become a national sport.

The Alliance For Change (AFC) did not support the bill, while the other parliamentary party, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) voted in favour.

Sport Minister Dr Frank Anthony who presented the Bill to the National Assembly said it was drafted after extensive consultations with all stakeholders, and more so, following recommendations in a ruling made by the High Court.

Dr Anthony pointed out that the Bill firstly makes it legal for the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) to be established

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as a corporate body comprising the Demerara, Essequibo and the Berbice Cricket Boards, all of which will also be made corporate entities.

A section of the Bill will address the issue of phantom voting for the election of persons for administrative positions and at the same time will give limited power to the Minister of Sport.

“We created a unique innovation and we created the position of a cricket ombudsman. This person will be tasked with the responsibility of verifying and registering clubs; he or she will have ample time to verify legitimacy of clubs.”

The role of the Minister under this legislation will be only to appoint the ombudsman.

Turn to page 32

SATURDAY, May 17, 2014